These Cottage Cheese Pizza Buns are a tasty twist on your regular pizza! Soft, fluffy buns stuffed with cheesy goodness and topped with your favorite pizza toppings make for a fun meal.
Kids and adults alike love them—a perfect way to sneak in some cottage cheese! I often whip these up for a quick dinner or a fun snack for movie night. Yummy and easy to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: Full-fat cottage cheese is best for creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use low-fat cottage cheese. Just remember that it may affect the richness slightly.
Flour: All-purpose flour gives the buns structure. If you’re gluten-free, feel free to use a gluten-free flour blend, but make sure it includes a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best results.
Cheese: Shredded mozzarella gives that great melting quality. For extra flavor, I like to mix in cheddar cheese. If you’re in a pinch, you can use just one cheese type or even try pepper jack for a kick!
Pepperoni/Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add fun flavors. If you’re vegetarian, skip the pepperoni or replace it with olives, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a veggie boost.
Herbs: Oregano and basil give a classic taste. Fresh herbs can be used instead if you have them. Just double the amount since fresh herbs are milder.
How Do I Make Sure My Pizza Buns Are Perfectly Baked?
Getting the right texture and color in these buns is key. It’s important to watch the baking process closely. Here are some tips:
- Preheat your oven thoroughly to ensure even cooking.
- Keep an eye on the buns after the 15-minute mark. Look for bubbly cheese and a light golden color on top.
- If the tops aren’t browning, briefly switch to broil. Just be careful, as they can burn quickly!
- Let them cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps firm up the buns and makes them easier to handle.
With these tips and fresh ingredients, you’ll have a delicious batch of Cottage Cheese Pizza Buns to share (or keep all to yourself!).
How to Make Cottage Cheese Pizza Buns
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (preferably full fat)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Filling and Toppings:
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped pepperoni or sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
- 1/4 cup pizza sauce (plus extra for topping)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
For Finishing Touches:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes around 25-30 minutes in total. You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and then 15-18 minutes for baking. Easy peasy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This helps with easy cleanup too!
2. Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder. Stir everything together until a dough starts to come together. Don’t worry if it’s a little sticky — that’s how it’s supposed to be!
3. Add the Goodies:
Gently fold in 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella, the cheddar cheese (if using), and any pepperoni or sun-dried tomatoes you like. Mix just until everything is incorporated — no need to overwork the dough!
4. Shape the Buns:
On a floured surface, divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a small bun or shape it into a round patty about 1/2 inch thick. Place them on the lined baking tray with some space between each bun.
5. Sauce and Cheese, Please:
Take your pizza sauce and spoon a little over each bun. Spread it out to cover the top nicely. Then, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top for that cheesy goodness!
6. Season It Up:
Sprinkle dried oregano and basil evenly over the cheese. This adds that classic pizza flavor everyone loves!
7. Brush for Color:
Lightly brush the edges of each bun with olive oil to help achieve that golden brown color when baked.
8. Bake Your Buns:
Pop the tray in the oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’re looking for bubbly cheese and a lovely golden hue on top.
9. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, take them out of the oven and let the buns cool slightly. If you want, sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and flavor.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
These Cottage Cheese Pizza Buns are best served warm. Enjoy them as a snack or a light meal paired with extra pizza sauce or a fresh salad. Yum!
Dig in and savor every cheesy, delicious bite!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cottage cheese, but keep in mind that it may result in slightly less creamy buns. Full-fat cottage cheese provides better texture and flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Pizza Sauce?
If you don’t have pizza sauce on hand, marinara sauce or even a simple mixture of crushed tomatoes with Italian herbs can work well. Just ensure it’s seasoned to your taste!
How Do I Store Leftover Pizza Buns?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave, but for the best texture, use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Can I Freeze These Pizza Buns?
Absolutely! After baking and cooling, wrap the buns tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.