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The 15 Best Substitutes For Gruyere Cheese

Gruyere cheese is one of the most popular and versatile cheeses in the world.

Its creamy, nutty flavor makes it a great addition to any dish – from salads to omelets, macaroni and cheese, and even desserts.

But what if you don’t have access to Gruyere?

What are some good substitutes that won’t ruin your recipe?

In this article, I’ll be exploring 15 of the best substitutes for Gruyere cheese.

From Parmesan to Gouda and Cheddar, there are plenty of delicious options available that can give your dishes an extra flavor kick without compromising on taste or texture.

What is Gruyere Cheese?

Gruyere

Gruyere cheese is a type of Swiss cheese that’s named after the Swiss canton of Fribourg, where it originates.

It has an ivory to pale yellow color and its texture ranges from semi-firm to firm.

It is slightly salty, with a nutty but mild flavor that develops as it ages.

Gruyere cheese is made from raw cow’s milk and undergoes several stages before being ready for consumption – including pressing, salting, curing, aging and washing.

The fermentation process can take up to 6 months and requires careful monitoring in order to ensure the desired level of taste and consistency are achieved.

The rind of Gruyere cheese is usually light brown or gray in colour due to the natural molds used during aging which also contribute towards its unique flavour profile.

When melted, Gruyere cheese becomes creamy yet still retains its shape due to its high melting point; this makes it perfect for use in fondue dishes or on top of pizzas and other hot meals!

What Does Gruyère Taste Like?

Gruyère has a sweet, nutty flavor.

It has been aged for several months to give it its distinctive taste and texture, which makes it perfect for melting on top of dishes like fondue or grilled cheese sandwiches.

The texture is slightly firm but creamy in the middle, with small holes throughout.

When melted, it develops an even richer flavor with hints of hazelnut and caramelized onion.

Gruyère pairs well with breads, pastas or other dishes that require an added layer of richness and savory flavor.

The 15 Best Substitutes For Gruyere Cheese

Gruyere cheese is a popular ingredient for many dishes.

Unfortunately, it can be hard to find in some places or simply too expensive for your budget.

Fortunately, there are plenty of alternatives that will still give you the same taste and texture.

Here are fifteen of the best substitutes for Gruyere cheese:

1 – Emmental Cheese

Emmental

Emmental cheese is a semi-hard Swiss cheese with a mild, nutty flavor and a distinctive large-holed texture.

It is an excellent substitute for Gruyere in recipes that call for melted cheese, such as fondue, macaroni and cheese, or quiche.

The subtle sweetness of Emmental pairs well with other ingredients like ham or mushrooms.

Here are some examples of recipes where this swap would be ideal:

  • Fondue – Melt the Emmental into white wine to create a classic Swiss fondue.
  • Macaroni and Cheese – Combine the Emmental with cream and seasonings to make a creamy macaroni dish.
  • Quiche – Layer slices of Emmental between eggs, bacon, and vegetables for an easy quiche recipe.
  • Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – Toast slices of bread with melted Emmental for a delicious sandwich treat.
  • Soufflé – Whisk together egg whites and grated Emmental to make a light and airy soufflé.
  • Pizza – Top a pizza base with Emmental, mushrooms, and ham for a savory meal.

2 – American Swiss Cheese

American Swiss Cheese

American Swiss cheese is a semi-hard yellow cheese with a mild, nutty flavor and slightly sweet taste.

It has a smooth texture and small holes throughout.

This type of cheese melts easily and can be used in many recipes such as grilled sandwiches, macaroni and cheese, quiches, fondues, souffles, omelets and more.

Here are some examples of recipes where this swap would be ideal:

  • Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – Swap out the Gruyere for American Swiss to create creamy melted goodness.
  • Macaroni & Cheese – Use American Swiss instead of Gruyere to bring out the cheesy flavor without overpowering the dish.
  • Quiche Lorraine – Substitute American Swiss for Gruyere to give your quiche a unique twist on traditional flavors.
  • Fondue – Replace the Gruyere with American Swiss for an extra creamy texture that will make your fondue irresistible.
  • Souffles – Swap out the Gruyere for American Swiss for a milder flavor that won’t overpower the other ingredients.
  • Omelets – Change up your traditional omelet with American Swiss for a flavorful, melty surprise.

