Next, pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top it with grated Parmesan cheese—this adds a nice crispy layer once it’s baked. Pop that beauty in the oven and let it bake for about 30-35 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden on top. The smell wafting through my kitchen during this time is simply heavenly!
Once it’s out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes (if you can resist!). I like to garnish mine with fresh basil leaves to add a touch of color and freshness. Then, scoop out a generous portion, and get ready for a real treat! This dish is creamy, cheesy, and full of flavors that will remind you of pizza but in a delightful new way.
Serve it alongside a simple salad or some crusty bread, and you’ve got yourself a fantastic meal. The leftovers are equally tasty—if you have any!
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this recipe three ways—once with fresh veggies, once with sautéed spinach, and once with roasted bell peppers. While all versions were delicious, I found that using fresh veggies really brings out a crispness in texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese.
Don’t skip on the herbs! Fresh or dried, they elevate the flavor significantly. I personally love adding a little extra oregano and basil into the mix because it gives everything a taste that’s reminiscent of my favorite pizzeria.
Finally, if you’re like me and enjoy a bit of a spicy kick, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce. It brings an unexpected zing that complements the mellow flavors of the cottage cheese beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One of the biggest mistakes I made the first time I made this dish was adding too much marinara sauce. While I love a good sauce, it made the dish too runny. A cup is just right to hold everything together without drowning it! (See the next page below to continue…)