21 Wholesome Cottage Cheese Recipes That Are High-Protein and Delicious

Cottage cheese is packed with flavor and versatility. It adds creaminess to dips and spreads, makes pancakes and muffins extra soft, and works just as well in savory dishes like casseroles and pasta bakes. These wholesome cottage cheese recipes make it easy to add something rich and satisfying to any meal, from breakfast to dinner.

Need a quick snack, something hearty for dinner, or a simple meal prep idea? This collection has plenty of ways to put cottage cheese to good use. It’s more than just a fridge staple—it’s an ingredient that brings texture, flavor, and creativity to the table.

Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese

A creamy, protein-packed take on the classic comfort food, this Cottage Cheese Mac and Cheese delivers all the cheesy goodness with a lighter, velvety texture. By blending cottage cheese into the sauce, you get a rich and satisfying dish that feels indulgent while packing in extra protein. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a healthier take on a childhood favorite. For a classic version, check out this baked mac and cheese recipe.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Serves: 4

Ingredients:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Combine cottage cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, add the blended cottage cheese mixture and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
4. Stir the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, coating evenly. Add Parmesan cheese and butter. Serve warm.

Cottage Cheese Overnight Oats

A creamy, protein-packed breakfast that requires zero morning effort, Cottage Cheese Overnight Oats delivers a satisfying blend of wholesome oats, rich cottage cheese, and natural sweetness. This easy make-ahead meal is perfect for busy mornings, post-workout fuel, or a quick snack that keeps you full for hours.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight) | Serves: 1

Ingredients:

• ½ cup rolled oats
• ⅓ cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
• ½ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• ½ cup fresh or frozen berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)

Instructions:

1. Mix rolled oats, cottage cheese, milk, chia seeds, sweetener, vanilla, and cinnamon in a jar or airtight container. Stir well to distribute evenly. Gently stir in fresh or frozen berries. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight, allowing the oats to soften and absorb the liquid.
2. In the morning, give the oats a good stir. Add nuts, seeds, or extra fruit on top. If the mixture is too thick, stir in a splash of milk. These oats are delicious straight from the fridge, but you can also warm them up.

Cottage Cheese Egg Casserole

This Cottage Cheese Egg Casserole is a simple, high-protein breakfast that’s perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd. Fluffy eggs, creamy cottage cheese, and a blend of flavorful add-ins come together in a satisfying, easy-to-make dish that can be customized with your favorite vegetables, meats, or cheeses.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 35 minutes | Serves: 6

Ingredients:

• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
• ½ cup chopped spinach
• ½ cup cooked and crumbled sausage or bacon (optional)
• ¼ cup chopped green onions or chives (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375℉ and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, cottage cheese, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth. Stir in shredded cheese, bell peppers, spinach, and cooked sausage or bacon.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden.
4. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Sprinkle with chopped green onions or chives and serve warm.

Buffalo Cottage Cheese Dip

A spicy, creamy dip that is perfect for game day, parties, or snacking! This Buffalo Cottage Cheese Dip delivers all the classic buffalo wing flavor in a protein-packed version. Serve it with crunchy veggies, crackers, or tortilla chips for a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dish.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 0 minutes (no-bake) | Serves: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
• For serving: Carrot and celery sticks, crackers, tortilla chips, or toasted pita chips

Instructions:

1. Combine cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt in a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and add more buffalo sauce or salt as needed.
2. Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle with crumbled blue cheese and chopped green onions. Serve with fresh veggies, crackers, or tortilla chips for dipping.

Avocado Toast with Cottage Cheese

A creamy, protein-packed take on the classic avocado toast! This cottage cheese and avocado spread creates a smooth, flavorful topping that is perfect for layering on crunchy toast. A quick and satisfying meal that can be customized with your favorite toppings.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 0 minutes | Serves: 1

Ingredients:

• 1 slice of sourdough or whole-grain bread, toasted
• ½ avocado
• ⅓ cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
• ½ teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon Everything bagel seasoning
• ½ teaspoon olive oil (for drizzling)
• Microgreens for topping

Instructions:

1. Toast the bread until golden and crispy.
2. In a bowl, mash the avocado and mix it with cottage cheese, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth but slightly chunky. Evenly spread the mixture over the toasted bread.
3. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes, Everything bagel seasoning, and microgreens. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.

