Gourmet Hacks: 5 BEST Substitutes for Mozzarella Cheese

Mozzarella cheese is a game-changer, right? It’s the gooey MVP of pizzas, pastas, and salads.

Sometimes though, you hit the fridge and—zap—there’s none left.

Or maybe you’re mixing things up, dietary needs are knocking, or you just crave something different.

Good news: there’s a whole bunch of alternatives out there ready to step up to the plate.

We’re here to guide you through the top 5 subs that can do more than just fill in; they might even steal the spotlight.

Grab your apron, because you’re about to make your dishes sing with flavors you didn’t see coming.

What is Mozzarella Cheese?

Mozzarella cheese is a type of Italian cheese traditionally made from water buffalo milk.

It has a milky white color and a smooth, elastic texture.

The flavor of mozzarella cheese ranges from mildly sweet to slightly salty.

Mozzarella cheese is most commonly used on pizza, but it can also be used in other dishes such as lasagna and salads.

There are several different types of mozzarella cheese, including low-moisture mozzarella, fresh mozzarella, and whole-milk mozzarella.

Low-moisture mozzarella cheese has a dryer texture and a more intense flavor than other types of mozzarella cheese.

Fresh mozzarella cheese is softer and more delicate than other mozzarella cheese.

Whole-milk mozzarella cheese has a richer flavor than different types of mozzarella cheese.

Mozzarella cheese is typically made from water buffalo milk, but it can also be made from cow’s milk.

Buffalo milk has a higher fat content than cow’s milk, which gives the cheese a richer flavor and a creamier texture.

However, buffalo milk is also more expensive than cow’s milk, so many brands of mozzarella cheese are made from cow’s milk.

The 5 Best Substitutes for Mozzarella Cheese

Mozzarella cheese is a beloved ingredient, known for its creamy texture and mild flavor. It is a staple in many dishes, such as pizzas, pasta, and salads.

However, if you find yourself without mozzarella cheese or looking for alternative options, there are several substitutes available.

In this guide, we will compare the top 5 substitutes for mozzarella cheese, discussing their key characteristics and suggesting proper ratios to help you find suitable alternatives.

Substitute	Key Characteristics	Proper Ratio
Cheddar Cheese	Sharp and tangy cheese with a firm texture	Use an equal amount of cheddar cheese as a substitute for mozzarella
Gouda Cheese	Creamy and slightly sweet cheese with a nutty flavor	Use an equal amount of Gouda cheese as a substitute for mozzarella
Edam Cheese	Mild and slightly salty cheese with a smooth and creamy texture	Use an equal amount of Edam cheese as a substitute for mozzarella
Provolone Cheese	Semi-hard cheese with a mild and slightly smoky flavor	Use an equal amount of Provolone cheese as a substitute for mozzarella
Fontina Cheese	Semi-soft cheese with a rich and buttery flavor	Use an equal amount of Fontina cheese as a substitute for mozzarella

Now, let’s dive into each substitute in more detail:

1 – Cheddar Cheese

If you’re a fan of cheese, you’ve likely had your fair share of cheddar.

This famous cheese dates back to the 12th century, when it was first made in the English village of Cheddar.

Since then, cheddar has become one of the most popular cheeses globally, prized for its rich, sharp flavor.

There are many different types of cheddar cheese, from white cheddar to aged cheddar.

And while cheddar is often used in grilled cheese sandwiches and macaroni and cheese, it can also be enjoyed on its own.

So the next time you’re looking for a delicious way to add some flavor to your meal, reach for some cheddar cheese.

• Key Characteristics: Cheddar cheese is a sharp and tangy cheese with a firm texture. While it has a different melting profile than mozzarella, it can provide a flavorful substitution.
• Proper Ratio: Use an equal amount of cheddar cheese as a substitute for mozzarella. Adjust the quantity based on personal preference and desired level of flavor.

2 – Gouda Cheese

Gouda cheese is a type of Dutch cheese that has been made since the 12th century.

