Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake — Cheesy, High-Protein Comfort Dish
It’s a low-carb, hearty meal perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep — delivering all the comforting flavors inspired by traditional pizza from Italy in a healthier baked form.
Description
This dish layers creamy cottage cheese with seasoned marinara, herbs, vegetables, and gooey melted cheese. When baked, it becomes bubbly, slightly golden, and deeply satisfying. It’s quick to prepare, customizable, and ideal for anyone wanting a lighter alternative to pizza.
Flavor profile: Cheesy • Savory • Herby • Slightly tangy • Comforting
Time Required
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 40–45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
Base Layer
2 cups cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
1 large egg
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon dried oregano
Pizza Sauce Layer
1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Cheese & Toppings
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
½ cup sliced bell peppers
¼ cup sliced olives
½ cup mushrooms (optional)
¼ cup chopped onions (optional)
½ cup cooked chicken or turkey pepperoni (optional for protein boost)
Garnish (Optional)
Fresh basil leaves
Red chili flakes
- Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare Cottage Cheese Base
In a bowl, mix:
Cottage cheese
Egg
Salt
Pepper
Garlic powder
Oregano
Stir until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Assemble Base Layer
Spread cottage cheese mixture evenly in baking dish.
Step 4: Add Sauce
Spread marinara sauce evenly over the cottage cheese layer.
Sprinkle Italian seasoning.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Add vegetables and optional meat toppings.
Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan evenly.
Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until:
Cheese is melted
Top is golden
Edges are bubbling
Step 7: Rest & Serve
Let cool 5–10 minutes before serving.
Garnish with basil or chili flakes if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with garlic bread or toasted sourdough.
Pair with a fresh green salad.
Use as a high-protein meal prep dish.
Enjoy as a low-carb pizza alternative.
- Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this low-fat?
Yes — use low-fat cottage cheese and reduced-fat mozzarella.
2. Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. Skip meat toppings and add extra vegetables.
3. Can I make it keto-friendly?
Yes. Use low-sugar marinara and avoid onions.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
5. Can I freeze it?
Yes. Freeze baked portions for up to 2 months and reheat in oven.
6. What other toppings work well?
Spinach, jalapeños, corn, zucchini, or paneer cubes.
7. Can I replace cottage cheese?
You can use ricotta, but protein will be slightly lower.
Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)
(Values vary by ingredients used)
Calories: 280–320 kcal
Protein: 28–32 g
Carbohydrates: 10–14 g
Fat: 14–17 g
Fiber: 2–3 g
Sugar: 5–7 g
Sodium: 550–700 mg