Description
These High Protein Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowls are a quick and delicious meal packed with 27 grams of protein per serving. Combining low-fat cottage cheese with savory marinara, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses, plus fresh vegetables and Italian seasonings, they offer a nutritious twist on traditional pizza flavors. Perfect for a fast bake or microwave option, these bowls make a satisfying, protein-rich lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture
- 1.5 cups low-fat cottage cheese
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/3 cup low sugar marinara sauce (divided)
Vegetables and Toppings
- 1/4 cup chopped black olives (divided)
- 1/4 cup diced bell pepper (divided)
- 1/4 cup diced onion (divided)
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Pinch red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese and Vegetable Mixture: In a bowl, combine the low-fat cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of the marinara sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir in half of the chopped black olives, diced bell pepper, and diced onion until evenly mixed.
- Divide into Containers: Spoon the mixture equally into two oven-safe containers. On top of each, add one tablespoon of the remaining marinara sauce, then sprinkle two tablespoons of shredded mozzarella cheese over each bowl.
- Add Remaining Toppings: Distribute the remaining olives, bell peppers, and onions over the cheese on each bowl. Sprinkle an extra pinch of Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes on top for added flavor.
- Bake or Microwave: Bake the bowls at 425°F (220°C) for 10-12 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted. For a browned top, broil for an additional minute if desired. Alternatively, microwave each bowl for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes for a quicker option.
- Serve: Serve the pizza bowls warm, accompanied by crackers, pita chips, or fresh chopped vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- Use low-fat cottage cheese for a higher protein, lower fat option.
- You can customize the vegetables based on your preference or what you have available.
- The bowls can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking or microwaving.
- Broiling at the end helps achieve a golden, bubbly cheese topping.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your desired spice level.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American