8 Cottage Cheese Recipes

Explore a variety of mouthwatering recipes that showcase the delicious creaminess of cottage cheese, ideal for breakfast, snacks, and mains.

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Looking for delicious cottage cheese recipes? Look no further. I’ve rounded up 8 tasty recipes featuring this one key ingredient. From cottage cheese breakfast staples to tasty snacks and hearty meals, these recipes are simple to make yet deliver amazing flavor and creamy texture. You can even whip up cottage cheese dessert recipes that are healthier and satisfying with a boost of protein.

The best recipes using cottage cheese collage.

Table of Contents

  1. Why you should cook more COTTAGE CHEESE recipes
  2. tips for cooking WITH COTTAGE CHEESE
  3. TYPES OF CURDS IN COTTAGE CHEESE
  4. best COTTAGE CHEESE recipes
  5. HOW TO store COTTAGE CHEESE leftovers
  6. frequently asked questions
  7. full list of recipes

Cottage cheese has made a triumphant comeback, and we’re all better for it. Packed with wholesome protein and a rich and creamy taste, this versatile dairy delight is winning hearts and plates everywhere. From breakfast to cottage cheese dinner and everything in between – cottage cheese proves that simplicity and flavor can go hand in hand. Check out these must-make cottage cheese recipes.

Why you should cook more COTTAGE CHEESE recipes

  • Easy protein-boost. It’s rich in high-quality protein, helping you feel full and satisfied, which reduces the desire for snacking between meals.
  • Versatile serving options. It can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. It’s suitable for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and you can finish off the night with healthy cottage cheese dessert recipes.
  • Quick and easy. Most cottage cheese recipes are simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and cooking time, yet deliver mouthwatering flavor and nutrition, perfect for busy families.

tips for cooking WITH COTTAGE CHEESE

  1. Know the difference between low-fat and whole-milk cottage cheese. Fat content is usually labeled as percentages indicating the fat content by weight. The most common options are 2% for low-fat and 4% for whole-milk cottage cheese. Low-fat has a drier curd and less creamy consistency.
  2. Read the ingredients. Some manufacturers may add gums and other additives to compensate for milk fat, particularly in low-fat and fat-free cottage cheese. It’s a good practice to get in the habit of checking the ingredient label to ensure you’re getting the best product.
  3. Control the texture of cottage cheese. If you prefer a thicker texture, run the cottage cheese through a sieve to remove as much moisture as possible.
  4. Add a boost of protein to smoothies. The creamy texture makes it a perfect addition to your favorite smoothie recipes, creating a satiating drink to fuel your day. Try it in mango pineapple smoothie, banana berry smoothie, or strawberry smoothie.

TYPES OF CURDS IN COTTAGE CHEESE

If the types of cottage cheese you see in stores confuse you, we’ll break them down here. Aside from the fat content, you can also characterize cottage cheese by the size of the curds. The type of curds in cottage cheese can affect its taste, texture, and how you would use it in various dishes.

It’s a good idea to have a general knowledge of the different curds found in cottage cheese. Here are the most common ones:

  • Small-curd cottage cheese: These curds have a fine texture and are soft and delicate, creating a creamy and smooth consistency. Small-curd cottage cheese finds common use in salads, dips, and as a filling in stuffed dishes.
  • Large-curd cottage cheese: These types of curds are larger, chunkier curds that offer a more distinct texture. The curds are firmer and tend to hold their shape better. Large-curd cottage cheese presents an excellent option for those who enjoy a slightly chewier texture and can enjoy it as a standalone snack or in various recipes.
  • Dry-curd cottage cheese: This type of cottage cheese is unique because it undergoes a draining process, removing most of its whey, resulting in a drier texture. It contains very little moisture and has a crumbly consistency, similar to ricotta cheese. Dry-curd cottage cheese is often used in baking or recipes where moisture needs to be controlled.

best COTTAGE CHEESE recipes

Cottage cheese shines in a variety of recipes. It brings protein-packed goodness to morning favorites and makes a wonderful creamy dip as a cottage cheese snack with fresh veggies. Plus, you can cozy up to a hearty and flavorful cottage cheese dinner, and when it’s time for dessert, have a few frozen treats ready for you to enjoy. With cottage cheese, there’s something delicious for every meal and craving. Here are my favorites:

