Dairy | Low Calorie High Protein

Cottage Cheese

Lactis coacto Allergens: Milk
cottage cheese

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family N/A
  • Primary Cuisine Western
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Milk

The Forktionary Angle

"The humble, protein-packed curd that's more versatile than you think."

Definition

A fresh cheese made from curds of cow's milk, known for its mild flavor and lumpy, creamy texture.

Sensory Profile

TasteMild, Slightly Tangy, Savory
TextureCreamy, Curdy, Lumpy
AromaMilky, Fresh, Slightly Acidic
AcidityMedium

Technical Metrics

Curd Size Variation

Available in small, medium, and large curd varieties, affecting texture.

Production Method

Made by draining cow's milk curds, but not pressing them, resulting in its characteristic texture.

Protein Content

1 cup of 4% fat cottage cheese typically contains about 25g of protein.

Nutrition Facts

Per 1/2 cup (113g)
Calories98 kcal
Total Fat4.3 g
Saturated Fat2.7 g
Trans Fat0.1 g
Cholesterol17 mg
Protein11.5 g
Total Carbohydrate3.4 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars2.7 g
Calcium83 mg
Iron0.2 mg
Potassium110 mg

Chef’s Secret

For a smoother texture, blend cottage cheese in a food processor before using in dips or sauces.

Substitutions

Best Match

Greek Yogurt

1:1

Best for texture and protein content in savory dishes or as a spread.

Ricotta Cheese

1:1

Good for baking and lasagna; creamier, less curdy.

Silken Tofu (Crumbled)

1:1

Dairy-free, high protein alternative for savory dishes, requires seasoning.

Farmer's Cheese

1:1

Drier, firmer texture, good for baking and filling.

Buying Guide

Look for expiration dates. Choose fat percentage based on preference.

Flavor Pairings

Fruit granola toast avocado black pepper tomatoes.

Recipes Using Cottage Cheese

Cuisine Preparation Course Easy

Burek Or Feta Cheese Phyllo Pie

Experience the irresistible aroma of homemade Burek, a beloved dish with origins spanning Eastern Europe and Greece! This recipe simplifies the traditional method, using convenient phyllo dough to deliver crispy, flaky layers bursting with savory feta cheese in a fraction of the time. Perfect for a nostalgic Sunday dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this phyllo pie is a family favorite that's sure to become one of yours. Skip the hours of rolling and folding – our shortcut uses readily available phyllo dough for an easy, delicious Burek experience.

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Course Preparation Time To Make Main Ingredient

2Bleu's Cheese Blintzes

Indulge in these delightful Bleu Cheese Blintzes! Slightly thicker than crepes, these savory pancakes are filled with creamy bleu cheese, expertly folded, and ready to enjoy. Double the recipe and freeze cooked blintzes for quick and easy breakfasts or brunches throughout the week. Prepare the night before for a stress-free morning meal. Perfect for a special breakfast or a crowd-pleasing brunch!

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To Go Chicken Vegetables Spinach

3 Cheese Chicken Spinach Pasta Bake

This 3 Cheese Chicken Spinach Pasta Bake is a quick and easy recipe that's sure to please the whole family, even picky eaters! A delightful blend of creamy cheese, tender chicken, and spinach, all baked to bubbly perfection. Get ready for a flavor explosion that's both comforting and irresistible. Inspired by a local cooking show, this recipe is a family favorite!

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Pasta Course Preparation Main Dish

Alfredo Chicken Lasagna

Indulge in this comforting and flavorful Alfredo Chicken Lasagna! This creamy, cheesy masterpiece layers tender chicken, mushrooms, and rich Alfredo sauce between perfectly cooked lasagna noodles. A family favorite, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready for a taste of heaven!

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Novelty To Go Novelty Potluck

Alpine Village House Seasoned Cottage Cheese

Recreate the legendary Alpine Village House seasoned cottage cheese! This recipe, inspired by a Las Vegas newspaper article, delivers a creamy, flavorful dip perfect for veggie sticks or as a unique condiment. A secret menu item resurrected, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make and incredibly addictive. Enjoy the cool, creamy texture and savory depth of flavor – a taste of culinary history.

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North American Main Ingredient Time To Make Easy

Amish Breakfast Casserole

This hearty and flavorful Amish Breakfast Casserole recipe, inspired by Taste of Home magazine, is a crowd-pleaser! Imagine crispy bacon (or ham/sausage!), fluffy eggs, and cheesy potatoes baked to golden perfection. Easily customizable with your favorite veggies like bell peppers, this casserole is the perfect make-ahead breakfast for holidays or busy week mornings. Get ready for a taste of Amish country comfort!

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Desserts Nuts Technique Pineapple

Amish Dry Lime Gelatin Salad Dessert Jello

This incredibly easy Amish recipe for lime gelatin salad is a nostalgic delight! Perfect for kids to make (with supervision), this no-bake dessert features a vibrant lime flavor and creamy texture. A simple combination of cottage cheese, pineapple, whipped topping, and nuts creates a surprisingly delicious treat. Easily adaptable to other gelatin flavors like cherry or strawberry – ideal for Valentine's Day! Ready in under 10 minutes (plus chilling time).

