These Cottage Cheese Pizza Buns are a fun and tasty way to enjoy pizza! Soft buns filled with creamy cottage cheese and yummy pizza toppings make them a perfect snack or meal.
They’re super easy to make, and I promise they’ll have everyone asking for seconds. I love to pair them with a side salad for a nice balance—who could resist that cheesy goodness? 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: This is the star ingredient! Choose low-fat or full-fat based on your preference. If you want a smoother texture, you can blend it a bit before mixing it into the dough.
Flour: All-purpose flour works well, but you can substitute with whole wheat flour for more fiber. Just note that the texture might change slightly and might need a bit more liquid.
Cheese: Mozzarella is essential for that cheesy pull, but feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar or provolone for different flavors. Use dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Seasoning: Dried oregano or Italian seasoning adds great flavor. If you have fresh herbs on hand, they can give an even fresher taste. Basil or thyme also work well!
Pizza Sauce: Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but you can use pesto or even a spicy tomato sauce for a twist. Homemade or store-bought, just ensure it’s thick enough!
How Do I Ensure My Dough Is Just Right?
Getting the right dough consistency is crucial for fluffy buns. Aim for a sticky but not overly wet dough. Add flour gradually until it holds together well. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by mixing the wet ingredients thoroughly. The cottage cheese should be well-drained.
- When adding flour, do it in increments and mix gently until combined.
- If the dough sticks too much to your hands, sprinkle a little flour on your work surface and your hands.
- Don’t overwork the dough; just mix until everything is combined, and you’ll have soft and tender buns!
Cottage Cheese Pizza Buns
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cottage cheese, well drained
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- Pepperoni slices, for topping
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup olive oil or melted butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation, plus another 18-22 minutes for baking. So in total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a quick snack or meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, take the well-drained cottage cheese and add the eggs and olive oil (or melted butter). Mix it all together until smooth. This will be the base for your delicious pizza buns!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, dried oregano (or Italian seasoning), shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese. This mixture adds flavor and structure to your buns.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the cottage cheese mixture. Stir gently until a soft, sticky dough forms. It’s okay if it’s a little bit sticky; that’s how it should be!
4. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, get your baking sheet ready—line it with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
5. Shape the Buns:
Divide your dough into 6-8 equal portions. Take each portion and flatten it into a small round bun shape on the baking sheet. Don’t worry about making them perfect; rustic is part of the charm!
6. Add Toppings:
Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce on each bun. Then sprinkle a little extra mozzarella cheese on top and place a few pepperoni slices for that classic pizza flavor!
7. Bake:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 18-22 minutes until the buns are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Cool & Serve:
Once baked, carefully remove the buns from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. If you like, you can garnish them with some chopped fresh basil or parsley to add some color.
9. Enjoy:
Serve these warm as a delicious snack or pair them with a simple side salad for a light meal. Everyone will love these cheesy, flavorful pizza buns!
These buns combine the softness and protein-rich cottage cheese inside with the irresistible flavors of pizza on top—perfect for a wholesome homemade treat!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Low-fat cottage cheese works just as well and will still give you a deliciously fluffy bun. Just make sure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the dough.
Can I Store Leftover Buns?
Yes, you can store leftover buns in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Can I Freeze the Buns?
Definitely! These buns freeze well. Just allow them to cool completely, then wrap each bun tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from the freezer in the oven!
What If I Don’t Have Pizza Sauce?
No problem! If you don’t have pizza sauce, you can use marinara, pesto, or even a simple blend of olive oil with garlic and herbs. Just make sure whatever you decide to use is thick enough to prevent sogginess.
