17 Cottage Cheese Appetizers for Light & Easy Snacking!

When it comes to light, healthy appetizers, cottage cheese is an underrated powerhouse. It’s naturally high in protein, low in calories, and incredibly versatile, making it the perfect base for dips, crostini, stuffed bites, and lots more. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome, healthier party snack or just a nutritious bite to keep you going, these cottage cheese appetizer ideas are fresh, satisfying, and full of flavor. I make at least one of these recipes whenever I’m entertaining a crowd, and someone will always comment that they didn’t realize that cottage cheese could be so delicious! (I absolutely stand by the fact that cottage cheese is such an underrated ingredient, and this is proof!). 

Plus, they double up as healthy snacks—great for meal prep, post-workout fuel, or an easy way to stay on track without sacrificing taste.

Why You’ll Love These Recipes:

✔️ High in Protein – Cottage cheese is a protein-packed base that keeps you full longer.
✔️ Light & Healthy – Great for high-protein, or balanced snacking. Many of these options are low carb, too!
✔️ Quick & Easy – Most of these recipes take just minutes to make.
✔️ Versatile & Customizable – From savory to slightly sweet, there’s something for every palate.
✔️ Perfect for Entertaining or Everyday Snacking – Whether it’s a party spread or a midday pick-me-up, these appetizers deliver!

Let’s jump straight into the recipes… 

1. Cucumber Cottage Cheese Bites

These cucumber cottage cheese bites are fresh, crunchy, and irresistibly creamy—the perfect bite-sized appetizer for any occasion. The cool, crisp cucumber pairs beautifully with the smooth, protein-packed cottage cheese, for a super refreshing, bite-sized snack. They’re quick to make, light, and full of flavor, making them a great healthy appetizer for parties, meal prep, or a simple, super easy snack.

Serves: 4 (makes about 16 bites)

Ingredients

• 1 large English cucumber, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tbsp everything bagel seasoning (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cucumbers: Slice the cucumber into ¼-inch rounds and arrange them on a serving platter.

2. Make the Cottage Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, mix together cottage cheese, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and fresh dill. Stir well until evenly combined.

3. Assemble the Bites: Spoon a small amount of the cottage cheese mixture onto each cucumber round.

4. Garnish & Serve: Top each bite with a cherry tomato quarter and a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning (if using). Garnish with extra fresh dill for a pop of color.

5. Enjoy! Serve immediately as a light appetizer or snack.

2. Cottage Cheese & Pesto Bruschetta

Bruschetta just got a creamy, protein-packed upgrade! This version swaps the traditional ricotta for light, tangy cottage cheese, giving it an extra protein boost. The herby pesto, juicy tomatoes, and crispy toasted bread create a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a simple yet elegant appetizer that’s sure to impress at any gathering!

Serves: 4 (makes about 12 bruschetta pieces)

Ingredients

• 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• ¼ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Toast the Bread: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil. Toast for 8–10 minutes, or until golden and crisp.

2. Prepare the Cottage Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, mix cottage cheese and pesto until well combined.

3. Season the Tomatoes: In a separate bowl, toss the diced cherry tomatoes with salt and black pepper.

4. Assemble the Bruschetta: Spread a generous layer of the cottage cheese pesto mixture onto each toasted baguette slice. Top with seasoned tomatoes.

5. Garnish & Serve: Drizzle with balsamic glaze (if using) and sprinkle with fresh basil. Serve immediately and enjoy!

3. Buffalo Cottage Cheese Dip

If you love buffalo dip but want a lighter, high-protein version, this one is your new go-to appetizer! It’s creamy, tangy, and packed with that signature buffalo kick—all while being healthier, thanks to the protein-rich cottage cheese. Serve it with crispy veggies, crackers, or pita chips for a snack that’s guaranteed to disappear fast!

Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups cottage cheese
• ½ cup buffalo sauce
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 tbsp ranch seasoning (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions (for garnish)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For Serving:

• Celery sticks
• Carrot sticks
• Crackers or tortilla chips

Instructions

1. Blend the Base: In a food processor or blender, combine cottage cheese, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.

2. Stir in Cheese: Transfer the blended mixture to a bowl and fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and blue cheese crumbles (if using).

3. Serve & Garnish: Pour the dip into a serving bowl and sprinkle with chopped green onions and parsley.

4. Enjoy! Serve immediately with celery, carrots, crackers, or tortilla chips.

4. Spicy Cottage Cheese Salsa

If you love salsa but want to take it up a notch with extra creaminess and protein, you need to try this one! It combines chunky tomatoes, zesty lime, fresh herbs, and creamy cottage cheese for a dip that’s bold, refreshing, and totally addictive. Serve it with tortilla chips, veggies, or as a topping for tacos or grilled chicken!

Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 ½ cups diced tomatoes (fresh or canned, drained)
• 1 small jalapeño, finely diced (remove seeds for less heat)
• ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 tsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp cumin
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For Serving:

• Tortilla chips
• Sliced bell peppers
• Pita chips

Instructions

1. Mix the Base: In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, jalapeño, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, hot sauce, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to mix the flavors.

2. Add the Cottage Cheese: Fold in the cottage cheese and stir until evenly distributed.

3. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, heat, or lime juice as needed.

4. Serve & Enjoy: Transfer to a serving bowl and serve with tortilla chips, fresh veggies, or pita chips.

5. Smoked Salmon & Cottage Cheese Crostini

Looking for an elegant yet easy appetizer? This crostini is the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and fresh. The tangy cottage cheese pairs beautifully with smoky salmon, bright lemon, and crisp toasted bread, making this an effortless yet impressive appetizer for brunch, parties, or any special occasion.

Serves: 6 (makes about 12 crostini)

Ingredients

• 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp salt
• 4 oz smoked salmon, sliced
• 1 tbsp capers
• 2 tbsp red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 tsp lemon zest (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Toast the Bread: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

2. Prepare the Cottage Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, mix cottage cheese, lemon juice, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt until well combined.

3. Assemble the Crostini: Spread a generous layer of the cottage cheese mixture onto each toasted baguette slice. Top with smoked salmon, capers, and chopped red onion.

4. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh dill and lemon zest for a pop of brightness. Serve immediately and enjoy!

6. Cottage Cheese-Stuffed Mini Peppers

These cottage cheese-stuffed mini peppers are the perfect bite-sized appetizer—sweet, creamy, and packed with flavor! The tangy cottage cheese filling is mixed with fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of lemon, creating a light yet satisfying snack. They’re low-carb, high in protein, and great for meal prep or party platters.

Serves: 6 (makes about 12 stuffed peppers)

Ingredients

• 6 mini sweet peppers, halved and seeds removed
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Peppers: Slice the mini peppers in half lengthwise and remove any seeds. Arrange them on a serving platter.

2. Make the Filling: In a small bowl, mix together cottage cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, shredded cheese, chives, and parsley until well combined.

3. Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the cottage cheese mixture into each mini pepper half, filling them evenly.

4. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes (if using) and extra chopped chives or parsley for a fresh finish.

5. Enjoy! Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.

7. Cottage Cheese Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs just got a protein-packed upgrade! The cottage cheese adds a boost of protein and creaminess while keeping the texture rich and velvety. Perfect for Easter, holiday gatherings, or meal prep snacks!

Serves: 6 (makes 12 deviled eggs)

Ingredients

• 6 large eggs
• ½ cup cottage cheese
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp smoked paprika (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Boil the Eggs: Place the eggs in a pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and let sit for 10–12 minutes. Transfer the eggs to an ice bath to cool, then peel.

2. Prepare the Yolks: Slice each egg in half lengthwise and scoop out the yolks into a bowl.

3. Make the Filling: In a food processor or blender, combine the egg yolks, cottage cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Blend until smooth and creamy.

4. Fill the Eggs: Spoon or pipe the filling back into the egg whites.

5. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with smoked paprika and fresh chives. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.

8. Zucchini Roll-Ups with Cottage Cheese & Herbs

Thinly sliced zucchini is grilled until tender and then rolled up with a creamy, herby cottage cheese filling for a delicious, protein-packed bite. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a fun snack, these roll-ups are low-carb and packed with flavor!

Serves: 6 (makes about 12 roll-ups)

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchini, thinly sliced lengthwise
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp pine nuts (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini: Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Brush the zucchini slices with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Grill each slice for 1–2 minutes per side until tender and slightly charred. Let them cool.

2. Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix together cottage cheese, lemon juice, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), fresh basil, fresh parsley, and grated parmesan until smooth and well combined.

3. Assemble the Roll-Ups: Spread a small amount of the cottage cheese mixture onto each grilled zucchini slice. Carefully roll them up and place seam-side down on a serving plate.

4. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with pine nuts and extra fresh herbs. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

9. Whipped Cottage Cheese Dip

If you’re looking for an easy, high-protein dip that’s both creamy and packed with flavor, this whipped cottage cheese is a must-try! Blending cottage cheese until smooth gives it a light, airy texture, making it the perfect base for a savory, herby, and slightly tangy dip. Serve it with veggies, crackers, or pita chips for a healthy and satisfying appetizer.

Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups cottage cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tbsp grated parmesan (optional, for extra flavor)

For Serving:

• Sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, and carrots
• Pita chips or whole wheat crackers
• Toasted bread slices

Instructions

1. Blend the Base: In a food processor or blender, add the cottage cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.