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Low Fat 3 Steps Or Less Easy Course

Apple Cranberry Cottage Cheese

A light and refreshing twist on cottage cheese! This 5-minute recipe, inspired by Kraft Foods, combines sweet applesauce, tart cranberries, and creamy nonfat cottage cheese for a delightful brunch side dish. Guests rave about its unique flavor combination and surprisingly light texture. Easily customizable – swap cranberries for other dried fruits like raisins or chopped apricots. Perfect for a healthy and delicious start to your day or a unique addition to your next brunch menu.

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Occasion Side Dishes Weeknight Summer

Au Gratin Hash Browns Potatoes

This ridiculously easy Au Gratin Hash Brown Potato recipe was a potluck sensation! Get ready for rave reviews – it's fast, simple, and unbelievably delicious. Crispy, cheesy perfection in under an hour! Perfect for brunch, a side dish, or even a comforting weeknight meal.

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3 Steps Or Less Low Carb Low In Something Cuisine

Avocado Green Salad

A vibrant and refreshing avocado green salad, inspired by a 2006 Mexican culinary adventure! This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or a healthy snack. The creamy avocado pairs beautifully with crisp lettuce and zesty lime, creating a fiesta of flavors in your mouth.

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Breakfast Dietary Omelets And Frittatas Main Dish

Baked Eggs With Green Chilies

Spice up your breakfast, lunch, or dinner with this incredibly easy and customizable Baked Eggs with Green Chilies recipe! This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a delightful weekend brunch. Imagine tender eggs baked to perfection, infused with the savory heat of green chilies, and melted cheese. Easily doubled for a crowd, you can experiment with different cheeses, veggies, and spices to create your own signature dish. Try adding spinach, sundried tomatoes, and cheddar with a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick! Get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite!

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Equipment Independence Day Occasion Condiments Etc

Beef Enchiladas

Indulge in our incredibly rich and flavorful Beef Enchiladas! This crowd-pleasing recipe features tender beef simmered in a luscious homemade sauce, all wrapped in warm tortillas and baked to perfection. Get ready for a taste sensation that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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Course 60 Minutes Or Less Main Ingredient Equipment

Beef Taco Noodle Bake

Craving comfort food with a Mexican twist? This Beef Taco Noodle Bake is a cheesy, saucy, and satisfying twist on classic tacos! Think of it as a hearty, noodle-based taco lasagna – layers of flavorful ground beef, creamy cottage cheese, and perfectly cooked noodles baked to golden perfection. Get ready for a family-friendly favorite that's quick to make and even quicker to disappear!

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Casseroles Casseroles Ground Beef Main Ingredient

Beef With Carrots Casserole

This hearty Beef and Carrot Casserole recipe is a true family favorite! Discovered tucked away in a box of vintage recipes, this dish is rich in flavor and guaranteed to have everyone asking for seconds. While you can use reduced-fat ingredients, we recommend full-fat dairy for the best taste – it's worth it! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or prepare ahead and freeze for a future effortless dinner. Get ready for a taste of Kansas comfort food!

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Salads Dietary Healthy Desserts

Cottage Cheese Jello Fruit Salad

This surprisingly delicious Cottage Cheese Jello Fruit Salad is a versatile and easy-to-customize dessert! The creamy cottage cheese blends perfectly with the fruity jello and your choice of fresh or canned fruits. Control the creaminess with the amount of cool whip – more for extra richness, less for a fruitier flavor profile. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or any occasion! Easily adapt it for Christmas (green jello & cherries), Halloween (orange jello & mandarin oranges), or any other celebration with your favorite colors and fruits.

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Dietary Meat Poultry Occasion

Noodle Free Lasagna

This family favorite recipe gets a protein-packed makeover! Perfect for those following a high-protein diet, this Noodle-Free Lasagna is bursting with flavor and surprisingly easy to make. Say goodbye to carb overload and hello to a satisfying, cheesy, and meaty meal that's ready in under an hour. Skip the noodles and enjoy the rich flavors of ground turkey, spinach, and creamy cottage cheese layered to perfection!

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Cheese Eggs Dairy Preparation 60 Minutes Or Less

Spinach And Feta Cheese Quiche

Flaky crust cradles a creamy, savory filling of spinach, tangy feta, and subtly sweet onion in this irresistible Spinach and Feta Cheese Quiche recipe. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner, this quiche is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!

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Cuisine Beef Comfort Food Equipment

Zucchini And Rice Casserole

This nostalgic zucchini casserole recipe is a family favorite, passed down through generations! Tender zucchini, savory beef, and creamy cheese combine in a comforting baked dish perfect for a weeknight meal or potluck. Get ready to experience a taste of home!

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