There’s something comforting about fresh, cheesy pizza. Growing up, our family would gather around the table, the aroma of warm, bubbling cheese filling the air. One evening, we decided to switch things up and created a dish that combined our love for pizza with a healthier twist: the Pizza Cottage Cheese Bake. This recipe held a special place in our hearts, as it brought everyone together to customize their slices with personal toppings. It’s an easy, satisfying meal that proves you don’t need a crust to enjoy all the classic flavors. What makes this recipe truly special is its ability to adapt; you can change the toppings to suit your taste, all while keeping it nutritious.
Why Make This Recipe
Making a Pizza Cottage Cheese Bake is not just about having a tasty meal; it’s about convenience and creativity. This dish is quick to prepare, packed with protein, and allows you to use your favorite pizza toppings. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. Plus, it’s a fun way to involve everyone in the kitchen as they choose their favorite ingredients. You can easily adjust serve sizes and keep it healthy without giving up the delicious flavors of traditional pizza.
How to Make Pizza Cottage Cheese Bake
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: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, eggs, oregano, and garlic powder. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Layering: In a baking dish, spread a layer of pasta sauce on the bottom. Pour the cottage cheese mixture over the sauce evenly. Then, sprinkle your choice of pizza toppings on top, followed by the remaining mozzarella cheese. Finish with another layer of pasta sauce if desired.
- Baking: Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden brown.
How to Serve Pizza Cottage Cheese Bake
Let the Pizza Cottage Cheese Bake cool for a few minutes before cutting it into squares. Serve it warm with a side salad or garlic bread. You can add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, on top for added flavor and color. This dish is great for sharing, allowing everyone to pick their favorite toppings right from the pan.
How to Store Pizza Cottage Cheese Bake
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in slices. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Pizza Cottage Cheese Bake
- Feel free to experiment with toppings! You can add cooked sausage, vegetables, or even different cheeses for a unique twist.
- If you prefer a firmer texture, use a little less egg or increase the baking time slightly.
- For an extra cheesy finish, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Just watch it closely to prevent burning.
Variations
You can switch this recipe up by using different sauces, such as pesto or Alfredo, for a new flavor profile. Try adding a mix of cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for more variety. If you want a lighter version, reduce the amount of cheese and add more vegetables.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cottage cheese? Yes, you can use low-fat cottage cheese if you prefer, but it may alter the texture slightly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Is this recipe suitable for kids? Yes! Kids often enjoy the customizable aspect, letting them pick their favorite toppings. Plus, it’s packed with protein and vegetables.
Pizza Cottage Cheese Bake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups full-fat cottage cheese
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided) Reserve 0.5 cup for topping
- 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
Method
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, eggs, oregano, and garlic powder. Mix until everything is well combined.
Layering
- In a baking dish, spread a layer of pasta sauce on the bottom.
- Pour the cottage cheese mixture over the sauce evenly.
- Sprinkle your choice of pizza toppings on top, followed by the remaining mozzarella cheese. Finish with another layer of pasta sauce if desired.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden brown.
Serving
- Let the Pizza Cottage Cheese Bake cool for a few minutes before cutting it into squares.
- Serve it warm with a side salad or garlic bread, optionally adding fresh herbs on top.