Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These veggie pizzas are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients from the broccoli crust. The mini-sized pizzas are fun to make, making them an ideal activity for little chefs. With a crispy crust, savory marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and your favorite pizza toppings, this is a healthy, kid-friendly recipe that’s perfect for a snack, lunch, or dinner.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- broccoli florets
- large eggs
- grated mozzarella cheese (or dairy-free alternative)
- garlic powder
- salt
- marinara or pizza sauce
- Toppings such as olives, chopped bell peppers, or tomatoes
directions
Make the Broccoli Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Steam the broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to a pot with 1 cup of water. Bring to a simmer, then lower the heat and cover. Steam the broccoli until it’s fork-tender, about 5 minutes. Drain the broccoli and spread it out on a clean kitchen towel to cool.
- Dry the broccoli: Once cooled, pat the broccoli with the towel to remove excess moisture.
- Process the mixture: Place the broccoli in a food processor. Add the eggs, 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, and salt. Pulse until everything is well combined and the broccoli is finely chopped. Scrape down the sides and pulse 2-3 more times to ensure the mixture is smooth.
- Form the crusts: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the broccoli mixture and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten the mixture into a round shape. You can do this free-form or use a round cookie cutter as a guide. Repeat with the remaining mixture to form mini crusts.
Bake the Crust:
- Bake the crusts: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the crusts for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown around the edges.
- Top with sauce and cheese: Remove the crusts from the oven and spread a layer of marinara sauce on each. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese and add any desired toppings, such as olives, chopped bell peppers, or tomatoes.
- Melt the cheese: Return the mini pizzas to the oven and bake for another 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Enjoy the mini veggie pizzas warm!
Servings and timing
Servings: 6
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Different Veggies: Add other finely chopped vegetables to the crust mixture, like spinach or zucchini, for added nutrition.
- Meat Options: For non-vegetarian options, you can add cooked chicken, turkey, or pepperoni as toppings.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for anyone following a gluten-free diet.
- Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative to make the recipe dairy-free.
storage/reheating
- Storage: Leftover mini veggie pizzas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the mini pizzas in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I make the broccoli crust ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the broccoli mixture and form the crusts, then store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
How can I make the crust crispier?
For a crispier crust, you can bake the broccoli crusts a little longer before adding the sauce and toppings. Make sure they are golden brown and firm to the touch.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used in place of fresh. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.
Can I use other types of cheese for the topping?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, gouda, or a blend of your favorites.
Can I freeze these mini pizzas?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked mini pizzas after baking. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag for storage. Reheat in the oven when ready to eat.
Conclusion
These Mini Veggie Pizzas with Broccoli Crust are a fun, healthy, and delicious way to enjoy pizza without the traditional dough. Packed with vegetables and topped with cheese, they’re perfect for kids, family dinners, or meal prep. Easy to make and customizable with your favorite toppings, these mini pizzas are sure to become a hit in your household!
Print
Mini Veggie Pizzas with Broccoli Crust
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 mini pizzas
Description
Mini Veggie Pizzas with Broccoli Crust offer a healthy and fun twist on traditional pizza. The broccoli crust is nutrient-packed, and the mini pizzas are topped with marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and your favorite veggie toppings.
Ingredients
- Broccoli florets
- Large eggs
- Grated mozzarella cheese (or dairy-free alternative)
- Garlic powder
- Salt
- Marinara or pizza sauce
- Toppings such as olives, chopped bell peppers, or tomatoes
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli Crust: Preheat the oven to 400°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Steam the broccoli: Add broccoli florets to a pot with 1 cup of water. Simmer and cover for 5 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and cool on a kitchen towel.
- Dry the broccoli: Pat the broccoli with the towel to remove excess moisture.
- Process the mixture: Place broccoli in a food processor. Add eggs, 1/2 cup mozzarella, garlic powder, and salt. Pulse until smooth and combined. Scrape the sides and pulse again.
- Form the crusts: Scoop 1 tablespoon of the broccoli mixture onto the baking sheet and flatten into a round shape. Use a cookie cutter for a uniform shape if desired. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
- Bake the crusts: Bake the crusts for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Top with sauce and cheese: Spread marinara sauce on the crusts, sprinkle with mozzarella, and add desired toppings. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Serve: Enjoy the mini veggie pizzas warm!
Notes
- For a crispier crust, bake the broccoli crusts longer before adding sauce and toppings.
- Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for variety.
- Frozen broccoli can be used, but ensure it’s well-drained before using.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini pizza
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 50mg