Pizza Cottage Cheese Bake Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Dinner Idea
This pizza cottage cheese bake recipe is a cheesy and savory dish made with cottage cheese, pasta, marinara sauce, and pepperoni baked until golden. Perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or anytime you crave a comforting Italian-inspired casserole.
Equipment
- Medium casserole dish
- Mixing bowls
- Spoon or spatula
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2 cups cottage cheese (small-curd preferred)
- 1½ cups tomato or marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup assorted toppings (pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, olives, etc.)
- Optional: fresh basil, chili flakes, Parmesan for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Base: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce in the casserole dish.
- Layer Cottage Cheese: Spoon cottage cheese evenly over the sauce. Season with Italian herbs and garlic powder.
- Add Mozzarella & Toppings: Sprinkle mozzarella, then add chosen toppings. Repeat layers if desired, finishing with mozzarella.
- Bake: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Rest & Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with basil or Parmesan.
Notes
- Texture Tip: Blend cottage cheese for smoother consistency.
- Topping Ideas: Go vegetarian with mushrooms and peppers, or meat-lover’s with turkey sausage and pepperoni.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Use low-fat cottage cheese for lighter calories, or gluten-free marinara for dietary needs.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble ahead and refrigerate; bake fresh when ready to serve.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with salad or roasted veggies for balance.