2-Ingredient Cottage Cheese Cheese Sticks – A quick, crispy, low-carb, high-protein snack ready in just 20 minutes.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15–18 mins
Total Time: 20–23 mins
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Imagine this: it’s mid-afternoon, you’re craving something savory, and you don’t want to derail your healthy eating goals. That’s where 2-Ingredient Cottage Cheese Cheese Sticks swoop in to save the day. They’re crispy, cheesy, low-carb, and high in protein — and they take less than 20 minutes to make.
Whether you’re a busy parent, a student looking for a budget-friendly snack, or just someone who loves cheese (who doesn’t?), these sticks tick all the boxes. And here’s the best part — you only need two simple ingredients you probably already have in your fridge.
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat for extra creaminess, low-fat for fewer calories)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (part-skim or whole milk, your choice)
Directions
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Air Fryer
Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway for even crisping
2. Mix the Cheese
In a medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese and shredded mozzarella. Mix until well incorporated. The mozzarella acts as the glue, while cottage cheese brings creaminess and a mild tang.
3. Shape the Sticks
Form the mixture into sticks about 3 inches long. You can shape them by hand or use a spoon to make even portions. Space them slightly apart on your baking sheet so they crisp up evenly.
4. Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes — every oven is different.
5. Cool & Serve
Let the sticks cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps them firm up and keeps you from burning your mouth in excitement.
Serving & Storage Tips
- Serve hot with your favorite dip — marinara, ranch, or even spicy buffalo sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
Notes & Variations
- Flavor boost: Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or smoked paprika to the cheese mix.
- Make it spicy: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Vegan swap: Use plant-based cottage cheese and dairy-free shredded mozzarella.
- Gluten-free bonus: These are naturally gluten-free — no flour needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway for even crisping.
2. Can I freeze them?
Yes, bake them first, let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven or air fryer.
3. What dips go best with cottage cheese cheese sticks?
Classic marinara is always a win, but pesto, ranch, or chipotle mayo can make them extra exciting.
4. Can I use cheddar instead of mozzarella?
You can, but mozzarella melts more evenly and gives the perfect stretchy cheese texture.
5. Are these keto-friendly?
Yes! With only 2g net carbs per serving, they fit perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle.
Nutrition
Each serving (1 stick) is about 120 kcal, with 10g protein, 7g fat, and just 2g net carbs — making them a perfect snack for low-carb, high-protein diets. Cottage cheese also provides calcium and probiotics, while mozzarella delivers satisfying richness.
