Craving pizza but want to dodge the carbs and gluten? Prepare to have your mind blown by the most ingenious pizza hack ever - a mouthwatering broccoli crust that's so delicious, you won't believe it's not traditional dough! This game-changing recipe transforms humble broccoli into a crispy, cheesy pizza base that's not just healthy, but incredibly satisfying. Whether you're following a low-carb diet, managing gluten sensitivity, or simply looking to sneak more vegetables into your meals, this broccoli crust pizza is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli, steamed and chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup pizza toppings of choice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Steam fresh broccoli florets until tender, then drain thoroughly and let cool for 5-10 minutes. Use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out excess moisture completely.
- Finely chop the steamed broccoli into small, rice-like pieces using a food processor or sharp knife.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Transfer the broccoli mixture onto the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet. Press and spread the mixture into a thin, even circular pizza crust shape, approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Bake the broccoli crust in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes until the edges are golden brown and the crust feels firm.
- Remove the crust from the oven and add your chosen pizza toppings, such as additional cheese, marinara sauce, cooked meats, or vegetables.
- Return the topped pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 7-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and toppings are heated through.
- Let the pizza cool for 2-3 minutes, then slice and serve hot.
Tips
- Moisture is the Enemy: Thoroughly drain and squeeze out excess water from the steamed broccoli. Use a clean kitchen towel and press firmly to remove as much liquid as possible. This ensures a crispy, firm crust.
- Chop Finely: Use a food processor to create a rice-like texture for your broccoli. Smaller pieces help create a more cohesive and uniform crust.
- Customize Your Toppings: While the recipe suggests various toppings, feel free to get creative. Low-carb options like grilled chicken, spinach, or bell peppers work wonderfully.
- Parchment Paper is Key: Always use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of your pizza.
- Watch the Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your crust to prevent burning. The edges should be golden brown and the crust firm to the touch.
- Let it Rest: Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps the crust set and makes slicing easier.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 85mg
