Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl is a new, exciting twist on pizza that’s taking over social media. It’s an easy, nutritious way to satisfy your pizza cravings without the carbs. Here’s why it’s so loved:

1. Quick and Easy: It takes less than 10 minutes to prepare, making it the perfect meal for busy weeknights.

2. Healthy and High-Protein: With cottage cheese, turkey pepperoni, and mozzarella, this bowl is packed with protein and low in carbs.

3. Customizable: You can modify the recipe to suit your dietary needs, whether you prefer chicken, extra veggies, or a spicy kick.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe is simple to scale and can be made ahead of time for easy, healthy meals.

5. Fits Low-Carb and High-Protein Lifestyles: Whether you’re on a keto diet, focusing on muscle building, or watching your carbs, this bowl fits perfectly into your eating plan.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ½ cup low-fat cottage cheese

• ¼ cup marinara sauce

• ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)

• ¼ cup part-skim mozzarella cheese

• 8 slices turkey pepperoni, diced

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Layer the Base:
   In a microwave-safe bowl or ramekin, spread the cottage cheese evenly to form the bottom layer.

2. Add Sauce & Seasonings:
   Spoon the marinara sauce over the cottage cheese and sprinkle with Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes (optional).

3. Top with Cheese:
   Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

4. Microwave – Round 1:
   Microwave for 30 seconds or until the cheese begins to melt.

5. Stir and Add Pepperoni:
   Remove from the microwave, stir gently, and mix in the diced turkey pepperoni.

6. Microwave – Round 2:
   Microwave for another 30 seconds to 1 minute until everything is hot and bubbly.

7. Finish and Serve:
   Top with fresh basil if desired and serve hot. You can pair it with low-carb dippers like mini bell peppers, keto crostini, or almond flour crackers.

Servings and timing

Servings: 1 bowl
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the turkey pepperoni and replace it with extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.

• Spicy Kick: Add some jalapeños or extra crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier version.

• Cheesy Delight: Use a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan for extra cheesiness.

• Use Chicken or Beef: Add cooked, diced chicken or beef for a more filling meal.

• Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cheese and skip the pepperoni for a vegan version.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 30–60 seconds until hot. You can also reheat it in the oven if preferred.

FAQs

1. Can I use full-fat cottage cheese instead of low-fat?

Yes, you can use full-fat cottage cheese for a richer, creamier texture.

2. Can I use store-bought pizza sauce instead of marinara?

Yes, pizza sauce works just as well and can add a different flavor profile to the dish.

3. Can I make this without the microwave?

Yes, you can bake it in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles.

4. Can I add other toppings?

Definitely! You can add veggies like mushrooms, olives, or even a sprinkle of Italian sausage for extra flavor.

5. Can I use another type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to swap out mozzarella for your favorite cheese, such as cheddar, gouda, or parmesan.

6. How do I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and skip the cottage cheese for a completely dairy-free version.

7. How do I make this spicier?

Add chili flakes, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to bring in more heat to the recipe.

8. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the ingredients and refrigerate them until ready to heat and serve.

9. What other proteins can I use?

Try grilled chicken, or even cooked beef for different protein options.

10. Can I freeze this?

You can freeze the assembled cottage cheese pizza bowl, but it’s best to freeze the sauce and toppings separately to maintain texture.

Conclusion

The Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl is the perfect solution for pizza lovers looking for a healthier alternative. With its rich, cheesy flavor and satisfying texture, this dish provides the comfort of pizza without the carbs. Whether you’re following a keto diet, watching your calorie intake, or simply craving a delicious meal, this recipe is the ultimate go-to. Simple to make, highly customizable, and bursting with flavor, it’s a bowl you’ll love to enjoy any time of day.