The 25 Best Substitutes For Goat Cheese
If you’re looking for a delicious alternative to goat cheese, you’ve come to the right place.
Goat cheese is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be used in many dishes, from salads and sandwiches to pizzas and pasta.
It has a unique flavor that adds depth and complexity to any dish.
But not everyone loves the taste of goat cheese or wants it as part of their diet.
That’s why I’ve put together this list of the 25 best substitutes for goat cheese – so you can still enjoy all your favorite recipes without having to use it!
From feta and ricotta cheeses to vegan alternatives like tofu, there are plenty of options out there if you’re looking for something different than goat cheese.
Read Also: Goat Cheese Wine Pairing – The Best Wines for Goat Cheese
What is Goat Cheese?
Goat cheese, also known as chèvre in French, is a type of cheese made from the milk of goats.
It has been enjoyed for centuries and can be found in many cuisines around the world.
Goat cheese has a distinctive flavor profile that varies depending on how it’s aged and prepared.
Fresh goat cheese is mild and slightly tangy with an ultra-creamy texture.
Aged goat cheeses will have more complex flavors, such as nutty or earthy notes.
Goat cheese comes in various shapes and sizes, ranging from soft to hard varieties that are cured for months at a time.
Soft goat cheeses tend to be wetter than their harder counterparts which makes them ideal for spreading over bread or crackers.
Harder varieties can be grated over salads or added to dishes like lasagna or pizza for extra flavor and texture.
What really sets goat cheese apart from other types of dairy products is its ability to pair beautifully with sweet ingredients like honey or fruit compote as well as savory ingredients like herbs, nuts, olives, garlic, and onions—making it incredibly versatile when used in cooking!
The 25 Best Substitutes For Goat Cheese
Goat cheese is a delicious, creamy cheese that can be used in many recipes.
But if you don’t have it on hand, there are plenty of substitutes out there.
Here we look at twenty-five great options for when you don’t have goat cheese:
1 – Feta Cheese
Feta cheese is a type of brined curd cheese made from sheep or goat milk.
It has a crumbly texture and salty, tangy flavor that can be used in both savory and sweet dishes.
Feta cheese is an excellent substitute for goat cheese due to its similar creamy yet crumbly texture, as well as its sharpness and saltiness.
This makes it ideal for salads, pizzas, omelets, sandwiches, dips, pastries, and more.
For example, feta can be used to make Greek-style spanakopita pies with spinach and herbs; Mediterranean-inspired flatbreads topped with tomatoes and olives; or even a simple salad of lettuce leaves drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with feta cubes.
2 – Ricotta Cheese
Ricotta cheese is a creamy, mild-tasting Italian cheese made from whey.
It has a slightly grainy texture and is often used in lasagnas, cannelloni, and other baked dishes.
Ricotta can be used to create creamy sauces or fillings that are both savory and sweet.
For example, it can be blended with herbs and spices to make a flavorful spread for crostini or mixed with honey and nuts as an indulgent topping for pancakes or waffles.
Ricotta also makes an excellent filling for ravioli or stuffed shells.
Additionally, ricotta can be combined with lemon zest and sugar to create a light yet satisfying dessert – perfect when served over fresh berries or cake slices!
3 – Cream Cheese
Cream cheese is a soft, spreadable cheese that can be used as a replacement for goat cheese in many recipes.
It has a mild and creamy flavor with a slightly tangy finish.
Cream cheese is ideal for baking and cooking because it melts easily and adds richness to dishes without overpowering the other flavors.
It also works well in savory or sweet dishes, making it an incredibly versatile ingredient.
Some examples of recipes where cream cheese makes an excellent substitution for goat cheese include macaroni and cheese, quiches, omelets, cheesecakes, dips, sauces, and spreads.
4 – Camembert Cheese
Camembert cheese is a soft, creamy cheese made from cow’s milk.
It has a mild, earthy flavor with hints of mushrooms and nuts.
The texture is smooth and buttery, making it ideal for spreading on crackers or toast.
Camembert can be used as an alternative to goat cheese in many recipes.
For example, it can be added to salads for a creamy boost of flavor or melted over vegetables for an extra layer of richness.
It also pairs well with fruits like apples and pears, making it perfect for desserts like tarts or crostatas.
Finally, Camembert is great when baked into savory dishes such as quiches or gratins – just make sure to add some herbs and spices to really bring out the flavor!
