These Cottage Cheese Pizza Buns are a fun twist on your favorite pizza! Soft, fluffy buns filled with creamy cottage cheese and topped with yummy flavors like cheese and pepperoni make them super tasty.
Perfect for kids and picky eaters, these buns are like mini pizzas you can hold! I love to serve them with a side of marinara for dipping—so good, you’ll be reaching for seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: Small curd cottage cheese is great here for its texture. If you prefer a creamier option, use ricotta cheese. For a dairy-free version, try a plant-based cheese substitute like almond or soy-based cottage cheese.
All-Purpose Flour: The flour provides the structure for the buns. If you’re gluten-free, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend can work well. I’ve also enjoyed using whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor, just keep an eye on the moisture—whole wheat absorbs more liquid.
Cheese: While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, feel free to switch to a sharper cheese like cheddar for a different flavor profile. If you can’t find mozzarella, a pizza blend works nicely, too!
Pizza Sauce: If you’re short on pizza sauce, marinara works in a pinch. For a low-sugar option, look for a no-sugar-added tomato sauce. I sometimes mix in a bit of pesto for a fresh twist!
How Do You Shape and Bake the Pizza Buns Perfectly?
Shaping the buns can be tricky, but it’s quite straightforward! Here’s how to get that perfect bun shape:
- Once your dough comes together, flour your hands to handle the sticky mixture more easily.
- Divide the dough into equal portions. Using a scale can help if you want to be precise!
- Gently roll each portion between your palms until smooth, then flatten it to about 1/2 inch thick to create the bun shape.
- When placing the buns on the baking sheet, leave some space in between to allow for spreading.
For baking, keep an eye on them as ovens can vary! Look for the tops to turn golden brown. If you like them extra crispy, a couple more minutes in the oven can do the trick. Enjoy your baking!
Cottage Cheese Pizza Buns
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (small curd)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup pizza sauce, plus extra for topping
- Mini pepperoni slices (optional, about 12-16 slices)
- Fresh or dried rosemary for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need roughly 30-35 minutes to have delicious, cheesy Cottage Cheese Pizza Buns ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the buns from sticking. This makes cleanup a breeze!
2. Mix the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, all-purpose flour, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, and salt. Stir everything together until well mixed. Don’t worry if the dough feels a bit sticky; that’s just how it should be!
3. Add Wet Ingredients:
Next, crack the egg into the bowl and pour in the pizza sauce. Mix it all together thoroughly until a sticky dough forms. You can use your hands or a spoon—whatever feels right! Just be sure everything is well combined.
4. Shape the Buns:
Lightly dust your hands and countertop with some flour to avoid sticking. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball shape and then gently flatten it to about 1/2 inch thick. This will create your fluffy buns ready for toppings!
5. Prepare for Baking:
Place the shaped buns on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them. Next, take the extra pizza sauce and spread a small amount on top of each bun. Be generous with the cheese!
6. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle some additional shredded mozzarella over the top of each bun. If you want to include some mini pepperoni slices, now is the time to arrange them on top!
7. Bake the Buns:
Savor the delicious aroma as you bake the buns in your preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Keep an eye on them towards the end for perfectly crispy tops!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, pull the buns from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This allows the cheese to set a little and makes them easier to handle. Serve warm with extra pizza sauce on the side for dipping—everyone will love it!
These delightful Cottage Cheese Pizza Buns are perfect for a snack, lunch, or even a party appetizer! Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!
Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Cottage Cheese?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for cottage cheese! It will add a similar creaminess but may change the texture a bit. Make sure to choose plain Greek yogurt for the best results.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Filling?
Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers, onions, or even spinach would be great additions. Just make sure to chop them finely and sauté them beforehand to reduce moisture, ensuring the buns stay fluffy.
How Do I Store Leftover Pizza Buns?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds, or place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Freeze These Buns?
Yes, you can freeze the pizza buns either before or after baking! To freeze unbaked buns, shape them, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. You can bake them straight from the freezer, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. If already baked, wrap them well and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just reheat before serving!
