Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust Recipe – Light, Protein-Packed, and Delicious
If you think pizza crust has to be heavy, carb-loaded, and a bit of a guilty pleasure, I’m about to change your mind. This cottage cheese pizza crust recipe is a game-changer. It’s tender yet sturdy, high in protein, gluten-free-friendly, and—here’s the kicker—it actually tastes amazing.
As someone who’s been making pizzas for years, I’ve experimented with every crust style imaginable—thin, thick, whole wheat, cauliflower, keto, you name it. But the first time I blended creamy cottage cheese into my crust dough, it was love at first bite. The result was soft in the center, crispy around the edges, and subtly tangy from the cheese. Plus, it holds toppings like a champ.
This is the kind of recipe you keep in your back pocket for those “I want pizza but also want to eat a little lighter” nights. Ready? Let’s get into it.
Why You’ll Love This Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust
- Protein-packed – Thanks to cottage cheese and eggs, you’re getting a satisfying boost of protein in every slice.
- No kneading required – Just blend, spread, and bake.
- Versatile – Works with classic margherita, BBQ chicken, veggie-loaded, or even dessert pizzas.
- Gluten-free option – Use oat or almond flour instead of all-purpose.
- Crispy yet tender – The edges brown beautifully while the center stays soft and flavorful.
Ingredients & Measurements
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat) | 1 cup (240 g) | Full-fat gives richer flavor, but low-fat works too |
| Eggs | 2 large | Helps bind the crust |
| Flour (all-purpose, oat, or almond) | 1 cup (120 g) | Choose based on preference/diet |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp | Gives a little lift |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | For richness and crisp edges |
| Salt | ½ tsp | Enhances flavor |
| Garlic powder (optional) | ½ tsp | Adds depth |
| Italian seasoning (optional) | 1 tsp | For a herby touch |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Preheat and Prep
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet or pizza stone with parchment paper. A hot oven is key for that irresistible golden crust.
Step 2 – Blend the Base
In a food processor or blender, add the cottage cheese, eggs, olive oil, and seasonings. Blend until smooth—no lumps. This is where the magic starts: that creamy cottage cheese turns into a silky batter.
Step 3 – Mix in the Dry Ingredients
Transfer the cottage cheese mixture to a bowl. Add flour and baking powder. Stir until just combined—don’t overmix, or the crust can get dense. The batter will be thicker than pancake batter but looser than traditional pizza dough.
Step 4 – Shape the Crust
Spoon the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it into a 10–12-inch circle (or rectangle if you prefer sheet-pan style). Keep it about ¼-inch thick for a balance of crisp and chew.
Step 5 – Pre-Bake
Bake the crust for 15–18 minutes, or until it’s firm to the touch and lightly golden. This step ensures your toppings won’t make the crust soggy later.
Step 6 – Add Toppings
Here’s where you can go classic or get creative:
- Classic Margherita: Tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, basil.
- High-Protein Veggie: Pesto, grilled zucchini, cherry tomatoes, feta.
- BBQ Chicken: BBQ sauce, shredded chicken, red onions, cheddar.
- Mediterranean: Olive tapenade, roasted peppers, goat cheese.
Step 7 – Final Bake
Return the topped pizza to the oven for another 8–10 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are a deep golden brown.
Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust
- Drain if needed – If your cottage cheese is extra watery, strain it in a fine mesh sieve for 10 minutes before blending.
- Use parchment paper – This crust can stick if you place it directly on a pan.
- Season the crust – A sprinkle of garlic powder, oregano, or even chili flakes in the batter adds great flavor.
- Cool before slicing – Let the pizza rest for 3–5 minutes after baking to firm up for cleaner slices.
- Batch prep – Bake multiple crusts, cool, and freeze for quick weeknight pizzas.
Nutritional Benefits
One of the best parts of this recipe? You’re getting quality protein, fewer carbs, and more nutrients than your average pizza crust. Cottage cheese brings calcium and vitamin B12 to the party, and if you use oat or almond flour, you’ll get added fiber and healthy fats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this crust without eggs?
Yes, though the texture will change. Replace each egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water) for a vegan version.
Q: Does it taste like cottage cheese?
Not really. The flavor mellows out during baking, leaving a light, slightly tangy taste that pairs perfectly with pizza toppings.
Q: Can I make this crust ahead?
Absolutely. Pre-bake the crust, cool completely, and store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month.
Q: Is it keto-friendly?
If you use almond flour instead of all-purpose or oat, yes—it’s a low-carb, keto-friendly option.
Final Thoughts – A Pizza Night Upgrade
This cottage cheese pizza crust recipe is proof that pizza night doesn’t have to mean throwing your healthy eating goals out the window. It’s quick, easy, and surprisingly indulgent for something so wholesome.
I’ve served this to friends who swore they’d never touch a “healthy” pizza crust, and they loved it—some even asked for the recipe before they finished their slice. The combination of crispy edges, soft center, and the subtle richness from cottage cheese makes it addictive in the best way possible.
So next time you’re craving pizza, skip the takeout, grab your blender, and whip this up. You might just find yourself making it every week.
See Also: Burrata Pizza Recipe – Creamy, Fresh, and Absolutely Irresistible
Vinit Hirave is a passionate content writer for Pizzetteria Brunetti. A true pizza enthusiast, Vinit’s love for authentic flavors goes beyond the keyboard—he has hands-on experience working in a pizza shop, giving him a deep understanding of what makes a perfect slice. Through his writing, he shares stories, tips, and insights that reflect both his industry knowledge and his genuine affection for the art of pizza-making.