Name: Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
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

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving all the comforting flavors of a classic pepperoni pizza but want something a little lighter and packed with protein, the Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake is your new go-to dish. This bake strikes the perfect balance between melty cheeses, savory turkey pepperoni, and the creamy goodness of cottage cheese, all seasoned just right with Italian herbs and spices. It’s an effortless, crowd-pleasing meal that feels indulgent but is actually a smart choice for dinner or even a hearty brunch. Trust me, once you try this Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake, it will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.

Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake is how it comes together from simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Each item plays a special role in creating that perfect pizza-inspired flavor and irresistible texture that’s both creamy and gooey.

2 cups cottage cheese: Provides a moist, creamy base packed with protein for a satisfying bite.
3 large eggs: Bind everything together while adding richness and structure to the bake.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to give you that classic cheesy stretch.
1/2 cup mini turkey pepperoni slices: Adds savory, slightly spicy bursts of flavor without too much fat.
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese: Brings a sharp, nutty depth that complements the mozzarella perfectly.
1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that gives the bake its authentic pizza pizzazz.
1/2 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the overall taste with subtle garlicky warmth.
Pinch of salt and pepper: Balances and elevates all the flavors throughout the dish.

How to Make Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-by-9-inch baking dish so your bake doesn’t stick and comes out perfectly in one piece. This sets the stage for a hassle-free cooking experience and easy cleanup.

Step 2: Whisk the Base Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese and eggs until the mixture is smooth and uniform. This step ensures the bake has a creamy texture that isn’t lumpy or separated when baked.

Step 3: Add Cheese, Pepperoni, and Seasonings

Next, fold in the shredded mozzarella, most of the mini turkey pepperoni slices (saving a few for topping), grated parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, plus a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir gently but thoroughly to combine all those classic pizza flavors in one cheesy mixture.

Step 4: Pour and Top

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Arrange the reserved pepperoni slices on top — this not only adds flavor but gives the bake that inviting, authentic pizza look.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the bake is set, the cheese is bubbly, and the top has a gorgeous golden finish. This is the moment when all the ingredients marry into that dreamy pizza-style comfort you crave.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow your Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake to cool for a few minutes before slicing. This resting period helps it firm up slightly for easier serving and lets the flavors develop even more. Serve warm, ideally with a side of marinara sauce to dip each cheesy slice for the full pizza experience.

How to Serve Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake

Garnishes

Brighten your bake by sprinkling fresh basil leaves or a little chopped parsley on top right before serving. These herbs add a fresh contrast to the rich, cheesy flavors and brighten up the presentation beautifully.

Side Dishes

This bake pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, steamed or roasted vegetables, or even some garlic bread for those who want to go all-in on the pizza vibe. These sides help round out the meal with some freshness and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this bake in individual ramekins for a fun, customized portion or cut it into smaller squares for a party appetizer. Consider topping with a drizzle of chili oil or sprinkling with crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. No matter how you present it, the Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake is sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out and enjoy the convenience of a ready-made meal the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze portions of the bake by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep solidly for up to 2 months, allowing you to enjoy this tasty dish anytime with minimal effort.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. To keep the bake moist, cover it loosely with foil if using the oven and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. If microwaving, short bursts on medium power work best to avoid drying out the cheesy goodness.

FAQs

Can I use regular pepperoni instead of turkey pepperoni?

Absolutely! Regular pepperoni will work fine and add a more traditional flavor. Just be mindful it might add a bit more fat, so consider draining any excess oil if desired.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the pepperoni or substitute with a vegetarian-friendly alternative like roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes to maintain that rich flavor profile.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Definitely, the recipe is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t include any flour or bread. Just double-check your seasoning blends and pepperoni for any hidden gluten.

What’s the best way to ensure the bake sets properly?

Make sure to whisk the eggs and cottage cheese thoroughly to combine, bake it long enough until it’s fully set in the center, and allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing. These tips help prevent any runny texture.

Can I add vegetables to the Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake?

Yes! Chopped spinach, diced bell peppers, or mushrooms fold in nicely without overpowering the pizza flavors. Just be sure to drain any excess moisture from veggies to keep the bake from getting soggy.

Final Thoughts

If you want a cozy, protein-packed meal that combines the best notes of pizza with the wholesome goodness of cottage cheese, this Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake is a must-try. It’s simple to prepare, endlessly satisfying, and perfect for any time you want a comforting dish without fuss. Go ahead and whip one up—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 16 reviews

Author: Victor
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Carb

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Description

This Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake is a delicious, protein-packed dinner that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Combining creamy cottage cheese, eggs, and a blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses with flavorful turkey pepperoni and Italian seasonings, this bake offers a healthy twist on classic pizza flavors. Perfect for a low-carb, high-protein meal, it’s great served warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Seasonings

1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Pinch of salt and pepper

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Mix Cottage Cheese and Eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese and eggs until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a creamy base for the bake.
Add Cheeses and Seasonings: Stir in the shredded mozzarella, most of the mini turkey pepperoni (reserve some for topping), parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute all flavors.
Assemble Bake: Pour the cottage cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the reserved turkey pepperoni slices on top to add a burst of flavor and an appealing look.
Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the bake is fully set in the center and the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping to enhance the pizza flavors.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, replace turkey pepperoni with sliced vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
You can use regular pepperoni if turkey pepperoni is unavailable, but watch for increased sodium and fat content.
This bake can be refrigerated and served cold or reheated for leftovers.
Add fresh basil or oregano as a garnish for extra flavor and color.
To keep it lower in fat, use part-skim cheeses and low-fat cottage cheese.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American