Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl Recipe

Cheesy Delight: Low Carb Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl Recipe

Dive into a delightful culinary adventure with this mouthwatering low carb cottage cheese pizza bowl that redefines comfort food.

Packed with vibrant flavors and protein-rich ingredients, this recipe delivers a satisfying meal in minutes.

cheese lovers will swoon over the melted goodness and zesty pizza-inspired elements.

The combination of creamy cottage cheese and classic pizza toppings creates a guilt-free alternative to traditional pizza.

Each bite bursts with familiar tastes while keeping your nutrition goals on track.

Customize the bowl with your favorite toppings for a personalized twist.

Get ready to savor a delicious meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or health.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Calories: 320 kcal

Servings: 3

Ingredients for Low Carb Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl

For Creamy Base:
  • Cottage Cheese: Provides a protein-packed, low-carb foundation with a silky smooth texture.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Delivers that classic stretchy, gooey pizza experience with rich melting qualities.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty depth to enhance overall flavor complexity.
For Flavor Boosters:
  • Italian Seasoning: Infuses authentic Mediterranean herb blend for genuine pizza taste.
  • Garlic Powder: Brings robust, aromatic warmth without overwhelming other ingredients.
  • Pizza Sauce: Offers tangy tomato base that mimics traditional pizza experience.
For Topping Ingredients:
  • Bell Peppers: Introduces vibrant color and crisp texture with sweet undertones.
  • Black Olives: Contributes briny, rich flavor with Mediterranean flair.
  • Red Onion: Provides sharp, zesty bite and subtle crunch.
  • Sausage or Pepperoni: Delivers hearty protein and classic pizza protein option.
  • Fresh Basil Leaves: Offers bright, herbaceous finish as optional garnish.

Kitchen Tools for Pizza Bowl with Cottage Cheese

  • Ovenproof Bowl or Casserole Dish: Essential for baking and serving your pizza bowl directly.
  • Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining cottage cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and seasonings smoothly.
  • Measuring Spoons: Helps you add precise amounts of Italian seasoning and garlic powder.
  • Cheese Grater: Optional but great for freshly grating mozzarella and Parmesan.
  • Spatula or Spoon: Useful for spreading the cheese mixture and mixing ingredients evenly.
  • Oven Mitts: Protect your hands when handling hot dishes from the oven.

Cooking Instructions for Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl

  • Creamy Cheese Base

Blend cottage cheese with a mix of melty mozzarella and sharp Parmesan, creating a rich and tangy foundation that’ll make your taste buds dance.

  • Saucy Layer

Drizzle zesty pizza sauce over the cheese mixture, spreading it evenly to ensure every bite is packed with classic pizza flavor.

  • Colorful Toppings

Scatter vibrant bell peppers, salty olives, sweet onions, and savory sausage or pepperoni across the surface, transforming the dish into a carnival of textures and tastes.

  • Oven Magic

Pop the bowl into a preheated oven and let the heat work its transformative power, melting the cheese into a golden, bubbling masterpiece that promises comfort and satisfaction.

  • Resting and Serving

Allow the pizza bowl to cool slightly, letting the flavors meld together. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some fresh basil on top for a burst of herbal freshness.

Flavor Ideas for Low Carb Pizza Bowls

  • Swap out sausage for crispy bacon bits or shredded chicken for a protein variation.
  • Replace meat with roasted zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to create a plant-based version of this low-carb delight.
  • Add red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to bring extra heat and kick to your pizza bowl.
  • Prepare the entire dish ahead of time and store in the refrigerator, then bake when ready to enjoy for a convenient meal prep option.
  • Experiment with different cheese combinations like adding fontina, gouda, or blue cheese for a unique flavor profile that elevates the traditional pizza bowl.

Serving Your Low Carb Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl

  • Pizza Party Plating: Serve this cheesy delight in its baking dish for a rustic, straight-from-the-oven experience that keeps everyone excited about digging in.
  • Low-Carb Companion Sides: Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in light vinaigrette or roasted zucchini sticks to complement the pizza bowl's rich flavors without adding extra carbohydrates.
  • Protein Power Topping: Sprinkle some extra crispy bacon bits or chopped grilled chicken on top for additional protein and a delightful crunch that elevates the entire dish.
  • Fresh Herb Finale: Generously scatter fresh basil or oregano leaves right before serving to add a bright, aromatic touch that makes the pizza bowl look and taste restaurant-worthy.

