Introduction:
This high-protein cottage cheese pizza is a delicious and healthy twist on the traditional pizza.
Packed with protein from cottage cheese, it’s a great option for those looking to add more nutrients into their meals while enjoying a classic comfort food.
This pizza is perfect for a post-workout meal or a satisfying dinner.
It’s light on carbs, but heavy on flavor, providing a nutritious alternative to your regular pizza without compromising on taste!
Ingredients:
For the crust:
1 ½ cups whole wheat flour (or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version)
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
1 tbsp olive oil
½ cup water
For the sauce:
½ cup tomato sauce
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the toppings:
1 cup low-fat cottage cheese (or full-fat for creamier texture)
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (preferably part-skim)
½ cup chopped vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms)
1 tbsp fresh basil or dried Italian herbs
1 tbsp olive oil for drizzling
Optional: Red pepper flakes, olives, or any other desired toppings
Instructions:
Prepare the crust:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, combine whole wheat flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt. Add the olive oil and water and mix until the dough forms.
Knead for 2-3 minutes until smooth. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to your desired pizza size (about 10 inches).
Bake the crust:
Transfer the rolled dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pre-bake the crust for about 8-10 minutes, or until slightly golden and firm to the touch.
Make the sauce: While the crust is baking, mix the tomato sauce, olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Set aside.
Assemble the pizza: Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce over the pre-baked crust. Spoon the cottage cheese evenly over the sauce, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese. Add the chopped vegetables and any additional toppings of your choice.
Bake the pizza: Return the pizza to the oven and bake for another 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden brown.
Finishing touches: Once baked, drizzle the pizza with olive oil and top with fresh basil or Italian herbs. Optional: sprinkle with red pepper flakes or add olives for extra flavor.
Serve and enjoy! Slice and enjoy your high-protein cottage cheese pizza fresh out of the oven.
Description: This high-protein cottage cheese pizza combines the richness of cottage cheese with the gooey texture of mozzarella cheese, resulting in a creamy, cheesy pizza that’s also packed with protein. The whole wheat crust gives it a hearty feel, and the choice of fresh veggies adds crunch and nutrition. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to adjust toppings and seasonings to fit your taste preferences while keeping the protein content high. A perfect meal for anyone looking to enjoy a healthier pizza option without compromising flavor!
Tips:
If you want a crispier crust, brush the edges of the dough with olive oil before baking.
To make the pizza even higher in protein, consider adding grilled chicken, turkey pepperoni, or another lean protein as a topping.
For a dairy-free version, substitute cottage cheese with a dairy-free alternative like almond or soy-based cheese.
If you prefer a thinner crust, roll the dough out thinner, but keep an eye on the baking time as it may cook faster.
Use a pizza stone for an even crispier crust, or place the pizza directly on the oven rack for a more authentic, crispy finish.
Variations:
Vegetarian Version:
Load up with more fresh vegetables such as zucchini, tomatoes, or olives, and skip the meats.
Gluten-Free Version:
Swap the whole wheat flour for a gluten-free flour blend.
BBQ Chicken Cottage Cheese Pizza: Add cooked, shredded chicken mixed with BBQ sauce for a different flavor.
Spicy Cottage Cheese Pizza: Add jalapeños or chili flakes to the top for a spicy kick.
Correction:
If your dough feels too sticky while you’re working with it, add a little extra flour, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach a smooth consistency. Likewise, if the dough is too dry and crumbly, slowly add water in small amounts until it’s workable.
Enjoy! This high-protein cottage cheese pizza is a great way to enjoy a healthier, more nutrient-dense pizza while satisfying your cravings. With all the delicious toppings and flavors, you won’t even miss the traditional pizza! Enjoy the pizza guilt-free!