This dip has quickly become one of my favorite easy recipes. It takes all the flavors of pizza, the sauce, the melty cheese, and the herbs, and turns them into something you can scoop up in minutes. The whipped cottage cheese makes it creamy and adds extra protein, and baking it until it is golden and bubbly makes the whole thing irresistible. Firehook Crackers are the perfect match for dipping, and I swear the pan disappears as soon as it hits the table.

What I love most is how versatile it is. You can throw it together for a cozy weeknight snack, serve it as a fun appetizer for friends, or even add it to a game day spread. It feels indulgent but still light enough to enjoy any time, which makes it the kind of recipe I know I’ll be making on repeat

Jump to Recipe

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our privacy policy for details.

Shop the Tools

why you’ll love this recipe:

High protein but still indulgent. Whipped cottage cheese makes it creamy and filling without feeling heavy.
Fast and simple. You only need 10 minutes of prep before it goes into the oven.
Perfect pairing. Firehook Crackers bring the crunch that balances out the cheesy, melty dip.
Versatile. Works as a weeknight snack, appetizer for friends, or part of a game day spread.
Family friendly. Easy to adjust the spice level so both kids and adults can enjoy it.

Recipe Tips

Blend the cottage cheese well so the base is smooth and creamy.

Use a thicker marinara so the dip doesn’t separate when baked.

For a golden topping, switch the oven to broil for the last 1 to 2 minutes.

Serve straight from the oven — this is best when it’s hot and melty.

Ingredient Swaps:

No cottage cheese ? Use all Greek yogurt for a creamy base.
Want more flavor ? Add chopped turkey pepperoni, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers before baking.
Dairy free option ? Use a plant based cream cheese or dairy free mozzarella shreds.
Spicy twist ? Mix extra chili flakes into the marinara or drizzle hot honey over the top before serving.

Kid Friendly Option: Skip the red pepper flakes and keep the seasoning mild. Stir in mini turkey pepperoni or chopped bell peppers for kid-approved toppings. Serve with cut veggies alongside the crackers for extra crunch and color.

Meal Prep Tips: Assemble the dip up to 24 hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. Use shredded rotisserie chicken mixed into the cottage cheese base for extra protein and to make it more filling. Make individual ramekins for portioned, snack-sized servings during the week.

Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2 to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer until bubbly again. The texture stays best this way rather than microwaving. Firehook Crackers should be stored separately at room temperature so they stay crisp.

Troubleshooting:

Dip looks watery: Your marinara sauce may have been too thin. Use a thicker sauce next time.
Cottage cheese texture isn’t smooth: Make sure to blend long enough or use a high-speed blender for a creamy result.
Cheese didn’t brown: Pop it under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes at the end.
Too salty: Check the sodium in your marinara and season lightly until after tasting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the dip up to 24 hours in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Bake when ready to serve.

Can I use ricotta instead of cottage cheese?
You can, but it won’t have the same protein boost. Ricotta makes the dip creamier and richer, while cottage cheese keeps it light.

What type of crackers work best?
Firehook Sea Salt or Rosemary Crackers are perfect for savory flavors. Their crunch holds up well to the cheesy dip.

Can I freeze this dip?
It’s best enjoyed fresh. Freezing can change the texture of the dairy, so I recommend refrigerating only.

What else can I serve this with besides crackers?
Toasted sourdough slices, pita chips, or fresh cut veggies like bell peppers and cucumbers all work well.