Is Ricotta More Fattening Than Cottage Cheese? A Full Nutritional Breakdown

November 9, 2025 •

2 min read

A 2024 analysis found that, for a half-cup serving, whole-milk ricotta can have roughly twice the calories and three times the fat content of whole-milk cottage cheese. This indicates that, in its full-fat form, ricotta is more fattening than cottage cheese, but the full picture involves much more than just a single number.

Quick Summary

Ricotta is typically higher in calories and fat than cottage cheese due to its production from whey. Cottage cheese, made from milk curds, is lower in fat but often higher in protein and sodium. Skim or part-skim versions of both can significantly alter nutritional content.

Key Points

Ricotta is higher in fat: In its full-fat version, ricotta contains approximately three times more total fat and four times more saturated fat than full-fat cottage cheese per serving.
Cottage cheese is higher in protein: Cottage cheese generally offers more protein per serving, making it a favorite for those seeking muscle-building and satiety-boosting foods.
Ricotta is richer and creamier: Made from whey, ricotta has a finer, smoother texture, while cottage cheese is lumpier and made from milk curds.
Cottage cheese is higher in sodium: The salting process in cottage cheese production results in a much higher sodium content compared to ricotta.
Low-fat versions are available: Both cheeses come in low-fat and fat-free options that significantly change their calorie and fat counts, catering to different dietary needs.
Consider culinary use: Ricotta's texture is ideal for creamy baked dishes and desserts, while cottage cheese works well in savory meals, smoothies, and as a lighter spread.

Ricotta vs. Cottage Cheese: A Breakdown of Two Popular Cheeses

Ricotta and cottage cheese are both soft, fresh cheeses with a similar appearance and mild flavor, but they have distinct nutritional profiles. The primary difference affecting their fat content and other nutrients lies in their production methods.

The Cheesemaking Process: Curds vs. Whey

Ricotta: Italian for 'recooked,' ricotta is traditionally made by reheating the whey left over from making other cheeses, like mozzarella. This process, sometimes with added milk or cream, results in a fine-curd cheese often higher in fat and calories.
Cottage Cheese: This cheese is made directly from milk curds formed by adding an acidic culture to milk. The curds are washed and salted, producing a chunkier cheese that is typically lower in fat but higher in protein and sodium.

Nutritional Showdown: Fat and Beyond

Comparing half-cup servings of whole-milk versions shows a clear difference, though low-fat and fat-free options are widely available:


Feature	Whole-Milk Ricotta (approx. per ½ cup)	Whole-Milk Cottage Cheese (approx. per ½ cup)
Calories	~200 calories	~110 calories
Total Fat	~14 grams	~5 grams
Saturated Fat	~9 grams	~2 grams
Protein	~10 grams	~12.5 grams
Calcium	~289 mg	~88 mg (per 100g)
Sodium	~135 mg	~350 mg (per 100g)

This table illustrates that whole-milk ricotta has significantly more total and saturated fat than whole-milk cottage cheese. Cottage cheese, in contrast, offers more protein but is higher in sodium.

Which Cheese is Right for You?

Choosing between the two depends on dietary goals and how you plan to use the cheese. Cottage cheese, especially low-fat varieties, is ideal for those focused on weight management or reducing saturated fat due to its lower fat and higher protein content. Ricotta, while higher in fat, offers a creamy texture perfect for dishes like lasagna and cannolis and is lower in sodium and a better source of calcium.

For low-fat, high-protein diets: Cottage cheese is generally preferred.
For rich, creamy dishes: Ricotta is excellent for its texture and flavor.
For low-sodium diets: Ricotta is typically lower in sodium, though low-sodium cottage cheese options exist.

Conclusion: The Verdict on Fattening Cheeses

In conclusion, whole-fat ricotta is more fattening than whole-fat cottage cheese, containing more calories and significantly more fat. However, both cheeses offer nutritional benefits, and the best choice depends on individual dietary needs and how the cheese will be used. Cottage cheese excels for lower fat and higher protein, while ricotta provides richness and lower sodium. Low-fat versions of both cheeses are available to fit various dietary requirements.

Making the Right Choice for Your Recipes

For lasagna: A mix of ricotta and blended cottage cheese can balance creaminess, flavor, and lower fat.
For dips and smoothies: Blended cottage cheese offers a high-protein alternative to ricotta.
For desserts: Ricotta's smooth texture and richer flavor are generally preferred for items like cheesecakes and cannolis.

For more detailed nutritional data, consult authoritative sources like the USDA nutrient database.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, ricotta can be part of a healthy diet, particularly for its protein and calcium content. While the whole-milk version is higher in fat, part-skim or low-fat options can be a healthy choice, and its lower sodium content is also a benefit.

The main difference is the source: ricotta is traditionally made from leftover whey that is recooked, while cottage cheese is made directly from milk curds.

Yes, but with caution. For recipes like lasagna, it can work, but you may need to blend the cottage cheese first for a smoother texture and drain excess liquid. It is not recommended for most dessert recipes.

Cottage cheese is typically a better choice for a high-protein diet, as it contains casein protein, which can help with muscle repair and keeps you feeling full longer.

Yes, ricotta is naturally much lower in sodium compared to cottage cheese. Cottage cheese is usually salted during processing to enhance its flavor.

Ricotta is generally preferred for baked dishes due to its naturally creamy and fine texture, which holds up well under heat. Cottage cheese can be used but may result in a runnier finished dish.

Yes. Ricotta is often richer in calcium and vitamins A, E, D, and B2, while cottage cheese has more vitamin B12 and B5. The protein sources also differ, with cottage cheese being high in casein and ricotta containing whey protein.