Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust recipe (High-Protein, Low-Carb)

Is it really possible to enjoy pizza and stick to your health goals at the same time? Surprisingly, yes. Thanks to the rise of high-protein, low-carb alternatives, recipes like cottage cheese pizza crust are changing how we think about comfort food.

According to a 2024 study published by the American Nutrition Association, high-protein diets contribute to better satiety, improved weight management, and enhanced muscle maintenance. That makes cottage cheese an ideal base for a crust that’s chewy, satisfying, and packed with nutritional benefits. Whether you’re on keto, trying to reduce carbs, or just seeking a better-for-you pizza night, this crust is about to become a staple.

Ingredients List of Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust

1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese (or part-skim for fewer calories)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup almond flour (or oat flour as an alternative)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/4 tsp salt
Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

Substitution Tips:

Cottage cheese: Can be replaced with ricotta for a softer texture
Almond flour: Swap with coconut flour (use 1/3 cup due to absorbency)
Parmesan: Nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option

Timing

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

That’s 30% less than the average homemade pizza dough recipe, which usually takes 50–60 minutes including rise time.

Try the Keto Cottage Cheese Egg Pizza Crust if you want a variation with eggy texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet or pizza pan with parchment paper. Lightly spray or brush with olive oil for a crisper finish.

Step 2: Blend the Base

In a blender or food processor, combine cottage cheese and eggs. Blend until smooth. This ensures a non-grainy texture.

Step 3: Mix the Dough

Pour the blended mix into a large bowl. Stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, almond flour, and all seasonings. Mix well until a thick, slightly sticky dough forms.

Step 4: Shape and Bake

Spread the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Shape into a circle or rectangle about 1/4-inch thick. Bake for 20–22 minutes until golden brown and firm to the touch.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Remove from oven. Add your desired pizza sauce, toppings, and more cheese. Return to oven for 5–7 minutes or until cheese is bubbly.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1/4 crust)

Calories: 180
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fat: 11g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g

This recipe offers nearly 3x more protein and 80% fewer carbs than traditional pizza dough.

Cottage cheese crust layered with tomato sauce and shredded cheese — Sliced cottage cheese pizza served

Healthier Alternatives for the Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust Recipe

Dairy-Free: Use almond milk ricotta and dairy-free cheese.
Higher Fiber: Add 1 tbsp ground flaxseed to the dough.
Low Sodium: Use no-salt cottage cheese and skip added salt.
Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (2 tbsp flaxseed + 6 tbsp water, let sit 10 min).

Serving Suggestions

Serve topped with roasted vegetables, arugula, or lean protein like grilled chicken.
Cut into strips and serve as dipping sticks with marinara.
Make mini personal pizzas for parties or lunchboxes.
Pairs well with a side of mixed greens and balsamic vinaigrette.
Use as a base for a breakfast pizza with scrambled eggs, turkey sausage, and spinach.
Try topping with pesto, fresh tomatoes, and burrata for a gourmet twist.
Slice into squares and serve as a protein-packed snack or appetizer at gatherings.
Great for meal prep—top differently for variety throughout the week.

Use the Cottage Cheese Alfredo Sauce as a creamy white base instead of tomato sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using chunky cottage cheese: Always blend it smooth first.
Overloading with wet toppings: This softens the crust.
Not pre-baking the crust: It won’t hold shape if uncooked.
Skipping parchment paper: Crust can stick and break.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze pre-baked crusts (without toppings) for up to 1 month. Wrap tightly.
Reheating: Use a toaster oven or skillet to maintain crispiness.

Conclusion

This cottage cheese pizza crust is a revolution in healthy cooking. It’s quick, protein-rich, and incredibly satisfying—proof you don’t need to sacrifice flavor for nutrition. Whether you’re cutting carbs, building muscle, or just want something new, this crust delivers.

Try it this week and let us know in the comments how you topped yours! And if you loved it, don’t miss Low-Carb Cottage Cheese Pizza – Crust made without flour: just eggs, cheese, and cottage cheese. Ideal for keto or gluten-free diets.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fat-free cottage cheese?
A: Yes, but it may affect texture. Full-fat gives the best flavor and structure.

Q: Can I cook this in an air fryer?
A: Yes! Preheat to 375°F and cook the shaped dough for 10–12 minutes.

Q: Is this crust gluten-free?
A: Absolutely. Just ensure all cheeses and flours used are certified gluten-free.

Q: What toppings work best with this crust?
A: Think light: sautéed veggies, turkey pepperoni, or fresh basil and tomato slices.

Q: How can I make it crispier?
A: Bake directly on a pizza stone for the final 5 minutes, or broil for 2 minutes.

Introduction to Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust