Nothing brings comfort to a chilly evening quite like the smell of pizza wafting through the kitchen. I remember the first time I made a pizza bowl; I was experimenting in the kitchen during a cozy night in. I just wanted something warm, satisfying, and easy to prepare. As I mixed the ingredients together, the anticipation of that cheesy goodness filled the room. This Easy High Protein Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl recipe is a favorite because it combines the classic flavors of pizza with a healthy twist. You get protein from the cottage cheese, vibrant veggies, and a touch of indulgence with the pepperoni. It’s not just about feeling full; it’s about enjoying a hearty meal without the guilt.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy days when you crave pizza but want something nutritious. Using cottage cheese packs in protein, making it filling while still being quick to whip up. Plus, you can easily customize it with your favorite toppings or what you have on hand. It’s a fantastic option for a late-night snack, a comforting lunch, or a light dinner. The beauty of this pizza bowl is that it warms the soul while keeping your wellness goals in check.
How to Make Easy High Protein Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of cottage cheese (blended until smooth)
- 1/4 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon gluten-free flour or almond flour
- 1/4 cup chopped peppers (any color)
- 1/8 cup sliced red onions
- 1/8 cup chopped black olives
- 1 teaspoon oregano (or Italian seasoning)
- 1/4 cup light mozzarella cheese
- 4-5 turkey pepperoni slices
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
- In an oven-safe bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, pizza sauce, gluten-free flour, peppers, onions, olives, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top of the cottage cheese mixture and add the pepperoni slices.
- Bake for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the pepperoni has crisped up.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and a little parmesan cheese before serving.
How to Serve Easy High Protein Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl
Serve your pizza bowl warm right out of the oven. It’s great on its own or paired with a simple green salad. For extra crunch, consider adding a side of whole grain crackers. You can also top it with more fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flavor.
How to Store Easy High Protein Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl
If you have leftovers, let it cool and then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for about 2-3 days. To reheat, just pop it back in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Tips to Make Easy High Protein Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl
- For a creamier texture, blend the cottage cheese until smooth before mixing.
- Feel free to add any veggies you love or have handy; mushrooms and spinach work great too!
- Adjust the spices according to your taste; a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
Variations
Try using different toppings like ground turkey, shredded chicken, or a variety of cheeses for added flavor. You can also swap turkey pepperoni with veggie alternatives or skip it altogether for a vegetarian option.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use a plant-based cottage cheese alternative and dairy-free cheese to keep it dairy-free.
2. How can I make it spicier?
Add some crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the mix before baking.
3. Can I freeze this pizza bowl?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it if necessary. Reheat thoroughly before eating.
High Protein Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese (blended until smooth) For a creamier texture, blend until smooth.
- 1/4 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon gluten-free flour or almond flour
- 1/4 cup chopped peppers Any color of peppers can be used.
- 1/8 cup sliced red onions
- 1/8 cup chopped black olives
- 1 teaspoon oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup light mozzarella cheese
- 4-5 slices turkey pepperoni Can be substituted with veggie alternatives.
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Method
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
- In an oven-safe bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, pizza sauce, gluten-free flour, peppers, onions, olives, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
Baking
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top of the cottage cheese mixture and add the pepperoni slices.
- Bake for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the pepperoni has crisped up.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and a little parmesan cheese before serving.