This Low Carb Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl is your go-to dish for a comforting, pizza-inspired meal without the carbs. Perfect for those moments when you crave the rich, cheesy goodness of pizza but want to stick to a healthier option. Packed with savory flavors, this recipe proves that you don’t have to sacrifice taste for nutrition.
In our household, pizza night is a beloved tradition. But as we’ve tried to embrace healthier eating, finding a way to keep that tradition alive without the carbs felt challenging—until we discovered this Low Carb Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl. My husband was skeptical at first, but after one bite, he was hooked. It’s become a staple for our family, especially on cozy nights when we crave something indulgent yet healthy. Even our little one, who’s usually all about the crust, loves it. The best part? It’s so versatile that we can tweak it based on whatever ingredients we have on hand, making it a true weeknight winner.
Why This Low Carb Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl?
- Low-Carb Comfort: Satisfy your pizza cravings without the carbs. This dish is full of rich, cheesy flavors that make it feel like an indulgence, but it’s entirely guilt-free.
- Rich and Creamy: Cottage cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan create a creamy base that’s just as satisfying as any traditional pizza.
- Customizable Toppings: Whether you’re in the mood for spicy sausage, colorful veggies, or both, this dish can be tailored to your tastes.
- Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you can have a warm, comforting meal on the table in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 240g (1 cup) full-fat cottage cheese (or low-fat for fewer calories)
- 60g (2 oz) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 25g (0.9 oz) grated Parmesan cheese
- 120ml (4 fl oz) low-carb pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
- A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- 75g (2.6 oz) diced bell peppers (any color you prefer)
- 30g (1 oz) sliced black olives
- 40g (1.4 oz) minced onion
- 60g (2.1 oz) cooked sausage or pepperoni slices (omit for vegetarian)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven: Warm your oven to 375°F (190°C), letting it heat up like the morning sun on a crisp day.
- Mix the Cheeses: In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Stir until well mixed.
- Assemble the Bowl: Spread the cheese mixture into a small, ovenproof bowl or an individual-sized casserole dish, creating a smooth, even layer.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the low-carb pizza sauce evenly over the cheese mixture, ensuring every inch is covered like a cozy blanket.
- Top with More Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese generously on top, adding an extra layer of cheesy goodness.
- Add Your Toppings: Decorate the top with diced bell peppers, black olives, minced onion, and cooked sausage or pepperoni slices, arranging them like a beautiful, colorful quilt.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden, resembling a golden autumn sunset.
- Garnish and Serve: Allow the dish to rest for a few moments before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and enjoy the comforting flavors.
Notes:
- Customization Options: Swap out the sausage for grilled chicken or keep it vegetarian by adding more veggies like mushrooms or zucchini.
- Seasonal Variations: Depending on the season, incorporate different roasted vegetables for an added twist.
- Herb Substitutions: Use fresh herbs in the summer or dried herbs in the winter to keep the flavors vibrant.
- Low-Carb Crust Alternative: For a more traditional pizza feel, try using a low-carb tortilla as the base, reducing the baking time accordingly.
