Fontina cheese, beloved for its robust flavor and creamy texture, can add richness to any dish. Substituting another cheese carries with it some risks; however, many other kinds of cheese have the right flavor profile and texture to make a great replacement.
Whether you’re putting together a classic salad or decadent macaroni and cheese, we have some delicious ideas that will help you create an amazing meal without sacrificing the unique qualities of Fontina cheese.
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16 Substitute for Fontina Cheese
The best substitute for fontina cheese are emmental and cheddar. You can also use gruyere, edam, and gouda as fontina cheese substitute.
Whatever the recipe calls for, these delicious and flavorful alternatives are sure to take your dish to the next level!
1. Emmental
If you’re a cheese lover and your grocery store doesn’t carry fontina cheese, be sure to check the deli section for Emmental. This versatile cheese can be used in a variety of dishes – from pasta dishes to fondue.
It’s also a good substitute for fontina cheese in most recipes, with just a few adjustments. Best served fresh and melted, Emmental is definitely one cheesy treat that you don’t want to miss out on!
Its popularity extends beyond Switzerland though; it is enjoyed all over Europe and even North America. Be sure not to fall for any fake Emmental cheeses though – they might look similar but are often of low quality.
2. Gruyere
If you’re looking for a cheese that has a strong flavor and odor, Fontina is the one to go for. However, if you’re looking for a cheese that’s milder in taste with a nutty flavor, try using Gruyere instead.
Both kinds of cheese are similar in texture and flavor – it really comes down to personal preference. Gruyere can be used in pasta dishes as well as risotto or other creamy dishes – it offers great versatility.
Though it may be more expensive than some of the lower-quality fontina out there, quality Gruyere will definitely deliver on its promises of deliciousness and nutty flavor! Make sure to store your cheese in an airtight container so it retains its aroma and flavors.
3. Edam
If you are looking for a cheese substitute that is similar in taste and texture to fontina cheese, edam is a good option to try out. It has a similar texture and flavor to fontina cheese, so it can be used in many recipes.
Additionally, it is a good source of protein and calcium.
If you are hosting a party or having friends over for dinner, edam can be a perfect choice – it goes well with both savory dishes and sweet ones!
4. Parmesan
Parmesan is a type of hard cheese that comes from the Parma region in Italy. It is similar to Fontina but has a stronger taste and can be grated or shaved. There are many types of Parmesan, but the best one to use is grana padano.
If you can’t find it, then try pecorino or romano – they are all good substitutes for Parmesan. Make sure you buy the right kind of cheese – not just any old grocery store brand Parmesan will do!
Best used in dishes such as pasta sauces, risotto etcetera., Parmesan should last around two weeks once opened so it’s important to keep it stored properly in a cool place.
5. Cheddar
Cheese is a delicious thing and cheddar cheese is one of the best. It’s a cheese that can replace fontina, it has a similar texture and flavor, and it’s milder than other cheeses, making it good for salads or pizza – in addition to being great on its own!
When buying cheddar cheese, make sure to buy a good quality product as it doesn’t come cheap. Also, be aware that it ought to be served at room temperature or slightly chilled.
Finally, don’t forget about pairing it with different flavors for an even more delightful experience!
6. Mozzarella
Mozzarella cheese is a substitute for fontina cheese. It has a similar texture, flavor, and aroma to fontina cheese, so it can be used in any dish that calls for fontina cheese.
Make sure to use the same type of mozzarella for the best results – you don’t want it to be too soft or too hard.
Mozzarella is also versatile – you can use it in salads, pasta dishes, or even pizza. If you’re looking for firmer cheese with more of a bite, try Fontina instead of mozzarella. However, both kinds of cheese are great in recipes!
7. Provolone
If you’re looking for a cheese substitute that is similar in taste and texture to fontina cheese but less expensive, provolone is the perfect option! It can be used in pasta dishes or as part of a sandwich – making it a versatile choice for any meal.
Another great thing about provolone is that it can be used in salads, pasta dishes, or as a standalone cheese dish. If you are looking for something different to try, provolone should definitely be at the top of your list!
Just make sure to store it properly – refrigerated and protected from light so that it maintains its flavor and consistency.
8. Gouda
If you’re looking for a cheese substitute that has a melt-in-your-mouth texture and flavor, gouda is a great option. It’s also easy to find and has a similar taste to fontina cheese – so it will be hard to tell the difference in most cases.
Using high-quality gouda makes the substitution even more delicious, as it brings out all of its distinctive flavors. You can use it in salads, pasta dishes, or anywhere else that fontina cheese would be appropriate.
So if you’re ever stuck on what cheese to buy at the store, gouda should definitely be at the top of your list!
9. Vacherin
If you’re a cheese lover, it’s time to add Vacherin cheese to your list. This hard cheese is similar in taste and texture to Fontina – making it a great substitute for those who can’t have cow’s milk.
Besides its versatile use in dishes, Vacherin makes a delicious cheese alternative for people with dairy intolerances or other food allergies. Additionally, it has a creamy consistency and mild flavor that goes well with many ingredients – from salads and pasta dishes to sandwiches and pizzas!
