These cottage cheese chips are a fun and healthy alternative to traditional chips. They are incredibly easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and offer a satisfying crunch. I’ve always been amazed at how such a simple concept can deliver so much flavor and texture. They’re perfect for a quick snack, a party appetizer, or even a crunchy topping for salads.
One time, I made a batch of these for a game night, and they were gone before the first round was even over! Everyone was surprised by how “chip-like” they were, given they were made almost entirely of cottage cheese. They offer a healthier option that still gives you the crunch that you’re looking for.
Where Did Cottage Cheese Chips Come From?
Cottage cheese has ancient roots, with evidence of similar cheese-making dating back to 3000 BC in Mesopotamia. The term “cottage cheese” emerged in the mid-19th century in America, referring to simple, homemade cheese. During World War I, the US government promoted cottage cheese as a protein-rich meat substitute. Its popularity continued through the 1970s. Recently, cottage cheese has experienced a resurgence, partly due to social media trends and its versatility in recipes, including the innovative creation of cottage cheese chips.
Ingredients Notes
- Cottage Cheese: Full-fat, small-curd cottage cheese (4% milkfat) is recommended for the best results. It creates a crispier chip due to its higher protein and lower moisture content.
- Parmesan Cheese (Optional): Adds another layer of flavor.
- Seasonings (Optional): Get creative with your favorite seasonings! Everything bagel seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, or dried herbs are all great options.
How to Make Cottage Cheese Chips
Oven Method
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spray the parchment paper to prevent the chips from sticking.
- Prepare Cottage Cheese: If using, drain any excess liquid from the cottage cheese.
- Scoop and Flatten: Use a 1-tablespoon cookie scoop to place mounds of cottage cheese onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each mound with the back of a metal spoon to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Season (Optional): Sprinkle your desired seasonings evenly over the flattened cottage cheese.
- Bake: Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the edges are dark brown and the surface is golden brown. Start checking around 20 minutes, as baking time can vary.
Tip: Ovens can vary! Check the chips at the 6-minute mark the first time you make them. If your oven runs hot, they may crisp faster. Also, make sure the cottage cheese scoops are spaced out well — they spread during baking.
Microwave Method
- Prepare Plate: Line a microwave-safe plate with parchment paper.
- Spread Cottage Cheese: Spread an even layer of cottage cheese onto the plate.
- Microwave: Microwave for 2-3 minutes. Check and repeat as necessary.
What You Must Know About Cottage Cheese Chips
- Use Full-Fat Cottage Cheese: For the crispiest chips, use full-fat (4% milkfat) cottage cheese with a high protein content.
- Parchment Paper is Essential: Use parchment paper to prevent sticking, especially in the oven.
- Flatten Thoroughly: The thinner you spread the cottage cheese, the crispier the chips will be.
- Baking Time Varies: Oven temperatures and cottage cheese brands can affect baking time. Keep a close eye on them.
- Start with a Smaller Batch.
Helpful Tips
- Use a cookie scoop for even portions.
- Use the back of a spoon to spread.
- Let them cool to make them crispier.
Variations and Substitutions
Seasoning Variations
- Everything Bagel Seasoning (no salt recommended)
- Chili Powder
- Garlic and Onion Powder
- Dried Herbs (rosemary, chives, thyme, parsley)
- Cayenne Pepper
Cheese Variations
- Cheddar Cheese
- Mozzarella Cheese
- Vegan Alternative: Plant-based cheese.
Serving Suggestions for Cottage Cheese Chips
- Dips: Serve with hummus, guacamole, salsa, ranch dressing, or a yogurt-based dip.
- Soup Topping: Use as a crunchy topping for soups or salads.
- Snack Board: Include them on a snack board with other healthy options.
- Plain: Enjoy them as a simple, satisfying snack on their own.
Storage
Store cooled chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. It is best to eat them fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cottage Cheese Chips
Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
While you can, full-fat cottage cheese produces crispier chips due to its higher protein and lower moisture content.
How do I get my cottage cheese chips crispy?
Use full-fat cottage cheese, flatten the mounds thinly, and bake until the edges are dark brown and the surface is golden brown. Also, let it cool.
Can I make these in the microwave?
Yes, spread cottage cheese on parchment paper on a microwave-safe plate and microwave for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Check and repeat as necessary.
How do I store cottage cheese chips?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator. It is best to eat them fresh.
Cottage Cheese Chips
Ingredients
- 1 cup 256g whole milk small curd cottage cheese (4% milkfat, high protein)
- Seasonings of your choice optional
- Parmesan cheese optional
Instructions
(Oven Method)
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Spray the parchment paper.
- Prepare Cottage Cheese: If you see fit, drain any excess liquid.
- Scoop and Flatten: Use a 1-tablespoon cookie scoop to place mounds of cottage cheese onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each mound with the back of a metal spoon to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Season (Optional): Sprinkle desired seasonings evenly over the flattened cottage cheese.
- Bake: Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the edges are dark brown and the surface is golden brown. Start checking around 20 minutes.
- Cool: Let the chips cool completely on the baking sheet.
(Microwave Method)
- Prepare: Line a microwave-safe plate with parchment paper.
- Prepare Cottage Cheese: If you see fit, drain any excess liquid.
- Spread Cottage Cheese: Spread an even layer of cottage cheese into the microwave plate.
- Season (optional)
- Microwave: Microwave for 2-3 minutes. Check and repeat as necessary.
- Cool Let it cool.
Notes
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Plain, 1 chip)
- Calories: Approximately 16
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 0.4g
- Sodium: 49mg
- Sugar: 0.4g
- (Note: These values are approximate and can vary.)