Parmesan cheese is a staple in many kitchens, mine included! Its sharp, nutty, and slightly salty flavor enhances pasta dishes, salads, soups, and more. But what if you find yourself without Parmesan or need an alternative for dietary reasons? Don’t worry! Plenty of great substitutes can deliver similar savory and umami flavors. I have curated a list of the best 5 substitutes for Parmesan cheese!
Here are some of my favorite recipes that use Parmesan cheese:
- One Pan Chicken Sausage Orzo – This recipe only requires 6 ingredients!
- Baked Halibut with Lemon Parmesan Panko – Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, takes less than 30 minutes to make!
- Roasted Potatoes and Asparagus with Parmesan – Great side dish for any protein!
- Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta – Delicious and light for a cozy night in!
Table of Contents
Pecorino Romano
Pecorino Romano is one of the best Parmesan cheese substitutes. This Italian cheese is made from sheep’s milk and has a slightly saltier and tangier flavor with a more robust profile. It has a firm texture, perfect for grating over pasta, risotto, or salads. Keep in mind its saltier taste and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Asiago
Asiago cheese comes in two main varieties: fresh (Asiago Pressato) and aged (Asiago d’Allevo). As a substitute for Parmesan, the aged version is the best choice. Aged Asiago has a crumbly texture and a rich, nutty flavor similar to Parmesan, though it can be slightly milder and creamier. Asiago cheese melts well, which makes it an excellent choice for pizza, gratins, and casseroles.
Grana Padano
Grana Padano is another ideal substitute for Parmesan cheese. It is slightly milder, less crumbly, and has a creamier texture. Grana Padano is aged for a shorter period than Parmesan, giving it a subtler flavor that still carries the signature nuttiness and saltiness of Parmesan. This cheese is ideal for grating over pasta, adding to soups, or mixing into risotto.
Manchego
Manchego is a Spanish cheese made from sheep’s milk, known for its distinct buttery and nutty flavor. While it has a different flavor profile than Parmesan, Manchego’s rich taste can add a unique twist to dishes where you might otherwise use Parmesan. It’s good in salads, on cheese boards, or as a topping for baked dishes.
Nutritional Yeast (Vegan & Vegetarian option)
Nutritional yeast is an excellent substitute for Parmesan cheese for those following a vegan or vegetarian diet. This inactive yeast has a nutty, cheesy flavor that closely resembles the taste of Parmesan. You can sprinkle nutritional yeast over pasta, popcorn, and salads or mix it into sauces and soups for a rich, cheesy flavor without any dairy. Nutritional yeast is incredibly versatile since it can be added directly to any dish without melting.
FAQS
Two great substitutes are Grana Padano and Pecorino. Like Parmesan, Grana Padano is made from cow’s milk, but is sweeter and creamier, and has a slightly nutty flavor to it. Pecorino is made from sheep’s milk. It’s noticeably sharper.
Asiago cheese, especially aged Asiago, is a great melting cheese and makes a good Parmesan substitute for classic Italian-American dishes.
Parmesan cheese adds a unique flavor to many dishes, but consider these five alternatives if you’re out of Parmesan or need a dietary substitute. They can provide a similar depth of flavor and texture, offering delicious options for your next meal!
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