Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake – Easy Protein-Packed Dinner Recipe
Introduction
This Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake is a delicious, protein-packed dinner that combines creamy cottage cheese with classic pizza flavors. It’s an easy and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave a comforting dish with a healthy twist.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mini turkey pepperoni slices
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk the cottage cheese and eggs together until smooth.
- Step 3: Stir in the mozzarella cheese, most of the mini turkey pepperoni (save some for the top), parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Step 4: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining pepperoni slices.
- Step 5: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bake is set and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Step 6: Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping!
Tips & Variations
- For extra veggies, add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the mixture before baking.
- Use regular pepperoni or a vegetarian alternative if you prefer.
- Try swapping mozzarella for a blend of Italian cheeses for richer flavor.
- Serve with a fresh side salad to balance the meal.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This bake also freezes well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute cottage cheese and mozzarella with dairy-free alternatives, but the texture and flavor will vary. Look for plant-based cheeses that melt well for best results.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe contains no gluten ingredients and is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your pepperoni and seasonings are gluten-free if you have sensitivities.
PrintPizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake – Easy Protein-Packed Dinner Recipe
This Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake is an easy, protein-packed dinner perfect for a quick and nutritious meal. Combining creamy cottage cheese with mozzarella, turkey pepperoni, and Italian seasonings, this dish delivers the flavors of pizza in a healthy baked casserole form. Ready in under an hour and requiring minimal prep, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mini turkey pepperoni slices
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prepare it for the casserole.
- Mix Cottage Cheese and Eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese and eggs until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in the shredded mozzarella, most of the mini turkey pepperoni slices (reserve some to place on top later), grated parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and spread it out. Then, top with the remaining mini turkey pepperoni slices for a pizza-like appearance.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the bake is set through, and the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with marinara sauce on the side for dipping to complete the pizza flavor experience.
Notes
- Use mini turkey pepperoni for a lower-fat option compared to traditional pepperoni.
- The bake can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the mix.
- This recipe is perfect for meal prepping and reheats well in the oven or microwave.
- Consider pairing with a fresh green salad to balance the richness.
Keywords: cottage cheese bake, protein dinner, easy dinner recipe, pizza style casserole, healthy pizza bake, turkey pepperoni casserole
