40+ Best Cottage Cheese Recipes
Cottage cheese is having a moment—and for good reason. Whether you’re after a healthy protein boost, a touch of creaminess in your meals, or a creative way to reinvent your favorite dishes, this collection of 40+ cottage cheese recipes is packed with inspiration. From light breakfasts and satisfying lunches to savory dinners and decadent desserts, there’s something here for every craving and lifestyle.
Save this recipe
Enter your email address and we’ll send it straight to your inbox.
Explore the many ways to cook, bake, blend, and stir cottage cheese into your everyday routine. These recipes are simple, wholesome, and full of flavor—proof that healthy can still be seriously delicious. Get ready to embrace the creamy goodness cottage cheese brings to the table!
TABLE OF CONTENTS hide
Ready to take your everyday recipes to the next level? Say hello to your new secret ingredient: cottage cheese. That’s right—this humble, protein-packed ingredient can be transformed into incredibly delicious meals that are both comforting and creative. From savory casseroles and breakfast bowls to sweet treats like pancakes and cheesecakes, these recipes are bursting with flavor and creamy texture.
Whether you’re already a cottage cheese fan or just curious to try something new, this collection of 40 easy cottage cheese recipes will spark your kitchen creativity. Scroll through, pick your favorites, and get ready to explore a whole new world of satisfying, wholesome dishes that might just become your new go-to meals.
What Is Cottage Cheese?
Cottage cheese is a fresh, creamy dairy product made by curdling cow’s milk with an acidic ingredient like lemon juice or vinegar. Once the curds form, they’re drained and sometimes rinsed, resulting in a soft, mild-flavored cheese with a slightly lumpy texture.
It’s considered a healthy, high-protein ingredient that’s naturally low in fat and calories, making it a popular choice for balanced diets. Thanks to its light flavor and creamy consistency, cottage cheese is incredibly versatile—you can use it in everything from pancakes, casseroles, and dips to smoothies, desserts, and even pasta sauces. It’s a simple way to add protein and creaminess to both sweet and savory dishes!
Is Cottage Cheese Healthy?
es, cottage cheese is widely regarded as a healthy, nutrient-rich food. It’s an excellent source of high-quality protein, providing approximately 12.5 grams per 100 grams. This protein content supports muscle maintenance, keeps you feeling full longer, and aids in overall body function.
In addition to protein, a 100-gram serving of cottage cheese contains about 103 calories and offers essential nutrients such as calcium (60 mg), phosphorus (159 mg), selenium (14.5 µg), and B vitamins. These nutrients contribute to bone health, energy production, and immune support.
Why Use Cottage Cheese In Recipes?
- A great source of protein: A 1-cup (226g) serving of cottage cheese contains approximately 25 grams of protein,
- Loaded with Nutrients: Cottage cheese is packed with essential nutrients such as calcium, phosphorus, vitamin B12, and selenium.
- Super Versatile: Cottage cheese is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed on its own, blended into smoothies, used as a topping for salads, incorporated into baked goods, or even substituted for other dairy products like sour cream or ricotta cheese.
- A low fat cheese alternative: Compared to other types of cheese, cottage cheese is relatively low in fat.
- Keeps you full for longer: The high protein and low-fat content of cottage cheese can help promote feelings of fullness and satiety, making it a satisfying ingredient.
Top Cottage Cheese Substitutes
If you’re in a pinch or just don’t have cottage cheese on hand, these substitutes can work well in most recipes. But truthfully? If the recipe calls for cottage cheese, I highly recommend using it! Nothing quite replicates its unique balance of creaminess, mild flavor, and high protein content. That said, here are the best stand-ins if you really need one:
- Greek Yogurt – Thick, tangy, and protein-packed—Greek yogurt is a decent swap in dips, smoothies, or baked goods. Choose plain, unsweetened for savory dishes.
- Ricotta Cheese – Smooth and slightly richer, ricotta is great for pasta bakes, stuffed shells, or desserts. It’s the closest in taste but less protein-dense.