5 – Brie Cheese
Brie cheese is a soft, creamy cow’s milk cheese that originates from France.
It has a mild, buttery flavor with earthy notes and a slightly salty finish.
The texture of brie is smooth and velvety, making it ideal for melting into sauces or spreading onto crackers.
When substituting brie for goat cheese in recipes, keep in mind that its creaminess will add richness to dishes without the tanginess of goat cheese.
Brie can be used as an ingredient in quiches and omelets, melted over roasted vegetables or grilled meats, or added to sandwiches and salads for extra flavor.
It also pairs well with fruits like apples and pears for sweet-savory combinations.
6 – Labneh
Labneh is a soft cheese made from strained yogurt that has a creamy texture and mild flavor.
It’s popular in Middle Eastern cuisine, where it’s used as a dip or spread.
Labneh can be an excellent replacement for goat cheese when making dishes like salads, sandwiches, and pizzas.
The tangy taste of labneh pairs well with sweet ingredients like honey, figs, apricots, and dates.
It also adds richness to savory recipes such as roasted vegetables or grilled meats.
For example, you could make a delicious salad with labneh by combining it with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion slices, and olives on top of mixed greens.
Or try using it in place of goat cheese on your favorite pizza recipe for an extra zing of flavor!
7 – Mascarpone cheese
Mascarpone cheese is a creamy Italian cheese made from cream and citric acid.
It has a mild, almost sweet flavor with hints of butter and tanginess.
This soft, spreadable cheese can be used in both savory and sweet dishes.
Try using mascarpone in place of goat cheese to make creamy pasta sauces or as a topping for bruschetta or crostini. It also works well in desserts like cheesecake or tiramisu.
For a decadent breakfast treat, try spreading mascarpone on toast topped with slices of fresh fruit like peaches or strawberries.
You could even use it to make your own homemade ricotta by combining it with milk and lemon juice!
8 – Tofu
Tofu is a versatile and nutritious food made from soybeans that can be used as an alternative to goat cheese.
It is high in protein, low in fat, and contains no cholesterol.
Tofu has a mild flavor that makes it ideal for absorbing other flavors, so it can easily be seasoned with spices or herbs to create unique dishes.
When substituting tofu for goat cheese, you may need to adjust the texture of the dish by crumbling the tofu into small pieces or blending it until creamy.
Some recipes where this would work well include vegan lasagna, quiche, macaroni and cheese, stuffed mushrooms, and grilled sandwiches.
9 – Blue cheese
Blue cheese is a type of cheese made from cow’s milk that is aged with cultures of Penicillium mold.
It has a strong, sharp flavor and creamy texture that makes it perfect for adding depth to salads, sandwiches, and sauces.
When substituting blue cheese for goat cheese in recipes, you can expect the same creaminess but with a more pungent flavor.
Blue cheese pairs well with sweet ingredients like honey or figs and can be used as a topping on pizza or burgers.
It also works great when melted into pasta dishes or added to salads for an extra kick of flavor.
Some examples of recipes where blue cheese would be ideal are Blue Cheese Wedge Salad; Grilled Steak with Blue Cheese Butter; Roasted Beet Salad with Arugula & Blue Cheese; and Baked Macaroni & Cheese with Bacon & Blue Cheese.
10 – Cottage cheese
Cottage cheese is a great substitute for goat cheese in many recipes.
It has a mild, slightly tangy flavor and creamy texture that works well in both savory and sweet dishes.
Cottage cheese can be used as a topping on salads, added to omelets or frittatas, stirred into soups or sauces, blended into smoothies and baked goods, or even served with fresh fruit for dessert.
- For example, you could use cottage cheese instead of goat cheese in an eggplant parmesan dish by layering slices of eggplant with tomato sauce and cottage cheese before baking it until golden brown.
- You could also make a delicious breakfast burrito by filling a tortilla with scrambled eggs, black beans, salsa, and cottage cheese before rolling it up and serving it warm.
- Finally, you could mix cottage cheese with honey or maple syrup for an easy no-bake cheesecake filling – simply spread the mixture over graham cracker crumbs for the perfect summertime treat!
11 – Fromage blanc cheese
Fromage blanc is a soft, creamy cheese made from cow’s milk.
It has a mild flavor and velvety texture that makes it an ideal replacement for goat cheese in recipes.
Fromage blanc can be used to make dips, spread on sandwiches or toast, and stirred into sauces.
It also works well as a topping for salads or pasta dishes.
