Are you searching for a tasty and healthier frozen pizza option? Look no further than the Kirkland Signature Supreme Cauliflower Pizza from Costco! This pizza has been receiving rave reviews on various sub-Reddits and Facebook groups, and I decided to give it a try. In this article, we will explore the cooking instructions, taste test, side dishes to pair with the pizza, calorie information, and whether it’s a good value for money.
Cauliflower Pizza Cooking Instructions
Let’s start with the cooking instructions for this delicious pizza. The packaging provides clear and simple instructions for baking the pizza in the oven, which work great. However, if you want to take it up a notch and make it even more delicious, I recommend adding a dollop of sour cream as a topping after it comes out of the oven!
Oven Cooking Instructions
Here are the oven cooking instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425F.
- Remove the pizza from the box/packaging.
- Place the pizza directly on the center rack in your oven.
- Bake the pizza for 17-19 minutes until the cheese is golden brown.
After baking, let the pizza cool for a few minutes, slice it up, and dig in! Remember not to thaw the pizza before cooking and avoid using a baking sheet.
Air Fryer Cooking Instructions
If you have a full-sized air fryer, you can also cook this pizza using it. Here are the air fryer cooking instructions:
- Set your air fryer to 400F.
- Remove the pizza from the box/packaging.
- Place the pizza into the air fryer.
- Cook the pizza for 10 minutes until the cheese is golden brown.
Once cooked, let the pizza cool for a minute, slice it, and enjoy!
Kirkland Cauliflower Pizza Taste Test!
Now, let’s address the most important question: how does the pizza taste? Well, it tastes great! The toppings generously cover the pizza from edge to edge, with an abundance of sausage, pepperoni, cheese, and a medley of veggies, including bell peppers (red, yellow, green), mushrooms, onions, and zucchini.
The crust is thin and crispy, which is perfect for those who prefer a lighter texture. While the taste of cauliflower is present, it’s not overwhelming. Overall, think of this pizza as a solid frozen Supreme Pizza that happens to have a cauliflower crust.
Calories in the Pizza
One significant advantage of this pizza is that it’s gluten-free due to the use of cauliflower. However, it’s important to note that it’s not a low-carb or low-calorie meal. Each serving of the pizza (two slices or 1/4 of the pizza) contains the following nutritional information:
- Calories: 310
- Fat: 15g (19% DV)
- Cholesterol: 45mg (15% DV)
- Sodium: 900mg (39% DV)
- Carbohydrates: 31g (11% DV)
- Protein: 14g
Compared to other pizza options, this one is healthier, making it a great choice.
Gluten-Free Side Dishes to Serve with the Pizza
To complement this gluten-free frozen pizza, here are some side dish ideas:
Mixed Green Salad
A simple mixed green salad with fresh lettuce, spinach, arugula, or other leafy greens, along with sliced vegetables like cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and carrots, can be a light and refreshing side dish. Dress it with a gluten-free vinaigrette or a balsamic glaze.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds a burst of flavor. Try roasting a mix of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and cherry tomatoes tossed in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Garlic and Herb Roasted Potatoes
Toss quartered or diced potatoes with minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley, along with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast them in the oven until crispy and golden brown for a flavorful and satisfying gluten-free side dish.
Caprese Salad
Combine fresh mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, and basil leaves, and drizzle them with balsamic glaze or a gluten-free Italian dressing. This classic Caprese salad adds a burst of freshness that pairs perfectly with the flavors of the pizza.
Quinoa Salad
Quinoa is a protein-packed gluten-free grain that can be used to make a delicious and nutritious salad. Toss cooked quinoa with diced vegetables like bell peppers, red onion, cucumber, and herbs like cilantro or parsley. Dress it with a gluten-free vinaigrette for a satisfying and wholesome side dish.
Remember to always check ingredient labels to ensure all the side dish ingredients are gluten-free, as some products may contain hidden sources of gluten. You can also explore the quinoa salad available in the deli coolers at Costco, which appears to be gluten-free and very tasty!
Steamed or Sautéed Vegetables
Simple yet healthy, steamed or sautéed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus can be a great side dish. Season them with a little garlic, lemon juice, and salt for added flavor.
The Kirkland Cauliflower Pizza – A Good Value
Costco offers this pizza as a package of two large pizzas for just $11.99, making it an affordable option at around $6 per pizza. In my opinion, spending $6 on a reasonably-priced frozen pizza that is both delicious and healthier is an excellent deal. If you have any doubts, you can also check out the Molinaro Cauliflower Pizza Kit in the boxed food section for a price comparison, as those are also highly recommended.
In conclusion, the Kirkland Cauliflower Pizza from Costco is a standout option for those seeking a delicious and healthier frozen pizza. Its generous toppings, thin and crispy crust, and gluten-free cauliflower base make it an appealing choice. Follow the cooking instructions, pair it with gluten-free side dishes, and indulge in a guilt-free pizza experience. Enjoy!