- Cream Cheese – Works well in frostings, spreads, and desserts. It’s much thicker and richer, so it’s best used in moderation or blended with yogurt for a lighter texture.
- Silken Tofu – A fantastic vegan option! When blended, silken tofu becomes smooth and neutral-flavored, making it perfect for creamy dishes or high-protein desserts.
- Mascarpone – Ultra creamy and indulgent, mascarpone is best for desserts or creamy sauces. It’s richer than cottage cheese and higher in fat.
- Fromage Blanc or Quark – These European soft cheeses are creamy, tangy, and protein-rich—great for both sweet and savory dishes if you can find them.
Easy Cottage Cheese Recipes You’ll Love
Cottage Cheese Cheesecake
Discover how to make this rich and creamy Cottage Cheese Cheesecake—a lightened-up twist on the classic that’s easy to prepare, high in protein, and full of flavor. Made with wholesome ingredients and topped with a simple sugar-free strawberry sauce, it’s the perfect healthy dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re cutting back on sugar or just looking for a better-for-you cheesecake recipe, this one is guaranteed to impress.
Cottage Cheese Protein Muffins
These Cottage Cheese Protein Muffins are a delicious way to crush your chocolate cravings without derailing your health goals! Made with wholesome ingredients like cottage cheese, cocoa powder, and your favorite protein powder, these muffins are moist, rich, and loaded with protein. They make the perfect high-protein snack, post-workout bite, or even a quick grab-and-go breakfast. Best of all? They’re super easy to make and naturally sweetened—so you can feel good about every bite.
Cottage Cheese Smoothie
This creamy cottage cheese smoothie is packed with 13g of protein, making it the perfect post-workout snack or quick, filling breakfast. Thanks to cottage cheese, it’s extra thick, naturally sugar-free, and ready in just 5 minutes. A simple, high-protein smoothie you’ll want on repeat!
Cottage Cheese Ice Cream
Treat yourself to the best cottage cheese ice cream—a creamy, high-protein dessert made with just 4 simple ingredients and 10 minutes of prep. This viral cottage cheese recipe is smooth, rich, and packed with flavor. Healthy, easy, and totally crave-worthy!
Cottage Cheese Chocolate Mousse
This Cottage Cheese Chocolate Mousse is rich, creamy, and secretly healthy! Made with just 5 simple ingredients, this high-protein, sugar-free dessert comes together in minutes. It’s smooth, chocolatey, and perfect for a quick treat or special occasion—no one will guess it’s made with cottage cheese!
Cottage Cheese Lemon Mousse
This Cottage Cheese Lemon Mousse is creamy, refreshing, and packed with 12g of protein. A light, low-calorie dessert that’s quickly become my favorite!
Healthy Chocolate Cottage Cheese Smoothie Recipe
This healthy chocolate smoothie is rich, creamy, and made with unsweetened cocoa powder for all the flavor—without the guilt. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a satisfying, low-calorie treat!
Cottage Cheese Peanut Butter Mousse
This Cottage Cheese Peanut Butter Mousse is creamy, rich, and packed with protein. Made in minutes with simple ingredients, it’s a low sugar dessert you’ll crave—topped with melted chocolate and crunchy peanuts for the perfect sweet fix.
Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bowl
Just scoop some cottage cheese into a bowl, pile on your favorite low-carb toppings, and breakfast is done! It’s perfect for keto, low carb, or diabetic-friendly diets, and takes just minutes to make.
Berry Cottage Cheese Overnight Oats
Berry Cottage Cheese Overnight Oats is the ultimate make-ahead breakfast—quick to prep, easy to grab in the morning, and packed with protein and fiber to keep you full and energized. This recipe is gluten-free, high protein, and perfect for busy mornings!
High Protein Cheesecake Jars
These High-Protein Cheesecake Jars are creamy, satisfying, and made with cottage cheese, protein powder, and fat-free cream cheese. Topped with fresh fruit and blueberry jam over a crunchy graham crust, they’re the perfect healthy no-bake dessert or snack.
