Crispy Cottage Cheese Treats (Printable Version)
Protein-packed golden bites featuring cottage cheese, Parmesan, and crispy panko coating
# Ingredient List:
→ Dairy & Eggs
01 - 1 cup cottage cheese, small curd, well-drained
02 - 1 large egg
→ Dry Ingredients
03 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
04 - 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
05 - 1/2 tsp baking powder
06 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
07 - 1/2 tsp onion powder
08 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
09 - 1/2 tsp salt
→ Coating
10 - 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
→ For Frying
11 - 1/3 cup neutral oil (canola or sunflower)
# How to Make:
01 - Combine cottage cheese and egg in a medium bowl, mixing until thoroughly incorporated and smooth.
02 - Add flour, Parmesan, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and salt. Stir until a thick, sticky batter develops.
03 - Spread panko breadcrumbs evenly in a shallow dish for easy coating.
04 - Using a tablespoon, scoop portions and gently shape into bite-sized balls or patties. Roll each piece in panko, pressing lightly to ensure even coverage.
05 - Pour oil into a large skillet and heat over medium-high until shimmering but not smoking.
06 - Fry treats in batches, leaving space between pieces. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until deep golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towel-lined plate.
07 - Serve immediately while warm and crispy, accompanied by marinara, tzatziki, or spicy ketchup for dipping.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- You get that satisfying fried cheese crunch with way less guilt than mozzarella sticks
- The recipe comes together in under 30 minutes with ingredients you probably already have
02 -
- Well-drained cottage cheese is the difference between treats that hold together and ones that fall apart in the oil
- Crowding the pan drops the oil temperature and makes everything soggy, so fry in batches
03 -
- Damp hands prevent the sticky batter from clinging to your fingers while shaping
- Let the coated treats rest for 5 minutes before frying so the panko adheres better