16 Unique Ways to Eat Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese is a delicious, healthy ingredient that can be incorporated into everything from breakfast to dinner! If you’re looking for some new ways to eat cottage cheese, this list has you covered. These ideas can be a great way to use up a bit of leftover cottage cheese but I also have ideas for making this humble cheese the star of the show!
What is cottage cheese?
Cottage cheese is made from cow’s milk. Instead of pressing it to make cheese curd, it’s drained, retaining the whey and keeping the curds loose. It has a mild, milky flavor and a slightly soupy texture. Some people find the texture of cottage cheese to be off-putting but there are plenty of ways you can use it where texture won’t be an issue. For example, blending cottage cheese into a smoothie can be a great way to get the health benefits of cottage cheese while disguising the texture.
Is cottage cheese healthy?
Yes! It’s packed with protein and it’s high in B vitamins and calcium. In fact, it’s been a popular diet food because it can be low in calories but high in protein. Don’t let the diet label fool you though, this creamy cheese can be delicious! You can read more about the health benefits of cottage cheese here.
How long does cottage cheese last?
Cottage cheese typically lasts about 2 weeks if properly refrigerated but once it’s opened, it usually needs to be consumed within 5 days. Never eat out of the container and use a clean spoon each time you scoop out a portion in order to prevent it from spoiling faster. Always check the expiration date and I follow the rule “when in doubt, throw it out” because I don’t want to risk it!
16 Ways to Eat Cottage Cheese
Breakfast Recipes
Cottage Cheese is a great way to add more protein to your favorite breakfast recipes.
Cottage cheese makes this smoothie taste rich and creamy while adding protein to the mix!
Apple pie overnight oats are a tasty, high-protein recipe to start your day! Cottage cheese adds protein while providing a creamy texture.
Cottage Cheese Egg Muffins are loaded up with eggs, veggies, and cottage cheese for a low-carb and protein-packed breakfast. Serve them right away or freeze them for later to enjoy the ultimate on-the-go healthy breakfast.
These cottage cheese pancakes are a great way to make delicious high protein, low fat pancakes.
The whipped cottage cheese is so creamy and smooth, it feels like an indulgent treat. It’s like an easier version of a smoothie bowl!
This healthy keto blueberry smoothie has a secret ingredient: cottage cheese! Your family won't be able to guess why this smoothie is so rich creamy, and delicious!
Appetizers
Spice up your cottage cheese into a homemade dip.
This cottage cheese tzatziki is a fun twist on the traditional version, and has so much flavour from herbs and garlic. Easy to make, it's a tasty appetizer or side dish everyone will love, and is vegetarian and gluten free.
This roasted garlic white bean dip has a secret ingredient: cottage cheese! It lends a super creamy texture and healthy protein boost to each bite.
This Taco Dip is made without cream cheese, instead It's made with creamy cottage cheese and a Mexican cheese blend. I also add a packet of taco seasoning and veggies so it is packed with taco flavor while still being super rich and creamy.
This cottage cheese snack is made with Everything but the Bagel Seasoning, green onion, salt and pepper, and makes the perfect pairing with crackers for a light, high protein lunch.
Dinner Recipes
Classic dinner recipes using cottage cheese instead of ricotta.
Zesty green soup is packed with nutrients and flavour. Citrusy lemon and nutty parmesan contrast with the earthy taste of pureed spinach and kale. The soup is thickened with blended low-fat cottage cheese, which provides a healthy and high-protein alternative to cream.
This easy Baked Eggplant Parmesan is a lightened-up version of the original fried Italian casserole and is perfect for both weeknight dinners or date night!
These creamy pesto spaghetti squash noodles are a healthier, lower carb way to enjoy the decadence and comfort of creamy pasta.
What grows together, goes together. Cheese Stuffed Zucchini Boats with Chanterelle Mushrooms is a celebration of how delicious fresh summer foods can be!
These Healthy Vegetarian Spinach Rolls are easy to make and perfect for meal prep. They’re savory, filling, and have just a touch of spice for a delicious meal you can eat on the go.
Dessert Recipe
Not only can you add cottage cheese to everyday recipes, it's great for desserts too.
The creamy, cheesy filling mimics a traditional blintz, but instead of making and rolling crepes, the batter is baked over the filling. The fresh blueberry sauce on top brings additional flavor and visual appeal.
