Cottage Cheese Garlic Bites

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🧄 Cottage Cheese Garlic Bites

Description

Cottage Cheese Garlic Bites are savory, protein-packed snacks with a soft interior and golden crisp edges. They combine creamy cottage cheese, garlic, herbs, and breadcrumbs to create delicious bite-sized nibbles that are perfect as appetizers, side dishes, or even a quick healthy snack. These little bites are baked (or air-fried) instead of deep-fried, making them a lighter yet satisfying option.

🥣 Ingredients

  • 1 cup cottage cheese (drained slightly)

  • 1 large egg

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)

  • ½ tsp onion powder

  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning (optional)

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

  • Pinch of salt (adjust to taste)

  • Olive oil spray (for baking/air frying)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) or preheat air fryer to 360°F (182°C).

  2. In a bowl, mix cottage cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, onion powder, Italian seasoning, pepper, and salt until combined.

  3. Using a spoon or small scoop, form bite-sized balls (about 1–1.5 inches).

  4. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet (or in air fryer basket) and lightly spray with olive oil.

  5. Bake for 18–20 minutes (or air fry for 12–14 minutes), until golden brown and slightly crisp.

  6. Serve warm with marinara, ranch, or garlic yogurt dip.

📝 Notes

  • Drain cottage cheese a little so mixture isn’t too watery.

  • If mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs.

  • You can make them spicier by adding chili flakes or cayenne pepper.

  • Works great as a side dish with soup or salad.

💡 Tips

  • For extra crispiness, broil for 2–3 minutes after baking.

  • Use flavored breadcrumbs (like garlic & herb) for more depth.

  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven/air fryer.

  • Freeze uncooked bites on a tray, then transfer to a bag for quick snacks later.

🍽 Servings

  • Makes about 16–18 bites

  • Serves 4 people (as an appetizer/snack)

📊 Nutritional Info (per 4 bites, approx.)

  • Calories: 150 kcal

  • Protein: 10 g

  • Carbohydrates: 9 g

  • Fat: 8 g

  • Fiber: 1 g

  • Sugar: 1 g

  • Calcium: 12% DV

🌿 Health Benefits

  • High protein from cottage cheese supports muscle growth and satiety.

  • Garlic & herbs add antioxidants and immune-boosting properties.

  • Baked, not fried → lower in unhealthy fats.

  • Great low-carb, high-protein snack option for weight management.

❓ Q&A

Q: Can I use ricotta instead of cottage cheese?
A: Yes, ricotta works, but the texture will be creamier and slightly less firm.

Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.

Q: What’s the best dipping sauce?
A: Marinara, tzatziki, garlic aioli, or even buffalo sauce pair beautifully.

Q: Can I make them ahead of time?
A: Yes, form the bites and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: Do they taste cheesy?
A: Yes, mildly cheesy with a garlic-herb flavor. Adding Parmesan boosts the flavor.

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