Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups (16 ounces) low-fat cottage cheese, pureed in a food processor
- 2 cups shredded light reduced fat sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pickled jalapeño peppers, chopped
- 1/4 cup roasted red bell peppers, chopped
- 1/4 cup scallions, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Breadcrumb Topping
- 1/4 cup panko crumbs (for gluten-free version, process a few slices of gluten-free bread in food processor until crumbly)
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/8 teaspoon paprika
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to fully preheat to ensure even cooking throughout the baking process.
- Prepare Dip Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the pureed low-fat cottage cheese with shredded light reduced fat sharp cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese. Stir in chopped pickled jalapeño peppers, roasted red bell peppers, and scallions. Season the mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the cheese and pepper mixture into a suitable baking dish, spreading it out evenly to create a uniform layer.
- Make Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the panko crumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs), garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, pepper, and olive oil. Stir until the crumbs are well coated with olive oil and spices.
- Apply Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the dip in the baking dish. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the dip is bubbly and the topping is golden and crisp.
- Serve: Remove the dip from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Pair with assorted bell pepper strips or tortilla chips for dipping.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute panko crumbs with processed gluten-free bread crumbs as indicated.
- You can adjust the amount of jalapeños to your preferred spice level.
- Make sure to puree the cottage cheese thoroughly for a smoother dip texture.
- Serve warm for the best flavor and consistency.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
