Cottage Cheese Breadsticks (High Protein + Cheesy!)

If you’ve been searching for a way to make breadsticks that are golden brown, cheesy, and secretly packed with 10 grams of protein per serving, you’re going to love these cottage cheese breadsticks! They’re made with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand, and the result is a high-protein breadstick with the perfect balance of soft inside and slightly crisp outside. Unlike traditional breadsticks that can feel heavy or carb-loaded, this version uses cottage cheese and almond flour for a lighter, more nutritious twist. They’re wonderful as a snack, a side for soups and salads, or a healthier option to go alongside pasta night!

Cottage Cheese Breadsticks (High Protein + Cheesy!)

One of my favorite things about these cottage cheese breadsticks is how much my family loves them. When they come out of the oven golden brown and fragrant with Italian seasoning, it’s hard not to sneak a piece before they’ve cooled.

Honestly, they’re just as good on their own as they are paired with dinner.

This one is an easy win.

The dough is mixed in one bowl – no blender or food processor required. It’s easy enough that my kids mix it up, too.

Unlike regular breadsticks, it’s a high-protein bread that can be turned into breadsticks, but also into so many shapes, like a cottage cheese flatbread or even cheesy high-protein cottage cheese bagels!

And let me tell you—they’re delicious! The combination of mozzarella and parmesan, with its soft, fluffy inside, makes every bite taste like a cozy, cheesy comfort food moment.

Why you’ll love this cottage cheese breadstick recipe

High Protein – Thanks to cottage cheese, mozzarella, and parmesan, each bite has a boost of protein, clocking in at 10g protein per breadstick. Whenever I can make smart swaps that turn foods into protein-rich options, I am so down!

Minimal Ingredients – No long ingredient list—you’ll only need flours, seasonings, and cheese.

Easy to Make – Just mix, shape, bake, and enjoy. No yeast or rising time required, which is a big win if you’re a busy mama like me!

Simple ingredients you’ll need for protein breadsticks

Scroll down to view the recipe card below for the full ingredients list, nutritional information, and step-by-step instructions.

• 2% cottage cheese – The star of this recipe. It adds creaminess, protein, and moisture.
• Almond flour – A nutrient-dense flour that keeps the texture soft and slightly nutty.
• All purpose flour – Balances the almond flour to give structure, chewiness, and classic breadstick vibes.
• Baking powder – Helps the bread rise.
• Italian seasoning – Brings that herby, savory flavor that makes breadsticks irresistible.
• Sea salt – Enhances the flavors of both the dough and the cheeses.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully throughout the loaf, making it extra cheesy.
• Grated parmesan cheese – Adds saltiness, nuttiness, and a golden finish.

How to make breadsticks with cottage cheese

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2:  In a large mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, almond flour, all-purpose flour, sea salt, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the mixture comes together into a thick dough. Fold in mozzarella and parmesan until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Transfer the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Form it into a loaf shape (about 1 inch thick).

Step 4: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, until golden brown on top and cooked through. Pro tip: Halfway through baking, use a sharp knife to lightly cut breadstick lines across the loaf. This helps create those pull-apart sections once baked.

Step 5: Let the bread cool fully before slicing or pulling apart into breadsticks. This helps it firm up and makes slicing easier.

Watch me make low carb protein breadsticks

The full how to video can be watched below, or on my YouTube channel!

First time making these breadsticks? Here are some extra tips

For extra crisp edges, bake a little longer until you see a deep golden top. This not only enhances the flavor but ensures the inside is fully cooked and not gummy.

To add more flavor, mix in a teaspoon of garlic powder for a garlic bread vibe. You could also sprinkle sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning on top before baking for a fun twist.

Don’t skip the cooling – it might be tempting to dig in right away, but letting the loaf cool ensures it holds together beautifully when sliced.

Serving Ideas

These cottage cheese breadsticks pair well with so many dishes:

• Dunk into warm marinara, tomato sauce, or homemade pizza sauce.
• Serve with mixed greens along with lean proteins for a filling high-protein salad.
• Pair with hearty soups like Zuppa Toscana or cheddar broccoli soup.
• Add as a side to your favorite pasta night – try it alongside my ground turkey and roasted broccoli pasta dish!

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover breadsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to keep them fresh.

If you’d like to save them longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or a freezer bag, and freeze for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven or air fryer until warmed through and the edges turn crispy again.

Why cottage cheese works in breadsticks

Cottage cheese isn’t just a high-protein dairy staple—it’s also a secret weapon in baking. It adds moisture without needing extra oil, provides essential nutrients like calcium and B vitamins, and helps create a soft, tender crumb.

Think of it as the best way to turn a classic favorite like breadsticks into a nutritious option you can feel good about.

If you’ve been curious about trying new recipes with cottage cheese, these breadsticks are a delicious place to start. They’re cheesy, a high-quality source of protein, and easy enough for even a first-time baker.

Once you try them, you’ll want to keep a batch on hand for quick high-protein snacks or as a go-to side for family dinners!

Cottage cheese breadsticks might just become your next high-protein obsession!

Substitutions, optional variations & dietary adjustments

Below you’ll find a list of substitutions that will work well in this keto cottage cheese breadstick recipe. 

If you try something different out, please leave a comment below letting us all know how it turned out!

Cottage cheese – You can use full-fat cottage cheese for extra richness, or swap it with ricotta cheese for a slightly sweeter flavor. Greek yogurt also works in a pinch, though it won’t be as cheesy.

Almond flour – Sub with oat flour for a nut-free option, or use all-purpose flour if you don’t need it gluten-free (just increase by a couple tablespoons if the dough feels too wet).

All purpose flour – Whole wheat flour can be used for a heartier texture, or you can use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend if you want to keep the breadsticks gluten-free. Oat flour can work here too as another gluten free option, though the breadsticks will be softer with a bit less structure.

Italian seasoning – Swap with a mix of dried oregano and basil, or get creative with garlic powder, onion powder, or everything bagel seasoning for a fun twist.

Shredded mozzarella cheese – You can use cheddar cheese for a sharper flavor, provolone for extra meltiness, or a dairy-free shredded cheese if needed.

Grated parmesan cheese – Asiago, pecorino romano, or nutritional yeast (for a dairy-free/vegan option) all make excellent substitutes.

More cottage cheese recipes you’ll love

• Cottage cheese tuna mac and cheese
• Cottage cheese scrambled eggs
• Whipped cottage cheese toast

If you try this cheesy protein breadstick recipe, I’d love it if you left a star rating and comment below letting me know how it turned out!

XO

Heather