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 (divided); 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; Pinch of salt; Pinch of black pepper

Jump to Recipe

If you are looking to enjoy a comforting, protein-packed dish that brings together the irresistible flavors of pizza and the wholesome goodness of cottage cheese, this Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake is an absolute must-try. It combines creamy cottage cheese with gooey mozzarella, zesty pepperoni, and classic Italian herbs, all baked to bubbly, golden perfection. This dish is not only satisfying but also incredibly simple to make, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a delightful brunch option that feels like a warm embrace on a plate.

Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering just a handful of essential ingredients, this recipe depends on each for its unique contribution—whether it’s the creamy texture, the melty cheese pull, or the savory, spicy kick. These ingredients come together to create a harmonious blend that’s both hearty and flavorful.

2 cups cottage cheese: Provides a creamy, protein-rich base that’s light and tender once baked.
3 large eggs: Acts as the binder to create that perfect, firm yet fluffy bake.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds a stretchy, melty pizza cheese vibe, key for that authentic feel.
1/2 cup mini turkey pepperoni slices: Offers a smoky, slightly spicy bite without overpowering the dish.
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese: Brings a sharp, nutty flavor to deepen the overall taste profile.
1 tsp Italian seasoning: Combines herbs like oregano and basil to infuse the bake with classic pizza flavors.
1/2 tsp garlic powder: Adds a subtle, savory hint that complements the other spices beautifully.
Pinch of salt and pepper: Balances and enhances all the flavors.

How to Make Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×9-inch baking dish. This ensures a non-stick surface so your bake can come out cleanly and maintain its beautiful shape.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a large bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese and eggs until smooth and well combined. This creates the creamy, protein-rich foundation that helps hold everything together while baking.

Step 3: Add the Flavor

Stir in the shredded mozzarella, most of the mini turkey pepperoni (save a few for topping later), parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, plus a pinch of salt and pepper. This brings that iconic pizza taste right into the mix and boosts both aroma and richness.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Garnish the top with the remaining pepperoni slices, which will get delightfully crispy and add visual appeal. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the bake is set, the cheese is bubbly, and the top turns a gorgeous golden color.

Step 5: Cool and Slice

Let the bake cool for a few minutes — this helps it firm up for the perfect slice. Then serve warm, ideally with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, bringing everything together for that classic pizza experience in a new form.

How to Serve Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley add a vibrant green touch and a fresh herbaceous note that balances the rich, cheesy flavors beautifully. A drizzle of olive oil or a few red pepper flakes can also add a little extra flair.

Side Dishes

This bake pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in balsamic vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli work well too, creating a well-rounded and nutritious meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the bake in individual ramekins for personal portions, perfect for brunch or a cozy dinner party. Alternatively, cut into small squares and serve as appetizers with toothpicks alongside your favorite pizza dips.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to mellow and develop even more after resting, making it a delightful second-day treat.

Freezing

You can freeze the bake in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain its texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat individual slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through and bubbly. Microwaving works for a quick fix, but the oven helps restore that lovely crispness on top.

FAQs

Can I use regular pepperoni instead of turkey pepperoni?

Absolutely! Regular pepperoni will work perfectly in this bake, adding a slightly different, richer flavor. Just be mindful of the salt content as regular pepperoni can be saltier.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the pepperoni or substitute it with vegetarian pepperoni or other vegetables like mushrooms and olives for that pizza-style vibe without meat.

Can I use low-fat or non-fat cottage cheese?

You can, but keep in mind the texture might be less creamy and the bake might be slightly drier. To compensate, you could add a tablespoon of olive oil or a splash of milk for moisture.

How do I make the bake less dense?

Whisk the eggs and cottage cheese thoroughly to incorporate air, and avoid overpacking the baking dish. Adding a little baking powder (about 1/4 tsp) can also help lighten the texture.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake contains no gluten ingredients, making it a great option for those avoiding gluten. Just double-check your seasonings and pepperoni to ensure they don’t contain any hidden gluten.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about the Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake that makes it a standout comfort food you’ll want to make again and again. It brings together wholesome, simple ingredients with bold, familiar flavors in a way that feels both indulgent and nourishing. If you’re craving a dish that’s easy to prepare, full of protein, and bursting with pizza goodness, this recipe is calling your name. Give it a whirl—you might just have found your new favorite!

Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 22 reviews

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

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Description

This Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake is a protein-packed, low-carb dish that combines creamy cottage cheese with melted mozzarella, mini turkey pepperoni slices, and Italian seasonings. Baked to golden perfection, it offers a flavorful, comforting meal perfect for a quick dinner or hearty snack, served best 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 (divided)
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Seasonings

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

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
Mix cottage cheese and eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese and eggs until the mixture is smooth, creating the base for the bake.
Add cheeses and seasonings: Stir in the shredded mozzarella, most of the mini turkey pepperoni (reserve some for topping), grated parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper, combining all ingredients evenly.
Prepare for baking: Pour the cheese and pepperoni mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining mini turkey pepperoni slices for an appealing finish.
Bake the dish: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bake is fully set, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
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-like flavor experience.

Notes

You can substitute turkey pepperoni with regular pepperoni or sliced olives for a vegetarian option (omit pepperoni and choose vegetarian diet then).
Use low-fat cottage cheese and mozzarella to reduce fat content.
For added veggies, consider mixing diced bell peppers or spinach into the batter before baking.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven for best results.
This dish is high in protein and relatively low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb and diabetic-friendly diets.

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