How to Store a Low Carb Pizza Bowl

  • Quick Meal Prep: Chop vegetables and slice meats in advance to streamline your cooking process. Store prepped ingredients in sealed containers within the refrigerator for easy assembly during busy weeknights.
  • Refrigerator Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. The pizza bowl maintains its delicious flavor when sealed properly and stored in the coldest section of your refrigerator.
  • Freezer-Friendly Option: Assemble the pizza bowl mixture without baking, then wrap tightly in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months, thawing overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Add fresh toppings after reheating for maximum flavor and texture.
  • Portion Control Trick: Divide the recipe into individual serving containers before storing. This approach helps manage portion sizes and creates grab-and-go meals for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Print
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Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl Recipe

Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl


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4.9 from 16 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 3 1x

Description

Hearty cottage cheese pizza bowl delivers Italian-inspired flavors without carb overload. Simple ingredients combine for a protein-packed meal promising delicious nutrition without compromise.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (240 ml / 8 oz) cottage cheese (full fat or low-fat)
  • ½ cup (60 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • ¼ cup (25 g) Parmesan cheese, grated
  • ½ cup (120 ml) pizza sauce or marinara sauce, low-carb
  • ½ cup (75 g) sausage or pepperoni slices, cooked (optional for vegetarian)
  • ½ cup (75 g) bell peppers, diced (any color)
  • ¼ cup (40 g) onion, minced
  • ¼ cup (40 g) black olives, sliced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
  • basil leaves, fresh (optional for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat: Ignite the oven to 375°F, preparing a culinary stage for this low-carb pizza bowl masterpiece.
  2. Blend Base: Whisk cottage cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder into a harmonious, creamy mixture that promises rich flavor profiles.
  3. Assemble Foundation: Pour the cheese blend into an ovenproof dish, creating a smooth, even canvas, then generously spread pizza sauce across the surface.
  4. Layer Toppings: Lavishly sprinkle remaining mozzarella, then artfully distribute bell peppers, olives, onions, and sausage or pepperoni, transforming the dish into a vibrant landscape of textures and colors.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Nestle the pizza bowl into the heated oven for 25-30 minutes, watching as the cheese melts into a golden, bubbling masterpiece that tantalizes the senses.
  6. Finish and Serve: Allow the creation to rest briefly, letting flavors meld and intensify, then optionally crown with fresh basil leaves for a final burst of aromatic elegance.

Notes

  • Cheese Selection Matters: Choose full-fat cottage cheese and mozzarella for maximum creaminess and flavor intensity.
  • Customize Toppings Freely: Swap proteins and vegetables based on dietary preferences or available ingredients without compromising the low-carb concept.
  • Watch Baking Time Closely: Ovens vary, so check the pizza bowl at 20 minutes to prevent over-browning and maintain perfect texture.
  • Drainage Is Key: Pat wet ingredients like olives and peppers dry to prevent excess moisture from making the base soggy.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 3
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Sophie Martin

Sophie Martin

Co-Founder & Content Creator

Expertise

  • Nutrition and Healthy Eating
  • Creating Balanced Recipes
  • Meal Planning
  • Food Safety
  • Teaching About Nutrition

Education

Stellenbosch University, South Africa

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition
  • Focus: Studying how food affects health, learning about balanced diets, and understanding the nutritional needs of different people.

South African Chefs Academy, Cape Town

  • Program: Professional Culinary Arts Diploma
  • Focus: Practical cooking skills, focusing on healthy meal preparation and understanding various cooking methods.

Sophie Martin is the nutrition brain and feel-good foodie at Good Tasting Meals. With a degree in Human Nutrition from Stellenbosch University and chef training from the South African Chefs Academy, Sophie brings balance to the table, literally. She loves creating meals that are easy to make, great to eat, and good for your body too.

Her recipes are made for everyday living, with a little flair and a lot of heart. Sophie’s not here to count calories, she’s here to show you how fresh, simple food can fit into your life, taste amazing, and still be nourishing.

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