If you’re craving pizza but want something lighter and low-carb, let me introduce you to the ultimate game-changer: Cloud Bread Pizza with Pesto! Imagine a fluffy, pillowy base topped with creamy, herby pesto, melted cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings. It’s a fresh, guilt-free spin on pizza that’s so good, you’ll forget it’s even made with cloud bread. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Why You’ll Love Cloud Bread Pizza with Pesto
This recipe isn’t just about making pizza—it’s about rethinking how we can indulge in our favorite flavors without compromising on texture or taste. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
- Low-Carb Delight: Cloud bread serves as the perfect pizza base, giving you all the comfort of pizza with fewer carbs. You won’t miss the traditional crust, I promise!
- Quick and Easy: Cloud bread comes together in a flash, and the whole pizza is ready in less than 30 minutes. It’s a stress-free meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings—whether that’s veggies, protein, or extra cheese. You can easily make this pizza your own.
- Healthy but Satisfying: Packed with protein and free from refined carbs, this pizza lets you indulge without any of the guilt. Plus, the pesto adds a burst of fresh flavor that’s hard to resist.
- A Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or serving it at a get-together, this cloud bread pizza is bound to be a hit. It’s light, flavorful, and oh-so-delicious.
Ingredients
Cloud bread pizza comes together with a few simple ingredients, but the flavor is anything but simple:
- Cloud Bread: This is your light, fluffy pizza base. It’s made from just eggs, cream cheese, and a little baking powder—no flour required!
- Pesto: Fresh basil pesto adds a burst of herby goodness that makes this pizza truly irresistible. You can use store-bought pesto, but homemade is always the way to go.
- Mozzarella Cheese: The classic pizza cheese! It melts beautifully and adds that gooey, cheesy goodness we all love.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes sliced in half add freshness and a pop of color to the pizza.
- Parmesan Cheese: A little sprinkle of parmesan gives this pizza a savory, umami flavor that enhances the pesto and mozzarella.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps to crisp up the edges of the cloud bread and adds richness to the overall dish.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Now, let’s walk through the steps to make this cloud bread pizza with pesto:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the pizza gets that golden, crispy edge we all crave.
- Make the Cloud Bread: Start by making the cloud bread base. Beat eggs and cream cheese together until smooth and fluffy. Add a pinch of baking powder and stir to combine. Scoop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and shape them into pizza bases. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden and set.
- Prepare the Pesto: While the cloud bread is baking, prep the pesto (if you’re making it homemade). Blend fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, olive oil, and salt until smooth and fragrant.
- Assemble the Pizza: Once the cloud bread is out of the oven, spread a generous layer of pesto over the top. Add the mozzarella cheese and halved cherry tomatoes on top.
- Bake Again: Return the pizza to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle with a little extra olive oil, sprinkle with parmesan cheese, and garnish with fresh basil. Slice it up and serve warm!
How to Serve Cloud Bread Pizza with Pesto
This cloud bread pizza is delicious on its own, but if you want to take it up a notch, here are some serving suggestions:
- Green Salad: Pair it with a fresh, crisp green salad for a light and refreshing contrast to the rich pesto and cheese.
- Roasted Veggies: Serve with some roasted vegetables, like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers, for a wholesome, colorful side.
- Garlic Bread: If you’re in the mood for more carbs (just a little!), serve with a side of warm garlic bread.
- Wine Pairing: A light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the fresh flavors of the pesto pizza.
Additional Tips
Here are some tips to make sure your cloud bread pizza turns out perfect:
- Make the Cloud Bread Ahead: You can make the cloud bread base in advance and store it in the fridge for a day or two. Just reheat it in the oven before topping with pesto and cheese.
- Customize Your Toppings: Add your favorite pizza toppings, like olives, mushrooms, or grilled chicken, for a more substantial meal.
- For a Crispy Base: If you like a crispier crust, bake the cloud bread a little longer before adding the toppings.
- Freezer-Friendly: You can freeze the cloud bread bases and pesto separately. When you’re ready, just assemble the pizza and bake!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make this pizza vegetarian?
A1: Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian, but feel free to add any additional veggies or leave out the cheese for a dairy-free version.
Q2: Can I make the cloud bread ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can make the cloud bread base a day or two ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before adding the toppings.
Q3: Can I use store-bought pesto?
A3: Yes! Store-bought pesto is a great time-saver and still delivers great flavor.
Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to preserve the texture.
Q5: Can I freeze this pizza?
A5: Yes! You can freeze the assembled pizza (without baking) for up to 3 months. Bake it from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes.
Q6: Can I make this pizza gluten-free?
A6: Yes! Cloud bread is naturally gluten-free, so this pizza is a great gluten-free option.
Q7: Can I use a different cheese?
A7: Absolutely! You can swap mozzarella for goat cheese, ricotta, or even a dairy-free cheese if needed.
Q8: How can I make the crust crispier?
A8: If you like a crispier base, bake the cloud bread a little longer before adding the toppings, or broil it for a minute or two at the end.
Q9: Can I add meat to this pizza?
A9: Yes! Feel free to add grilled chicken, bacon, or sausage to the pizza for extra protein.
Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Yes, you can double the recipe to make two pizzas, or make a larger pizza using a bigger baking sheet.
Conclusion
Cloud Bread Pizza with Pesto is a light, flavorful, and satisfying dish that will make you forget all about traditional pizza crust. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a healthier pizza option without sacrificing flavor. Give it a try—you’ll be surprised at how delicious and comforting cloud bread can be! Enjoy!
Print
Cloud Bread Pizza with Pesto
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cloud Bread Pizza is a viral sensation for a reason! With a fluffy crust made from whipped egg whites, this pizza is packed with flavor and high in protein, offering 31 grams of protein and only 359 calories for the whole pizza. A perfect low-carb alternative for pizza lovers!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 4 egg whites, separated from the yolks
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
For the Toppings:
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1/4 cup mushrooms
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet or pizza pan with parchment paper.
- Using a hand mixer or stand mixer with a whisk attachment, whip egg whites, basil, oregano, garlic powder, and sea salt until the egg whites are fluffy and soft peaks begin to form (about 1-2 minutes). Add cornstarch and whisk for another minute.
- Spread the egg white mixture onto the prepared baking sheet or pizza pan in a circular pizza shape using a spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until it is golden brown.
- While the crust is baking, sauté the onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms for 5-7 minutes to soften.
- Once the crust is done, spread pizza sauce over the base, then add mozzarella cheese and sautéed veggies.
- Return the pizza to the oven for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and starting to brown. For extra browning, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, but watch closely to avoid burning the cheese.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, protein-packed cloud bread pizza!
Notes
- You can customize the toppings with your favorite pizza ingredients like olives, tomatoes, or spinach.
- For a crispier crust, bake the egg white base for a little longer before adding the toppings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pizza
- Calories: 359 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 220mg