This cottage cheese pizza crust is a fun twist on the classic! It’s made with creamy cottage cheese, which gives it a light and fluffy texture that’s super tasty.
Who knew pizza could be so healthy and easy? I love that I can whip this up quickly and top it with all my favorite goodies. You can never go wrong with cheese on pizza! 🍕
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage cheese: You can use low-fat or regular cottage cheese, as they both work well. If you’re dairy-free, try silken tofu blended until smooth as a substitute.
Almond flour: This gives the crust a nice texture. If you want a nut-free option, substitute with oat flour or gluten-free flour, but the texture may vary slightly.
Cheese: Mozzarella is classic for pizza. If you’re looking for lower fat options, try part-skim mozzarella or a dairy-free cheese. Parmesan adds great flavor; nutritional yeast can replace it for a vegan alternative.
Seasonings: The garlic powder and Italian seasoning blend enhance the crust flavor. You can use fresh herbs instead of dried for a brighter taste. Also, feel free to adjust the seasonings to your preference!
How Do I Get the Perfect Pizza Crust Consistency?
Getting the pizza crust just right is crucial for that satisfying bite. Start by blending the cottage cheese until it’s completely smooth; this is key to a creamy texture. Then, mix your other ingredients until well combined, ensuring there are no dry pockets.
- When pressing the dough onto the baking sheet, aim for an even thickness of about 1/4 inch to ensure even baking.
- Your oven temperature should be set at 425°F (220°C) to achieve a golden crust. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-browning.
How to Make Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (preferably low-fat or regular)
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup almond flour (or finely ground almond meal)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: A pinch of black pepper
For Pizza Toppings:
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce or pizza sauce
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 medium tomato, thinly sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, sliced or chopped
- Optional: Black pepper or Italian seasoning for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to cook. You’ll spend 5-10 minutes mixing the crust ingredients and roughly 15 minutes baking the crust and pizza together. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help your pizza crust not stick and make cleanup a breeze!
2. Blend the Cottage Cheese:
Next, take your blender or food processor and add the cottage cheese. Blend it for about 30-45 seconds, or until it becomes nice and smooth. This step is important for a creamy crust texture!
3. Mix All the Ingredients:
Transfer the blended cottage cheese into a mixing bowl. Now, add the egg, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, almond flour, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and the optional black pepper. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together until it forms a thick, dough-like consistency.
4. Shape Your Crust:
Now it’s time to shape your dough! Place the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and press it into a thin, even round or oval shape, about 1/4 inch thick. If the dough sticks to your hands, wet them with a little water to make it easier to manage.
5. Bake the Crust:
Put the crust in your preheated oven and bake it for about 12-15 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and feels set. This part is crucial so your crust has a good base for the pizza toppings!
6. Top Your Pizza:
Once the crust has baked, carefully take it out of the oven. Spread a nice, even layer of tomato sauce over the crust. Then sprinkle on the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly to cover the sauce.
7. Add Fresh Toppings:
After the cheese, place the thinly sliced tomatoes evenly on top. This adds a lovely freshness to your pizza!
8. Final Baking:
Return your pizza to the oven and bake it for another 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
9. Finish with Basil:
As soon as you take the pizza out of the oven, sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top. The heat from the pizza will bring out their wonderful aroma.
10. Slice and Enjoy:
Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing. Then serve and enjoy your delicious homemade low-carb, protein-rich cottage cheese pizza crust topped with fresh tomatoes and basil!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan are great choices, you can substitute them with other cheeses. For a lower-fat option, try using part-skim mozzarella. Vegan cheese or nutritional yeast can also work well if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative.
Can I Make This Pizza Crust Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the crust in advance! After baking, let it cool and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to use it, just add your toppings and bake until warmed through and the cheese is melted.
What Can I Use Instead of Almond Flour?
If you need a nut-free option, you can substitute almond flour with oat flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour. Keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly, but it should still work well!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave. If using the oven, cover it with foil to prevent the crust from getting too hard.