Garlic & Spinach White Pizza on Cottage Cheese Crust
Savory, High-Protein & Low-Carb
This Garlic & Spinach White Pizza on a Cottage Cheese Crust is proof that comfort food can still fit into a balanced lifestyle. Instead of a traditional flour-heavy base, the crust is made with cottage cheese, eggs, and a touch of almond flour, creating a sturdy, flavorful foundation that’s naturally high in protein and lower in carbs. The topping keeps things simple but bold: creamy garlic sauce, sautéed spinach, and just enough cheese to make it feel indulgent without going overboard. It’s the kind of pizza you can enjoy for dinner, meal prep for the week, or serve to guests who would never guess it’s a lighter take on a classic favorite.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 2–3
Yield: 1 medium pizza (10–12 inch)
Ingredients
Cottage Cheese Crust
Cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat), 1 cup
Eggs, 2 large
Almond flour, ¾ cup
Grated Parmesan cheese, ¼ cup
Garlic powder, ½ teaspoon
Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon
Salt, ¼ teaspoon
Black pepper, ¼ teaspoon
White Garlic Topping
Olive oil, 1 tablespoon
Garlic cloves, 3 minced
Fresh spinach, 2 packed cups
Ricotta cheese, ½ cup
Mozzarella cheese, shredded, ¾ cup
Red pepper flakes (optional), ¼ teaspoon
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet or pizza pan with parchment paper.
Add cottage cheese to a blender or food processor and blend until completely smooth. This step ensures a firm, even crust.
Transfer the blended cottage cheese to a bowl. Whisk in eggs until fully combined.
Stir in almond flour, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until a thick batter forms.
Spoon the mixture onto the prepared pan and spread into a round pizza shape about ¼-inch thick.
Bake the crust for 18–20 minutes, or until set and lightly golden around the edges.
While the crust bakes, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add spinach and cook just until wilted. Remove from heat and set aside.
In a small bowl, mix ricotta with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
Remove the crust from the oven. Spread ricotta evenly, top with spinach, mozzarella, and red pepper flakes if using. Return to the oven and bake for another 8–10 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Tips
Blend the cottage cheese thoroughly to avoid a grainy crust texture.
Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and help with easy removal.
Keep the crust thin but even so it bakes through properly.
If moisture appears on the crust, bake it a few extra minutes before topping.
Squeeze excess liquid from spinach if using frozen instead of fresh.
Whole-milk ricotta gives the creamiest topping, but part-skim works too.
Let the pizza rest briefly before cutting to help it hold its shape.
For extra crisp edges, brush the crust lightly with olive oil before baking.
Season lightly at first; cheeses add salt as they melt.
Use a pizza stone if you want a firmer bottom crust.
Variations
Add sautéed mushrooms for a deeper, earthy flavor.
Top with grilled chicken slices for extra protein.
Swap spinach for arugula added after baking for freshness.
Use goat cheese instead of ricotta for tangy richness.
Add caramelized onions for subtle sweetness.
Sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or thyme after baking.
Make it spicy with chili oil drizzled on top.
Use zucchini ribbons as an additional topping.
Try smoked mozzarella for a bolder taste.
Turn it into mini personal pizzas for meal prep.
Q & A
Does the crust taste like cottage cheese?
No, it bakes into a mild, savory base similar to a cheesy flatbread.
Can I make the crust ahead of time?
Yes, bake it in advance and refrigerate for up to two days.
Is this pizza keto-friendly?
It’s low-carb but not strict keto due to cottage cheese and almond flour.
Can I freeze the crust?
Yes, freeze the baked crust for up to one month.
What can I use instead of almond flour?
Oat flour works, but carbs will increase.
Will low-fat cottage cheese work?
Yes, but the crust may be slightly softer.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
Can I add sauce?
This pizza is best without red sauce, but pesto works well.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, as written.
Can kids enjoy this?
Absolutely, it’s mild and very approachable.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 380
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Conclusion
Garlic & Spinach White Pizza on a Cottage Cheese Crust delivers everything you want from pizza while keeping things lighter and more protein-focused. The crust is sturdy, flavorful, and surprisingly satisfying, while the creamy garlic and spinach topping feels indulgent without being heavy. Whether you’re cutting carbs, boosting protein, or just trying something new, this recipe is a smart, delicious upgrade to your homemade pizza routine.