Cottage Cheese Protein Bowls

A high-protein, savory breakfast bowl packed with fresh ingredients to keep you full and energized. This Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bowl is one of the easiest cottage cheese recipes you will make. It is creamy, satisfying, and perfect for a quick meal.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 0 minutes | Serves: 1

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
• ½ avocado, sliced
• ¼ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 boiled egg, sliced
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Drizzle of olive oil
• Microgreens for garnish

Instructions:

1. Spoon cottage cheese into a serving bowl. Arrange sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and boiled egg over the cottage cheese. Sprinkle with pumpkin seeds, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Drizzle with olive oil. Add microgreens and serve immediately!

Cottage Cheese Ice Cream

A creamy and naturally sweetened treat, Cottage Cheese Ice Cream is a simple yet delicious alternative to traditional ice cream. Blended until smooth and frozen to perfection, this dessert is decadent, satisfying, and easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Freeze Time: 2-3 hours | Serves: 2

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat for the creamiest texture)
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup frozen or fresh fruit (e.g., mixed berries or mango)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup dark chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or granola (optional mix-ins)

Instructions:

1. Combine cottage cheese, honey, vanilla extract, salt, and fruit in a blender or food processor. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. Stir in chocolate chips, nuts, or granola for added texture.
2. Transfer the mixture to a shallow container and freeze for 2-3 hours, stirring every 30 minutes for a softer texture.
3. Scoop into bowls and enjoy! If frozen solid, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.

Cottage Cheese Lasagna Bowl

All the cheesy, saucy goodness of lasagna in a bowl! These Cottage Cheese Lasagna Bowls are quick meals made with tender lasagna noodles, rich marinara sauce, and creamy cottage cheese—perfect for a cozy, satisfying dish.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Serves: 2

Ingredients:

• 4 lasagna noodles, broken into large pieces
• 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Boil the lasagna noodles in salted water according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the marinara sauce and stir in garlic powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
3. In two serving bowls, divide the cooked lasagna noodle pieces, then top each with warm marinara sauce and a generous scoop of cottage cheese.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over both bowls. Microwave for 30 seconds or broil for 2 minutes until melted and bubbly. Sprinkle with fresh basil and enjoy!

Banana Cottage Cheese Muffins

Soft, moist, and packed with protein, these Banana Cottage Cheese Muffins are the perfect way to start your day or enjoy as a snack. The cottage cheese adds a creamy texture while keeping the muffins extra fluffy, making them an excellent alternative to classic banana muffins.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Serves: 12 muffins

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
• 2 eggs
• ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups whole wheat or all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup melted coconut oil or butter
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350℉ and line a muffin tin with liners.
2. In a large bowl, mash the bananas and mix in cottage cheese, eggs, honey, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in walnuts or chocolate chips if using.
4. Divide the batter evenly into the muffin tin. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Let muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Cottage Cheese Alfredo Sauce

A protein-packed take on classic Alfredo sauce! This Cottage Cheese Alfredo Sauce is creamy, rich, and velvety smooth—without the heavy cream. It’s perfect for coating your favorite pasta, drizzling over roasted vegetables, spreading on pizza as a white sauce, or even using as a dip for breadsticks.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 5 minutes | Serves: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat for the creamiest texture)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup milk (dairy or unsweetened non-dairy)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of ½ lemon
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine cottage cheese, Parmesan, milk, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Reduce heat to low and pour the blended sauce into the pan. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Avoid boiling to maintain a smooth texture.
3. Stir in lemon juice and adjust seasoning to taste.

Cottage Cheese Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, buttery, and packed with flavor, this Herbed Cottage Cheese Mashed Potatoes is the perfect side dish for any meal. Blending smooth potatoes with cottage cheese creates a rich, velvety texture while adding a boost of protein. Serve it alongside roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or even as a standalone bowl of goodness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Serves: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup of whole milk (or as needed)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)

Instructions:

1. Boil the Potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.
2. Prepare the Cottage Cheese Mixture: While the potatoes cook, blend the cottage cheese in a food processor or blender until smooth for a creamier texture (optional). Set aside.
3. Mash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter and minced garlic, then mash using a potato masher until mostly smooth.
4. Incorporate Cottage Cheese: Stir in the cottage cheese and milk, mixing until well combined and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed. Stir in salt, black pepper, and fresh herbs. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve Warm: Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with butter, extra herbs, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve immediately.