COTTAGE CHEESE BREAKFAST RECIPES

  • Cottage Cheese Scrambled Eggs – Start your day with this protein-packed, low-carb option that offers delicious flavors and wholesome goodness in every bite.
  • Fluffy Cottage Cheese Pancakes – Classic pancakes get a makeover by adding cottage cheese, bringing a subtle tanginess and protein-boost to this breakfast comfort food.
  • Cottage Cheese Breakfast Toast – Take toasted bread and cottage cheese up a notch by adding exciting toppings like avocado, fresh cucumber with pesto, smoked salmon and dill, and tomatoes and za’atar. There’s something for everyone with these four delicious variations.
  • Copycat Starbucks Egg White Bites – For a convenient and satisfying breakfast, these bites do not disappoint. Packed with wholesome ingredients like egg whites, cottage cheese, roasted red pepper, and spinach, these offer lasting satisfaction and energy to keep you going.
4 image collage of breakfast recipes made with cottage cheese.

MORE COTTAGE CHEESE RECIPES

  • Healthy Cottage Cheese Ice Cream – This delicious treat is a big hit for a reason! You can enjoy ice cream with a healthy-ish kick, courtesy of cottage cheese. With three flavors to choose from – strawberry cheesecake, peanut butter chocolate, and banana cream pie – there’s something you’ll surely love!
  • Cottage Cheese Pasta – With just 6 simple ingredients- pasta, tomato sauce, cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of butter – you’ll have a satisfying and delicious meal in no time.
  • Whipped Cottage CheeseThis light and airy whipped dip is excellent as a spread for elevating your sandwiches or morning toast or as a protein-rich dip to go with your favorite dippers like veggie sticks or pita bread.
  • Frozen Cottage Cheese Popsicles – These popsicles have quickly become my favorite go-to treat. It’s so easy to whip up four delicious flavors – strawberry cheesecake, banoffee pie, pineapple coconut, and mixed berry breakfast to satisfy your taste buds and bring a healthy twist to your day.
4 image collage of recipes.

HOW TO store COTTAGE CHEESE leftovers

  • Leftover storage: Transfer any cottage cheese recipe leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. Follow the storage directions as noted in the specific recipe.
  • Avoid freezing: Unless in a blended recipe like cottage cheese ice cream, I don’t recommend freezing other recipes made with cottage cheese. The texture will change and become crumbly and separate upon thawing.
  • Reheat with care: When reheating cottage cheese recipes, do it gently over low heat to prevent overcooking and becoming mushy.

frequently asked questions

What savory food pairs well with cottage cheese?

Cottage cheese goes great as a dip with fresh veggies, sprinkled with savory herbs and spices. You can also pair it with a fried egg and season with everything bagel seasoning. Or add it the tuna melt filling in stuffed peppers or hearty salads like cauliflower potato salad for a protein boost. The possibilities are endless.

Can I use cottage cheese as a substitute for ricotta cheese in lasagna or other dishes?

Yes, but you would need to make slight modifications to mimic ricotta cheese. Drain it to avoid a runny dish, blend or mash it for a similar consistency, and consider adding a beaten egg to help bind the ingredients together. Keep in mind that the taste and texture might still differ slightly.

What sweet food pairs well with cottage cheese?

Cottage cheese pairs excellently with a variety of sweet foods. Swap out the yogurt in this fruit and yogurt parfait and use cottage cheese instead. You can also make a simple cottage cheese dessert by adding your favorite nuts like candied walnuts, seeds, or granola. And top with fruit jam or drizzle with honey.

Can I use low-fat cottage cheese and whole milk cottage cheese interchangeably?

It depends. Both types of cottage cheese have a similar taste and curdling process but differ in fat content. Consider the desired texture and fat content when substituting low-fat for whole milk cottage cheese, as some recipes may require higher fat content.

Strawberry cheesecake cottage cheese ice cream in a bowl with extra fruit and graham crackers on top.

