Healthy Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust [High-Protein Recipe]
Today, we’re diving into a unique twist on a classic favorite: the Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust. This recipe is a game-changer for those looking to switch up their pizza routine with something lighter and packed with protein. Using simple ingredients like oat flour, cottage cheese, and egg whites, this crust offers a delightful texture and subtle flavor that serves as a perfect base for your favorite toppings. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just someone who loves a good pizza night, this recipe promises to impress with its simplicity and delicious outcome.
Why Will You Love this Recipe?
- Healthy Alternative: Swap out the traditional carb-heavy pizza base for this high-protein, low-carb cottage cheese crust. It’s not only nutritious but also incredibly filling, making it a fantastic option for health-conscious pizza lovers.
- Easy to Customize: This crust forms a blank canvas for all your favorite pizza toppings. Whether you’re in the mood for classic pepperoni or something more gourmet like arugula and prosciutto, the crust complements any flavor.
- Quick Preparation: From start to finish, whipping up this crust is surprisingly quick. It takes minimal prep time, and you can have a delicious, homemade pizza ready in about half an hour.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free Options: For those avoiding gluten, you can substitute oat flour with any gluten-free flour of your choice. Almond flour or coconut flour could add a nice texture and flavor.
- Add Herbs and Spices: Elevate the crust by mixing dried herbs like oregano, basil, or rosemary into the dough. A little garlic powder can also add a nice kick.
- Cheese Varieties: While cottage cheese is the base, adding a sprinkle of grated parmesan or mozzarella to the dough can enhance the flavor and richness of the crust.
Tools You’ll Need
- Blender or Food Processor: If you’re starting with whole oats instead of oat flour, you’ll need a blender or food processor to grind the oats into a fine flour.
- Skillet with a Lid: Cooking the crust on the stovetop before baking helps it get that initial crisp. Make sure your skillet has a lid to cover the crust as it cooks.
- Pizza Baking Pan and Parchment Paper: For baking the crust in the oven, a good baking sheet lined with parchment paper ensures it won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
FAQ
Can you freeze the cottage cheese pizza crust?
It’s possible to freeze the cottage cheese pizza crust, but for best results, freeze it after the initial stovetop cooking and before adding toppings. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to protect it from freezer burn. When ready to use, simply thaw, add toppings, and finish baking in the oven.
How long does cottage cheese pizza crust last in the fridge?
The cooked cottage cheese pizza crust can be refrigerated for up to 2-3 days. Store it in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain freshness. Reheat in the oven or on a skillet for best texture.
What are the best toppings for cottage cheese pizza crust?
This crust pairs well with a variety of toppings. For a classic touch, go with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and pepperoni. If you’re feeling adventurous, try arugula, prosciutto, and shaved Parmesan for a gourmet twist. Vegetarian options like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and olives also work beautifully.
Is this pizza crust keto-friendly?
While lower in carbs than traditional pizza crusts, this recipe is not strictly keto due to the oat flour. For a keto-friendly version, you might substitute the oat flour with almond or coconut flour, but adjustments to the liquid ratios may be necessary.
Other Recipes You’ll Love
- Zucchini Pizza Crust
- Viral Cottage Cheese Flatbread
- Zucchini Taco Shells
- Healthy Cauliflower Pizza Recipe
- Low-Carb Cheesy Cauliflower Breadsticks
- Air Fryer Pizza Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Healthy Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust [High-Protein Recipe]
Equipment
- 1 blender
Ingredients
- 3.5 oz oat flour (approximately 3/4 cup)
- 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 pinch salt
- 5.6 oz cottage cheese (approximately 2/3 cup)
- 10.5 oz egg whites from about 8-9 medium-sized eggs
Instructions
- Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring it reaches the correct temperature for baking the crust later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the oat flour, olive oil, salt, cottage cheese, and egg whites. If you don’t have oat flour but have oats, simply grind them into a fine flour using a food processor or blender.
- Once your mixture is smooth, divide it in half as this batch is enough to make two pizzas. This split allows for easier handling and even cooking.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter, cooking spray, or a little more olive oil. Pour half of the pizza crust mixture into the skillet, spreading it evenly. Cover with a lid and let it cook for about 4 minutes.
- Carefully flip the crust in the skillet, cover again, and cook for an additional 2 minutes. This process helps to firm up the crust before it goes into the oven.
- Transfer the semi-cooked crust onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Now, top it with your chosen pizza sauce and toppings.
- Place the pizza in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, depending on the amount of toppings used. This final bake will melt the toppings and crisp the crust.
- Perform the same process with the remaining half of the crust mixture, ensuring both pizzas are cooked to perfection.