Description
This Cheesy Cauliflower Garlic Bread is a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional garlic bread, featuring a cauliflower crust baked to golden perfection and topped with melted cheese and garlic butter. Perfectly seasoned and served with warm marinara sauce, it’s an ideal gluten-free and vegetarian appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Cauliflower Base
- 1 large head cauliflower (or 2 small heads)
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Topping & Garnish
- 2 tablespoons salted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (reserved from original 3 cups)
- Crushed red pepper flakes, optional
- Marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 400˚F (200˚C). Chop the cauliflower into large florets and pulse in a food processor in batches until the texture resembles fine rice.
- Mix Ingredients for Crust: Transfer the processed cauliflower into a large bowl. Add the eggs, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, grated parmesan, garlic powder, dried oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape and Bake Crust: Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the cauliflower mixture evenly in a loaf shape about ½ inch thick. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown on top.
- Prepare Garlic Butter and Add Toppings: While the crust bakes, combine the melted butter with minced garlic. Once the crust is done, remove it from the oven and brush the garlic butter evenly over the top. Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese on top, and if desired, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Bake the Topping: Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese melts and browns slightly.
- Cool and Serve: Let the garlic bread cool for 5 minutes to set. Slice into stripes and serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Make sure to squeeze excess water from the cauliflower rice to prevent a soggy crust.
- You can substitute mozzarella with a dairy-free alternative to make it lactose-free, but the texture will vary.
- Adjust garlic and seasoning quantities to suit personal taste preferences.
- This bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American