High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pizza Loaf

If you’re looking for a high-protein, ultra-satisfying meal that combines the best parts of a deep-dish pizza and a stuffed calzone, this Cottage Cheese Pizza Loaf is it!

By blending cottage cheese into the dough base, you get a pillowy, protein-packed crust without needing any yeast or long rise times. Stuffed with a rich homemade cherry tomato beef sauce and melted provolone or mozzarella slices, this baked loaf is crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and perfect for meal prep.

Prep time, Cook time, Servings

• Prep time: 20 minutes

• Cook time: 30–35 minutes

• Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

For the High-Protein Dough

• 1 cup cottage cheese (blended smooth with 1 egg)

• 1 large egg

• 1½ cups plain all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Pinch of salt

For the Fresh Tomato Beef Filling

• 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef

• 1 pint (approx. 2 cups) fresh cherry tomatoes

• 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

For Assembly & Topping

• 4–6 slices provolone cheese (or mozzarella slices)

• 1 egg yolk or milk (for egg wash)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Sauce & Beef Filling 🥩

In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tbsp olive oil and the whole cherry tomatoes. Cover with a lid for a few minutes until the tomatoes soften and burst. Use a fork to crush the tomatoes into a fresh sauce, then stir in the minced garlic. Add the ground beef, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the sauce has thickened. Set aside.

2. Make the Cottage Cheese Dough 🥣

In a blender, process the cottage cheese and 1 egg until smooth and creamy. In a large bowl, combine the plain flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Pour in the blended cottage cheese mixture and 2 tbsp olive oil. Mix and knead gently until a smooth dough ball forms.

3. Roll Out & Layer 🍞

Line a standard loaf pan with parchment paper. Divide the dough so you can layer it, or roll out a large sheet. Place the bottom layer of dough into the loaf pan, fitting it up the sides. Add a generous layer of the tomato beef mixture, followed by cheese slices. Fold or add another layer of dough, repeat with the remaining beef and cheese, and seal top with dough.

4. Bake to Golden Perfection ✨

Brush the top layer of dough with egg wash (or egg yolk) for a shiny, golden finish. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes until the crust is fully cooked through and golden brown. Let sit for 10 minutes before slicing.

📊 Estimated Macros (Per Serving - Based on 6 Servings)