Are ricotta and cottage cheese the same?

No, ricotta and cottage cheese are not the same, though they look similar. Ricotta is made from the whey left over after making other cheeses and has a finer, creamier texture. Cottage cheese is made from curds and contains more moisture and a distinct curdy feel. That said, combining ricotta cottage cheese can deliver the best of both worlds—smoothness and lightness in one bowl.

Can I substitute ricotta cheese with cottage cheese?

Yes, you can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese in many recipes. For baked dishes like spaghetti pie with ricotta cheese or even in muffins, cottage cheese works beautifully when blended. However, the texture and flavor will be slightly different. Using a mix—ricotta cottage cheese—often results in a better balance, especially in lasagna or casseroles.

Is Cottage a ricotta cheese?

No, cottage cheese is not a form of ricotta cheese. They’re made differently, from different parts of milk. Ricotta is traditionally made from whey, while cottage cheese comes from curds. Still, many home cooks and chefs now blend ricotta cottage cheese together to create a healthier, high-protein alternative in cooking and baking.

What is the healthiest cheese you can eat?

Cottage cheese ranks high on the list for healthiest cheeses due to its low fat and high protein content. Ricotta is also a good choice—especially part-skim versions—for its calcium and softer profile. When you combine ricotta cottage cheese, you get a creamy, satisfying mix that supports balanced eating without sacrificing flavor.

Ricotta Cottage Cheese Recipes: 8 Great Uses + Healthy Tips

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup cottage cheese
Salt to taste
Optional: herbs, garlic, lemon zest, or honey depending on recipe

Instructions

Combine ricotta and cottage cheese in a bowl.
Blend until smooth for a creamy texture, or keep it slightly chunky if preferred.
Season with salt or flavorings based on whether using in sweet or savory dishes.
Use as a filling for pasta, a spread on toast, or a base for bakes and desserts.

Notes

Blending the two cheeses offers a balanced flavor—ricotta’s creaminess and cottage cheese’s protein. Ideal for lasagna, quiche, or even light desserts.

Author: Jake
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Base
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/2 cup
Calories: 150
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 180mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 14g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: ricotta, cottage cheese, protein, creamy, blend, easy, no-cook