Why Make This Recipe
Pizza Cottage Cheese Bake is a fantastic dish that combines the comforting flavors of pizza with the hearty goodness of cottage cheese. This recipe provides a unique twist on traditional pizza, making it a perfect option for those who want to enjoy pizza flavors without the crust. It is a great way to sneak in some protein and vegetables, appealing to both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and makes for a delightful family meal.
How to Make Pizza Cottage Cheese Bake
Making Pizza Cottage Cheese Bake is an easy process that any home cook can master. To achieve the perfect bake, you need to gather your ingredients and follow the steps below closely.
Ingredients
- 2 cups full-fat cottage cheese
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1 cup pasta sauce (marinara or pizza sauce) for layering
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup mixed pizza toppings (pepperoni, bell peppers, olives, mushrooms) – customize to taste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Directions
Preparation
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, eggs, oregano, and garlic powder. Mix everything until well blended.
- In a baking dish, spread a layer of pasta sauce on the bottom. This helps keep the bake moist.
- Pour half of the cottage cheese mixture over the sauce, spreading it evenly.
- Next, sprinkle half of your mixed pizza toppings over this layer.
- Add another layer of pasta sauce, followed by the remaining cottage cheese mixture.
- Top with the rest of your pizza toppings and finish with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Baking
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
How to Serve Pizza Cottage Cheese Bake
Once your Pizza Cottage Cheese Bake is ready, let it cool for a few minutes. Cut it into squares and serve hot. You can pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
How to Store Pizza Cottage Cheese Bake
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Tips to Make Pizza Cottage Cheese Bake
- Feel free to experiment with toppings! You can use whatever pizza toppings you like, such as cooked sausage, different cheeses, or even fresh basil.
- Adjust the seasonings to your taste. If you love spicy food, consider adding red pepper flakes for some heat.
- For a creamier texture, you can mix in a bit of cream cheese with the cottage cheese.
Variation
You can turn this dish into a vegetarian delight by using only veggies as toppings. Or, for a healthier option, substitute low-fat cottage cheese and mozzarella cheese.
FAQs
- Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
- Yes, you can use low-fat cottage cheese if you want a lighter version.
- What other toppings can I use?
- You can use any toppings you enjoy, such as sausage, spinach, or diced tomatoes.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare it in advance and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
- Is this dish gluten-free?
- Yes, since there’s no crust, it is gluten-free, but check the sauce to ensure it’s also gluten-free.
- How long does it take to bake?
- It usually takes about 30-35 minutes in the oven.
- Can I freeze leftovers?
- Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container.
- What can I serve with it?
- You can serve it with garlic bread, a side salad, or steamed veggies.
- Can I use different cheeses?
- Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar or provolone for different flavors.
Pizza Cottage Cheese Bake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and protein-packed twist on traditional pizza, featuring layers of cottage cheese and mixed toppings without the crust.
Ingredients
- 2 cups full-fat cottage cheese
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1 cup pasta sauce (marinara or pizza sauce)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup mixed pizza toppings (pepperoni, bell peppers, olives, mushrooms)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, eggs, oregano, and garlic powder. Mix until well blended.
- Spread a layer of pasta sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Pour half of the cottage cheese mixture over the sauce and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle half of your mixed pizza toppings over the cottage cheese layer.
- Add another layer of pasta sauce and pour the remaining cottage cheese mixture over it.
- Top with the rest of your pizza toppings and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes, cut into squares, and serve hot.
Notes
Feel free to customize toppings and adjust seasonings according to your taste. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 180mg