High Protein Cottage Cheese Pizza is a fun and healthy twist on a classic favorite. It features a crispy crust topped with creamy cottage cheese, melted cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings. The cottage cheese adds a nice boost of protein and a little bit of creaminess that makes every bite satisfying without feeling heavy.
I love making this pizza when I want something tasty but also want to keep my meals balanced. Using cottage cheese instead of regular pizza sauce or lots of cheese means I get the protein I need and still enjoy that cheesy pizza flavor. Plus, it’s super easy to throw together, which is great for busy nights or when you just don’t feel like spending a lot of time cooking.
My favorite way to enjoy this pizza is with some fresh veggies on top like bell peppers, tomatoes, and spinach, giving it a fresh crunch and extra vitamins. It’s perfect for sharing with friends or for a cozy night in. Honestly, once I made this for friends, they kept asking for the recipe because it’s yummy but not your typical pizza—just a little better.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: This is the star ingredient that adds protein and creaminess. I suggest draining it if it’s very watery to avoid a soggy crust. You can swap it for ricotta if you prefer a smoother texture.
Flour: Whole wheat flour gives a nice nutty flavor and extra fiber. For a lower-carb option, almond flour works well, but it may make the crust a bit more crumbly.
Tomato Sauce: Use a no-sugar-added tomato sauce to keep it healthy and avoid extra sweetness. Homemade sauce works perfectly here, too.
Cheese: Mozzarella is classic for melt and stretch. Feel free to mix in other cheeses like parmesan or provolone for extra depth.
How Do You Make a Soft Yet Crispy Pizza Crust with Cottage Cheese?
Making the crust right is key since cottage cheese dough is softer than regular dough. Here’s what helps:
- Drain cottage cheese well to avoid excess moisture.
- Mix the dough until ingredients just combine — overmixing can make it tough.
- Press dough evenly in the pan but keep edges slightly higher for structure.
- Bake the crust first before adding toppings. This step firms it up and keeps it crisp.
- Use a cast iron skillet or pizza stone for even heat and crispy crust.
Following these tips, you’ll get a crust that’s soft inside but with a little crunch outside — perfect for holding all those tasty toppings.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 10-12 inch cast iron skillet or pizza pan – I like it because it heats evenly and gives the crust a nice, crispy bottom.
- Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients easily and with less mess.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get precise amounts for the dough and toppings.
- Oven – necessary for baking the crust and cheese until golden and bubbly.
- Spatula or spoon – to spread the sauce, dollop cottage cheese, and distribute toppings evenly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap tomato sauce for pesto for a herby twist and added flavor.
- Add cooked sausage or grilled chicken on top for extra protein and heartiness.
- Mix in chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the dough for more aroma.
- Use different cheeses like feta or cheddar for varied taste profiles and textures.
High Protein Cottage Cheese Pizza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese (drained if very watery)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole wheat flour (or almond flour for lower carbs)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp salt
For The Toppings:
- ½ cup tomato sauce (preferably no sugar added)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1 medium tomato, thinly sliced
- ½ tsp dried Italian herbs or oregano
- Optional: sliced pepperoni or veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms
- Olive oil or cooking spray for pan
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, 12-15 minutes to bake the crust, and another 10-12 minutes to bake the assembled pizza. Overall, plan for about 35 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly oil or spray a 10-12 inch cast iron skillet or pizza pan to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Crust Dough:
In a mixing bowl, combine the drained cottage cheese, eggs, flour, baking powder, garlic powder, oregano, and salt. Mix well until a sticky dough forms.
3. Shape and Bake the Crust:
Press the dough evenly into the prepared skillet, spreading it out and raising it slightly at the edges for a crust. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and firm to the touch.
4. Add the Pizza Toppings:
Remove the crust from the oven and spread the tomato sauce evenly over it. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Arrange the sliced tomatoes over the cheese. Add any optional toppings like pepperoni or veggies.
5. Add Cottage Cheese and Finish Baking:
Dot small spoonfuls of cottage cheese over the toppings. Then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and dried Italian herbs on top. Return the pizza to the oven and bake for another 10-12 minutes, until the cheese melts and bubbles with a golden color.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you like. Slice and enjoy your high-protein cottage cheese pizza while it’s warm!
Can I Use Frozen Cottage Cheese for This Pizza?
It’s best to use fresh cottage cheese. If you only have frozen, thaw it completely in the fridge and drain any excess liquid before using to prevent a soggy crust.
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and press it into the pan, then cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake as directed when ready.
How Do I Store Leftover Pizza?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven for best texture, avoiding the microwave to keep the crust crispy.
What Other Toppings Work Well on This Pizza?
You can add cooked meats like sausage or grilled chicken, or extra veggies such as spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers. Just be mindful of moisture-heavy toppings, as they can affect the crust’s crispness.