Mediterranean Crispy Cottage Cheese Pizza Sliders – No-Dough Hack
These Mediterranean crispy cottage cheese pizza sliders are a smart shortcut for anyone who loves pizza but wants something lighter, faster, and higher in protein. Instead of traditional dough, blended cottage cheese creates a crisp-edged, tender base that bakes up golden and satisfying. The Mediterranean twist comes from olive oil, herbs, tomato sauce, and melty cheese layered into compact sliders that feel indulgent without being heavy. They are perfect for quick lunches, game-day snacks, or easy dinners when time is short but flavor still matters. Once you try this no-dough hack, it is hard to go back.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Bake time: 18 to 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Yield: 6 pizza sliders
Ingredients
1 cup cottage cheese, blended smooth
1 large egg
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup thick pizza or marinara sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional toppings: olives, bell peppers, mushrooms, pepperoni, basil
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 200°C and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Blend the cottage cheese until smooth and creamy.
In a bowl, whisk the blended cottage cheese with the egg.
Stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, and salt.
Spoon the mixture into six small mounds on the tray, shaping rounds.
Drizzle lightly with olive oil for crisp edges.
Bake for 12 to 14 minutes until set and lightly golden.
Remove from oven and spoon pizza sauce over each base.
Add your chosen toppings and a little extra cheese if desired.
Return to oven for 6 minutes until bubbly and crisp. Let cool slightly before serving.
Tips
Use full-fat cottage cheese for the crispiest texture.
Blending thoroughly prevents watery pockets.
Keep bases small for better structure and crunch.
Parchment paper is essential to avoid sticking.
Do not overload toppings or sliders may soften.
A light olive oil drizzle improves browning.
Let sliders rest briefly to firm up before lifting.
For extra crisp, use the top oven rack.
Serve immediately for best texture.
Reheat in an air fryer or oven to restore crispness.
Variations
Greek Style: Add feta, olives, and oregano.
Veggie Loaded: Top with zucchini, peppers, and mushrooms.
Spicy Pizza: Add chili flakes or spicy sausage.
Caprese: Use cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil.
Pesto Base: Replace pizza sauce with pesto.
Chicken Slider: Add shredded cooked chicken.
Low-Fat: Use low-fat cottage cheese and mozzarella.
Breakfast Style: Top with scrambled egg and cheese.
Mini Sliders: Make smaller bites for parties.
Mediterranean Deluxe: Add sun-dried tomatoes and artichokes.
Q&A
Do these really hold together without dough?
Yes, the egg and cheese bind the base once baked.
Do they taste like cottage cheese?
No, the flavor becomes mild and cheesy after baking.
Can I air fry them?
Yes, air fry at 180°C for similar timing.
Are these keto-friendly?
They are low-carb but not strict keto.
Can I make them ahead?
They are best fresh but can be pre-baked and topped later.
Why are my sliders soft?
Too many toppings or underbaking can soften them.
What sauce works best?
A thick marinara prevents sogginess.
Can kids enjoy these?
Yes, they are mild and customizable.
Can I freeze them?
Freezing is not ideal, as texture changes.
What can I serve with them?
A simple salad or roasted vegetables works well.
Nutrition
(Approximate per slider)
Calories: 140
Protein: 10 to 12 g
Carbohydrates: 4 g
Fat: 8 g
Fiber: 1 g
Conclusion
Mediterranean crispy cottage cheese pizza sliders are a clever no-dough solution for pizza cravings. They deliver crisp edges, melty toppings, and bold Mediterranean flavor in a fast, protein-rich format. Whether you serve them as a snack, light meal, or party bite, they offer big satisfaction with minimal effort. Keep this recipe in your rotation for those days when you want pizza without the wait.