2. Add the Herbs: Stir in the chopped chives and parsley, saving a little for garnish.

3. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

4. Serve & Enjoy: Transfer the whipped cottage cheese to a serving bowl. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes, extra herbs, and grated parmesan (if using). Serve with fresh veggies, pita chips, or crackers.

10. Cottage Cheese & Spinach Puff Pastry Bites

These cottage cheese & spinach puff pastry bites are the ultimate crispy, creamy, and savory appetizer. Flaky puff pastry is filled with a garlicky, cheesy cottage cheese and spinach mixture, then baked to golden perfection. They’re easy to make, packed with protein, and perfect for parties, brunches, or snacking.

Serves: 6 (Makes about 12 bites)

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• ½ cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds or poppy seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix together cottage cheese, spinach, parmesan, garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined.

3. Cut the Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet and cut it into 12 squares.

4. Assemble the Bites: Place a spoonful of the cottage cheese filling in the center of each square. Fold the edges over slightly and pinch them to create a small pocket (or fold into triangles for turnovers).

5. Brush with Egg Wash: Lightly brush each pastry bite with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds for extra crunch.

6. Bake: Transfer to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.

7. Serve & Enjoy: Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

11. Cottage Cheese & Avocado Guacamole

Take your guacamole to the next level with this cottage cheese and avocado mash-up! Creamy cottage cheese adds a protein boost and a velvety texture to classic guac, making it extra smooth, rich, and satisfying. The perfect dip for chips, veggies, or even as a spread on toast, this recipe is light, flavorful, and packed with healthy fats and protein.

Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 2 ripe avocados
• ½ cup cottage cheese
• ½ small red onion, finely diced
• 1 small tomato, diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ jalapeño, finely diced (optional, for heat)
• Juice of 1 lime
• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp cumin (optional, for extra depth)
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

For Serving:

• Tortilla chips, pita chips, or veggie sticks

Instructions

1. Mash the Avocados: In a mixing bowl, mash the avocados with a fork until smooth but slightly chunky.

2. Add the Cottage Cheese: Stir in the cottage cheese until well combined.

3. Mix in the Flavor: Add red onion, tomato, garlic, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, salt, black pepper, and cumin (if using). Stir well to distribute the flavors.

4. Finish with Herbs & Spice: Fold in chopped cilantro and sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a little heat.

5. Serve & Enjoy: Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy with chips, veggies, or as a spread on sandwiches or toast!

12. Cottage Cheese & Honey Crostini

This crostini is the perfect combination of crispy, creamy, and sweet. Crunchy toasted baguette slices are topped with whipped cottage cheese, a drizzle of honey, and a sprinkle of nuts, making them an elegant yet effortless appetizer. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a light snack, or need a last-minute addition to a cheese board, these crostini are simple, delicious, and packed with protein.

Serves: 6 (makes about 12 crostini)

Ingredients

• 1 small baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 tbsp honey (plus more for drizzling)
• ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional, for extra sweetness)
• ¼ cup chopped walnuts or almonds
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme or mint leaves (for garnish)
• ¼ tsp sea salt (optional, for contrast)

Instructions

1. Toast the Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil. Toast for 8–10 minutes, or until golden and crisp.

2. Prepare the Whipped Cottage Cheese: In a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

3. Assemble the Crostini: Spread a spoonful of the whipped cottage cheese onto each toasted baguette slice.

4. Add the Toppings: Drizzle with extra honey, sprinkle with chopped walnuts or almonds, and garnish with fresh thyme or mint leaves.

5. Serve & Enjoy: Arrange on a platter and serve immediately!

13. Cottage Cheese Quesadillas

These quesadillas are a crispy, cheesy, and protein-packed twist on the classic! Instead of just regular cheese, we’re using cottage cheese for extra creaminess and a boost of protein, paired with flavorful ingredients like sautéed veggies and spices. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or light meal, these quesadillas are deliciously melty and satisfyingly crunchy!

Serves: 4 (makes 4 quesadillas)

Ingredients

• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp cumin
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ cup sautéed bell peppers and onions (optional)
• ½ cup fresh spinach or chopped cilantro (optional)
• 1 tbsp butter or oil (for cooking)

For Serving:

• Salsa
• Guacamole
• Sour cream

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix together the cottage cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, cumin, and smoked paprika until well combined. Stir in sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach if using.

2. Assemble the Quesadillas: Spread the cottage cheese mixture evenly over one-half of each tortilla. Fold the tortillas in half to form a half-moon shape.

3. Cook the Quesadillas: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add butter or oil. Place a quesadilla in the pan and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melty. Repeat with remaining quesadillas.

