Pizza-Style Cottage Cheese Bake | Easy, High-Protein Comfort Food

Introduction

Craving pizza without the carbs or heaviness? This Pizza-Style Cottage Cheese Bake is the perfect solution. Packed with flavor, loaded with cheese, and layered with your favorite toppings, this wholesome meal delivers a pizza-like experience in a nutritious, crust-free format. It’s creamy, savory, and incredibly simple to put together. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping meals ahead for the week, this high-protein bake is a cozy option you’ll keep coming back to.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this cottage cheese bake is sure to become a go-to:

• Protein-rich, carb-light: With cottage cheese and eggs at its core, each slice delivers long-lasting energy and fullness.
• Easy to customize: Add veggies, switch up the sauce, or keep it vegetarian. It adapts to whatever you have on hand.
• Make-ahead friendly: Ideal for weekly meal prep or saving leftovers for quick lunches.

Creamy cheese, vibrant veggies, and familiar herbs bring all the best pizza flavors together in one warm, satisfying dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cottage Cheese (2 cups)
Opt for full-fat cottage cheese to get the smoothest, creamiest result. It forms the foundation of the bake.

Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded)
Brings that stretchy, gooey element we all love about pizza. Divide it between the filling and the topping.

Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated)
Adds sharpness and depth to balance the richness of the other cheeses.

Eggs (2 large)
These provide structure and help the bake hold its form when sliced.

Marinara or Pizza Sauce (1 cup)
Brings a rich tomato flavor and a hint of acidity to cut through the cheese.

Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon)
An essential herb that delivers classic pizza aroma and taste.

Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon)
Provides warmth and depth to the overall flavor.

Onion Powder (½ teaspoon)
Boosts the savory profile without overpowering the dish.

Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
Season to your preference, adjusting based on the saltiness of your cheese and sauce.

Chopped Bell Peppers (1 cup)
Adds color and a mild sweetness. They soften during baking but retain a pleasant bite.

Sliced Black Olives (½ cup)
Offer a salty contrast that complements the creamy base.

Cooked Sausage or Pepperoni (1 cup, optional)
Enhances the savory, meaty appeal. Use a vegetarian option if preferred.

Fresh or Dried Basil (2 tablespoons chopped or 1 teaspoon dried)
Sprinkled on top for a fresh, herbal finish.

Olive Oil (1 tablespoon)
Used to coat the baking dish and prevent sticking.

How to Make Pizza-Style Cottage Cheese Bake

This recipe is a breeze to prepare. Start by blending the cheeses and eggs to make a creamy base, then layer it with sauce and toppings like you would with a traditional pizza. Bake it until golden and bubbly, then let it cool slightly before slicing. It’s a low-effort, high-reward dinner that satisfies comfort food cravings while keeping things light.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
Set the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat a 9×9-inch baking dish with olive oil to ensure an easy release after baking.

2. Prepare the Cheese Layer
In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese, eggs, Parmesan, and half of the shredded mozzarella. Stir in oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly combined.

3. Spread Mixture in Dish
Pour the cheese blend into the baking dish and spread it evenly using a spoon or spatula.

4. Add the Sauce
Spoon the marinara or pizza sauce over the cheese base without stirring. It should sit neatly as a top layer.

5. Add Toppings
Scatter the bell peppers and black olives over the sauce. Add the sausage or pepperoni now if you’re including meat.

6. Top with Cheese and Basil
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top and finish with chopped or dried basil.

7. Bake the Dish
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the surface is bubbling and slightly browned.

8. Optional Broil
If desired, broil the top for 2 to 3 minutes at the end for extra browning. Watch closely to prevent burning.

9. Let It Rest
Allow the dish to cool for 5 to 10 minutes so it sets and slices cleanly.

10. Serve and Enjoy
Cut into four equal portions and serve warm.

Helpful Tips

• Choose full-fat dairy for the creamiest texture and richest flavor.
• To keep moisture in check, sauté watery veggies like mushrooms before adding.
• Cooling time is important to help the dish firm up before slicing.
• Leftovers store well and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

Details

Flavor: Cheesy, savory, and seasoned with classic pizza herbs
Texture: Soft and creamy inside, with a bubbly, cheesy top
Best For: Easy weeknight meals, high-protein diets, or prep-ahead lunches
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 to 35 minutes

Notes

• You can skip the meat for a vegetarian version or use a plant-based alternative.
• This recipe is easy to double for a larger family and fits perfectly in a 9×13-inch pan.
• Cool completely before freezing. Slice, wrap, and store for up to 2 months.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	340
Total Fat	21g
Saturated Fat	9g
Unsaturated Fat	10g
Trans Fat	0g
Cholesterol	115mg
Sodium	720mg
Total Carbohydrates	9g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Total Sugar	5g
Protein	24g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does cottage cheese melt in a pizza-style bake?
While it doesn’t melt like traditional cheeses, it softens and turns creamy during baking.

Do you need to blend cottage cheese before baking it like pizza?
No blending is necessary. Mixing it with eggs and cheese is enough for a smooth consistency.

Is a cottage cheese pizza bake high in protein?
Yes, it’s an excellent protein source thanks to the cottage cheese, eggs, and cheese blend.

What toppings work best for a pizza-style cottage cheese bake?
Try bell peppers, olives, mushrooms, cooked meats, or even pineapple for a sweet contrast.

Storage Instructions

Allow the bake to cool completely before storing. Place individual portions in airtight containers. Keep in the fridge for up to four days or freeze for up to two months. To reheat, bake at 350°F until warmed through or microwave briefly for convenience.

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Conclusion

This Pizza-Style Cottage Cheese Bake is the ideal way to enjoy your favorite pizza flavors with a lighter twist. It’s rich, satisfying, and packed with protein. Whether you’re cooking for a busy family or planning meals ahead, this dish checks every box. It’s warm, flexible, and absolutely delicious. Give it a try and enjoy a fresh take on a comfort food classic.

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