It is named after the city of Gouda in the Netherlands, which was once an important center for cheese production.

Gouda cheese is typically made from cow’s milk, but it can also be made from goat’s milk or sheep’s milk.

The cheese has a yellowish-brown rind and a creamy, yellow interior.

It has a mild, sweet flavor with hints of butterscotch and nuts.

Gouda cheese is commonly used in grilled cheese sandwiches, macaroni and cheese, and other recipes.

It can also be eaten on its own as a snack.

• Key Characteristics: Gouda cheese is a creamy and slightly sweet cheese with a nutty flavor. It has a melting capability similar to mozzarella, making it a suitable substitute.
• Proper Ratio: Use an equal amount of Gouda cheese as a substitute for mozzarella. Adjust the quantity based on personal preference and desired level of creaminess.

3 – Edam Cheese

Originally from the Netherlands, Edam cheese is a firm, pale yellow cheese perfect for slicing and using in sandwiches.

It has a mild, nutty flavor that is slightly sweet and salty.

The texture of Edam cheese is relatively smooth and creamy, making it a good choice for spreading on crackers or using in dips.

One of the most distinctive features of Edam cheese is its reddish-orange wax coating, which helps to protect the cheese from drying out.

This coating also gives the cheese a beautiful glossy appearance.

While Edam cheese is often sold in pre-sliced wedges, it can also be bought in rounds or loaves.

• Key Characteristics: Edam cheese is a mild and slightly salty cheese with a smooth and creamy texture. Although it may not have the same stretchiness as mozzarella, it can provide a pleasant substitution.
• Proper Ratio: Use an equal amount of Edam cheese as a substitute for mozzarella. Adjust the quantity based on personal preference and desired level of creaminess.

4 – Provolone Cheese

Provolone cheese is a type of Italian cheese made from cow’s milk.

It is a semi-soft cheese with a mild, nutty flavor.

Provolone is an excellent cheese for both cooking and eating on its own.

It can be used in recipes for mozzarellas, such as lasagna and pizzas.

Provolone also pairs well with meats and other cheeses.

When choosing a provolone cheese, look for one that has a smooth texture and a creamy white color.

Avoid cheeses that have cracked or dry surfaces, as these indicate that the cheese is past its prime.

For the best flavor, enjoy your provolone cheese within two weeks of purchase.

• Key Characteristics: Provolone cheese is a semi-hard cheese with a mild and slightly smoky flavor. While it may not have the same softness as mozzarella, it can add a unique taste to dishes.
• Proper Ratio: Use an equal amount of Provolone cheese as a substitute for mozzarella. Adjust the quantity based on personal preference and desired level of flavor.

5 – Fontina Cheese

Few things are as delicious as a slice of fontina cheese.

This creamy, nutty cheese is perfect for pairing with crackers or crusty bread, and it also melts beautifully, making it ideal for use in recipes.

Fontina has a long history, dating back to the 12th century when it was first produced in the Val d’Aosta region of Italy.

When shopping for Fontina cheese, look for a dark yellow exterior with a few small holes.

The interior should be creamy white and have a slightly crumbly texture.

For the best flavor, choose a cheese that has been aged for at least six months.

• Key Characteristics: Fontina cheese is a semi-soft cheese with a rich and buttery flavor. While it may not melt in the exact same way as mozzarella, it can contribute a delightful creaminess to recipes.
• Proper Ratio: Use an equal amount of Fontina cheese as a substitute for mozzarella. Adjust the quantity based on personal preference and desired level of creaminess.

Conclusion

To conclude, Mozzarella cheese is a delicious, versatile cheese that can be used in various dishes.

While it is not always the best option for those with dairy sensitivities, there are several excellent substitutes that can be used in its place.

If you’re looking for a cheese that is similar in taste and texture to mozzarella, try one of these five delicious options: Provolone, Gouda, Cheddar, Edam, or Fontina.