Garlic & Spinach White Pizza on Cottage Cheese Crust

Picture this: a golden, protein-rich crust made from creamy cottage cheese and eggs, topped with fragrant garlic, sautéed spinach, and bubbling white cheese. This isn’t your average pizza—it’s a flavor-packed twist that marries comfort with creativity. With every bite, you get the garlicky goodness, the subtle tang from the crust, and that stretchy, melty layer of cheese. Trust me, it’s worth every bite.

Behind the Recipe

This pizza was born during a weekend experiment, when traditional dough was nowhere in sight, and cottage cheese was staring at me from the fridge. I was craving something light, garlicky, and utterly satisfying—without the flour bloat. A few tweaks and tests later, this white pizza came to life, now a regular in my kitchen when I want something indulgent yet wholesome. The first time I pulled it from the oven, the scent alone told me it was a keeper.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

White pizza, or “pizza bianca,” hails from Italian roots where the focus shifts from tomato sauce to rich cheeses and aromatic ingredients. It’s all about savoring flavor layers—creaminess, sharpness, and earthiness—without the tang of red sauce. Using cottage cheese for the crust is a modern, health-conscious innovation that aligns with low-carb and high-protein trends. It’s proof that pizza can be both indulgent and smart.

Why You’ll Love Garlic & Spinach White Pizza on Cottage Cheese Crust

This pizza ticks all the right boxes, and here’s why it’s going to become a favorite:

Versatile: Top it with mushrooms, olives, or more greens to make it yours.
Budget-Friendly: Made with ingredients you likely already have.
Quick and Easy: No rising dough or complicated prep—just blend, bake, and top.
Customizable: Switch up cheeses or add protein like shredded chicken.
Crowd-Pleasing: Garlicky, cheesy, and satisfying—what’s not to love?
Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake the crust in advance for a quick dinner fix.
Great for Leftovers: Holds up beautifully and reheats like a dream.

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Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Here are a few nuggets of wisdom to help you get the best results:

1. Drain the cottage cheese: A quick strain removes excess liquid for a firmer crust.
2. Use parchment paper: Prevents sticking and ensures even browning.
3. Broil briefly at the end: For that bubbly, golden cheese top.
4. Sauté the spinach with garlic: Enhances flavor and removes moisture.
5. Let it rest before slicing: Helps the crust firm up for clean cuts.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Just a few tools turn this into a gourmet experience:

Food Processor or Blender: To blend the crust base until smooth.
Baking Sheet or Pizza Stone: For that crispy-bottom finish.
Parchment Paper: Keeps everything neat and easy to remove.
Skillet: To sauté the garlic and spinach.
Mixing Bowl: For combining toppings.

Ingredients in Garlic & Spinach White Pizza on Cottage Cheese Crust

Each ingredient works harmoniously to create a pizza that’s light, flavorful, and cheesy in all the right ways.

1. Cottage Cheese: 1 cup – provides a creamy base and protein boost for the crust.
2. Eggs: 2 large – bind the crust and add structure.
3. Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup, grated – adds nutty depth and a firm crust texture.
4. Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon – infuses the crust with flavor.
5. Salt: ¼ teaspoon – brings out all the other flavors.
6. Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon – for sautéing and richness.
7. Fresh Garlic: 4 cloves, minced – delivers bold, aromatic flavor.
8. Fresh Spinach: 2 cups – sautéed down to perfection.
9. Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup, shredded – creates a gooey, bubbly topping.
10. Ricotta Cheese: ½ cup – adds creaminess and a touch of luxury.
11. Black Pepper: To taste – sharpens the flavor.
12. Red Pepper Flakes: Optional – for a gentle heat kick.
13. Italian Seasoning: ½ teaspoon – rounds out the flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can still enjoy this pizza even with a few swaps:

Cottage Cheese: Greek yogurt or ricotta.
Parmesan Cheese: Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano.
Mozzarella Cheese: Fontina or provolone.
Spinach: Kale or arugula.
Ricotta Cheese: Cream cheese or cottage cheese (unblended).
Olive Oil: Avocado oil or ghee.

Ingredient Spotlight

Cottage Cheese: Low in carbs and high in protein, it forms a surprisingly crisp and flavorful crust.
Spinach: Adds earthiness and balances the richness of the cheeses.

