Description
Ever wish pizza could be a part of your daily high-protein meal plan? Say hello to the Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl — the genius way to crush your cravings without the dough.
This is everything you love about pizza — melty cheese, zesty sauce, and savory toppings — layered over creamy, protein-rich cottage cheese and baked to bubbling perfection. It’s perfect for low-carb eaters, gym-goers, or anyone wanting comfort food with muscle-building benefits.
Servings: 2
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Ingredients
Base:
- 1 cup low-fat or full-fat cottage cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
Sauce & Cheese:
- ½ cup marinara or no-sugar-added pizza sauce
- ½ to 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Toppings (Customize to taste):
- 5–6 slices tomato or pepperoni
- 1 tbsp black olives, sliced
- 1 tbsp chopped green pepper
- 1 tbsp grated parmesan
- 1 tsp oregano or Italian seasoning for garnish
Instructions
1. Prep the Base:
In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
Spread the seasoned cottage cheese evenly across the bottom of an oven-safe bowl or small baking dish.
2. Add Sauce:
Spread marinara sauce over the cottage cheese layer. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it evenly.
3. Top with Cheese & Extras:
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly on top. Add your chosen toppings — tomatoes, olives, peppers, pepperoni, or any other favorites.
Sprinkle parmesan and extra herbs (oregano or chili flakes) on top for that classic pizza flavor.
4. Bake:
Place the bowl in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C).
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden around the edges.
5. Serve:
Let it cool slightly (cheese will be lava-hot!). Enjoy straight from the bowl or with a side of greens or garlic zucchini for a fuller meal.
Pro Tips
- Thicker base? Use whipped cottage cheese or blend it first for a smooth texture.
- Higher protein? Add grilled chicken or turkey pepperoni.
- Want crunch? Top with air-fried chickpeas or serve with protein crackers.
- Meal prep tip: These bowls keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in microwave or oven.
Why This Works
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Cottage Cheese | High in casein protein for slow muscle recovery |
| Marinara Sauce | Adds flavor without many calories |
| Mozzarella | Melts perfectly, adds fats for satiety |
| Oven Baked | Caramelizes cheese, creating real “pizza feels” |
| Toppings | Flexible for macros, flavor, and nutrition |
Variations
| Style | Swap/Add |
|---|---|
| Meatlovers | Add crumbled cooked turkey or beef |
| Veggie Supreme | Add mushrooms, onions, peppers |
| Buffalo Bowl | Swap sauce for buffalo, use blue cheese crumbles |
| Vegan Version | Use almond ricotta or tofu + vegan mozzarella |
| Breakfast Pizza Bowl | Use scrambled egg + breakfast sausage + cheddar |
Storage
- Store in an airtight glass container up to 3 days in fridge.
- Best reheated in oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 mins.
Macros (Per Serving – est.):
Based on low-fat cottage cheese & ½ cup mozzarella
- Calories: ~320
- Protein: 30–35g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbs: 8–10g
- Sugar: 4g
- Fiber: 1–2g
Serving Ideas:
- Pair with a side salad for volume.
- Serve with keto breadsticks or roasted zucchini spears.
- Spoon into mini bell peppers before baking for a handheld version.
- Serve as a high-protein appetizer on a game day platter.
FAQs
Can I use ricotta instead of cottage cheese?
Yes! It’ll be richer and smoother — slightly higher in fat.
Can I air fry this?
Yes. Use an oven-safe bowl and bake at 375°F for 8–10 mins until bubbly