It pairs nicely with fresh herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme as well as sweet ingredients like honey and jam.
Some great recipes where fromage blanc would be ideal include a roasted vegetable tart with fromage blanc sauce, mushroom risotto topped with fromage blanc shavings, or grilled chicken breasts served with a creamy fromage blanc sauce.
12 – Greek yogurt
Greek yogurt is a thick and creamy dairy product made from strained cow’s milk.
It has a tart flavor and a smooth texture, making it an ideal substitute for goat cheese in recipes.
Greek yogurt can be used as a topping on salads or tacos, as well as in dips, sauces, and dressings.
It is also great for baking since it adds moisture to cakes and muffins while providing subtle tangy notes.
For example, Greek yogurt can be substituted for goat cheese in spanakopita or quiche recipes to create lighter versions of these classic dishes.
It can also be used instead of cream cheese in cheesecakes or blended with fresh herbs to make flavorful spreads.
13 – Parmesan
Parmesan cheese is an Italian hard cheese that has a nutty, salty flavor and a granular texture.
It is made from cow’s milk and aged for at least 12 months, giving it its signature sharpness.
Parmesan can be used as a substitute for goat cheese in recipes such as salads, pasta dishes, or pizzas.
The strong taste of Parmesan will add depth to any dish without overpowering the other flavors.
For example, you could use grated Parmesan on top of roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts to give them an extra kick of flavor.
You could also sprinkle some over your favorite pasta dish with tomatoes and basil for added richness and umami.
Finally, you can use Parmesan instead of goat cheese when making pizza – the salty notes will perfectly complement the sweetness of tomato sauce and herbs!
14 – Emmental
Emmental is a Swiss cheese with a mild, nutty flavor and creamy texture.
It’s made from cow’s milk and aged for several months before being sold.
The holes in the cheese are formed by carbon dioxide gas bubbles produced during the aging process.
Emmental can be used as an alternative to goat cheese in recipes that call for a soft, creamy cheese such as quiches, gratins, or salads.
It also pairs well with fruits like apples or pears and nuts like walnuts or almonds.
For a savory dish, try making Emmental-stuffed mushrooms – simply mix together crumbled Emmental with garlic, parsley, and breadcrumbs and stuff into mushroom caps before baking until golden brown.
You could also make an Emmental tartine – top slices of rustic bread with melted Emmental cheese, caramelized onions and roasted red peppers for a delicious snack!
15 – Manchego cheese
Manchego cheese is a Spanish sheep’s milk cheese that has been aged for at least two months.
It has a firm, creamy texture and nutty flavor, making it an excellent substitute for goat cheese in recipes.
Manchego can be used in both savory and sweet dishes, from salads to desserts.
For example, it pairs well with fruits like apples or pears, as well as nuts and honey.
It also adds a unique flavor to quiches and omelets.
Manchego is an ideal addition to grilled sandwiches or paninis too – try adding thin slices of the cheese along with some spinach leaves for an extra special touch!
16 – Camembert
Camembert is a soft, creamy cheese made from cow’s milk that has a rich and buttery flavor.
It originated in Normandy, France, and is known for its white bloomy rind.
The texture of Camembert can be compared to that of goat cheese – it’s smooth and spreadable with a slightly tangy taste.
When substituting Camembert for goat cheese in recipes, it may require some adjustments in terms of cooking time or temperature as the two cheeses have different melting points.
Camembert pairs well with fresh fruits like apples or pears as well as nuts such as walnuts or hazelnuts. It also makes an excellent addition to salads or tarts.
For those looking to get creative with their cooking, try using Camembert instead of goat cheese in recipes like baked brie en croute, quiche lorraine, and roasted vegetable tartlets!
17 – Cheddar
Cheddar is a hard cow’s milk cheese that has a sharp, tangy flavor.
It is one of the most popular cheeses in the world and can be found in many different varieties, from mild to extra-sharp.
Cheddar can make an excellent alternative to goat cheese when it comes to recipes.
The creamy texture and savory flavor of cheddar will add depth and complexity to dishes like macaroni and cheese, quiches, and even pizzas.
For example, you could use cheddar instead of goat cheese in a spinach quiche or macaroni and cheese dish for added richness.
You could also incorporate it into pizza recipes by adding shredded cheddar on top before baking it in the oven.
18 – Mozzarella
Mozzarella is a mild, soft cheese that’s made from cow’s milk.
