🍕 High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl

Craving pizza but want to keep it healthy and high in protein? This Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl gives you all the cheesy, savory goodness of pizza—with a fraction of the carbs and a big protein punch. It’s quick, customizable, and completely guilt-free.

🧾 Ingredients:

• 1 cup cottage cheese (low-fat or full-fat)

• ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ¼ cup tomato sauce (sugar-free if desired)

• ¼ cup chopped bell peppers (any color)

• ¼ cup sliced mushrooms

• ¼ cup chopped onions

• ¼ cup sliced olives

• ¼ tsp dried oregano

• ¼ tsp garlic powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

🍳 Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven
   Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Mix the Base
   In a bowl, stir together the cottage cheese, mozzarella, tomato sauce, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Layer It Up
   Pour the cottage cheese mixture into a small oven-safe baking dish or bowl. Smooth out the surface.

4. Top with Veggies
   Evenly layer the bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, and olives over the top.

5. Bake
   Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden edges.

6. Serve and Enjoy
   Serve hot, as a main dish or a hearty snack.

🧠 Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 250

• Protein: 20g

• Carbohydrates: 10g

• Fat: 15g

❓ 20 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this in the microwave instead of baking?
   Yes, microwave on high for 2–3 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

2. Is this recipe keto-friendly?
   Yes, especially if you use low-carb tomato sauce and olives in moderation.

3. Can I use ricotta instead of cottage cheese?
   You can, but ricotta is lower in protein and creamier in texture.

4. Is cottage cheese supposed to melt?
   Not completely. It softens and blends with the other cheeses.

5. Can I add meat?
   Absolutely—try pepperoni, cooked ground turkey, or chicken breast.

6. Can I prep this ahead of time?
   Yes, assemble and refrigerate. Bake when ready to eat.

7. What type of tomato sauce is best?
   Choose a thick, flavorful pizza sauce or marinara with no added sugar.

8. How can I make it dairy-free?
   Use plant-based cottage cheese and cheese alternatives.

9. Is this freezer-friendly?
   Not ideal. The texture of cottage cheese can become grainy after freezing.

10. Can I use flavored cottage cheese?
    No—stick to plain to keep the savory pizza flavor intact.

11. How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
    Up to 3 days in an airtight container.

12. Can I make this vegan?
    Yes, with dairy-free cheese and vegan cottage cheese (like almond or tofu-based).

13. Can kids eat this?
    Yes! It’s nutritious and can be fun with favorite toppings.

14. What other veggies can I add?
    Zucchini, spinach, jalapeños, or cherry tomatoes.

15. Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
    Yes, 1 minced clove adds great flavor.

16. Does this taste like actual pizza?
    It mimics the flavor, but with a creamy texture rather than a crispy crust.

17. What type of dish should I use for baking?
    Use a small oven-safe ceramic or glass bowl or ramekin.

18. Is this high in sodium?
    It can be—opt for low-sodium cottage cheese and sauce if needed.

19. How can I make it spicy?
    Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce before baking.

20. Is this suitable for post-workout?
    Yes! It’s high in protein and low in carbs, making it great for recovery.

🧑‍🍳 20 Best Tips for the Perfect Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl

1. Use full-fat cottage cheese for a creamier texture and richer flavor.

2. Drain excess liquid from the cottage cheese for less sogginess.

3. Sauté the veggies before baking to bring out flavor and remove moisture.

4. Add protein toppings like shredded chicken or turkey pepperoni for a meal upgrade.

5. Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra freshness.

6. Choose thick tomato sauce so it doesn’t water down the dish.

7. Top with extra mozzarella before baking for that gooey cheese pull.

8. Broil the last 2–3 minutes for a crispy, golden top.

9. Use mini ramekins for individual servings or portion control.

10. Season cottage cheese generously—it’s bland on its own.

11. Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor boost (and extra protein).

12. Mix in spinach or kale for extra nutrients and color.

13. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning for classic pizza flavor.

14. Use crushed red pepper if you love heat.

15. Garnish with arugula or fresh basil after baking for a gourmet touch.

16. Let it cool 5 minutes after baking—it thickens and holds better.

17. Make it a bowl meal with a side salad or garlic roasted veggies.

18. Try it with pesto drizzle instead of tomato sauce for a twist.

19. Use cast iron mini pans for even heat and crisped edges.

20. Make it brunch-worthy by cracking an egg on top before baking.