Whipped Cottage Cheese Dessert
Whipped Cottage Cheese Dessert Cups are simple, satisfying, high in protein, and perfect for low-carb or keto diets and anyone who loves cheesecake…but doesn’t want the extra work and calories!
Cottage Cheese Pancakes
Start your day with these light and fluffy cottage cheese pancakes. Packed with 28g of protein, they’re a quick, low-calorie breakfast that keeps you full for hours.
Mini Keto Breakfast Cheesecakes With Almond Crust
If you’re after a sweet but almost completely sugar-free breakfast, these mini keto breakfast cheesecakes are just the thing! Made to mimic real cheesecakes (only mini), they use a yummy, buttery almond crust with a cottage cheese filling.
Healthy Berry Cottage Cheese Clafoutis
This Healthy Berry Cottage Cheese Clafoutis is the perfect quick, high-protein breakfast or easy dessert. With only 6 ingredients and 10 minutes of prep, it’s creamy, delicious, and low in calories. Ideal when you need simple cottage cheese recipes or healthy berry breakfast ideas!
TikTok Viral Cottage Cheese Protein Brownies
These Cottage Cheese Protein Brownies are rich and chocolatey, making them the perfect high-protein snack. Each protein brownie packs 7 grams of protein, is flourless, sugar-free, and under 100 calories. They’re a delicious, guilt-free treat that’s perfect for any diet.
Cottage Cheese Cookie Dough
Get ready for a delicious treat with our Cottage Cheese Cookie Dough recipe! It’s super easy to make and tastes amazing. You only need a few ingredients and a little time to prepare it.
HEALTHY COTTAGE CHEESE WAFFLES
My family has been loving these cottage cheese waffles lately. Flourless, high in protein, and gluten-free, these healthy waffles are not only filling, but also super easy to make and delicious on their own without any toppings.
Cottage Cheese Egg Muffins
Wake up to these delicious Cottage Cheese Egg Muffins! They come with loads of veggies and 8 grams of protein to start your day strong and keep you satisfied until lunch. Perfect for meal prep!
Baked Egg Tortilla
This baked egg tortilla is delicious and wholesome, packed with fresh vegetables, protein, and creamy cottage cheese. It’s a tasty way to start your day or wind down your evening, and it takes only 20 minutes to prepare.
Cottage Cheese Egg and Sausage Frittata
This protein-packed Cottage Cheese Egg Bake with spinach and chicken sausage is filling and delicious. Enjoy for breakfast, lunch, or dinner with a salad and some crusty bread.
Viral Cottage Cheese Wrap
This Viral Cottage Cheese Wrap is the perfect solution for anyone on the go. With just 5 minutes of prep and 5 ingredients, you’ll have a quick, nutritious snack that’s high in protein and completely gluten-free. It’s the kind of recipe you can whip up anytime, whether it’s for breakfast, lunch, or a post-workout boost.
AVOCADO TOAST WITH COTTAGE CHEESE & TOMATOES
It’s my favorite meal of the day! It jump starts your metabolism and gives you the energy you need to get going with your day. Well you’ll no longer want to skip breakfast with this simple and quick Avocado Toast with Cottage Cheese and Tomatoes.
MICROWAVE COTTAGE CHEESE CHIPS
These high-protein, low-carb microwave cottage cheese chips are the best! They’re light and crispy, deliciously savory, and quick and easy to make!
Best Instant Pot Egg Bites
Discover how easy it is to make this delectable Instant Pot Egg Bites recipe. These copycat sous vide egg bites are soft, velvety smooth, delicious, and easy to eat on the go for breakfast.And the best thing is that they are naturally low carb and keto-friendly.
Bacon Cottage Cheese Dip
My Creamy Bacon Cottage Cheese Dip will not disappoint. It is rich in flavor despite being low in fat and low in carbs. Serve with some cut veggies for a guilt-free appetizer or side dish.
