This Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake is like having a slice of pizza that you can enjoy as a warm and cheesy dish! Packed with cottage cheese, your favorite pizza toppings, and delicious spices.
It’s a fun twist on pizza! I love to mix in pepperoni and bell peppers, but you do you! Just scoop it onto a plate, and you’ve got a tasty meal that feels like a treat without the guilt!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: You can use full-fat or low-fat cottage cheese depending on your dietary needs. If you’re looking for a creamier texture, full-fat is best. You can also try ricotta cheese for a slightly different flavor.
Cauliflower: If you’re not a fan of cauliflower, you can swap it out for cooked spinach or finely chopped zucchini. Both options add moisture and nutrients without altering the taste significantly.
Pepperoni: Mini or regular pepperoni works great, but feel free to use turkey pepperoni for a leaner choice or even omit it altogether for a vegetarian version. Sliced bell peppers or mushrooms are tasty alternatives as toppings.
Pizza Sauce: Any marinara sauce works well. If you want to add a kick, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning. You could also go for a homemade sauce if you have some time!
How Do I Make the Perfect Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake?
This bake involves mixing ingredients and baking, but let’s break down a few important steps to ensure it turns out well.
- When mixing the cottage cheese and eggs, make sure to blend them thoroughly. This will help create a smooth texture in your bake.
- Sauté the onions until they’re translucent. This enhances their sweetness and adds great flavor to the overall dish.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Uneven layers can affect cooking time, so be mindful of this step.
- Keep an eye on the bake in the last few minutes. The edges should be golden, and the center should be firm. Avoid overcooking to keep it creamy!
Let it cool for about 5 minutes before slicing so the layers can set. Enjoy your delicious pizza bake!
Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 2 cups cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat based on preference)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cooked cauliflower rice or finely chopped cooked cauliflower (for a low-carb base)
- 1/2 cup finely diced onion, sautéed until translucent
- 1 cup mini or regular pepperoni slices
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce, plus extra for serving
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- Cooking spray or oil for greasing the pan
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake will take about 15 minutes for preparation and around 35-40 minutes for baking. After baking, let it cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. In total, you’ll need roughly 1 hour from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, take a 9-inch round baking dish or pie pan and lightly grease it with some cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Main Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, put together the cottage cheese, eggs, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, cooked cauliflower, and the sautéed onions. Grab a spoon or a spatula and mix everything well until it’s nicely combined. You want to ensure the eggs are well mixed with the cheese and cauliflower!
3. Season the Mixture:
Now, it’s time to sprinkle in the dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything again until everything is evenly blended and seasoned. This will give your bake a wonderful flavor!
4. Assemble the Bake:
Pour the cottage cheese mixture into the greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, making sure it’s smooth on top. Once that’s done, spoon the pizza sauce generously over the top of the mixture, spreading it out evenly.
5. Add the Pepperoni:
Now, take your mini or regular pepperoni slices and arrange them evenly on top of the sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even add some veggies or other toppings you might like!
6. Bake and Enjoy:
Pop the baking dish into the oven and let it bake for 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’ll know it’s done when the edges are golden brown and the center is set. Once baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes.
7. Serve:
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil if you like. Now, slice it into wedges and serve warm with extra pizza sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Pizza Style Cottage Cheese Bake!
Can I Use Different Cheeses in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan work great, you can substitute with other cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a different flavor. Just make sure whatever cheese you use melts well!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Bake?
Yes! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Just make sure to sauté any raw vegetables first to avoid excess moisture in the bake.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of water to keep it moist while reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
This recipe is already gluten-free as written! Just be sure to check any sauces or additional ingredients for gluten-containing additives, especially if you’re using store-bought sauces.