Chocolate Cottage Cheese Mousse

A rich, velvety, and protein-packed dessert that’s surprisingly light! This Chocolate Cottage Cheese Mousse blends smooth and creamy with just the right amount of sweetness. Perfect for a quick treat, indulgence, or even as a make-ahead dessert for guests.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Chill Time: 30 minutes | Serves: 2

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat for a smoother texture)
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons melted dark chocolate
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tablespoon milk (as needed for blending)
• Chocolate shavings and berries for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a food processor or blender, combine cottage cheese, cocoa powder, honey, vanilla extract, melted dark chocolate, and a pinch of salt. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. If needed, add a tablespoon of milk to help blend.
2. Transfer the mousse to small serving bowls and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for the best texture. Top with chocolate shavings or fresh berries before serving.

Cottage Cheese Pancakes

Fluffy, protein-packed, and slightly tangy, these Cottage Cheese Pancakes are a delicious take on classic pancakes. They’re soft on the inside, slightly crisp on the edges, and perfect for breakfast or brunch. Serve them with maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a wholesome treat.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Serves: 2 (makes about 6 pancakes)

Ingredients:

• ½ cup cottage cheese (full-fat for the best texture)
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup flour (all-purpose or whole wheat)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup milk (as needed for consistency)
• Butter or oil for cooking

Instructions:

1. In a blender or mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, eggs, flour, baking powder, honey, vanilla, salt, and milk. Blend or whisk until smooth.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil. Pour small rounds of batter onto the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and set in the center. Flip carefully.
3. Stack the pancakes on a plate and serve with maple syrup, fresh berries, and a dusting of powdered sugar.

Gluten-Free Cottage Cheese Cookies

These soft and lightly sweetened Cottage Cheese Cookies have a tender, slightly chewy texture with a subtle richness from cottage cheese. Made with almond flour and naturally sweetened, they are a protein-packed, wholesome treat perfect for breakfast, a light snack, or alongside tea or coffee.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Serves: 12 cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup blended cottage cheese
• ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups almond flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350℉ and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese, honey, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon to evenly distribute the ingredients.
3. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until a thick dough forms. Scoop small portions of dough onto the lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Lightly press down each cookie to flatten slightly.
4. Place in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies have a light golden color around the edges.
5. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy fresh or store in an airtight container for later.

Cottage Cheese Blueberry Breakfast Cake

This Cottage Cheese Blueberry Breakfast Cake is soft, moist, and packed with juicy blueberries. It has a tender crumb and a slightly crisp golden crust. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, this cake pairs beautifully with coffee or tea.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 50-55 minutes | Serves: 8

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cottage cheese (blended until smooth)
• ½ cup butter, softened
• ¾ cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ cup milk
• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (lightly coated in flour to prevent sinking)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350℉. Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and blended cottage cheese until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, stirring gently until just combined. Toss the blueberries with a bit of flour to prevent sinking, then carefully fold them into the batter along with the lemon zest.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy warm.

Cottage Cheese Smoothie

A cottage cheese smoothie is a protein-packed, creamy, and delicious drink perfect for breakfast. The cottage cheese blends smoothly into the drink, adding richness without an overpowering taste. This smoothie is naturally sweetened with fruit and balanced with a hint of honey or vanilla for extra flavor.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Servings: 1

Ingredients:

• ½ cup cottage cheese
• ½ cup milk (or almond milk)
• 1 banana, sliced
• ½ cup frozen mixed berries (or strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup ice cubes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to a blender and blend on high speed until smooth and creamy. If the smoothie is too thick, add a little more milk. If too thin, add a few more ice cubes and blend again.
2. Pour into a glass, garnish with fresh berries or banana slices, and enjoy immediately.

