If you love the comforting flavors of pizza but want something a little different and packed with protein, you’re going to be obsessed with this pizza cottage cheese casserole. It’s a cheesy, savory dish that brings all the classic pizza favorites into one easy baked casserole, making dinner a breeze.
This pizza cottage cheese casserole recipe is perfect for those nights when you want something warm, hearty, and full of serious flavor without the fuss of rolling dough or ordering takeout. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in cottage cheese for extra creaminess and nutrition.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Combines the cheesy, tangy flavor of cottage cheese with classic pizza ingredients.
- Easy to prepare and bake for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
- High in protein thanks to the cottage cheese and mozzarella blend.
- Perfect for families or meal prep—makes great leftovers.
- Customizable with your favorite pizza toppings and spices.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious pizza cottage cheese casserole. Feel free to adjust toppings to suit your taste!
- 2 cups low-fat cottage cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce, divided
- 1 cup diced cooked pepperoni or cooked Italian sausage
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
How to Make Obsessed! This Baked Pizza Cottage Cheese Casserole Has Serious Flavor
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9x9-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, ricotta, mozzarella (reserve 1/2 cup for topping), Parmesan, egg, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Spread 3/4 cup of marinara sauce evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Fold the diced pepperoni, bell pepper, olives, and onion into the cheese mixture, then spread this mixture over the sauce layer.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, then sprinkle with the reserved mozzarella cheese and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
- Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is golden and slightly crisp.
- Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and fresh flavor before slicing and serving.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use part-skim mozzarella for a good balance of meltiness and less grease.
- Make sure to drain excess liquid from the cottage cheese if it’s very watery to avoid a runny casserole.
- Customize your toppings—try mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for variety.
- Let the casserole rest before cutting so it holds together better.
- Use a sharp knife to slice clean portions without mushing the casserole.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through.
If you want to freeze this pizza cottage cheese casserole, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of cheese instead of cottage cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cottage cheese with ricotta or cream cheese for a slightly different texture, but cottage cheese adds a unique tang and moisture that balances the casserole.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe contains no flour or bread products, making it naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check your marinara sauce for any hidden gluten ingredients.
Can I make this in advance?
Definitely. Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it perfect for meal planning or busy weeknights.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This pizza cottage cheese casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal that complements its rich, cheesy flavors.