Who knew cottage cheese could make a tasty pizza crust? This easy recipe gives you a healthy and soft base that’s low in carbs but high in flavor!
When I make this, I love adding my favorite toppings like veggies and cheese. It’s such a fun way to enjoy pizza without the guilt! Plus, it’s super quick to whip up.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: Use small curd cottage cheese for a smoother texture. If you don’t have it, ricotta cheese is a great substitute, as it will still give you that creamy base.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella helps with melting and texture. You can substitute with other cheeses like provolone or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for a vegan option.
Almond Flour: This gives the crust a nice structure. If you need a nut-free alternative, try oat flour or coconut flour, but be careful with the amounts; they may require adjustments in liquid.
Egg: The egg binds everything together. A flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) works well if you’re looking for a vegan option.
How Do I Get My Crust the Right Texture?
Getting the right texture for your pizza crust is key. Here’s how to ensure it’s just right:
- Mix the cottage cheese and egg well for a smooth batter; this helps prevent lumps and ensures even cooking.
- When adding almond flour, mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can make the crust tough.
- Spread the dough evenly on the baking sheet to promote even baking; a thicker crust might need a bit more time in the oven.
- Keep an eye on the baking time, as every oven heats differently; a golden crust is what you’re aiming for!
Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (preferably small curd)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup almond flour (or finely ground almond meal)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: fresh basil leaves, sliced tomatoes, additional mozzarella for topping
- Your favorite pizza sauce or tomato sauce (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 25 minutes for baking, totaling about 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious homemade pizza!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prepare:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet or pizza pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, shredded mozzarella, and egg. Use a fork or whisk to mix well until everything is smooth and well combined. This will create a creamy mixture that acts as the base of your crust.
3. Add the Dry Ingredients:
Next, sprinkle in the almond flour, garlic powder, oregano, and salt. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are well mixed and form a thick dough. Make sure not to overmix—just until combined is perfect!
4. Shape the Crust:
Now it’s time to transfer your dough onto the lined baking sheet. Using your hands or a spatula, carefully spread and press the dough out to form a round pizza crust shape, aiming for about 1/4 inch thick. This way, it will bake evenly!
5. Bake the Crust:
Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and starts to firm up. Keep an eye on it—this is the foundation of your pizza!
6. Add the Sauce:
Once the crust is ready, carefully remove it from the oven. Spread a thin layer of your favorite pizza or tomato sauce over the crust, being mindful not to soak it too much. Just enough to add flavor!
7. Top it Off:
Now for the fun part! Add extra shredded mozzarella over the sauce, and sprinkle on any additional toppings like sliced tomatoes and fresh basil leaves. Feel free to get creative with your favorite toppings!
8. Final Bake:
Return the pizza to the oven for another 8-10 minutes. Keep watching until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This is where the magic happens!
9. Cool & Slice:
Once baked to perfection, remove the pizza from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes—this will help the crust set a bit more. Then, use a pizza cutter or knife to slice it up!
10. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve your cottage cheese pizza warm. Enjoy it as a healthy, low-carb option that’s packed with protein and flavor. Perfect for a snack, lunch, or dinner!
This crust turns out wonderfully soft but firm enough to hold all your toppings. The subtle cheesy flavor pairs perfectly with fresh toppings like tomatoes and basil. Enjoy your delicious homemade pizza!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is great for melting, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or even dairy-free cheese alternatives if you prefer. Just keep in mind that different cheeses might alter the flavor a bit.
How Do I Store Leftover Pizza Crust?
Store any leftover crust in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for a crispy texture.
Can I Freeze the Crust?
Yes! You can freeze the uncooked crust after shaping it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just bake it straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What Can I Use Instead of Almond Flour?
If you need a nut-free option, you can use oat flour or coconut flour. Just be cautious with quantities; coconut flour absorbs more moisture, so you may need to adjust the amount of liquid or add a bit more cottage cheese.