12 Best Gruyere Cheese Substitutes
on Apr 08, 2022
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Originally from Switzerland, Gruyère cheese is prized for its nutty flavor and creamy semi-hard texture. It can be enjoyed in sandwiches, soups, and on charcuterie boards. If you find yourself out of Gruyère or sourcing it has proved to be a challenge, there are other cheeses you can use in its place.
Today we’re sharing 12 of the best Gruyère cheese substitutes.
What Is Gruyère?
Gruyère is named after the town of Gruyères, Switzerland, which is where it originated. It has a tough rind that cannot be eaten and a distinctive flavor that comes from the milk of the cows that graze on the foothills of the Swiss Alps.
What Does Gruyère Taste Like?
Aged Gruyère is creamy and has a distinctive earthy flavor. Younger Gruyère is also creamy in texture, and has a mild nutty flavor.
Best Gruyère Cheese Substitutes
There are many kinds of delicious cheese that can be used in place of Gruyère. Choose a substitute based on what you’re making. Some cheeses are better for melting, while others are best enjoyed in sandwiches or on charcuterie boards. All of the options below can be used at a ratio of 1:1.
Swiss Cheese
The Swiss cheese you see in supermarkets and delis is actually an American cheese. It has a nutty flavor that’s similar to Gruyère but the overall flavor is quite different. This cheese is best used in cold sandwiches or on charcuterie boards.
Gouda Cheese
This semi-hard cheese has a creamy texture but the flavor is quite different to Gruyère. It’s a good choice in recipes that call for soft or melted cheese.
Jarlsberg Cheese
Jarlsberg is a Swiss cheese that has a flavor similar to Gruyère. It is slightly milder and sweeter in taste. Jarlsberg is easy to source and is quite economical.
Fontina Cheese
This Italian cheese has a nutty flavor and texture that’s similar to Gruyère, as well as provolone, and emmental cheese.
White Cheddar
If you prefer the sharp taste of white cheddar to Gruyère, go ahead and use it in your recipe. White cheddar is delicious melted, in sandwiches, and on cheese boards.
Engelberg Cheddar Cheese
Engelberg is a Swiss cheese that is very similar to the flavor of Gruyère. This cheese would be a particularly good option for recipes that call for aged Gruyère cheese but can be used as a substitute for young Gruyère as well.
L’etivaz Cheese
This cheese can be a challenge to source because it isn’t produced year-round. It has an earthy flavor that also has a hint of smokiness.
Raclette Cheese
Raclette is a Swiss cheese that has a nutty flavor that’s similar to Gruyère. There are several varieties of Raclette; some that may be saltier, have fruity notes, or have a stronger taste than Gruyère.
Maasdam Cheese
Maasdam is a semi-hard Dutch cheese. It has a flavor that’s similar to Gruyère but is quite different in texture. It can replace Gruyère in just about any recipe.
Edam Cheese
Edam is a Dutch cheese that has a similar color and flavor to Gruyère. It is milder than Gruyère, so is a good choice if you prefer a cheese with a subtler flavor.
Le Brouere Cheese
Le Brouere is a French cheese that’s often used to make quiche. It has an earthy and nutty flavor that’s similar to aged Gruyère, and a creamy buttery texture.
Wensleydale Cheese
If you’re making a fondue, Wensleydale is both an economical and excellent choice. Be sure to select plain Wensleydale, as there are some varieties that have added fruit.
Ways to Use Gruyere Cheese
Gruyère is a versatile cheese that can be enjoyed cold on a charcuterie board, melted on French onion soup, tucked into a sandwich, or used in a fondue. It is also a great choice for creamy sauces and in macaroni & cheese!
How to Substitute Gruyere Cheese
Ingredients
- 1 oz Swiss cheese
- Optional other gruyere cheese substitutes
Instructions
- Use Swiss cheese or other substitutes to replace Gruyere cheese according to recipe instructions.
Nutrition information provided is an estimate only and will vary based on ingredient brands and cooking methods used.
