Baked Cottage Cheese Bites are a savory and protein-packed snack that’s both healthy and easy to make. Using cottage cheese as the base, these bites are lightly seasoned and baked to perfection, creating a deliciously golden crust with a soft, cheesy center. Ideal as a quick snack, appetizer, or even a unique addition to salads, these baked bites are versatile and flavorful. Let’s dive into the recipe to create this simple yet satisfying snack!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cottage cheese (small curds, drained)
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried herbs (optional, like thyme or parsley)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Olive oil spray (for baking)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cottage Cheese Mixture

1. Drain the Cottage Cheese: Place the cottage cheese in a fine-mesh sieve and press gently with a spoon to remove excess moisture. Transfer the drained cottage cheese to a mixing bowl.
2. Season the Cottage Cheese: Add the garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs (if using), salt, and pepper to the cottage cheese. Mix well until evenly combined.

Step 2: Shape the Bites

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly spray the parchment paper with olive oil.
2. Form the Bites: Using a spoon or your hands, form small bite-sized rounds from the cottage cheese mixture, pressing gently to shape. Place each round on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.

Step 3: Bake the Cottage Cheese Bites

1. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the bites are firm and golden brown on the edges.
2. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the bites to cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Note: Based on approximately 12 bites

• Calories: ~50 kcal
• Fat: 2g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 5g
• Sodium: 100mg

FAQs:

Q: Can I use large curd cottage cheese instead of small curds?
A: Small curds work best for a consistent texture, but large curds can also be used. Just ensure the mixture is well-drained and slightly mashed for easier shaping.

Q: Can I add other herbs and spices?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or Italian seasoning to add more flavor.

Q: Are these bites freezer-friendly?
A: Yes! You can freeze these bites after baking. Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to refresh their texture.

Q: Can I use flavored cottage cheese?
A: Flavored cottage cheese may alter the taste of the bites, but it can add a unique twist! Just ensure the flavors complement the added seasonings.

Tips for Making Perfect Cottage Cheese Bites:

1. Drain Well: Removing excess moisture from the cottage cheese helps the bites hold their shape better and bake to a golden finish.
2. Use Olive Oil Spray Sparingly: A light spray helps achieve a crispy outer texture without making the bites greasy.
3. Experiment with Add-Ins: Try adding finely chopped fresh herbs, grated Parmesan, or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for added flavor.
4. Bake on Parchment Paper: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
5. Cool Before Serving: Allowing the bites to cool slightly helps them firm up, making them easier to handle and enhancing the flavor.

Storage Tips:

Refrigerator: Store leftover cottage cheese bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to regain their crispy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze baked cottage cheese bites in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Reheating Tip: Reheat in the oven or toaster oven rather than the microwave to retain their crispiness.

Conclusion:

Baked Cottage Cheese Bites are a tasty, healthy snack that brings together a creamy, cheesy texture with a light, crispy exterior. Perfect for protein-packed snacking, these bites are also easy to customize with different herbs and spices. Whether enjoyed as a stand-alone snack, added to salads, or dipped in your favorite sauce, these bites are versatile and delicious. Simple to make and packed with flavor, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a unique, homemade snack. Enjoy each cheesy, savory bite!