Okay, this one’s a game changer. Think: all the classic BLT flavors—salty bacon, sweet tomatoes, crisp lettuce—but instead of bread, you’ve got creamy cottage cheese and avocado scooped into a bowl. It’s quick, fresh, and hits every craving. I make this all the time when I want something easy but not boring. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
🍽 Serves: 2
⏱ Total Time: 15 minutes
🥰 Why I Love This Recipe
This one feels like comfort food without feeling heavy. I started making it during a busy week when I had zero energy to cook. It became an instant staple. Here’s why:
- Fast and filling – 15 minutes, done.
- High in protein – thanks to the cottage cheese and bacon.
- Low-carb, super satisfying – you won’t miss the bread.
- Fresh meets creamy – those textures, though.
- One bowl = fewer dishes – yes please.
🧠 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Cottage cheese has casein protein, which digests slowly and helps you stay full.
- Bacon gives umami and crunch that balances the creaminess of the avocado and cottage cheese.
- Tomatoes and romaine add water content and crunch—keeps everything fresh.
- Avocado’s healthy fats make it rich and creamy without needing any dressing.
🔬 Macros (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 24g
- Carbs: 10g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 5g
🛒 What You’ll Need
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat, your choice)
- 4 slices bacon
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 avocado, diced
- Fresh cracked black pepper (optional)
👩🍳 Tools You’ll Need
- Medium skillet
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Spoon or small scoop
👌 Pro Tips
- Crisp the bacon slowly on medium heat so it doesn’t burn before it gets crispy.
- Use full-fat cottage cheese if you want extra creaminess.
- Rinse and dry your romaine well—wet lettuce waters down the bowl.
- Chop everything bite-sized so you can get every flavor in one spoonful.
- Add the avocado last so it stays green and fresh.
🔁 Substitutions & Variations
- No bacon? Use turkey bacon or a handful of roasted chickpeas for crunch.
- No romaine? Try baby spinach or shredded iceberg.
- Vegan version: Sub in tofu bacon and plant-based cottage cheese.
- Spicy twist: Add a drizzle of sriracha or sprinkle of chili flakes.
🧊 Make Ahead Tips
- Cook the bacon and chop the veggies ahead of time.
- Store each ingredient separately, and assemble right before eating.
- Don’t dice the avocado until ready to serve—it browns quickly.
👣 How to Make It
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Place 4 slices of bacon in a cold pan. Turn heat to medium and cook until crispy, about 8–10 minutes, flipping once. Remove and place on paper towels.
Step 2: Prep the Veggies
While bacon cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the avocado, and shred the romaine.
Step 3: Crumble the Bacon
Once cooled, crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowl
Scoop cottage cheese into the center of a bowl. Arrange romaine, tomatoes, avocado, and crumbled bacon around it. Top with black pepper if you like.
🧊 Leftovers & Storage
- Store each component in separate containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Don’t store the avocado—it’s best fresh.
- Bacon stays crisp if stored with a paper towel in an airtight container.
😬 Common Mistakes
- Putting hot bacon on cold ingredients—let it cool first so it doesn’t wilt the lettuce.
- Not drying your lettuce—soggy greens are no fun.
- Using bland cottage cheese—taste it before using. If it’s flat, add a pinch of salt.
🍽 What to Serve With
- A slice of sourdough toast on the side
- A cup of tomato soup
- Sparkling water with lemon
- Iced tea with cucumber slices
🤔 FAQ
Can I use low-fat cottage cheese?
Yes! It won’t be as creamy, but still tasty.
How do I keep the avocado from browning?
Add it just before serving, or squeeze on a bit of lemon juice.
Can I make this ahead?
You can prep everything except the avocado and assemble fresh.
📅 Meal Plan Ideas
- Lunch meal prep: Make 3–4 days worth of chopped ingredients (except avocado) and keep in containers.
- Low-carb dinner: Pair this with soup or grilled veggies.
- Post-workout bowl: Add a hard-boiled egg or grilled chicken for more protein.
🥄 Wrap-Up
This BLT Cottage Cheese Bowl is proof that healthy doesn’t have to be boring. It’s quick, loaded with flavor, and makes lunch feel like something to look forward to. Try it out, snap a pic, and let me know how it goes in the comments—or ask me anything if you get stuck! 💬