If you’re anything like me, breakfast is sacred — and there’s nothing more comforting than the smell of freshly baked bagels filling the kitchen. These Garlic-Parmesan Cottage Cheese Bagels are soft, chewy, and have a little twist: cottage cheese. It sneaks in protein, moisture, and richness without making the bagels heavy. And let’s be honest — garlic and Parmesan? A match made in heaven.
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Overview of Recipe Content
These cottage cheese bagels are ideal for busy weekday breakfasts, brunch gatherings, or even a savory snack when you’re craving something hearty but wholesome.
- Why you’ll love it: They’re quick, protein-packed, and made with simple pantry staples.
- Taste: Chewy bagels with a golden crust, filled with garlicky, nutty Parmesan goodness.
- Nutrition benefits: Extra protein from cottage cheese + a lighter twist compared to traditional bagels.
- Seasonal relevance: Great for cozy fall mornings, but truly timeless year-round.
Ingredients (makes 4 bagels):
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup self-rising flour (or 1 cup all-purpose flour + 1 ½ tsp baking powder + ¼ tsp salt)
- 1 egg (for dough)
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
Tools Needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Baking sheet lined with parchment
- Oven
Suggested Substitutions & Additions:
- Cheese swap: Try Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or cheddar.
- Topping ideas: Sprinkle sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or fresh herbs.
- Dairy-free option: Use vegan cottage cheese + nutritional yeast.
How to Make Garlic-Parmesan Cottage Cheese Bagels
- Mix the dough – In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese, flour, egg, Parmesan, garlic powder, and salt. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead lightly – Dust a little flour on your surface and knead for 2–3 minutes until smooth. Don’t overwork it!
- Shape bagels – Divide into 4 pieces. Roll each into a ball, poke a hole in the center, and stretch gently.
- Bake – Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool & enjoy – Let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing into chewy perfection.
The kitchen aroma? Pure magic — garlicky, cheesy, warm, and irresistible.
What to Serve with Garlic-Parmesan Cottage Cheese Bagels
- Breakfast: Layer with scrambled eggs, avocado, or turkey bacon.
- Lunch: Make a chicken salad or tuna melt sandwich.
- Snack: Toast and smear with cream cheese or hummus.
- Pairing drink: A frothy cappuccino or iced latte.
Tips for Making It Perfect
- Don’t skip the kneading — it helps develop texture.
- Drain cottage cheese slightly if it’s too watery.
- Brush tops with egg wash for extra shine.
- Double the batch — they freeze beautifully!
Storage Instructions
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for 2 days.
- Fridge: Up to 5 days, reheat in toaster oven.
- Freezer: Wrap individually, freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and toast.
General Information
Bagels originated in Eastern Europe but became iconic in American baking. Adding cottage cheese is a modern twist, boosting protein while keeping things moist and flavorful. Perfect for meal prep or post-workout snacks.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these bagels gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute self-rising gluten-free flour.
2. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?
You can, but the texture will be slightly denser.
3. Do I need a bagel mold?
Nope! Just shape by hand with the poke-and-stretch method.
4. Can I air-fry instead of baking?
Yes, 350°F for 12–15 minutes, checking halfway.
Conclusion
These Garlic-Parmesan Cottage Cheese Bagels are proof that homemade doesn’t have to mean complicated. They’re protein-rich, savory, and endlessly versatile.
If you loved this recipe, you’ll also enjoy:
Until next time, happy baking, friends!
Interactive Elements
Tried these bagels? Leave me a review below, and share your creations on Pinterest or tag me @poulefrecipe. I’d love to see them!
Nutritional Information (per bagel, approx.)
| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 180 | 12g | 18g | 6g | 2g | 280mg |
Garlic-Parmesan Cottage Cheese Bagels
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 bagels 1x
Description
Soft, chewy bagels made with cottage cheese, Parmesan, and garlic powder for a protein-packed, savory breakfast or snack.
Ingredients
1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup self-rising flour (or 1 cup all-purpose flour + 1 ½ tsp baking powder + ¼ tsp salt)
1 egg (for dough)
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
Instructions
1. Mix cottage cheese, flour, egg, Parmesan, garlic powder, and salt in a bowl until dough forms.
2. Knead lightly for 2–3 minutes on floured surface.
3. Divide dough into 4 pieces, shape into bagels.
4. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden.
5. Cool 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Drain cottage cheese slightly if watery.
Brush tops with egg wash for shine.
These freeze well for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bagel
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
