If you’re craving a pizza but looking for a healthier alternative, this high-protein cottage cheese pizza bowl is your solution. With smooth cottage cheese as the base, complemented by savory veggies, turkey pepperoni, and a touch of mozzarella, this bowl gives you all the comfort of pizza without the carbs. Plus, it takes under 10 minutes to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cottage cheese pizza bowl is the ultimate combination of health and flavor. It's a low-carb, high-protein dish that satisfies your pizza cravings while keeping things nutritious. The blend of cottage cheese and pizza sauce creates a creamy, rich base, and the variety of toppings—from fresh veggies to turkey pepperoni—adds plenty of texture and flavor. Whether you're looking for a quick dinner, a post-workout meal, or an easy way to meal prep for the week, this pizza bowl is a great option.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese (blended until smooth)
- ¼ cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon gluten-free flour or almond flour
- ¼ cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
- ⅛ cup sliced red onions
- ⅛ cup chopped black olives
- 1 teaspoon oregano or Italian seasoning
- ¼ cup light mozzarella cheese
- 4–5 turkey pepperoni slices
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Base: In an oven-safe bowl, mix the blended cottage cheese, pizza sauce, gluten-free flour, chopped bell peppers, sliced red onions, black olives, oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle light mozzarella cheese evenly on top of the mixture. Arrange turkey pepperoni slices over the cheese.
- Bake: Place the bowl in the oven and bake for 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the pepperoni is crispy. For a thicker consistency, bake for an additional 2–3 minutes.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and enjoy your cheesy, protein-packed pizza bowl immediately!
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Servings: 1 serving
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the turkey pepperoni with more veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or artichokes for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Dairy-Free: Swap the mozzarella for a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Add More Protein: Add cooked chicken breast, ground turkey, or tofu for extra protein.
- Spicy Twist: Top with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or some sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use regular flour instead of gluten-free flour?
Yes, you can use regular flour if you prefer, but gluten-free flour helps keep this recipe low-carb.
Can I make this recipe without a pizza sauce?
Absolutely! You can use marinara sauce, or even pesto, for a different flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for people on a low-carb diet?
Yes, this recipe is low in carbs due to the use of cottage cheese and gluten-free flour, making it a great option for low-carb diets.
How can I make this dish spicier?
You can sprinkle red pepper flakes on top or add some sliced jalapeños for extra heat.
Can I use full-fat cottage cheese?
Yes, you can use full-fat cottage cheese, but the recipe will have a higher fat content.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! Just store in an airtight container and reheat when needed.
How many calories are in this pizza bowl?
This recipe contains approximately 250 calories per serving.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it's best fresh, you can prepare the base and toppings ahead of time and bake it when you're ready to eat.
What type of cheese can I use instead of mozzarella?
You can substitute mozzarella with provolone, cheddar, or any other cheese you prefer.
Can I freeze the pizza bowl?
It’s not recommended to freeze this pizza bowl as the texture of the cottage cheese and toppings may change upon thawing.
Conclusion
This high-protein cottage cheese pizza bowl is a delicious, healthy alternative to traditional pizza, perfect for when you're craving something quick, satisfying, and nutritious. With minimal ingredients and prep time, it’s a fantastic option for busy evenings or meal prepping. The balance of protein, veggies, and savory toppings ensures you get all the flavor without the guilt. Whether you’re looking to reduce carbs or just need a quick, delicious meal, this pizza bowl is sure to hit the spot!
High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Craving pizza but want something healthier? This high-protein cottage cheese pizza bowl is the ultimate solution! Packed with creamy cottage cheese, savory veggies, turkey pepperoni, and a sprinkle of mozzarella, this bowl offers the comfort of pizza with a nutritious twist. Low-carb, quick to make, and perfect for meal prep, it’s an easy choice for a post-workout snack or a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese (blended until smooth)
- ¼ cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon gluten-free flour or almond flour
- ¼ cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
- ⅛ cup sliced red onions
- ⅛ cup chopped black olives
- 1 teaspoon oregano or Italian seasoning
- ¼ cup light mozzarella cheese
- 4–5 turkey pepperoni slices
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Base: In an oven-safe bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese, pizza sauce, gluten-free flour, chopped bell peppers, sliced red onions, black olives, oregano, salt, and black pepper until well mixed.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Arrange turkey pepperoni slices over the cheese.
- Bake: Place the bowl in the oven and bake for 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a crispier finish, bake for an additional 2–3 minutes.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and enjoy immediately!
Notes
- egetarian Option: Substitute turkey pepperoni with more veggies such as mushrooms, spinach, or artichokes.
- Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative for a dairy-free version.
- Add More Protein: Boost protein with cooked chicken breast, ground turkey, or tofu.
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