Cottage Cheese Breakfast Burrito

This hearty, protein-packed breakfast burrito is a delicious way to start your morning. It’s loaded with soft scrambled eggs, creamy cottage cheese, melty cheddar, and fresh spinach, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. Add beans, avocado, or salsa for extra flavor!

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Servings: 1

Ingredients:

• 1 large tortilla
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup cottage cheese
• ½ cup fresh spinach, chopped
• ¼ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
• ¼ cup black beans
• ½ avocado, sliced
• 2 tablespoons salsa
• 1 tablespoon butter or oil
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk eggs with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Heat butter in a pan over medium-low heat. Pour in eggs and stir gently until they start to set. Stir in cottage cheese and spinach, cooking for 30-60 seconds until eggs are creamy, and spinach is wilted. Remove from heat.
3. Warm the tortilla in a dry pan or microwave for 10-15 seconds. Spread scrambled egg mixture in the center. Sprinkle shredded cheese, black beans, avocado slices, and salsa on top.
4. Fold in the sides and roll tightly into a burrito. Place in a hot pan seam side down and grill for 1-2 minutes per side for a crispy exterior. Cut in half and serve with extra salsa or hot sauce!

Cottage Cheese Egg Salad

This protein-packed take on classic egg salad swaps out mayonnaise for creamy cottage cheese, creating a lighter yet equally delicious version. It’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or serving with crackers for a quick and nutritious meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients:

• 4 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped
• ½ cup cottage cheese
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (or green onions)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine cottage cheese, Dijon mustard, Greek yogurt, chives, salt, pepper, paprika, and lemon juice.
2. Gently stir in the chopped eggs until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning. Enjoy on toast, in a sandwich, in a lettuce wrap, or with crackers!

Tuna and Cottage Cheese Patties

These crispy patties are a great way to enjoy tuna and cottage cheese in a warm, flavorful dish. They’re light yet filling, with a golden crust and a soft, savory interior. Perfect for a quick meal, snack, or even meal prep! Enjoy them with green onion dip or any dip of your choice.

Ingredients:

• 1 can tuna, drained (5 oz)
• ½ cup cottage cheese, drained well
• 1 egg, beaten
• ¾ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• ¼ cup chopped green onions
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter for frying

Instructions:

1. Lightly press cottage cheese with a paper towel to remove excess liquid.
2. In a bowl, combine tuna, cottage cheese, eggs, breadcrumbs, green onions, seasonings, mustard, and lemon juice. Mix well. Chill for 15 minutes – this helps firm up the mixture for easier handling.
3. Scoop the mixture and shape it into eight firm patties, about ½-inch thick.
4. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad

A creamy chicken salad with cottage cheese instead of mayo—perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or a light meal. This version keeps it fresh and flavorful, with crunchy veggies and a touch of seasoning.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 0 minutes | Serves: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• ¾ cup cottage cheese
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ¼ cup celery, finely chopped
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth. Stir in chicken, celery, red onion, parsley, and nuts (if using). Mix well.
2. Let the salad rest for 5-10 minutes for the flavors to meld. Serve cold.

Cottage Cheese Chicken Parmesan Bowl

This protein-packed meal combines crispy, golden-brown breaded chicken, creamy cottage cheese, and a rich marinara drizzle over a fluffy quinoa base. It’s an easy, delicious, balanced dish—perfect for a satisfying meal. Have this and other cottage cheese recipes up your sleeve, and you will always have a quick, high-protein meal ready to go.

Ingredients:

• 1 breaded chicken breast filet
• ½ cup cottage cheese
• ½ cup marinara sauce
• ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1-2 tbsp shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• ½ cup fresh greens

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375℉. Place the breaded chicken breast filet in the basket and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Let it rest for a couple of minutes, then slice it into strips.
2. In a serving bowl, spread a bed of warm, cooked quinoa. Arrange fresh greens on one side of the bowl. Place the sliced crispy chicken neatly on one side of the quinoa. Spoon the cottage cheese onto the opposite side. Generously drizzle warm marinara sauce over the chicken.
3. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the marinara sauce while it’s still warm, allowing it to melt slightly. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!