High-Protein Cottage Cheese Enchilada Bowl

This high-protein cottage cheese enchilada bowl is my go-to when I want something hearty, flavorful, and packed with nutrition. It combines all the bold, spicy flavors of traditional enchiladas with the creamy goodness of cottage cheese for a protein-rich twist. I love how easy it is to throw together and how satisfying it is without needing tortillas or tons of prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love that this enchilada bowl gives me all the comfort of a classic Mexican dish but in a quicker, lighter, and more nutritious way. The cottage cheese adds creaminess and a serious protein boost, making it perfect for lunch or dinner when I need something filling. It’s easy to customize, meal-prep friendly, and comes together with minimal effort—just layer, heat, and eat.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cottage cheese (I use low-fat or full-fat, depending on my needs)
• Cooked and shredded chicken breast or ground turkey
• Enchilada sauce (red or green, store-bought or homemade)
• Cooked cauliflower rice or regular rice (optional for low-carb or carb-conscious meals)
• Black beans (optional if not doing strict low-carb)
• Diced green chilies
• Cumin
• Chili powder
• Garlic powder
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
• Fresh cilantro, avocado, or lime for topping

directions

1. I start by warming up the shredded chicken or turkey in a skillet with a little enchilada sauce, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder for flavor.

2. In a bowl, I layer a base of warm cauliflower rice or regular rice, depending on what I’m using.

3. I spoon in the seasoned meat mixture, then add a generous scoop of cottage cheese on top.

4. I drizzle more enchilada sauce over everything and sprinkle shredded cheese on top.

5. I microwave the bowl for about 1–2 minutes until everything is hot and the cheese is melted (or I bake it in the oven at 375°F for 10–12 minutes).

6. I finish it off with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime before digging in.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2–3 bowls, depending on serving size.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

I switch it up depending on what I have. Sometimes I use ground beef instead of chicken. For a vegetarian version, I use black beans and roasted veggies. I also like playing around with different sauces—green enchilada sauce gives it a totally different vibe. If I’m in a rush, I skip the rice and eat it straight as a layered dip-style bowl.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I microwave for 1–2 minutes or warm it in the oven. It keeps its texture well, and the flavors get even better the next day. If I’m meal prepping, I assemble everything except the toppings and add those fresh when I’m ready to eat.

FAQs

Can I use cottage cheese instead of sour cream?

Yes, and I do it all the time. Cottage cheese adds creaminess and way more protein than sour cream, making the bowl more filling and nutritious.

Is this recipe low-carb?

It can be! I use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice and skip the beans when I want to keep it low-carb. It’s super adaptable.

Can I eat this cold?

I prefer it warm, but I’ve had it cold like a layered dip-style bowl and it’s actually pretty tasty, especially on hot days.

What’s the best kind of cottage cheese for this?

I like using full-fat cottage cheese for extra creaminess, but low-fat works too. Just go for one with small curds for the best texture.

Can I meal prep this for the week?

Absolutely. I make a big batch of the meat and rice base, then assemble individual bowls and store them in the fridge. I add the toppings fresh each day for the best taste.

Conclusion

This high-protein cottage cheese enchilada bowl is one of my favorite quick meals. It’s hearty, flavorful, and keeps me full for hours without feeling heavy. Whether I’m eating it fresh or reheating it from meal prep, I know I’m getting something delicious and nutritious every time.