It has a creamy texture and delicate flavor that makes it ideal for melting over pizzas, pastas, and salads.
This cheese is also great for making sandwiches or paninis because of its high moisture content.
When substituting mozzarella for goat cheese in recipes, you may need to adjust the seasoning accordingly as the two cheeses have different levels of saltiness.
Examples of recipes where this would be ideal include Caprese salad with balsamic glaze, roasted vegetable lasagna, and pesto pizza with olives and mushrooms.
19 – Pecorino Romano
Pecorino Romano is a hard, salty cheese made from sheep’s milk.
It has a sharp and slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with a variety of dishes.
The texture is firm and crumbly, making it ideal for grating over salads or pastas.
When substituting Pecorino Romano for goat cheese in recipes, you may need to adjust the amount used as it can be saltier than its creamy counterpart.
This cheese would make an excellent addition to grilled vegetables, risotto, or frittatas.
It also makes a great topping on pizzas or flatbreads when melted under the broiler!
20 – Cotija
Cotija is a Mexican-style cheese made from cow’s milk.
It has a salty, crumbly texture and a sharp flavor that makes it perfect for topping tacos or salads.
It can also be used in place of goat cheese in recipes like quesadillas, enchiladas, and pasta dishes.
The salty flavor will add depth to any dish without overpowering other ingredients.
For an easy appetizer, try crumbling Cotija over roasted vegetables or potatoes with olive oil and herbs.
Or sprinkle it on top of your favorite chili recipe for an extra kick of flavor!
Cotija pairs well with fresh fruits like mangoes and strawberries as well as grilled meats like chicken or steak.
Try adding it to your next summer salad for a unique twist on the classic combination of sweet and salty flavors.
21 – Boursin
Boursin is a creamy, spreadable cheese made from cow’s milk.
It has a mild flavor with hints of garlic and herbs like parsley, chives, and tarragon.
This cheese is ideal for spreading on toast or crackers as an appetizer or snack.
It can also be melted over vegetables or used to make sauces for pasta dishes.
When substituting Boursin for goat cheese in recipes, it will provide a similar creaminess but with the added flavor of herbs.
For example, you could use Boursin instead of goat cheese in a frittata or quiche recipe to add more depth to the dish.
You could also use it as a topping on pizzas or mix it into mashed potatoes for extra creaminess and flavor.
22 – Paneer
Paneer is a fresh, unaged cheese made from cow’s milk.
It has a mild flavor and crumbly texture that makes it ideal for use in Indian cuisine.
It can be used as an alternative to goat cheese in many recipes, such as salads or sandwiches.
Paneer also works well when added to curries or sautéed with vegetables.
For a delicious vegetarian dish, try making palak paneer – a curry of spinach and paneer cubes cooked with spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala.
Another popular way to enjoy paneer is by making tikka masala – cubes of paneer marinated in yogurt and spices before being grilled on skewers and served with tomato-based sauce.
Paneer can also be enjoyed in desserts such as rasmalai – dumplings of cottage cheese soaked in sweetened milk flavored with cardamom and saffron.
23 – Queso Fresco
Queso fresco is a mild, crumbly cheese that originated in Mexico and is now popular throughout Latin America.
It has a salty, slightly tangy flavor and creamy texture that makes it ideal for crumbling over salads or tacos.
The cheese can also be melted into sauces or used to top enchiladas, quesadillas, and other Mexican dishes.
When substituting queso fresco for goat cheese, the key is to use it sparingly as its saltiness can overpower dishes if too much is added.
Queso fresco would be ideal in recipes such as stuffed peppers with black beans and corn, spinach-artichoke dip with tortilla chips, or roasted vegetable tacos with avocado cream sauce.
24 – Añejo cheese
Añejo cheese is a Mexican-style cheese made from cow’s milk.
It has a sharp, nutty flavor and a firm texture that makes it ideal for grating or slicing.
Añejo cheese is aged for at least one year, giving it an intense flavor and aroma.
The aging process also gives the cheese its distinctive golden color.
This type of cheese can be used as an alternative to goat cheese in recipes like quesadillas, tacos, enchiladas, salads, pasta dishes, and more.
Its robust flavor pairs well with spicy ingredients such as jalapenos or chorizo sausage.
It can also be melted over nachos or used to top burgers and sandwiches.
Añejo cheese adds depth of flavor to any dish without overpowering other ingredients.
25 – Mató
Mató is a traditional Spanish cheese made from sheep’s milk.
