Crispy Cottage Cheese Treats
These high-protein Crispy Cottage Cheese Treats are the ultimate snack—baked, pan-fried, or air-fried to perfection. Healthy, easy, and totally addicting!
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 25 minutes mins
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 14 treats
Calories 80 kcal
Base Ingredients 1 cup cottage cheese small curd preferred 1 large egg ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs plus extra for coating ¼ cup all-purpose flour ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese Optional Add-ins 1 –2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs parsley, dill, basil 1 tsp garlic or onion powder ½ tsp red pepper flakes or paprika For Cooking Olive oil or neutral oil for pan-frying Baking spray for oven method
Mix the Base
In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese, egg, flour, Parmesan, and optional seasonings. Mix well. If mixture is too wet, add a touch more flour.
Form the Treats
Scoop out tablespoons of the mixture and gently shape into discs or nuggets. Place on a parchment-lined tray.
Panko Coat
Press each disc into panko crumbs, coating both sides evenly. This adds that golden crisp!
Choose Your Cooking Method
Pan-Fry:
Heat oil in a skillet over medium. Cook treats for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
Bake:
Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray treats and bake 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Air-Fry:
Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Serve & Enjoy
Let them cool slightly before serving. Great with marinara, ranch, or spicy mayo!
Customize It: Mix in any cheese, herbs, or seasonings you like.
Make Ahead: Form and chill treats up to 1 day before cooking.
Sweet Version: Add cinnamon, raisins, and dust with powdered sugar after baking.
Make it Gluten-Free: Use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Low-Fat Option: Use low-fat cottage cheese and bake instead of fry.
Serving: 1 g Calories: 80 kcal Carbohydrates: 6 g Protein: 5 g Fat: 4 g
Keyword cottage cheese fritters