Irresistibly Cheesy Low Carb Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl

Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl is the ultimate low-carb comfort food that brings together all the flavors of pizza—without the dough. This protein-rich dish swaps traditional crust for creamy cottage cheese, layered with sautéed veggies, gooey melted cheese, and bold Italian seasonings. Whether you’re aiming to cut carbs or just looking for a fresh twist on a classic, this quick and customizable bowl delivers all the pizza satisfaction in a nutritious format.

In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a warm, cheesy, and veggie-packed meal that works for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

this recipe

• ✅ Low-carb + high-protein for a balanced meal
• ✅ Packed with flavor from herbs, garlic, and veggies
• ✅ Ready in 20 minutes – perfect for busy days
• ✅ Great for meal prep or last-minute dinners
• ✅ Customizable with different veggies, cheeses, or added protein

Ingredients

• 2 cups cottage cheese
• 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 tsp garlic powder (or 1 clove fresh garlic)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, pepper jack, or mix)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prep the veggies:
   Wash and chop the bell peppers, zucchini, onion, and cherry tomatoes.
2. Sauté the aromatics:
   In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft. Add garlic powder and red pepper flakes. Cook 1 minute more.
3. Add vegetables:
   Stir in bell peppers, zucchini, and tomatoes. Cook for 5–7 minutes until tender yet crisp. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine with cottage cheese:
   In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed veggies with cottage cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir gently to combine.
5. Top with cheese:
   Transfer the mixture to a heat-safe bowl or dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top evenly.
6. Melt the cheese (optional):
   Broil for 2–3 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden. Watch closely to avoid burning.
7. Serve:
   Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy warm.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 bowls
• Difficulty: Easy
• Calories per bowl: ~250

Tips & Variations

• Add protein: Shredded rotisserie chicken, cooked turkey, or sausage make it a full meal
• Cheese swaps: Try pepper jack, feta, or a blend for different flavor profiles
• Go vegan: Use plant-based cottage cheese and shredded vegan cheese
• Switch the base: Try ricotta or cauliflower rice instead of cottage cheese
• Use fresh herbs: Add basil, oregano, or thyme for freshness

FAQs

Can I meal prep this cottage cheese pizza bowl?
Yes! Make the veggie mixture and store separately from the cheese topping. Assemble and broil when ready.

Can I bake instead of broiling?
Absolutely. Bake at 350°F for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and heated through.

Does this freeze well?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven.

What’s the best cheese to use?
Mozzarella is classic, but a combo of mozzarella and parmesan gives a richer flavor.

Can I make this spicy?
Yes – increase red pepper flakes or add chopped jalapeños.

Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl

This cottage cheese pizza bowl delivers all the gooey, cheesy, Italian flavor of pizza—without the carbs. A creamy, protein-rich dish in just 20 minutes!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: lunch

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• – 2 cups cottage cheese
• – 1 cup bell peppers chopped
• – 1 medium zucchini diced
• – 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
• – 1 small onion diced
• – 1 tsp garlic powder
• – 1 cup shredded cheese
• – 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• – 1 tbsp olive oil
• – 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional
• – Salt and pepper to taste
• – Fresh basil optional

Equipment

• – Medium skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula
• – Oven-safe dish

Method

 

1. Wash and chop all veggies.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté onion for 3–4 mins. Add garlic and red pepper flakes.
3. Add zucchini, peppers, tomatoes. Cook 5–7 mins until tender.
4. In a bowl, combine sautéed veggies, cottage cheese, and seasoning.
5. Transfer to an oven-safe dish and top with shredded cheese.
6. Broil for 2–3 mins until cheese is melted and golden.
7. Garnish with basil and serve warm.

Notes

– Meal prep friendly: store unbaked mix 3 days in fridge
– Swap in spinach or mushrooms for variety
– Bake instead of broil for a softer melt

Conclusion

This Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl is everything you love about pizza in a low-carb, guilt-free bowl. With simple ingredients and endless ways to customize, it’s ideal for busy weeknights, clean eating goals, or comfort food cravings. Creamy, cheesy, and full of bold flavor—this is one recipe that deserves a spot in your weekly rotation.