3 – Fontina Cheese

Fontina

Fontina cheese is a semi-soft cow’s milk cheese with a mild, nutty flavor.

It has an earthy aroma and creamy texture that makes it ideal for melting over dishes or grating over salads.

The two cheeses have similar flavors, though Fontina may be slightly more pungent than Gruyere.

Here are some examples of recipes where this swap would be ideal:

  • Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – replace the Gruyere with Fontina for a gooey, cheesy sandwich.
  • Macaroni and Cheese – add Fontina to your macaroni and cheese dish for extra creaminess and flavor.
  • Quiche Lorraine – use Fontina instead of Gruyere to give your quiche a unique twist!
  • Fondue – melt together equal parts Fontina and white wine for an unforgettable fondue experience!

4 – Beaufort Cheese

Beaufort

Beaufort cheese is a French Alpine cheese made from raw cow’s milk and aged for at least four months.

It has a sweet, nutty flavor with notes of hazelnut and butter that make it an excellent replacement for Gruyere in recipes.

The texture of Beaufort is semi-firm and creamy, making it ideal for grating over dishes or melting into sauces.

It pairs nicely with white wines like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc and can be used to add a depth of flavor to macaroni and cheese, quiches, gratins, souffles, fondues, or even pizza.

For an added touch of sophistication in your cooking, try swapping out the Gruyere for Beaufort – your guests will thank you!

5 – Gouda Cheese

Gouda

Gouda cheese is a semi-hard cow’s milk cheese that originated in the Netherlands.

It has a creamy texture and nutty, slightly sweet flavor.

Gouda can be used as an excellent substitute for Gruyere cheese in recipes such as macaroni and cheese, quiche, grilled sandwiches, and fondue.

Its mild flavor makes it ideal for adding subtle complexity to dishes without overpowering other flavors.

For example, try using Gouda instead of Gruyere when making a classic French onion soup – the sweetness of the Gouda will complement the onions perfectly!

Or use it to make a delicious smoked gouda mashed potatoes – simply boil potatoes until tender, mash with butter and cream then stir in grated Gouda for an extra cheesy kick!

6 – Jarlsberg Cheese

Jarlsberg

Jarlsberg cheese is a semi-soft cow’s milk cheese that originated in Norway.

It has a mild, nutty flavor with a slightly sweet aftertaste and a creamy texture that melts easily.

The holes in the cheese are formed by gas bubbles during the ripening process, giving it its signature look.

Jarlsberg can be used as an excellent replacement for Gruyere cheese when making dishes like macaroni and cheese, quiche Lorraine, or French onion soup.

Its milder flavor won’t overpower other ingredients, while still providing enough complexity to enhance any dish.

This versatile cheese also makes great grilled sandwiches or melted over vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower.

7 – Engelberg Cheddar Cheese

Engelberg cheddar cheese is a semi-hard, Swiss cheese made from cow’s milk.

It has a mild flavor and creamy texture.

The nutty taste of Engelberg pairs well with many dishes, such as macaroni and cheese or quiches.

It can also be used to make fondue or melted over vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower.

For recipes where you’d normally use Gruyere, try replacing it with Engelberg cheddar instead.

The slight sweetness of the cheese will add depth to your dish without overpowering the other flavors in the recipe.

Engelberg cheddar is also great for making grilled sandwiches, adding a delicious cheesy flavor to any meal.

8 – Raclette Cheese

Raclette

Raclette cheese is a semi-hard cow’s milk cheese with a creamy, nutty flavor.

It has a firm texture that melts easily and becomes gooey when heated.

Raclette makes an ideal replacement for Gruyere in recipes such as fondue, quiche, and gratins.

