High Protein Cottage Cheese Chips
Cottage cheese chips might not be the first thing you think of, but once you try them, you’ll get it. They’re salty, crispy, and packed with flavor—all from just a handful of ingredients. If you’ve been hunting for a low-carb, high-protein snack that actually delivers on crunch, this one’s got you covered. You just drain the cottage cheese and bake it until it turns golden and crisp. They’re perfect for dipping or snacking straight from the tray.
What I really like about this recipe is how surprisingly easy it is. You need cottage cheese, a few spices, and an oven—nothing fancy. The texture does a total 180, going from soft and creamy to crispy and savory. Harissa adds a bit of heat, and za’atar gives it an herby, slightly earthy flavor. These are a solid choice if you’re trying to skip traditional chips but still want something that’s fun to eat and full of flavor.
You can use these as crackers with dips, a crunchy side for soups, or even a topping for salads. They’re also really customizable. They are one of my top cottage cheese recipes.
Tips for the Best Cottage Cheese Chips
- Drain well – The more moisture you remove, the crispier your chips will be. Use a cheesecloth or paper towel to press out the liquid before baking.
- Spread thinly – When spreading the cottage cheese, make sure you’re creating small, thin rounds or an even layer. This helps them crisp up evenly in the oven.
- Use parchment paper – These can stick easily, so make sure to use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy removal.
- Keep an eye on them – Depending on your oven and how thick your cottage cheese layer is, the baking time can vary. Bake until the chips are browned and crisp but not burned.
- Let them cool – Chips will continue to crisp up as they cool, so resist the urge to take them off the tray too early.
Ingredients
- Cottage cheese (any amount; small curd works best)
- Harissa paste, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Za’atar spice, to taste
- Cheesecloth or paper towels (for draining)
Instructions
1. Drain the Cottage Cheese
Place the cottage cheese in a cheesecloth or layered paper towel and gently press out as much liquid as possible. This is key to making sure the chips turn crispy instead of soggy.
2. Season the Cottage Cheese
Add all the spices to your cottage cheese and mix. Adjust the spices to taste.
3. Spread the Cheese
On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drop small spoonfuls of the cottage cheese and flatten them into thin, even rounds. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
4. Bake Until Crispy
Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Bake the chips for 20–30 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them near the end so they don’t burn.
5. Cool and Serve
Let the chips cool on the tray for 5–10 minutes. This helps them firm up. Once cool, enjoy immediately or store for later.
How to Store Cottage Cheese Chips
Once cooled completely, store the chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If they start to soften, you can re-crisp them in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for a few minutes. They’re best enjoyed fresh but still hold up well for a quick snack the next day.
Ways to Serve Cottage Cheese Chips
- As a snack – Eat them on their own for a crunchy, protein-packed bite.
- With dips – Pair them with hummus, guacamole, or a yogurt-based dip.
- In lunchboxes – These are great for packing into lunchboxes as a healthy chip alternative.
- As salad toppers – Crumble them over a salad for extra crunch and flavor.
- Next to soup – Serve them as a side with creamy soups or chili.
These cottage cheese chips are a clever way to turn a fridge staple into something fun, crispy, and crave-worthy. Give them a try next time you want a snack with a little crunch!
