Name: Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Cottage cheese; 1/4 cup Pizza sauce or marinara sauce; 1/4 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 tbsp Mini pepperoni, cooked sausage, or other protein (optional); 2 tbsp Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, or other toppings; 1/4 tsp Italian seasoning; Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

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Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl is a high-protein, low-carb twist on traditional pizza that I can throw together in minutes. It brings all the savory flavors of pizza—cheese, sauce, and toppings—without the crust. I love how creamy and satisfying it is, making it perfect for a quick lunch, snack, or even a post-workout meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like that this recipe is incredibly fast and flexible. I can customize it with my favorite pizza toppings, and it’s great when I’m craving pizza but want something lighter. Cottage cheese adds a boost of protein and a creamy texture that melts beautifully with warm sauce and melty cheese on top. It’s also easy to make ahead or prep in batches.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cottage cheese
Pizza sauce or marinara sauce
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Mini pepperoni, cooked sausage, or other protein (optional)
Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, or any other toppings
Italian seasoning
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

I start by scooping cottage cheese into a microwave-safe bowl or small oven-safe dish.
I spoon pizza sauce over the top, spreading it out evenly.
I sprinkle on shredded mozzarella and any toppings I’m using—pepperoni, chopped veggies, or cooked sausage.
I season with Italian herbs and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
If I’m using the microwave, I heat it for about 1–2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
If I prefer the oven, I bake it at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes until everything is hot and golden on top.
I let it cool slightly before digging in—it’s hot!

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 serving, perfect for a personal-size pizza bowl. It takes about 5 minutes to prep and another 2 minutes in the microwave or 10–12 minutes in the oven. Altogether, it’s ready in under 15 minutes.

Variations

I like to change things up by using different sauces—sometimes I go with pesto or a spicy arrabbiata. For toppings, I rotate between cooked ground turkey, spinach, jalapeños, or artichokes. I’ve even made a vegetarian version with just veggies and extra cheese. If I want it even creamier, I mix a little shredded mozzarella into the cottage cheese before adding toppings.

Storage/reheating

If I have leftovers, I store them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To reheat, I microwave it for 1–2 minutes or warm it in the oven until heated through. I don’t recommend freezing it, as cottage cheese can get watery once thawed.

FAQs

Can I use ricotta instead of cottage cheese?

Yes, I’ve tried this with ricotta, and it’s delicious—just a bit richer and thicker. I still prefer cottage cheese for the higher protein content.

Is this a good option for meal prep?

Absolutely. I prepare a few bowls ahead, keep them in the fridge, and heat them up when I need a fast meal or snack.

Does the cottage cheese melt like mozzarella?

Not exactly—it softens and becomes creamy, but it doesn’t stretch like mozzarella. That’s why I like to add a layer of shredded mozzarella on top.

Can I make this dairy-free?

I can try using a dairy-free cottage cheese alternative and vegan cheese shreds, though the taste and texture may vary slightly.

What can I eat with this to make it a full meal?

I often pair it with a side salad, roasted veggies, or garlic bread if I want something more filling.

Conclusion

Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl is one of my favorite ways to enjoy pizza flavor without all the carbs. It’s fast, versatile, and packed with protein—perfect for a solo meal that feels comforting but light. Whether I need a quick bite or a meal-prep option, this recipe is a go-to I keep coming back to.