Cottage Cheese Breakfast
This Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bowl is made with cottage cheese and the toppings of your choice. You can make this savory or sweet, and both ways are a delicious and healthy way to start the day!
SCRAMBLED EGGS WITH COTTAGE CHEESE
Scrambled eggs with cottage cheese are a creamy and flavorful twist on a breakfast classic. Made with just four main ingredients, cottage cheese eggs are also low-carb, gluten-free, keto-friendly, diabetic-friendly.
Broccoli Bites
The whole family will love Broccoli Bites! Deliciously adorable, GF, and superfood-packed, the kids will have no idea how healthy they are!
Blended Cottage Cheese Spinach Artichoke Dip
My Blended Cottage Cheese Spinach Artichoke Dip is a delicious twist on the classic party dip. It is a magical blend of creamy cottage cheese, tender spinach leaves, and flavorful artichokes that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Low Carb Creamy Crab Salad
This is the BEST Low Carb Creamy Crab Salad Recipe; it’s a chilled crab-based salad with a creamy, flavorful dressing!
Burst Tomato Cottage Cheese Caprese Bowl
Burst Tomato Cottage Cheese Caprese Bowl is an easy, savory, high protein lunch that doesn’t require heating up!
Cottage Cheese Salad
This cottage cheese salad is topped with sunflower seeds, fresh veggies and herbs. A delightfully easy and fresh salad perfect for any occasion.
Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce
Packed with protein and ready in just 10 minutes, this Cottage Cheese High-Protein Pasta Sauce is the perfect addition to your keto or low-carb meals. Creamy, rich, and gluten-free, it’s a quick, satisfying way to boost your protein intake without the carbs. Whether you’re pairing it with noodles or veggies, this sauce adds all the creamy goodness you need.
Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust
This 2-ingredient high-protein pizza crust is the perfect way to satisfy your pizza craving! Whip up this quick dough made using cottage cheese, add your favorite toppings, and you’ll have tasty pizza in no time!
Feta and Spinach Casserole
This delicious Spinach Casserole recipe with feta cheese will be a winner with even the pickiest eaters. Gluten free, low carb, and vegetarian, making it a great breakfast, brunch, side dish, or main if you need to accommodate special diets. And it’s so easy to make!
Crock Pot Low Carb Lasagna
This Crock Pot Low Carb Lasagna recipe is the one that almost got away. It took me FIVE attempts to perfect, but I can safely say that it was completely worth every tear I shed (and less-than-lady-like word I uttered) into my slow cooker.
Easy Cottage Cheese Casserole
Want a quick, healthy, and high protein dish that’s delicious? Try this Easy Cottage Cheese Casserole recipe! The best part? You only need a few ingredients!
Keto Taco Casserole Recipe
If you’re looking for something new and delicious for taco night, this easy and cheesy Keto Taco Casserole is it! When cool weather comes around I start craving comforting casseroles! Layers of spicy ground meat and cauliflower rice filling stuffed with a delicious cheesy pepper jack mixture, topped with cheese and baked to bubbly perfection!
One Pot Keto Tuna Casserole
This keto tuna casserole is the ultimate low-carb dinner option packed with creamy sauce, cheese, and tuna. There are no noodles in this casserole, but trust me, you won’t even miss them since it is loaded with flavor. Besides, it is insanely easy to make and will take you just half an hour.
The Best Keto Cloud Bread Recipe
This very simple low-carb cloud bread recipe is high-protein, low-calorie, gluten-free and almost carb free.
Healthy Keto Cottage Cheese Dessert
This low carb cottage cheese dessert comes out soft and smooth. With just a few core ingredients you can have the best lip-smacking keto cottage cheese dessert. This is a simple recipe that will not break your keto goals.
Keto Raspberry Cottage Cheese Ice Cream
For another easy and delicious low carb dessert, try this keto raspberry cottage cheese ice cream recipe. You really only need 3 ingredients to make this smooth and creamy, no churn ice cream that is also high protein, sugar free and low calorie.