I hope this collection of 8 cottage cheese recipes inspires you to include more of this delicious goodness into your meals. It’s an excellent way to make your meals more nutritious and filling. With these tips and recipes, you can effortlessly add cottage cheese to your meals to reap the benefits.

full list of recipes

Check out the picture cards for all the recipes listed above. You can click on any of the recipes cards to take you directly to those recipes.

Plate with eggs, bread and tomatoes garnished with chives.
Breakfast

Scrambled Eggs with Cottage Cheese

Scrambled eggs with cottage cheese makes for a high-protein, low-carb breakfast option that is full of flavor and goodness!
 
10 minutes
5 from 98 votes
Maple syrup being poured over a plate of cottage cheese pancakes topped with fresh berries and butter with the serving plate of more pancakes nearby.
Breakfast

Cottage Cheese Pancakes

Cottage cheese pancakes are a protein-packed twist on traditional pancakes with a mild, tangy flavor and fluffy texture that's easy to make!
 
30 minutes
5 from 66 votes
4 cottage cheese toasts with various toppings, from top to bottom: 1- sliced cucumbers and pesto, 2- smoked salmon, red onion, and fresh dill, 3- sliced avocado and sesame seeds, and 4- diced tomatoes and za'atar. Extra toppings in small bowls nearby.
Breakfast

Cottage Cheese Toast – 4 Ways

4 savory cottage cheese toast ideas! These savory cottage cheese toast recipes pair cucumbers with pesto, tomatoes with za'atar, smoked salmon with dill, and avocado with sesame!
 
10 minutes
5 from 24 votes
Egg white bites on a plate with 2 on a smaller plate nearby, garnished with fresh parsley.
Breakfast

Egg White Bites

These Starbucks copycat egg white bites with red bell pepper are perfect for a protein-packed breakfast with cottage cheese, mozzarella, feta, and spinach.
 
40 minutes
5 from 60 votes
Cottage cheese icecrea in glass containers made with 3 different flavors: peanut butter chocolate chip, banana cream, and strawberry cheesecake. Extra toppings nearby.
Dessert, Snack

Cottage Cheese Ice Cream

Treat yourself to protein-packed cottage cheese ice cream! It's a creamy, satisfying, and healthy dessert option- perfect for any time of day!
 
4 hours 10 minutes
5 from 256 votes
Cottage Cheese Tomato Pasta in a pot garnished with fresh parsley.
Dinner, Lunch, Pastas

Creamy Tomato Cottage Cheese Pasta

This high-protein cottage cheese tomato pasta sauce only requires 5 ingredients, a high-speed blender, and your favorite pasta!
 
15 minutes
5 from 104 votes
Whipped cottage cheese in a bowl garnished with chives and olive oil. Bowl on a platter surrounded by fresh veggies cut into sticks, including red bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, celery, and tomatoes.
Appetizer, Dips, Snack

Whipped Cottage Cheese

Whipped cottage cheese is deliciously easy, infused with aromatic herbs and garlic, and so creamy – perfect as a snack or appetizer.
 
5 minutes
5 from 7 votes
Frozen cottage cheese ice cream popsicles on a large tray: strawberry cheesecake, banoffee pie, pineapple coconut, and mixed berry breakfast pops; extra berries, granola, chocolate chips, and shredded coconut around.
Dessert

Frozen Cottage Cheese Ice Cream Bars

These cottage cheese ice cream bars are packed with protein. If you're looking for a popsicle treat that's creamy, fruity and delicious give them a try!
 
10 minutes
5 from 5 votes

For more similar roundup of recipes, be sure to check out: Protein Powder Recipes, Recipes with a Can of Chickpeas, Canned Beans Recipes, and Vegetable Broth Recipes.

If you found this recipe roundup for 8 Cottage Cheese Recipes helpful or if you try any recipe on Feel Good Foodie, then don’t forget to rate the recipes! It helps others who are thinking of trying out this tutorial and we would love to hear about your experience. And if you snapped some shots of it, share it with me on Instagram so I can repost on my stories!

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