Instructions for Making Garlic & Spinach White Pizza on Cottage Cheese Crust

Let’s dive into the cheesy adventure step-by-step:

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a food processor, blend cottage cheese, eggs, Parmesan, garlic powder, and salt until smooth.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Pour the blended mixture onto the lined baking sheet and spread into a circle about ½ inch thick.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Bake the crust for 20–25 minutes until golden and firm. Meanwhile, sauté garlic in olive oil, then add spinach and cook until wilted. Season with pepper and Italian seasoning.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Remove the crust from the oven. Spread ricotta over the crust, layer sautéed spinach, then top with mozzarella.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Return to the oven and bake for 10 more minutes. Broil for 1–2 minutes for bubbling cheese, if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Let cool slightly before slicing. Sprinkle red pepper flakes for extra heat and serve warm.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The crust is chewy yet crisp, a delicious contrast to the melty mozzarella and creamy ricotta. The garlic punches through boldly, while the spinach adds a touch of earthiness. It’s layered, rich, and delightfully unexpected for a flourless pizza.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

These little tricks will level up your white pizza game:

• Strain cottage cheese for a drier crust.
• Use full-fat cheeses for better melting and flavor.
• Add toppings only after the crust is baked to avoid sogginess.
• Don’t overcrowd with toppings—balance is key.

What to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes for pizza perfection:

• Skipping parchment paper: The crust will stick and break.
• Adding raw toppings too early: Makes the crust soggy.
• Not blending the base enough: Results in uneven baking.
• Too much moisture in spinach: Always sauté and drain well.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approx. 420

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can bake the crust up to a day ahead and refrigerate it. Reheat slightly before adding toppings. Leftover slices store well in an airtight container in the fridge for 2–3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven for a crispy finish. Freezing is also an option—wrap slices individually and store for up to 1 month.

How to Serve Garlic & Spinach White Pizza on Cottage Cheese Crust

Slice it into wedges and serve with a crisp salad or roasted veggies. A drizzle of garlic oil or balsamic glaze adds an elegant touch. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a bowl of tomato soup or a chilled cucumber salad.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Use your leftovers in brand-new ways:

• Fold into a breakfast quesadilla with eggs.
• Chop and stuff into a wrap with roasted veggies.
• Layer onto toasted bread for a pizza melt.
• Reheat and top with a fried egg for brunch vibes.

Additional Tips

• Try mini versions for party appetizers.
• Sprinkle sesame or chia seeds onto the crust before baking.
• Add sliced red onions or mushrooms for extra flavor depth.

Make It a Showstopper

Use a pizza stone for an artisan finish. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, microgreens, or a drizzle of truffle oil. Serve on a wooden board with lemon wedges and crushed red pepper for flair.

Variations to Try

• Mushroom & Thyme White Pizza: Add sautéed mushrooms and fresh thyme.
• Ricotta & Lemon Zest Pizza: Brighten the cheese with citrus.
• Four Cheese Garlic Pizza: Mix mozzarella, provolone, fontina, and ricotta.
• Spinach Artichoke Pizza: Fold in chopped artichokes to the spinach.
• Zucchini & Herb Pizza: Top with thin zucchini slices and oregano.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make this without a food processor?

Yes, just whisk vigorously for a slightly chunkier texture.

Q2: Is cottage cheese crust crispy?

It firms up beautifully when baked and slightly crisp on edges.

Q3: Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, just thaw and squeeze out all excess water before sautéing.

Q4: What type of mozzarella works best?

Low-moisture shredded mozzarella melts evenly and avoids sogginess.

Q5: How do I make it gluten-free?

This recipe is already naturally gluten-free!

Q6: Can I add meat?

Sure—try pre-cooked shredded chicken or turkey sausage.

Q7: How do I keep the crust from sticking?

Always use parchment paper and lightly grease it.

Q8: Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking sheet or two rounds.

Q9: Can I make it vegan?

Use plant-based cottage cheese and cheese alternatives, plus a flax egg substitute.

Q10: Can I reheat this in the microwave?

You can, but the crust is best when reheated in the oven for crispness.

Conclusion

This Garlic & Spinach White Pizza on Cottage Cheese Crust is not only delicious but also refreshingly different. Light, flavorful, and endlessly flexible, it offers everything you love about pizza with a modern, healthier twist. This one’s a total game-changer—and once you try it, it might just become your new favorite.

Watch How To Make Garlic & Spinach White Pizza