Print

The Best Cheesy Cauliflower Pizza Casserole Recipe

cheesy cauliflower pizza casserole - featured image

A quick and easy low-carb casserole that delivers all the pizza flavor without the crust. Roasted cauliflower is layered with a rich tomato sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan, and pepperoni, then baked until bubbly and golden.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head of cauliflower (about 2 pounds), cut into small florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup finely diced onion
  • 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (low-moisture, part-skim)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Wash the cauliflower and cut into small, bite-sized florets. Place on the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Toss to coat.
  3. Roast the cauliflower for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and edges are browned.
  4. While the cauliflower roasts, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3-4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
  6. Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Spread about 1/2 cup of the sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  7. Add the roasted cauliflower in an even layer, then pour the remaining sauce over the top. Gently toss to coat.
  8. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the cauliflower. Arrange pepperoni slices on top.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden crust, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
  10. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Notes

Don’t skip roasting the cauliflower—it prevents a watery casserole. Use low-moisture mozzarella for best melting. Let the casserole rest 5 minutes after baking for cleaner servings. For a dairy-free version, use vegan cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: cauliflower pizza casserole, low-carb pizza, cheesy cauliflower casserole, pizza casserole, gluten-free pizza casserole