Which Has More Cholesterol, Ricotta or Cottage Cheese? A Nutritional Comparison

January 2, 2026 •

2 min read

According to USDA data, a standard 100-gram serving of whole-milk ricotta cheese contains approximately 51mg of cholesterol, significantly more than the 17mg found in a comparable portion of full-fat cottage cheese. This difference is largely attributed to the varying fat content between the two fresh cheeses.

Quick Summary

Ricotta cheese contains more cholesterol than cottage cheese due to its higher fat content. The two cheeses also differ in protein, sodium, and calcium levels, affecting their roles in various diets.

Key Points

Cholesterol Content: Whole-milk ricotta has significantly more cholesterol (approx. 51mg/100g) than full-fat cottage cheese (approx. 17mg/100g).
Fat Content: Ricotta is higher in fat.
Protein Source: Cottage cheese is a rich source of casein protein, while ricotta provides whey protein.
Sodium Level: Cottage cheese is typically much higher in sodium than ricotta cheese.
Dietary Considerations: For a low-cholesterol diet, low-fat or nonfat cottage cheese is preferable.
Versatility in Cooking: Ricotta is suitable for baking, while cottage cheese works well in savory dishes.

Understanding the Nutritional Differences: Ricotta vs. Cottage Cheese

When choosing between ricotta and cottage cheese, many factors come into play, from texture and taste to specific nutritional metrics like cholesterol. While both are soft, fresh cheeses, their production processes lead to distinct nutrient profiles that impact heart health and dietary suitability.

Cholesterol and Fat Content

Ricotta Cheese Whole-milk ricotta is higher in fat and cholesterol compared to cottage cheese. A 100g serving of whole-milk ricotta has about 51mg of cholesterol. Lower-fat options contain less cholesterol.

Cottage Cheese Cottage cheese is a lower-fat, higher-protein cheese. Full-fat cottage cheese contains around 17mg of cholesterol per 100g. Lower-fat cottage cheese varieties have even less cholesterol.

Other Nutritional Factors

Ricotta and cottage cheese also differ in other key nutrients. Cottage cheese is noted for its high content of casein, a slow-digesting protein, while ricotta contains faster-digesting whey protein. Cottage cheese generally has a significantly higher sodium content than ricotta. Ricotta tends to be a better source of calcium. Ricotta is richer in certain vitamins (A, E, D, K, B2) and minerals (selenium, zinc), while cottage cheese offers more pantothenic acid and vitamin B12.

Culinary Applications and Dietary Choices

Their textures and flavors lend them to different uses in the kitchen. Cottage cheese is suitable for savory dishes. Ricotta works well in baked goods and desserts. For those focused on lower fat and cholesterol, low-fat cottage cheese is a good option. Both cheeses can fit into a healthy diet when chosen appropriately based on individual dietary needs.

Comparison Table: Ricotta vs. Cottage Cheese (per 100g serving)


Nutrient	Ricotta (Whole Milk)	Cottage Cheese (Full-Fat)
Cholesterol	~51 mg	~17 mg
Fat	~13 g	~4.3 g
Saturated Fat	~8.3 g	~1.7 g
Protein	~11 g	~11 g
Sodium	~84 mg	~364 mg
Calcium	~207 mg	~83 mg

Conclusion

Ricotta cheese contains more cholesterol than cottage cheese. Cottage cheese is generally higher in protein and sodium, while ricotta provides more calcium. For managing cholesterol, low-fat cottage cheese is a better choice. Both cheeses can be part of a balanced diet depending on dietary needs. Consulting a healthcare provider is recommended for personalized dietary advice.

This article is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

For a low-fat diet, cottage cheese is the better choice, especially the low-fat or nonfat varieties, which contain fewer calories and less fat than ricotta.

Yes, you can substitute cottage cheese for ricotta, especially in savory dishes like lasagna. For a smoother texture similar to ricotta, you can blend the cottage cheese before using it.

Both are excellent protein sources, but cottage cheese is a prime choice due to its high casein content, a slow-release protein that aids muscle recovery.

Cottage cheese is typically much higher in sodium than ricotta cheese. Low-sodium varieties of cottage cheese are available for those monitoring their salt intake.

For heart health, low-fat or fat-free versions of both are recommended. Cottage cheese is generally the leaner option.

Cottage cheese is made from the curdled solids of milk, resulting in its chunky texture, while ricotta is traditionally made from reheating the whey leftover from other cheesemaking, giving it a smoother, creamier texture.

Yes, the fat content directly affects cholesterol. Higher-fat versions like whole-milk ricotta have more cholesterol than their low-fat or nonfat counterparts.