Introduction: These Keto Mini Pizzas are a delicious, low-carb twist on everyone’s favorite comfort food. Made with a crust that’s high in protein and low in carbs, they’re perfect for satisfying pizza cravings without the carb overload. This recipe is customizable and easy to make, making it a great option for quick snacks, party appetizers, or family meals.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 oz cream cheese
- ¾ cup almond flour
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Toppings:
- ¼ cup low-carb pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or more, as desired)
- Your favorite low-carb toppings: sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, spinach, vegan or plant-based pepperoni, etc.
- Dried Italian herbs, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Crust
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Melt the Cheese:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella and cream cheese. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until the cheeses are fully melted and smooth.
- Combine with Almond Flour and Egg:
- Add the almond flour, egg, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the melted cheese. Mix until you have a dough-like consistency.
- Shape the Mini Pizza Crusts:
- Divide the dough into small balls (about 1 ½ inches each) and press each one flat on the parchment-lined baking sheet to form small pizza bases, about 3 inches in diameter.
Step 2: Pre-Bake the Crusts
- Bake the Crusts:
- Bake the mini pizza crusts for about 8-10 minutes, or until they begin to turn golden brown.
- Remove from Oven:
- Take the crusts out of the oven and allow them to cool slightly before adding toppings.
Step 3: Add Toppings
- Spread the Sauce:
- Spoon a small amount of low-carb pizza sauce onto each mini pizza crust and spread it evenly.
- Add Cheese and Toppings:
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, and add your desired toppings.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, and add your desired toppings.
Step 4: Bake the Mini Pizzas
- Bake Again:
- Place the topped mini pizzas back into the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with dried Italian herbs if desired. Let the mini pizzas cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- With a Side Salad: Serve with a simple side salad for a balanced, low-carb meal.
- As Party Appetizers: These mini pizzas make great finger foods for parties or gatherings.
- Dip Options: Serve with a side of marinara or garlic butter for dipping.
Tips and Variations:
- Try a Cauliflower Crust: For a veggie-packed option, use cauliflower rice in place of almond flour.
- Use Vegan Cheese and Toppings: To make this recipe dairy-free, opt for vegan mozzarella and cream cheese.
- Make Ahead: The crusts can be made in advance and frozen. Just thaw, add toppings, and bake for a quick meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx. 2 Mini Pizzas):
- Calories: 180
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Net Carbs: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 15g
WW SmartPoints (Per Serving):
Each serving has approximately 5 SmartPoints on the Weight Watchers program, depending on specific ingredients used.
These Keto Mini Pizzas are a tasty, satisfying way to enjoy pizza without the carbs. With a cheesy, golden crust and customizable toppings, they’re sure to become a low-carb favorite. Perfect for pizza lovers on a keto or low-carb diet!