Description

This Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust recipe offers a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional pizza dough. Using cottage cheese as the base creates a protein-rich, soft, and flavorful crust that’s quick to prepare. Topped with classic marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, fresh basil, and optional cherry tomatoes, it’s a delightful homemade pizza perfect for a wholesome meal in under 35 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil

Toppings

1/3 cup marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella
Fresh basil leaves (for topping)
Cherry tomatoes (optional, for topping)

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Instructions

Blend the cottage cheese: In a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring a lump-free texture that will mix evenly into the dough.
Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Create a well in the center, then add the olive oil along with the blended cottage cheese. Mix thoroughly and knead gently until a smooth and uniform dough forms. Let the dough rest for a few minutes to relax the gluten and improve elasticity.
Pre-bake the crust: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). On a lightly floured surface or parchment paper, roll out the dough into your preferred shape—either a circle or rectangle. Brush the surface lightly with olive oil to promote browning and crispness. Bake the dough for 7–8 minutes to partially cook the crust, which will prevent sogginess once toppings are added.
Add toppings and bake again: Remove the pre-baked crust from the oven. Evenly spread the marinara sauce on top, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Add cherry tomatoes if desired for extra freshness and flavor. Return the pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 5–7 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Finish and serve: Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of aromatic flavor. Cut into slices and serve hot. Enjoy your tasty, homemade cottage cheese pizza crust creation!

Notes

If you prefer a crispier crust, allow it to bake a minute or two longer during the pre-baking step—but watch carefully to avoid burning.
Substitute gluten-free flour if you need a gluten-free option, though texture may vary slightly.
For extra flavor, you can add dried oregano or garlic powder to the dough mixture.
This recipe yields 2 servings but can easily be doubled for more people.
Use full-fat or low-fat cottage cheese depending on your dietary preferences; fat content may affect the crust’s tenderness.