4. Slice & Serve: Transfer to a cutting board, let cool for a minute, then slice into wedges. Serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream on the side.

14. Bruschetta with Cottage Cheese & Balsamic Strawberries

This bruschetta is the perfect sweet-meets-savory appetizer! Creamy cottage cheese pairs beautifully with juicy balsamic strawberries, all served on a crispy baguette slice for the ultimate fresh, flavorful bite. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, looking for a light snack, or making a summery appetizer, this recipe is simple, elegant, and absolutely delicious.

Serves: 6 (makes about 12 bruschetta)

Ingredients

• 1 small baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
• 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
• ½ tbsp honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• ¼ tsp sea salt (optional)

Instructions

1. Toast the Bread: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet, brush lightly with olive oil, and bake for 8–10 minutes until golden and crisp.

2. Prepare the Strawberries: In a small bowl, toss the diced strawberries with balsamic glaze, honey, and black pepper. Let sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

3. Assemble the Bruschetta: Spread a spoonful of cottage cheese onto each toasted baguette slice. Top with a generous spoonful of the balsamic strawberries.

4. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh basil and sea salt, then serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

15. Cottage Cheese & Roasted Sweet Potato Bites

These bites are the perfect blend of creamy, crispy, and naturally sweet. Roasted sweet potato rounds act as a nutritious, gluten-free base, topped with whipped cottage cheese, crunchy nuts, and a drizzle of honey. They’re an easy yet elegant appetizer that’s packed with protein, fiber, and flavor—ideal for parties, snack boards, or a healthy bite-sized treat!

Serves: 6 (makes about 12 bites)

Ingredients

• 1 large sweet potato, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 tbsp honey (plus more for drizzling)
• ¼ tsp cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
• ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Roast the Sweet Potato Rounds: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the sweet potato slices with olive oil, salt, and black pepper, then spread them on a lined baking sheet. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and tender.

2. Prepare the Cottage Cheese Topping: While the sweet potatoes are roasting, blend or whip the cottage cheese with honey and cinnamon until smooth and creamy.

3. Assemble the Bites: Once the sweet potato rounds have cooled slightly, top each one with a spoonful of whipped cottage cheese.

4. Add Toppings & Serve: Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts, drizzle with extra honey, and finish with a touch of fresh thyme or rosemary. Serve immediately and enjoy!

16. Cottage Cheese & Everything Bagel Crackers

If you’re looking for a simple, satisfying, and flavor-packed appetizer, these loaded crackers are a must-try! Creamy cottage cheese meets crunchy crackers, topped with a generous sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning for that savory, garlicky, sesame-seed goodness. Perfect for a snack board, entertaining, or a quick high-protein bite, this recipe is as easy as it is delicious!

Serves: 4 (makes about 12 crackers)

Ingredients

• 12 whole-grain or seed crackers
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 tsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
• 1 tbsp everything bagel seasoning
• 1 tbsp chopped chives (for garnish)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cottage Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, mix cottage cheese with lemon juice (if using) for a touch of brightness.

2. Assemble the Crackers: Spread a spoonful of cottage cheese onto each cracker, making sure to distribute it evenly.

3. Add Toppings: Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning generously over the top, followed by a touch of black pepper, chopped chives, and red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat).

4. Serve & Enjoy: Arrange on a platter and serve immediately for the crispiest texture!

17. Cottage Cheese Queso Dip

Who says queso can’t be creamy and protein-packed? This dip is a lighter, high-protein twist on classic queso, blending smooth cottage cheese with melty cheddar, diced tomatoes, and Tex-Mex spices. The result? A rich, cheesy, and irresistibly dippable queso—perfect for chips, veggies, or drizzling over tacos!

Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups cottage cheese
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel works great!)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp cumin
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 small jalapeño, finely diced (optional, for heat)
• ¼ cup milk (as needed for consistency)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Blend the Cottage Cheese: In a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese until completely smooth.

2. Heat the Queso: Pour the blended cottage cheese into a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.

3. Melt & Stir: Stir continuously for 4–5 minutes, until the cheese melts and the queso is smooth and creamy. If the dip is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.

4. Add Heat (Optional): If you like a little kick, stir in the diced jalapeño for extra spice.

5. Serve & Garnish: Pour the queso into a serving bowl, garnish with chopped cilantro, and serve warm with tortilla chips, pretzels, or fresh veggies.

No matter how you serve it, cottage cheese is the ultimate versatile ingredient for easy, flavorful appetizers. Whether you go for crispy crostini, creamy dips, or bite-sized stuffed veggies, these ideas are perfect for everything from casual snacking to elegant entertaining.

Which one are you trying first? Let me know in the comments, and don’t forget to save this post for later!