Name: Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
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 a cozy, flavorful dish that captures all the best vibes of pizza without the crust, you’re going to adore this Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake. This recipe brilliantly combines the creamy tang of cottage cheese with melty mozzarella and savory pepperoni, layering in Italian herbs and spices to awaken every bite. It’s an easy, protein-packed option that feels like a warm hug on your plate, perfect for any meal when you want that pizza goodness with a fresh twist.

Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering a balanced taste and texture. From rich cheeses to zesty seasonings, everything is simple yet essential for creating this satisfying dish.

2 cups cottage cheese: Provides creaminess and a subtle tang, plus a healthy dose of protein.
3 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add a fluffy structure.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, adding stretch and a mild flavor that screams pizza.
1/2 cup mini turkey pepperoni slices: Adds a smoky, savory punch without being overpowering.
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese: Brings a sharp, nutty depth that lifts the whole bake.
1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb blend that evokes the essence of pizza.
1/2 tsp garlic powder: Adds warmth and a little kick of garlic flavor.
Pinch of salt and pepper: Enhances and balances all the flavors perfectly.

How to Make Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish so the bake doesn’t stick and will come out beautifully golden. This simple prep sets the stage for a flawless bake.

Step 2: Mix the Base Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese and eggs until the mixture is smooth. This mixture is the creamy canvas that will hold all the pizza-style flavors together.

Step 3: Add Cheeses, Pepperoni, and Seasonings

Gently fold in the shredded mozzarella, most of the mini turkey pepperoni slices (reserve some for topping later), grated parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This step infuses the bake with mouthwatering aromas and savory depth.

Step 4: Transfer and Top

Pour the combined mixture into your prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining pepperoni slices on top to ensure every piece has that delicious pepperoni finish you love.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the bake is fully set, and the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. Keep an eye on it as the edges turn a lovely golden color, signaling perfection.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Once out of the oven, let the Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake cool for a few minutes to set completely, making slicing cleaner and serving easier. This short wait also lets those flavors meld beautifully.

How to Serve Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can make this dish pop even more. Try topping with freshly chopped basil or oregano for herbal brightness, or a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil for extra richness. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes adds just the right hint of heat.

Side Dishes

This bake shines alongside a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or some roasted veggies to add crunch and color contrast. For a cozy meal, a bowl of marinara sauce serves as a perfect dip, echoing the pizza flavors you adore.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the bake into small squares or rectangles to serve as finger foods at a party. You can also layer it with fresh greens on a sandwich wrap for a unique pizza-inspired lunch. Another fun twist is scooping warm portions over spaghetti squash for a low-carb pizza casserole experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The bake holds its texture well, so you’ll still get that wonderfully creamy and cheesy experience on day two or three.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer, making it an easy, go-to meal when you need something comforting fast.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and bubbly. For a quicker option, use a microwave, but aim to keep the texture creamy and avoid overheating.

FAQs

Can I use regular pepperoni instead of mini turkey pepperoni?

Absolutely! Regular pepperoni works just as well and provides that classic pizza flavor; just chop the slices smaller to distribute evenly throughout the bake.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake contains no gluten ingredients, making it a perfect choice for gluten-sensitive eaters or those looking for a low-carb pizza alternative.

Can I substitute the cottage cheese with ricotta?

You can, but expect a slightly different texture and a milder flavor. Cottage cheese adds a bit more tang and creaminess that’s signature to this dish.

What’s the best way to make this bake spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes into the batter or use a spicier variety of pepperoni. You can also serve it with a hot marinara for dipping to turn up the heat.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Definitely! You can easily double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish, just adjust the baking time slightly and check for doneness by making sure the bake is set and bubbly.

Final Thoughts

This Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen because it delivers so much flavor and comfort with minimal fuss. Whether you need a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or an easy dinner, this bake brings the essence of pizza into a wholesome, cheese-filled dish that’s guaranteed to make you smile. Give it a try, and watch it become a staple on your weekly menu!

Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 22 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Calorie

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Description

This Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake is a deliciously cheesy and protein-packed dish that combines creamy cottage cheese, mozzarella, and flavorful turkey pepperoni. Baked to golden perfection and seasoned with Italian herbs and garlic, it makes a perfect low-carb, high-protein meal ideal for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Serve it warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping to enhance the pizza-inspired flavors.

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 the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Mix cottage cheese and eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese and eggs until you achieve a smooth, uniform mixture.
Add cheeses and seasonings: Stir in the shredded mozzarella, most of the mini turkey pepperoni slices (reserve some for topping), grated parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors evenly.
Prepare for baking: Pour the combined mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining turkey pepperoni slices for a flavorful finish.
Bake the dish: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the bake is fully set, and the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
Cool and serve: Let the bake cool for a few minutes before slicing it into portions. Serve warm with a side of marinara sauce for a tasty dipping option.

Notes

You can substitute turkey pepperoni with regular pepperoni or other preferred deli meats.
For a vegetarian option, omit the pepperoni and add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
Using low-fat or part-skim cheeses can reduce the fat content further if desired.
Make sure to not overbake to keep the bake moist and creamy.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Dinner, Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-inspired