Since this cheese doesn’t spoil easily, make sure you buy it fresh so that you can enjoy optimum flavor every time you eat it. And if slicing or chopping becomes too difficult for some reason (usually the older the cheese gets), simply store it in the fridge instead.
10. Feta
If you love cheese, then it’s time to add feta to your list. This type of cheese is made from sheep’s milk and can be substituted for fontina cheese in most dishes.
It has a slightly firmer texture and a milder flavor than fontina; it also tends to be less expensive. Feta is perfect for salads, pasta dishes, and pizza toppings.
Make sure the feta you buy is stored properly – in the fridge and away from light – so that it retains its flavor and consistency over time.
11. Munster
Munster cheese is a type of cheese that has a similar flavor and texture to fontina cheese. It is a cow’s milk cheese, meaning it is made from milk that has been taken from cows that have been fed grass rather than grains.
Munster cheese has a stronger flavor than fontina cheese, so it might be better suited for those who prefer cheeses with more pronounced flavors. It can be used in salads, pasta dishes, or as part of dessert menus – making it an ideal choice for those with different dietary requirements.
It also works well in recipes calling for fontina cheese – such as macaroni and Cheese! Store munster properly so you can enjoy its delicious taste and creamy texture longer – either in the fridge or at room temperature.
12. Roquefort
If you’re looking for a cheese alternative, Roquefort is a good option to try. It has a similar taste and texture to fontina cheese, so it will be a good substitute for some people.
The downside is that it is not as widely available as fontina cheese, so it might be hard to find in some areas.
However, if you can find it, roquefort is definitely worth trying out! Its stronger flavor will add an extra layer of flavor to your dishes and its unique blue color makes it visually appealing too
13. Taleggio
Taleggio cheese is a hard cheese that can be substituted for fontina cheese in most recipes. It has a slightly stronger taste and can be used as a substitute for fontina cheese in most dishes.
It can be used in pasta, pizza, salads etcetera. Best served fresh or aged – around 3-6 months old.
It is available in most supermarkets and specialty stores across the country
14. Montasio
One of the greatest options if you want to imitate Fontina’s flavor and texture is Montasio, which has many similarities to Fontina.
There are a few negatives, though. You might have trouble locating Montasio cheese if you’re looking for a Fontina cheese substitute because it isn’t offered where you live. Most frequently, you may find Montasio in the same delis or specialty stores as Fontina.
Montasio also has the disadvantage of having a high fat and calorie content, making it a poor replacement if you’re seeking for a low fat option.
That being said, the next time you want to try something a little different, we highly suggest Montasio as an alternative for Fontina if you can locate it.
15. Havarti
If you’re looking for a cheese that is similar in taste and texture to fontina, try havarti. It’s also available in blue and gouda varieties so there’s sure to be a flavor variation suited to your taste.
The best way to cook it is by melting it and then pouring it over pasta or vegetables – this will give it a creamy consistency. Havarti can be used in dishes like lasagna or carbonara sauce, making it an ideal cheese for many occasions.
Make sure you purchase havarti from a reputable source – not all stores carry it!
16. Bel Paese
If you are a cheese lover, it is definitely worth checking out Bel Paese. This hard cheese comes from the region of Abruzzo in Italy and is often difficult to find a substitute for. However, unlike other types of cheese like Fontina, it doesn’t have quite as much of a following.
That said, it still has loyal fans who swear by its unique flavor profile and versatile cooking applications. Bel Paese can be used in pasta dishes or as an appetizer – depending on your taste preferences!
It pairs well with red wine or fruit salsas making it a perfect addition to any meal. Just make sure you store it properly so that it lasts longer than two weeks in the fridge – otherwise you might go through some cheese withdrawal symptoms!
How Does Fontina Cheese Taste Like?
Fontina cheese is a mildly buttery, nutty semi-soft cow’s cheese. Fontina manufactured in the Valle d’Aosta, Italy—the cheese’s original region—is usually a little bit more pungent than those made in the United States, France, or other parts of Italy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What can you use in place of fontina cheese?
Many people love fontina cheese but find it difficult to replace it in their diet. If this is the case for you, then you can use gouda, cheddar, or swiss cheese as a substitute. All of these cheeses are high in calcium and protein content which makes them great substitutes for fontina cheese.
2. Can I substitute mozzarella for fontina cheese?
Sure, you can substitute mozzarella cheese for fontina cheese in many recipes. However, fontina cheese is a harder cheese with a stronger flavor and can be used in dishes where you want to add a richer texture.
So, if you’re looking for an alternative to fontina cheese that won’t set your bank account back too much, then try goat or ricotta cheese instead!
3. Is Fontina cheese similar to provolone?
Another Italian delicacy is among the best substitutes for provolone cheese. The texture of fontina cheese ranges from semi-soft to hard, and it smells buttery, creamy, and nutty. The flavors that fontina contains are similar to provolone’s, in addition to the cheese’s strong texture. Both melting and grating work well with it.
4. Can I substitute cheddar for fontina cheese?
Fontina cheese can be substituted with cheddar while making pizza and sandwiches. In recipes, it is also perfect for salads, pastries, cupcakes, and dips. The best cheddar cheeses, like Fontina cheese, are those that have been aged to develop the requisite rich flavor.
