Gruyère is nutty, it’s complex, and it melts like a dream. But hey, we’ve all had that moment—you open the fridge and realize you’re fresh out. Or maybe you’re just in the mood to mix things up a bit. No worries!
Finding the right stand-in for Gruyère is all about knowing what makes it tick. It’s not just about flavor but also how that cheese is going to behave when the heat is on. Trust me, the cheese you pick is going to make or break that dish you’re whipping up.
In this guide, I’ve got a lineup of cheeses that bring their personality to the table and know how to step in for Gruyère when the occasion calls for it.
Comté
Comté is like the sophisticated cousin of Gruyère from the Jura Mountains of France. It’s the type of cheese that knows how to make an entrance, whether you’re grating it over a casserole or letting it shine in a cheese board.
It’s got that nutty, slightly sweet flavor that makes you think, “Whoa, this is what I’ve been missing!”
When it comes to melting, Comté has a moderate melting point, which means it won’t turn into a greasy mess when heated. This makes it perfect for recipes where you’d typically use Gruyère, like in a creamy sauce for pasta or French onion soup.
As for best uses, Comté shines in fondues, casseroles, and quiches. It grates easily, so you can effortlessly incorporate it into a variety of dishes. Whether you’re melting it into a sauce or featuring it on a cheese board, Comté is a versatile and delicious substitute for Gruyère.
Emmental
Emmental is a Swiss cheese known for its characteristic holes and mild, nutty flavor. It’s less intense than Gruyère but still packs a lot of flavor. So, if you’re after that classic Swiss cheese vibe but want something a bit milder, Emmental is a solid choice.
Emmental has a lower melting point than Gruyère, making it ideal for dishes that call for a smooth, velvety texture. Think of it as the perfect candidate for a gooey grilled cheese sandwich or a silky cheese sauce for veggies.
In terms of best uses as a Gruyère substitute, Emmental is a champ in fondues and melts beautifully in baked dishes like casseroles and gratins. It slices like a dream, making it a breeze to use in sandwiches or even to cube for a snack.
So, if you’re in a Gruyère-less situation, Emmental has got you covered. It’s versatile, easy to work with, and downright tasty.
American Swiss Cheese
American Swiss Cheese is the friendly neighbor of the cheese world. It’s familiar, easy to find, and offers a milder, buttery twist on traditional Swiss flavors.
If you’re in a pinch and need a Gruyère substitute that’s both accessible and budget-friendly, American Swiss is a solid pick.
When it comes to melting, American Swiss also has a lower melting point, making it a go-to for ooey-gooey dishes. It’s the cheese you want for a quick, creamy mac ‘n’ cheese or a comforting tuna melt.
For best uses, American Swiss is a hit in sandwiches and wraps, thanks to its mild flavor and excellent meltability. It’s also a good choice for casseroles and skillet dishes where you want the cheese to blend well with other ingredients without overpowering them.
So, if you’re looking for a Gruyère substitute that’s easy on the wallet and readily available, American Swiss has got your back.
Jarlsberg
Jarlsberg comes from Norway and is often described as a cross between Emmental and Gruyère but with a slightly sweeter, nuttier flavor. It’s the cheese you reach for when you want to add a touch of Scandinavian flair to your dishes.
Jarlsberg is a must-try if you’re a fan of Gruyère’s nuttiness but are open to a sweeter undertone.
When it comes to melting, Jarlsberg is no slouch. It has a moderate to low melting point, making it versatile in the kitchen. It’s the cheese you want for a luscious cheese sauce or a mouthwatering cheese pull in a hot sandwich.
As for its best uses, Jarlsberg is a star in both cold and hot dishes. It’s fantastic in salads and cold sandwiches due to its distinct, yet not overpowering, flavor. When it comes to hot dishes, it melts into a creamy, dreamy consistency, making it ideal for quiches, casseroles, and even pizza.
If you’re looking to switch up your Gruyère game, Jarlsberg offers a sweet, nutty alternative that’s hard to resist.
Fontina
Fontina is the Italian answer to your Gruyère cravings. Originating from the Aosta Valley, this cheese brings a rich, earthy flavor with a hint of mushrooms.
Melting is Fontina’s forte. With a low melting point, this cheese turns into a gooey melt-in-your-mouth experience, like a creamy risotto or a velvety Alfredo sauce.
When it comes to best uses, Fontina is a knockout in Italian dishes. Its earthy flavor complements pasta sauces, risotto, and stuffed pastries. It’s also a great choice for grilled sandwiches and paninis, where its melting prowess can really shine.
If you’re aiming to give your dish a touch of Italian elegance as a Gruyère alternative, Fontina is a top-notch choice.
Butterkäse
Butterkäse, or “butter cheese,” is a German gem that lives up to its name. With a buttery, mild flavor and a silky-smooth texture, it’s a cheese that’s hard not to love.
When it comes to melting, Butterkäse turns into a creamy, luscious pool when heated. This makes it a prime choice for dishes that call for a velvety, smooth texture, like a cheese dip or a creamy potato gratin.
It’s mild enough to be a snacking cheese, yet it has the melting qualities that make it excellent in hot dishes. It’s particularly good in German and Eastern European recipes, such as spaetzle or pierogi.
If you’re looking for a Gruyère substitute that offers a milder, buttery twist, Butterkäse is a delightful choice.
Graviera
Graviera is Greece’s answer to the Gruyère dilemma. This cheese is typically made from sheep’s milk or a mix of sheep and goat’s milk, giving it a slightly sweet, nutty flavor with a hint of caramel.
Graviera is a worthy contender if you’re looking to venture outside the Swiss-French cheese realm and bring some Mediterranean flair to your dish.
In the melting department, Graviera holds its own. Its moderate melting point makes it a reliable choice for recipes that require a good melt but not a liquid consistency. It’s the cheese you want when making a Greek-style lasagna (pastitsio) or a hearty moussaka.
Graviera works well in both hot and cold dishes. It’s excellent when grated over pasta or used in a Greek pie like spanakopita. It also pairs beautifully with fruits and nuts, making it a great addition to a Mediterranean cheese board.
Graviera is a top pick if you’re looking for a Gruyère substitute with a touch of Greek elegance.
Gruyère Cheese Substitute FAQs
What cheese is closest to Gruyère?
Comté is the closest to Gruyère due to its similar nutty flavor and melting characteristics. They both share a rich taste profile. Their textures are also quite alike, making Comté a top substitute choice.
Can I substitute Asiago for Gruyère cheese?
Yes, Asiago can be a substitute, especially the aged version, for a firmer texture. However, Asiago has a stronger, tangier flavor. It might alter the taste profile of your dish slightly.
Why is Gruyère so expensive?
Gruyère’s cost is due to its traditional Swiss-making process. The high-quality, unpasteurized milk and long aging process contribute to its price. Its unique flavor and texture make it a sought-after cheese, justifying the cost.
What Is The Best Substitute For Gruyère Cheese?
When choosing a substitute for Gruyère, consider the flavor, texture, and melting qualities you desire. Each substitute brings a unique taste and cost factor to the table.
American Swiss and Emmental are budget-friendly with mild flavors, while Comté and Fontina offer a richer taste experience. Jarlsberg finds a middle ground with a sweet, nutty flavor.
The journey through these cheese substitutes not only solves your immediate need but opens the doors to exploring a variety of cheese options in your cooking adventures.
