Dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. This Pizza Cottage Cheese Bake is the ultimate cozy, healthy, and satisfying dish that will have your family coming back for seconds! Think of it as a pizza-inspired casserole packed with protein-rich cottage cheese, a savory sauce, and all the flavors you love in a pizza. It’s a one-dish wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or any time you’re craving something warm and comforting.
Whether you’re cooking for a family, planning for leftovers, or just want a hearty meal with simple ingredients, this recipe has you covered. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the ingredients and easy steps to create your new favorite dinner!
Recipe Info:
| Category | Dinner, Casserole |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 35 minutes |
| Servings | 6 servings |
| Calories | Approx. 300 calories per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Here’s what you’ll need to make this hearty, healthy pizza-inspired bake:
- 1 lb lean ground beef (or ground chicken/turkey for a leaner option)
- 2 cups cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat, your choice)
- 1 jar (about 14 oz) pizza sauce (choose your favorite or make your own)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers (red, green, or a mix)
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Optional add-ins:
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup spinach or kale (for extra greens!)
Step-By-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that it’s hot and ready for the casserole!
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes). Make sure to break up the beef into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat, if necessary.
- Mix the Casserole Base: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, cottage cheese, pizza sauce, garlic powder, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well-combined.
- Assemble the Bake: Spread half of the mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Top with half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Then layer the remaining beef mixture on top, followed by the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
- Add Veggies: Sprinkle the chopped bell peppers, red onions, and any optional add-ins (like mushrooms or olives) over the top of the casserole. These veggies will add some delicious texture and flavor!
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Garnish & Serve: Once the bake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Helpful Notes & Tips:
- Spice Control: If you like things spicier, feel free to increase the red pepper flakes or even add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little extra kick.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze this dish for up to 2 months – just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil!
- Make It Ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble it the night before and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.
Recipe Variations:
This Pizza Cottage Cheese Bake is versatile, so feel free to make it your own with these variations:
- Swap the Protein: If you’re not a fan of beef, try ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb for a different twist.
- Make it Vegetarian: Skip the meat and load the casserole with more veggies, like zucchini, spinach, or artichokes.
- Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, be sure to choose a gluten-free pizza sauce and make sure your shredded mozzarella is free of any additives that might contain gluten.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this dish alongside a light salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the rich, cheesy casserole. A side of garlic bread or a simple green salad would complete the meal nicely. You can also serve it with a dollop of low-fat sour cream or some hot sauce if you like a little extra flavor.
Conclusion:
There’s something so satisfying about gathering around the table for a warm, hearty meal with loved ones. This Pizza Cottage Cheese Bake is the perfect way to make a cozy dinner without much fuss. Whether you’re cooking for a family or just need leftovers for the week ahead, this dish will definitely hit the spot. Enjoy it fresh, and feel free to make it your own with all the delicious variations!