Here is a recipe for High-Protein Cottage Cheese Sticks. They are a savory, crispy snack or appetizer that packs a protein punch, thanks to cottage cheese and optional protein powder. They are baked (or air-fried) to golden perfection.
High-Protein Cottage Cheese Sticks
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended)
Cook time: 15–18 minutes
Yield: About 12–16 sticks
Ingredients
For the sticks:
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2 cups cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat, pressed to remove excess liquid)
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1 large egg
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheddar for more flavor)
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½ cup unflavored or vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based; unflavored is best for savory)
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½ cup almond flour or breadcrumbs (for texture)
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon onion powder
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¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
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¼ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the coating:
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½ cup panko breadcrumbs (or crushed pork rinds for keto)
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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**Olive oil spray or cooking spray
For dipping (optional):
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Marinara sauce
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Ranch dressing
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Greek yogurt mixed with herbs
Instructions
1. Press the cottage cheese:
Place the cottage cheese in a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth and let it drain for 10–15 minutes, pressing gently to remove excess liquid. This helps the sticks hold their shape.
2. Make the mixture:
In a food processor or blender, combine the pressed cottage cheese, egg, shredded mozzarella, protein powder, almond flour (or breadcrumbs), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend until a thick, dough-like consistency forms. If it feels too wet, add a little more almond flour.
3. Shape into sticks:
Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Using your hands, shape into sticks about 3–4 inches long and ½ inch thick. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. For best results, refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
4. Prepare the coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Coat the sticks:
Lightly spray each stick with olive oil spray, then roll in the panko-Parmesan mixture until evenly coated. Return to the baking sheet.
6. Bake or air-fry:
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Oven method: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
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Air fryer method: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Place sticks in a single layer and cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.
7. Serve:
Let cool slightly—they firm up as they cool. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Nutrition (per stick, approximate)
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Calories: ~70–90
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Protein: ~8–10g
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Carbs: ~3–5g
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Fat: ~4g
Tips & Variations
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Keto-friendly: Use unflavored whey protein, almond flour instead of breadcrumbs in the base, and crushed pork rinds instead of panko for the coating.
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Spicy: Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture.
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Cheese variation: Try pepper jack for a kick or Gouda for a smoky flavor.
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Make ahead: Shape and refrigerate the uncoated sticks for up to 24 hours before coating and baking.
These sticks are a great high-protein alternative to mozzarella sticks—perfect for post-workout snacks, meal prep, or a healthier appetizer.