Quick Description
This Pizza Cottage Cheese Casserole is a cozy, high-protein dish that delivers all the classic pizza flavors in an easy, oven-baked casserole. Creamy blended cottage cheese replaces heavy sauces, keeping it lighter while still rich and satisfying. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a low-carb pizza-style craving.
Servings & Timing
Serves: 3–4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: ~40 minutes
Ingredients List
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cottage cheese, blended until smooth
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup pizza sauce (optional but recommended)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional toppings: turkey pepperoni, olives, mushrooms, bell peppers
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish. -
Mix the Base
In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, blended cottage cheese, pizza sauce (if using), Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until evenly coated. -
Assemble the Casserole
Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. -
Add Cheese & Toppings
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top. Add any optional pizza toppings if desired. -
Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden on top. -
Rest & Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition (Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 34g
- Carbs: 6g
- Fat: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
Benefits
- High-Protein: Cottage cheese and chicken keep you full
- Low-Carb: Pizza flavor without the crust
- Quick & Easy: Minimal prep, one dish
- Customizable: Endless topping options
Additional Notes
- Blending cottage cheese is key for a smooth, creamy texture.
- For extra cheesiness, add a little parmesan on top.
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Dietary Info
- High-Protein: ✔️
- Low-Carb: ✔️
- Keto-Friendly: ✔️ (use sugar-free pizza sauce)
- Gluten-Free: ✔️
Brief Introduction
This casserole is perfect when you want pizza vibes without the heaviness. It’s warm, cheesy, protein-packed, and incredibly satisfying—comfort food that still fits into a healthier lifestyle.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Blend cottage cheese until smooth
- Mix with chicken and seasonings
- Top with mozzarella and pizza toppings
- Bake until bubbly
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
- Cottage Cheese: Blended for creaminess; Greek yogurt can substitute
- Chicken: Any cooked chicken works
- Mozzarella: Adds classic pizza melt
- Italian Seasoning: Brings authentic pizza flavor
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Variations:
- Add pepperoni for classic pizza taste
- Use cooked sausage instead of chicken
- Add crushed red pepper for heat
Serve With:
- Side salad
- Roasted veggies
- Low-carb garlic bread
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerate: Up to 4 days
- Freeze: Up to 2 months
- Reheat: Oven or microwave until hot
FAQs
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Is cottage cheese noticeable?
No—once blended and baked, it tastes creamy and mild.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, replace chicken with mushrooms or veggies.
Optional Personal Story
This became one of my favorite “lazy pizza night” meals. It satisfies the craving while keeping things simple, protein-packed, and guilt-free.