It has a soft, creamy texture and mild flavor that makes it ideal for spreading on toast or crackers.
The cheese is typically served with honey or jam as an appetizer, but can also be used in cooking to add richness to dishes like omelets, quiches, and salads.
Mató works well as a substitute for goat cheese because of its similar texture and mild taste.
It can be crumbled into pasta dishes or melted over grilled vegetables for added flavor.
For a sweet treat, try adding Mató to pancakes or waffles along with fresh fruit and honey for a delicious brunch dish.
FAQ
Is Goat Cheese Healthy?
Goat cheese is an excellent source of healthy fats and proteins, making it a great addition to any balanced diet.
It also contains vitamins and minerals like calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and iron.
Goat cheese has fewer calories than most other cheeses, so it’s a great way to get the nutrition you need without taking in too many calories.
It’s also lower in fat and sodium than cow’s milk cheeses, meaning it can be enjoyed guilt-free as part of a healthy lifestyle.
Plus, goat cheese is easier to digest for some people who have difficulty with cow’s milk products due to its unique composition of fatty acids.
In short, goat cheese is an incredibly nutritious food that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of any balanced diet.
What Does Goat Cheese Taste Like?
Goat cheese has its own distinct flavor.
The taste of goat cheese varies depending on how long it has been aged for, with younger versions having a milder and tangier taste.
Older cheeses tend to have an earthy, almost nutty flavor that develops as the lactose in the milk breaks down over time.
Goat cheese also tends to be slightly salty due to the amount of salt used during the production process.
Overall, goat cheese has a unique combination of creamy texture and sharpness that some people find pleasingly tart while others may find too intense or even bitter.
What Are Some Popular Uses for Goat Cheese?
One of the most popular ways to enjoy goat cheese is spread on crackers or toast as an appetizer.
The acidity and slight sweetness pair well with other flavors like nuts, fruits, and honey.
Goat cheese can also be used in salads for added creaminess and flavor.
Crumbled pieces can be sprinkled over top to add crunchy texture as well as additional flavor.
In addition, goat cheese is often used in cooking recipes such as pizza toppings or omelets, adding more depth and complexity to dishes by providing its unique tanginess.
It can even be included in desserts such as cheesecakes, tarts, or mousses due to its mild yet distinctive taste which complements sweet ingredients nicely.
What Is a Good Vegan Substitute for Goat Cheese?
A good vegan substitute for goat cheese is cashew cheese.
Cashew cheese is made from raw, soaked cashews that are blended until creamy and then mixed with various herbs, spices, and flavorings to create a spreadable cheese-like consistency.
It has a mild flavor that pairs well with salads and other dishes.
Cashew cheese can also be used as an ingredient in many recipes such as lasagna, pizza, Mac and Cheese or even in dips or sandwiches.
This versatile vegan substitute is a great way to add delicious cheesy flavors without having to use any dairy products.
Conclusion
In conclusion, goat cheese is a unique and flavorful ingredient that can be used in many different dishes.
But if you don’t have goat cheese on hand, there are plenty of other options that can provide a great substitute.
The best substitutes for goat cheese are feta cheese, ricotta cheese, cream cheese, camembert cheese, brie cheese, labneh, mascarpone cheese, tofu, blue cheese, cottage cheese, fromage blanc cheese, greek yogurt, parmesan, Emmental, manchego cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, pecorino romano, cotija, Boursin, paneer, queso fresco, and mató.
Using any of these substitutes can help you create delicious and flavorful dishes without the distinctive goat cheese flavor.
The 25 Best Substitutes For Goat Cheese
Ingredients
- Feta Cheese
- Ricotta Cheese
- Cream Cheese
- Camembert Cheese
- Brie Cheese
- Labneh
- Mascarpone cheese
- Tofu
- Blue cheese
- Cottage cheese
- Fromage blanc cheese
- Greek yogurt
- Parmesan
- Emmental
- Manchego cheese
- Camembert
- Cheddar
- Mozzarella
- Pecorino Romano
- Cotija
- Boursin
- Paneer
- Queso Fresco
- Anejo Cheese
- Mató
Instructions
- Pick your favorite substitute from the list above.
- Follow cooking directions for your selected substitute with the proper ratio of ingredients.
Hi, I'm Benjamin. I love cooking, long walks, and my girlfriend! Here you’ll find simple and delicious recipes that you can make in 30 minutes or less.