This Creamy Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl is the perfect quick meal when you’re craving classic pizza flavors without the heavy crust. Packed with protein, rich marinara, melty mozzarella, and colorful veggies, it delivers all the comfort of pizza in a lighter, easier-to-make bowl. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or a healthy lunch that tastes indulgent.

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese (low-fat or full-fat)
1 cup marinara sauce
½ cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
½ cup sliced mushrooms
½ cup chopped spinach or kale
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Olive oil, to taste
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings

Sliced olives
Diced onions
Fresh basil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread the cottage cheese evenly in a small oven-safe dish.

2. Add Sauces & Veggies

Pour marinara sauce over the cottage cheese.
Add bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach.

3. Top & Bake

Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top and add optional toppings.
Drizzle lightly with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
Bake 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

4. Serve

Let cool for a few minutes.
Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy warm.

Pro Tips

Mix cheeses: Combine mozzarella with parmesan or ricotta for extra richness.
Boost flavor: Add crushed red pepper, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning.
Make it creamier: Mix cottage cheese directly with marinara before layering.
Crispier finish: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.

Why This Recipe Works

High-protein and filling: Cottage cheese adds creaminess and satisfying protein.
Simple ingredients: Everything is easy to find and budget-friendly.
Customizable: Add your favorite pizza toppings or vegetables.
Quick and convenient: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.

Substitutions & Variations

Ingredient Swaps

Cottage cheese substitute: Ricotta or Greek yogurt.
Mozzarella substitute: Cheddar, provolone, or an Italian blend.
Vegetables: Zucchini, broccoli, roasted tomatoes, artichokes.

Flavor Variations

Spicy Pizza Bowl: Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
Veggie Lover’s Version: Load with mushrooms, spinach, onions, tomatoes.
Meat Lover’s Bowl: Add turkey pepperoni, cooked chicken, or ground beef.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide

Make-Ahead

Assemble the bowl ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Microwave: 1–2 minutes
Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes
Freezing: Freeze up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.

Serving Ideas

Serve with a fresh green salad or garlic toast.
Pair it with roasted veggies, grilled chicken, or buttery breadsticks.
Enjoy as a low-carb pizza night alternative.

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

Calories: ~350
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 3g

(Values vary based on ingredients used.)

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes—use dairy-free cottage cheese and vegan mozzarella.

Can I microwave this instead of baking?

You can! Heat for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts, though baking gives a better texture.

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Can I use pizza sauce instead of marinara?

Absolutely—pizza sauce adds a richer, more concentrated flavor.

Is this good for meal prep?

Yes, it reheats beautifully and makes a great protein-packed meal.

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This Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl offers comfort, flavor, and nutrition in one easy dish. Whether you’re craving pizza night without the heaviness or need a quick, customizable dinner, this bowl delivers every time. Simple ingredients, big flavor—your new go-to weeknight meal awaits!