Cheddar cheese is the cheese to place on your grilled burger or snack on before bed. In a perfect world, we’d have limitless cheddar cheese. But when the cheddar is in short supply, you may require a cheddar cheese substitute.
This well-known cheese was first made in the British hamlet of Cheddar in Somerset and later gained popularity in the US. Depending on its age, it typically has a crumbly texture and a tangy flavor.
Even though you might prefer to eat this delicious cheese daily, there may come a time when we need to consider other cheeses. In this article, we’ll dive into some cheddar cheese substitutes to use when you’re in a bind.
Contents
What is Cheddar Cheese?
Cheddar is produced from pasteurized milk. It has a dry, crumbly texture and sharp, nutty flavor. However, cheddar differs depending on how long it’s aged. Typically the longer the aging period, the tangier it becomes. Its color also varies from ivory to deep yellow.
Many people can’t imagine having mac and cheese or a grilled cheese sandwich without cheddar cheese. It’s also classically paired with a slice of apple pie and chili.
While cheddar cheese is a delectable addition to many dishes, it’s high in calories and saturated fats. A moderate amount is typically recommended for a healthy diet.
Substitutes for Cheddar Cheese
If cheddar cheese is on your menu, but your grocery store is out of stock, you’re in luck. Several cheddar cheese substitutes offer similar consistency and taste, including some vegan alternatives.
1. Colby Cheese
Colby cheese is an American cheese also made from pasteurized cow’s milk. It’s a good cheddar cheese substitute because it bears a color resemblance to cheddar cheese.
That said, Colby cheese is mild with a crumbly texture and a buttery finish. Cheddar cheese, on the hand, is sharper in flavor with a creamier texture.
Because Colby cheese contains plenty of moisture and melts quickly, it works exceptionally well for cheese sauces, grilled sandwiches, and burgers. But note that if you’re lactose intolerant, it might upset your stomach.
2. Edam Cheese
Made in Edam, Netherlands, Edam cheese is a pale cheese that usually has a protective red wax outer layer. Edam has the same nutty flavor and texture as cheddar cheese. But Edam cheese is less pungent and tastes sweeter, like a spoonful full of sweet cream.
Edam is a good choice if you want to cut back on some calories and enjoy a slice of good cheese. With a lower fat content than cheddar cheese, it’s a good option for those on a low-fat diet.
You can add it to your salads to add some creaminess and boost their flavor. Or grate some over your pasta. However, it’s not a good choice for cooking because it tends to become runny when melted.
3. Cantal Cheese
If you look closely at cantal cheese, its texture and flavor closely match cheddar cheese. This French cheese has a firm texture with slightly varying flavors depending on its age.
It gives off a sweet but sharp flavor similar to cheddar cheese. However, it comes with a bit of an aftertaste. The color of this cheddar cheese substitute is off yellow to pale compared to cheddar.
Cantal cheese is best for cheese boards paired with fruits such as apples and grapes. It can be used as a replacement in any recipe that calls for it to be melted or mixed with other ingredients.
4. Gouda Cheese
Gouda cheese is an all-around fantastic cheddar cheese substitute because of its flavor and quality. This semi-firm cheese originated in Holland, has a creamy texture, and is all about impeccable flavor.
This cheese comprises sweet, mellow, nutty undertones with a buttery mouthwatering feel. If you love tangy, almost sour cheese, you might dislike how sweet Gouda cheese is.
It’s a good choice if you want to add some shredded cheese to a casserole. You can use Gouda in equal parts but be prepared for its incredible sweetness.
5. Brick Cheese
Brick cheese is a hybrid between cheddar and Limburger cheese. This makes it a fantastic substitute for cheddar cheese.
Its yellow color and orange-hued rind closely resemble that of cheddar cheese. However, brick cheese has a sweeter, mild earthy flavor and melts more rapidly than cheddar cheese.
One drawback of brick cheese is that it’s incredibly soft and, therefore, more difficult to grate. Since its melts quickly, brick cheese is perfect for mac and cheese and shredding onto your homemade pizza.
Conclusion
You can use the above alternatives in different ways. Sprinkle them into your dish, add slices to a sandwich, or add them to a cheese board and enjoy. Selecting any of the above cheddar cheese substitutes means you’ll be covered no matter the recipe.