Ingredients (1–2 servings)
Base
- 1 cup (226g) cottage cheese
- 2 large eggs
Toppings
- ½ cup (120g) marinara sauce
- 1 cup (113g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 15–20 slices turkey pepperoni (optional)
Optional Seasonings
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
- Fresh basil for garnish
Equipment
- Blender or food processor
- 8×8-inch baking dish or oven-safe skillet
- Measuring cups
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly coat a baking dish with cooking spray.
- Add cottage cheese and eggs to a blender.
- Blend until smooth and creamy (30–60 seconds).
Step 2: First Bake
- Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 20 minutes until set and lightly golden around the edges.
Step 3: Add Pizza Toppings
- Remove from oven.
- Spread marinara sauce evenly over the baked base.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
- Add turkey pepperoni if using.
- Sprinkle optional seasonings.
Step 4: Final Bake
- Return to oven.
- Bake for 10 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- For extra browning, broil for 1–2 minutes.
Step 5: Serve
- Let rest for 5 minutes.
- Slice and enjoy.
Nutrition Information (Approximate)
Entire Recipe
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290–360 kcal* |
| Protein | 32–40g |
| Carbohydrates | 6–9g |
| Fat | 14–18g |
| Fiber | 1–2g |
| Sugar | 3–5g |
*Calories vary depending on cottage cheese, cheese brand, and pepperoni used.
Detailed Nutrition Breakdown
Cottage Cheese (1 cup, low-fat)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbs | 8g |
| Fat | 2g |
Eggs (2 large)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140 |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbs | 1g |
| Fat | 10g |
Mozzarella (1 cup, part-skim)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 |
| Protein | 14g |
| Carbs | 2g |
| Fat | 10g |
Marinara Sauce (½ cup)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 35–50 |
| Protein | 1–2g |
| Carbs | 5–8g |
| Fat | 0–1g |
Allergen Information
Contains:
- Milk (cottage cheese, mozzarella)
- Eggs
May contain:
- Soy (depending on pepperoni and cheese brands)
- Wheat traces (some processed meats)
Gluten-free if:
- Marinara sauce is certified gluten-free
- Turkey pepperoni is gluten-free
Storage & Meal Prep
Refrigerator
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
- Freeze portions for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Microwave: 1–2 minutes.
- Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: Can I use full-fat cottage cheese?
Yes. It creates a richer texture and increases calories and fat slightly.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. Skip the turkey pepperoni and add mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, or spinach.
Q: Why blend the cottage cheese?
Blending removes the curds and creates a smooth, pizza-crust-like base.
Q: Is this keto-friendly?
Generally yes. With a low-sugar marinara sauce, net carbs remain relatively low.
Q: Can I add more protein?
Yes. Add:
- Grilled chicken
- Lean turkey
- Extra mozzarella
- Reduced-fat cheese blends
Q: Can I make it without a blender?
Yes. Whisk vigorously, though the texture will be more rustic.
Q: Why is my bake watery?
Possible reasons:
- High-moisture cottage cheese
- Excess sauce
- Not baking the base long enough
Drain excess liquid from cottage cheese if needed.
Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes. Bake the base, refrigerate, then add toppings and complete the second bake when ready to eat.
Q: Is it good for weight loss?
Many people use it for weight loss because it’s:
- High in protein
- Filling
- Lower in carbs than traditional pizza
- Relatively low in calories for the amount of protein provided
Q: What can I serve with it?
- Green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed broccoli
- Cucumber and tomato salad
