What is the best cheese for pizza? For many people, the answer is mozzarella.
This soft, white cheese has a mild flavor that pairs well with other toppings, and it melts quickly to create a smooth, creamy texture.
However, mozzarella is not always available or affordable.
Luckily, several excellent substitutes can be used in its place.
Here are five of the best substitutes for mozzarella cheese.
Keep in mind that the flavor and texture of your pizza may be slightly different than usual, but the results will still be delicious.
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
For many people, mozzarella is the go-to cheese for pizza, lasagna, and other Italian dishes.
But what if you’re allergic to dairy or don’t like the taste of mozzarella? Luckily, there are plenty of delicious substitutes out there.
Here are our top 5 picks:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The 5 Best Substitutes for Mozzarella Cheese

Ingredients
- Cheddar Cheese
- Gouda Cheese
- Edam Cheese
- Provolone Cheese
- Fontina Cheese
Instructions
- Pick your favorite substitute from the list above.
- Follow cooking directions for your selected substitute with the proper ratio of ingredients.