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Bright, simple, and protein-packed — this High Protein BLT Cottage Cheese Bowl is a modern twist on a classic sandwich that’s perfect for quick lunches, post-workout refuels, or a hearty snack. It layers creamy cottage cheese with juicy tomato, crisp romaine, and salty bacon for a satisfying bowl that feels indulgent but keeps the macros smart. If you love cottage cheese hacks, try these free cottage cheese protein brownies for a surprising healthy dessert.
Why You’ll Love This High Protein BLT Cottage Cheese Bowl :
Why You’ll Love This High Protein BLT Cottage Cheese Bowl :
- Big on flavor: salty bacon + smoky paprika + tangy Dijon make every bite pop.
- High protein: cottage cheese keeps you full and supports muscle recovery.
- Ready in 10–20 minutes: fast prep for busy days or meal-prep bowls.
- Flexible: easy to swap bacon or add avocado for variety.
- Great for meal prep: assemble components ahead and dress just before serving.
Ingredients Needed :
Protein
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 2 slices of crispy bacon, crumbled
Veggies & Greens
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/4 cup shredded romaine lettuce
Sauce & Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Garnish
- Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions :
- Start by cooking the bacon until crispy. You can do this in a skillet over medium heat, or in the oven on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes. Once cooked, place the bacon on a paper towel to absorb any excess grease, then crumble it into small pieces.
- In a bowl, add the cottage cheese as the base of your dish.
- Layer the diced tomato on top of the cottage cheese, distributing it evenly.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the tomatoes, ensuring every bite has a taste of bacon.
- Add the shredded romaine lettuce to the bowl, arranging it artistically for a visually appealing presentation.
- In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise (if using) and Dijon mustard together. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika according to your taste preferences.
- Drizzle the sauce over the assembled ingredients in the bowl. You can also serve it on the side if desired.
- Garnish with freshly chopped chives or parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your high protein BLT cottage cheese bowl immediately for a nutritious meal or snack.
Serving Suggestions High Protein BLT Cottage Cheese Bowl
- Serve with whole grain crackers or toasted sourdough for crunch.
- Add a scoop of cooked quinoa for extra carbs and texture.
- Top with sliced avocado and a squeeze of lemon for creaminess and brightness.
- Plate it over mixed greens to turn it into a full salad.
Tips for Success High Protein BLT Cottage Cheese Bowl
- Crisp the bacon well: extra-crispy bacon keeps its texture when mixed into the bowl.
- Drain excess tomato juices to prevent the cottage cheese from getting watery.
- Taste the dressing before adding — Dijon strength varies brand to brand.
- Keep dressing on the side for meal prep bowls to avoid sogginess.
- Use full-fat cottage cheese if you want a richer mouthfeel and higher satiety.
variation (if any)
- Turkey BLT Bowl: swap bacon for turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- Avocado BLT Cottage Bowl: add 1/2 sliced avocado for healthy fats.
- Greek-style swap: replace mayo with plain Greek yogurt for tang and extra protein.
- Spicy kick: add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the dressing.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
A: Yes — store components separately. Keep the cottage cheese and dressing chilled, and add the bacon and lettuce just before eating to maintain crispness.
Q: Is low-fat cottage cheese okay to use?
A: Absolutely. Low-fat cottage cheese keeps calories down while still providing a strong protein punch. Swap to full-fat if you prefer a creamier texture.
Q: How long will leftovers keep?
A: Assembled bowls are best eaten the same day. If stored separately, cooked bacon and chopped veggies will last 2–3 days in the fridge; cottage cheese 5–7 days unopened.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes — replace bacon with smoked tempeh, roasted mushrooms, or smoked paprika-roasted chickpeas for a smoky, savory element.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 2 slices crispy bacon, crumbled Cook until crispy
Veggies & Greens
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/4 cup shredded romaine lettuce
Sauce & Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Garnish
- Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by cooking the bacon until crispy in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes. Once cooked, place the bacon on a paper towel to absorb excess grease and crumble it into small pieces.
- In a bowl, add the cottage cheese as the base of your dish.
- Layer the diced tomato on top of the cottage cheese, distributing it evenly.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the tomatoes, ensuring every bite has a taste of bacon.
- Add the shredded romaine lettuce to the bowl, arranging it artistically.
Sauce Preparation
- In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise (if using) and Dijon mustard together. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika according to taste.
- Drizzle the sauce over the assembled ingredients or serve on the side.
Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with freshly chopped chives or parsley. Enjoy your high protein BLT cottage cheese bowl immediately.
