Welcome to the World of Flourless High-Protein Crust!
Hey there, fellow food lovers! I’m so excited to share a super tasty, nutritious recipe with you today—Flourless High-Protein Crust made with cottage cheese! If you’re looking for a delicious way to enjoy pizza or a savory dish without the carbs, you’re in for a treat. It’s easy to whip up, packed with protein, and the best part? The base is made primarily from cottage cheese! This recipe has quickly become a favorite of mine, and I can already tell it’s going to become one of yours too!
Nutritional Benefits
This crust has some serious health perks, thanks to its primary ingredient: cottage cheese. Did you know that cottage cheese is high in protein while being relatively low in calories? That means you’ll feel full longer without overindulging. Plus, the spinach adds vitamins and minerals such as iron, vitamin C, and fiber, giving you an extra health boost in every bite.
Adaptable Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is! Here are some ideas to customize it:
- Protein-Packed: Looking for extra protein? You can mix in some shredded chicken or turkey into the crust for a heartier meal.
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap out the spinach for other vegetables you love, like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini! Just make sure to chop and cook them a bit beforehand to reduce excess moisture.
- Dairy-Free Option: If you’re lactose intolerant or dairy-free, try using a plant-based cottage cheese alternative. There are some great ones out there that provide similar texture and taste!
Your Flourless High-Protein Crust Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or 1/2 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (for greasing)
- Optional toppings: additional shredded mozzarella cheese, basil, red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking sheet or pizza stone with a bit of olive oil.
- In a mixing bowl, give the cottage cheese and eggs a good mix. You can use a whisk or a fork—whatever you have on hand—to achieve a smooth and well-combined mixture.
- Add the chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and season it all with salt and pepper to taste. Stir it all together until well combined.
- Spread the cottage cheese mixture evenly onto the greased baking sheet or pizza stone. Aim for about 1/2 inch thick to make a great crust!
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. You want it to be set and golden brown at the edges—just like a pizza crust!
- If you’re a cheese lover (like me), sprinkle some extra mozzarella cheese on top and pop it back in the oven for 5-7 minutes, until it’s melted and bubbly.
- Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving. If you’d like, garnish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a burst of flavor!
- Cut into slices and enjoy your delicious, high-protein crust! Perfect for a meal or even a snack.
Practical & Valuable Tips
- If you use frozen spinach, make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible after thawing so your crust doesn’t get soggy.
- This crust can also make for a great base for other toppings besides pizza—think of it as a creative way to use up your leftovers!
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the oven for that fresh, crispy crust vibe again!
Equipment Needed
To make this crust, here’s a quick list of the essential tools you’ll want to have handy:
- A mixing bowl
- A whisk or fork
- A baking sheet or pizza stone
- A spatula for spreading the mixture evenly
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese? While it’s not the same, Greek yogurt can be a tasty substitute that adds creaminess and protein!
- Will this crust hold up with toppings? Yes! It’s sturdy enough to hold all your favorite toppings, just like a regular pizza crust!
- How can I store this crust if I make more than one? Just let it cool down, then wrap it in plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month!
- What kind of toppings work best? Really, it’s up to you! Classic pizza toppings, grilled veggies, or a fresh salad on top all work wonderfully!
- Can I make this crust dairy-free? Yes, by using a dairy-free cottage cheese or alternative cheese types, you can still enjoy this recipe!
Let’s Connect!
Can’t wait for you to try out this delicious recipe! I’d absolutely love to hear how your flourless high-protein crust turns out! Feel free to share your pics or variations on Pinterest, and let’s inspire more food lovers together! Happy cooking!