This cheese can also be used to top grilled vegetables or as part of a savory tart crust.

For an easy yet delicious meal, try using raclette in classic dishes like Raclette Fondue or Raclette Grilled Cheese Sandwiches.

These recipes are sure to please any crowd!

9 – Comté Cheese

Comte

Comté cheese is a French cheese made from raw cow’s milk and aged for at least 4 months.

It has a sweet, nutty flavor with notes of caramel, butterscotch, and hazelnut.

The texture is firm yet supple and creamy with small holes throughout the paste.

When substituting Comté for Gruyere in recipes, it will add complexity to dishes like fondue or gratins.

Comté can also be used in place of Gruyere when making quiches or tarts as well as sandwiches and paninis.

For an ideal pairing, try melting Comte over roasted vegetables or serve it alongside cured meats such as prosciutto or salami.

10 – Appenzeller Cheese

Appenzeller Cheese

Appenzeller cheese is a Swiss cheese that has been made for centuries in the Appenzell region of Switzerland.

It is a semi-hard, nutty and fruity cheese with an orange-brown rind that’s washed with brine or white wine and herbs.

Appenzeller can be used as a substitute for Gruyere in recipes like fondue, macaroni and cheese, quiche, and gratins.

For example, it can be melted into a creamy sauce to top vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower; added to omelets for extra flavor; or sprinkled over soups for texture.

The nutty flavor of Appenzeller also pairs well with cured meats such as prosciutto or salami.

It adds depth to dishes like grilled sandwiches and flatbreads when combined with other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella.

11 – Graviera Cheese

Graviera Cheese

Graviera cheese is a hard, semi-sweet Greek cheese made from sheep’s or goat’s milk.

It has a mild flavor with nutty and fruity notes.

The texture of Graviera is firm and slightly crumbly, yet creamy when melted.

This makes it perfect for dishes such as quiches, gratins, and souffles.

It can also be used to top pizzas or sandwiches.

Graviera pairs well with fruits like pears and apples, so try incorporating them into salads or tarts for a delicious meal.

For an easy appetizer idea, stuff mushrooms with Graviera cheese and bake until golden brown – the result is sure to impress!

12 – Le Broure Cheese

Le Brouère is a French cheese from Lorraine that has been produced by the Bulgnéville hermitage dairy in Vosges since the 1800s.

This artisanal cheese is traditionally made in wooden molds that are carved with intricate designs by a master sculptor.

The cheese is typically 43 centimeters in diameter and weighs 12 kilograms. It is aged for 4 to 7 months, allowing the flavor to develop a distinctive nutty, buttery flavor that is similar to that of Gruyère cheese.

Le Brouère cheese makes a delicious addition to fondues, macaroni and cheese, and quiches. It also melts well when used in gratins and casseroles.

For a simple yet delicious snack, Le Brouère can be melted on top of a freshly baked baguette or served with a side of fresh fruits.

13 – Edam cheese

Edam Cheese

Edam cheese is a semi-hard Dutch cheese that has been around since the 13th century.

It has a mild, buttery flavor and a creamy texture that makes it an ideal substitute for Gruyere cheese.

Edam is usually sold in round balls with a red wax coating, though it can also be found pre-shredded or cubed.

The cheese melts easily and can be used to make dishes like macaroni and cheese, quiches, grilled sandwiches, and fondues.

When substituting Edam for Gruyere in recipes, you may need to adjust the amount of salt used as Edam tends to be slightly saltier than Gruyere.

Edam is also great when added to salads or served alongside fruit and crackers as an appetizer.

14 – Parmesan cheese

Parmesan

Parmesan cheese is a hard, dry cheese with a nutty flavor and granular texture.

It’s made from cow’s milk that has been aged for at least two years, resulting in its signature sharp taste.

This cheese is an excellent substitute for Gruyere due to its similarly strong flavor profile.

Parmesan can be used as a topping on salads or pizzas, melted into sauces like Alfredo or Mornay, and grated over pasta dishes to add depth of flavor.

