There’s something comforting about the smell of bubbling cheese and warm sauce that takes me back to my childhood pizza nights. Those evenings were filled with laughter, stories, and the joy of sharing a simple meal. As life sped up, I realized I missed that connection, so I began creating dishes that evoked those memories. That brings us to the Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl—a delightful twist on traditional pizza. It combines the creamy goodness of cottage cheese with your favorite pizza toppings in a warm, hearty bowl. This recipe is special because it allows you to enjoy all the flavors of pizza while keeping it lighter and packed with nutrients.
why make this recipe
You might wonder why you should whip up a Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl. It’s not just about satisfying your pizza craving; it’s also about convenience. This dish is quick to prepare, packed with protein from the cottage cheese, and customizable to your taste. Whether you’re feeding a family or simply want a delicious solo meal, this option is easy to make and can be ready in under 30 minutes. Plus, using fresh vegetables gives you that vibrant texture and flavor.
how to make Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese (Low-fat or full-fat as per preference)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (Store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (Any color)
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup chopped spinach or kale
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- To taste: olive oil, salt, pepper, sliced olives, diced onions, fresh basil
Directions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Gather all your ingredients and chop your vegetables.
Assembly
- In a bowl, mix the cottage cheese with the olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Spread the marinara sauce evenly in the bottom of an oven-safe dish.
- Spoon the cottage cheese mixture over the sauce.
- Top with chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach or kale, and any other veggies you like.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Add any additional toppings like sliced olives, diced onions, or fresh basil.
Cooking
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
how to serve Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl
You can serve the Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl right from the oven. It looks colorful and inviting with all the toppings. Pair it with a simple side salad or some whole-grain bread for a complete meal. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh basil on top just before serving for that extra flavor boost!
how to store Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl
If you have leftovers, allow the bowl to cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat in the oven or microwave until warm. Avoid reheating in the oven for too long, as it can make the dish dry.
tips to make Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl
- Use your favorite toppings: Feel free to customize the bowl with your preferred vegetables or proteins, like cooked chicken or turkey.
- Make it spicy: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Perfect the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese if you prefer a specific flavor or creaminess level.
variation
If you’re looking for a different spin, try using ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese for a richer taste. You can also make a themed pizza bowl by using taco toppings with a taco-seasoned cottage cheese blend.
FAQs
- Can I make this dish vegan?
- Yes! You can substitute the cottage cheese with a dairy-free alternative like tofu or a vegan cheese option. Use a plant-based marinara sauce and skip the mozzarella cheese.
- Can I prepare this in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble them in advance. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat!
- Can I freeze this dish?
- It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the unbaked bowl. Just cover it well and bake straight from the freezer when needed; you may need to increase the cooking time.
Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese (Low-fat or full-fat as per preference)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (Store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (Any color)
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup chopped spinach or kale
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional Toppings
- to taste olive oil
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- to taste sliced olives
- to taste diced onions
- to taste fresh basil
Method
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Gather all your ingredients and chop your vegetables.
Assembly
- In a bowl, mix the cottage cheese with the olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Spread the marinara sauce evenly in the bottom of an oven-safe dish.
- Spoon the cottage cheese mixture over the sauce.
- Top with chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach or kale, and any other veggies you like.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Add any additional toppings like sliced olives, diced onions, or fresh basil.
Cooking
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.