Name: Broccoli Pizza Crust
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 medium head broccoli (cut into florets (about 16 ounces with center stem, 12 ounces florets)); 2 large eggs; ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (or another 1 tablespoon Parmesan); 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ cup pizza sauce ((homemade or good quality store-bought)); 4 ounces part-skim mozzarella (sliced, shredded, or roughly torn into small pieces); Pizza toppings of choice ((I kept it classic with sautéed cherry tomatoes)); Thinly sliced fresh basil ((optional but delicious))

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pizza crust, then you’re in for a treat! This Broccoli Pizza Crust is not only packed with flavor but also a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies into your diet. Imagine biting into a crispy, cheesy crust made entirely from broccoli, eggs, and a handful of simple ingredients. It’s the perfect base for your favorite toppings, whether you prefer classic pepperoni or a fresh veggie medley. Let’s dive into how to create this easy and delightful pizza crust that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

– Healthy alternative: A great way to enjoy pizza without the carbs of traditional dough.
– Quick and easy: Prep time is minimal, and it bakes in under 30 minutes.
– Versatile: Customize it with your favorite toppings or keep it simple.
– Gluten-free: Perfect for those avoiding gluten without sacrificing taste.
– Family-friendly: Kids will love the fun of a veggie-based pizza!

What You’ll Need

1 medium head broccoli, cut into florets (about 16 ounces with center stem, 12 ounces florets)
2 large eggs
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons nutritional yeast or another 1 tablespoon Parmesan
1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ cup pizza sauce (homemade or good quality store-bought)
4 ounces part-skim mozzarella, sliced, shredded, or roughly torn into small pieces
Pizza toppings of choice (I kept it classic with sautéed cherry tomatoes)
Thinly sliced fresh basil (optional but delicious)

Hardware & Gadgets

Large pot: For steaming the broccoli.
Food processor: To finely chop the steamed broccoli.
Baking sheet: For baking the crust.
Parchment paper: To prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
Mixing bowls: To combine ingredients.
Spatula: For spreading the mixture on the baking sheet.

Mastering Broccoli Pizza Crust: How-To

Step 1: Steam the Broccoli

Start by steaming the broccoli florets in a large pot until tender, about 5-7 minutes. You want them soft enough to blend easily but not mushy.

Step 2: Drain and Cool

Once steamed, drain the broccoli thoroughly in a colander and let it cool for a few minutes. This step is crucial to avoid excess moisture in your crust.

Step 3: Process the Broccoli

Transfer the cooled broccoli to a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped but be careful not to turn it into mush. You should end up with a rice-like texture.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the processed broccoli with eggs, Parmesan cheese, nutritional yeast, mozzarella cheese, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix everything well until fully combined.

Step 5: Shape the Crust

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spatula, spread the broccoli mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping it into a round crust about ½ inch thick.

Step 6: Bake

Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and firm to the touch. This step ensures your crust is crispy.

Step 7: Add Toppings

Remove the crust from the oven and add your pizza sauce, remaining mozzarella cheese, and any other toppings of your choice. Return the pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Serve

Let the pizza cool for a couple of minutes before slicing. Top with freshly sliced basil if desired, and enjoy your delicious Broccoli Pizza Crust!

Substitutions by Diet

Vegan: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) and opt for vegan cheese instead of Parmesan and mozzarella.
Dairy-free: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives for both the Parmesan and mozzarella.
Low-carb: Reduce the amount of cheese to lower the carb count further.
Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but ensure all your toppings and sauces are gluten-free as well.

Insider Tips

Ensure to drain the broccoli well after steaming to prevent a soggy crust.
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
If you like a thicker crust, you can double the recipe and use a larger baking sheet.
Try adding spices like garlic powder or crushed red pepper to the crust mixture for an extra kick.

Prep Ahead & Store

If you want to prepare ahead, you can steam and process the broccoli a day in advance. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. The baked crust can also be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the oven for a few minutes.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using it in the recipe.

What can I use instead of nutritional yeast?

If you don’t have nutritional yeast, you can simply use more Parmesan cheese or omit it altogether. It adds a cheesy flavor, but the recipe will still be delicious without it.

Can I make this crust ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the crust and store it in the refrigerator for a couple of days or freeze it for longer storage. Just reheat before adding your toppings.

How do I prevent my crust from being soggy?

Make sure to thoroughly drain the broccoli after steaming, and avoid adding too much sauce on top of the crust before baking. Baking it longer initially helps create a firmer base.

Similar Recipes

Let’s Eat

Now that you have the recipe for a delightful Broccoli Pizza Crust, it’s time to gather your favorite toppings and dig in! This recipe is not only a unique way to enjoy pizza but also a fun project to do with family or friends. Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner option or a tasty dish to impress your guests, this broccoli crust is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings. Enjoy your healthy slice of pizza goodness!