Save Experience a creamy and satisfying twist on traditional pizza with this Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl. This wholesome dish layers creamy cottage cheese, zesty marinara, and a colorful array of fresh vegetables under a blanket of gooey, melted mozzarella. It is a fantastic low-carb alternative that delivers all the classic pizza flavors you love in a convenient, crust-free format.
Save This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a nutritious meal that doesn't sacrifice taste. By replacing the traditional dough with protein-rich cottage cheese, you get a filling base that complements the zesty sauce and earthy vegetables perfectly.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese (low-fat or full-fat as preferred)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup chopped spinach or kale
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Olive oil, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Optional: Sliced olives, diced onions, fresh basil
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2
- In a medium baking dish, spread the cottage cheese evenly across the bottom.
- Step 3
- Spoon the marinara sauce over the cottage cheese to create a sauce layer.
- Step 4
- Distribute the chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach (or kale) evenly over the sauce.
- Step 5
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top, then add any optional toppings such as sliced olives, onions, or fresh basil.
- Step 6
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Step 7
- Bake in the oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 8
- Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best texture, make sure to preheat your oven fully before placing the dish inside. Keep an eye on the cheese during the final minutes of baking; it should be golden and bubbling. Let the bowl sit for a minute or two after removing it from the oven to allow the layers to set slightly before scooping.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily increase the protein content by topping the bowl with cooked chicken or turkey sausage. For those following a vegan lifestyle, this recipe works beautifully with dairy-free cottage cheese and mozzarella substitutes. If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the sauce layer.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this warm as a standalone main course. It pairs wonderfully with a light side salad or a few slices of toasted garlic bread if you aren't strictly low-carb. Garnish with a generous handful of fresh basil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elevated touch.
Save Whether you are looking for a quick lunch or a wholesome dinner, the Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl is a versatile and delicious solution. Enjoy this guilt-free way to satisfy your pizza cravings any day of the week!
Recipe FAQs
- → Is this bowl suitable for meal prep?
Yes, leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and cheese is melted again.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use dairy-free cottage cheese and vegan mozzarella shreds. The texture and flavor profile remain satisfying while accommodating dairy-free dietary needs.
- → What vegetables work best?
Bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach or kale provide great texture and nutrition. You can also add zucchini, diced tomatoes, or artichoke hearts depending on what's in season.
- → How can I add more protein?
Consider topping with cooked chicken breast, turkey sausage, or even crumbled tempeh. These additions complement the existing protein from cottage cheese and mozzarella.
- → Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing isn't recommended as the cottage cheese texture may become grainy when thawed. This bowl tastes best when enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for up to 3 days.