For recipes that call for gruyere such as quiche Lorraine or French onion soup, parmesan can provide the same richness without overpowering the dish.

15 – Kars gravyer cheese

Kars gravyer is a type of cheese that is commonly found in Turkey.

It is made with either pure cow’s milk or a mixture of cow and goat’s milk, and it is usually made into large wheels that weigh 60–70 pounds or more.

Kars gravyer is similar to Gruyère cheese, making it a great substitute if Gruyère cheese is not available. It is a great addition to many dishes, such as macaroni and cheese, quiche, and fondue.

Additionally, it can be used in sandwiches, salads, and other recipes where Gruyère cheese would normally be used.

FAQ

Can I substitute cheddar for Gruyere?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar for Gruyere. Cheddar is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes, and it has a similar texture and flavor to Gruyere. However, it may not have the same level of nuttiness, sweetness and complexity as Gruyere. It also may melt differently. It will depend on the recipe and personal preference.

Can I substitute gouda for Gruyere?

Yes, you can substitute Gouda for Gruyere in most recipes. Both cheeses have a similar nutty and slightly sweet flavor, although Gruyere is typically considered to have a stronger and more complex flavor. Gouda is also a bit softer and creamier than Gruyere, so it may melt a bit more easily. Keep in mind that the final dish may have a slightly different taste and texture depending on the type of Gouda you use.

Can I substitute mozzarella for Gruyere?

Yes, mozzarella can be substituted for Gruyere in many recipes. Mozzarella is a mild, soft cheese with a high moisture content, while Gruyere is a nutty, semi-hard cheese with a lower moisture content. The texture and flavor of the finished dish may be slightly different when using mozzarella instead of Gruyere, but it will still be tasty.

What can I substitute for Gruyere in mac and cheese?

You can substitute other types of cheese for Gruyere in mac and cheese. Some options include cheddar, gouda, or fontina. You can also mix different types of cheese together to create your own unique flavor. Keep in mind that the flavor and melting properties of the substituted cheese may be different from Gruyere.

Conclusion

In conclusion, gruyere cheese is a popular cheese that has a distinct flavor and texture.

If you don’t have gruyere cheese on hand, there are plenty of other cheese types that can be used as a good substitute.

The best substitutes for gruyere cheese are emmental cheese, American Swiss cheese, fontina cheese, Beaufort cheese, gouda cheese, Jarlsberg cheese, Engelberg cheddar cheese, raclette cheese, comté cheese, Appenzeller cheese, graviera cheese, le broure cheese, edam cheese, parmesan cheese, and kars gravyer cheese.

Each of these cheeses has its own unique flavor and texture, and can be used to add a delicious twist to any dish.

No matter what cheese you choose, you can be sure that it will add the perfect amount of flavor and texture to your dish.

Gruyere

The 15 Best Substitutes For Gruyere Cheese

What if you're craving a dish that calls for Gruyere cheese but you don't have any? Don't worry – I've got you covered! In this article, I'm sharing the 15 best substitutes for Gruyere cheese. I'll tell you what each cheese is best suited for, as well as what you can expect in terms of flavor, texture, and cost. With these options, you'll never have to worry about not having the perfect cheese on hand!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Cheese, Substitutes
Cuisine American, Swiss
Servings 4 people
Calories 389 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Emmental Cheese
  • American Swiss Cheese
  • Fontina Cheese
  • Beaufort Cheese
  • Gouda Cheese
  • Jarlsberg Cheese
  • Engelberg Cheddar Cheese
  • Raclette Cheese
  • Comté Cheese
  • Appenzeller Cheese
  • Graviera Cheese
  • Le Broure Cheese
  • Edam cheese
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Kars gravyer cheese

Instructions
 

  • Pick your favorite substitute from the list above.
  • Follow cooking directions for your selected substitute with the proper ratio of ingredients.
CEO at Happy Muncher | benjamin@happymuncher.com | Website | + posts

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.