Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring it extends beyond the edges of your intended pizza crust.
Step 2: Prepare the cauliflower rice. Cut the cauliflower into florets. Pulse in a food processor in batches until it resembles rice grains. Alternatively, use pre-riced cauliflower, ensuring it’s fresh and not frozen for best results.
Step 3: Cook the cauliflower rice. Transfer the riced cauliflower to a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 5-8 minutes on high, or until tender, stirring halfway through. This softens the cauliflower and releases moisture.
Step 4: Drain excess moisture. This is CRUCIAL for a crispy Riced Cauliflower Crust Pizza! Transfer the cooked cauliflower to a clean, sturdy kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Once cool enough to handle, twist and wring out as much liquid as humanly possible. You'll be surprised how much comes out – don't skip this step!
Step 5: Make the crust mixture. In a large bowl, combine the thoroughly drained cauliflower rice, grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast), lightly beaten large egg, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cornstarch (or almond flour). Mix everything really well with your hands until it's fully combined and forms a sticky, uniform dough.
Step 6: Form the crust. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Using your hands or the back of a spoon, press the mixture firmly and evenly into a round, 10-12 inch pizza crust shape, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Make sure the edges are slightly thicker to form a natural 'crust' border for your Riced Cauliflower Crust Pizza.
Step 7: Blind bake the crust. Bake the crust for 20-25 minutes, or until it's beautifully golden brown and firm to the touch. This step is absolutely essential for a sturdy, crispy Riced Cauliflower Crust Pizza base that won't fall apart.
Step 8: Add toppings. Remove the crust from the oven. Spread your favorite pizza sauce evenly over the partially baked Riced Cauliflower Crust Pizza, leaving a small border for the 'crust.' Sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella cheese and your desired toppings. Remember, less is often more to prevent sogginess.
Step 9: Final bake. Return the topped Riced Cauliflower Crust Pizza to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the toppings are cooked through to your liking.
Step 10: Cool and serve. Let the Riced Cauliflower Crust Pizza cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before carefully transferring it to a cutting board. This cooling period helps it firm up even more. Slice and serve your healthy and delicious Riced Cauliflower Crust Pizza immediately. Enjoy!