High Protein Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowls Recipe
These High Protein Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowls are a quick, nutritious, and delicious way to enjoy a low-carb pizza-inspired snack or meal. Packed with creamy cottage cheese and melty mozzarella, seasoned with herbs and garlic, and topped with fresh basil and optional toppings, they offer all the comforting pizza flavors without the crust. Perfect for a high-protein, low-calorie option, ready in just minutes using a microwave, oven, or air fryer.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Total Time: 7 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Microwave (or Bake/Air Fry)
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Garlic powder, to taste
- Chili flakes, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for topping
- Optional toppings (Kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, etc.)
Instructions
- Build the base: Spoon ½ cup of cottage cheese into each of two small, microwave-safe bowls to create your protein-rich base.
- Mix in the flavor: Add a little shredded mozzarella, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, a pinch of garlic powder, and 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce to each bowl. Stir gently to combine without overmixing, ensuring the flavors meld nicely.
- First heat-up: Microwave each bowl for 1 minute to begin warming the mixture, allowing the cheese to start melting and the herbs to release aroma.
- Top it off: Add an additional tablespoon of marinara sauce and a sprinkle of extra shredded mozzarella on top of each bowl. Microwave again for 1 minute until the cheese melts perfectly and the bowl is heated through.
- Finish & garnish: Sprinkle with chili flakes for a bit of heat, fresh basil leaves for freshness, and add any optional toppings like Kalamata olives or cherry tomatoes to boost flavor and texture.
- Alternative cooking method: If you prefer baking or air frying, assemble the bowls as above, then bake or air fry at 350°F (160°C) for 5–7 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with golden cheese on top. Ensure your bowls are safe for oven or air fryer use.
Notes
- Customize with your favorite pizza toppings such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or pepperoni.
- For a lower sodium version, use low-sodium marinara sauce and cheese.
- Adjust chili flakes based on your spice tolerance.
- Use fresh herbs if preferred, adjusting quantities accordingly.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
- Microwave times may vary depending on your appliance; watch carefully to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 150g)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
Keywords: cottage cheese, high protein, pizza bowls, quick snack, low carb, microwave recipe, easy pizza, healthy snack
