I vividly remember the first time I ever tried cheese curds. It was love at first bite. The cheese was so creamy and salty, and the texture was just perfect. I could have easily eaten an entire container all by myself.
Unfortunately, cheese curds are not always easy to find. And when I do come across them, they are often quite expensive. That’s why I’ve put together a list of cheese curd substitutes that will help you get your fix without breaking the bank.
So, whether you’re looking for a cheese curd substitute because you can’t find them or because you’re trying to save some money, this list is for you!
We’ll explain the differences and similarities between each one so that you can make an informed decision when it comes to substituting cheese curds in your favorite recipes.
Substitutes for Cheese Curd:
- Feta cheese
- Cottage cheese
- Yogurt
- Ricotta cheese
- Mozzarella
- Vegan cashew cheese
- Cheddar cheese
- High fat sour cream
- Colby cheese
Feta cheese
Fetta cheese is a great substitute for Cheese Curd. It has more salt and is, therefore, more suitable for dishes where you want a little extra flavor.
However, it is not suitable for baked dishes or dishes where you want the cheese to melt, as it will not melt in the same way as Cheese Curd.
But it’s great in salads and on sliders!
And because of its higher salt content, it can help to mask the taste of other ingredients that you may not be so fond of.
The benefits of fetta cheese include gut health and weight management.
Cottage cheese
Looking for a cheese curd substitute that’s easily sourced and won’t break the bank?
Then cottage cheese is your best bet!
This soggier, saltier cousin of ricotta makes for a great swap in dishes calling for cheese curds.
Plus, cottage cheese is packed with calcium, which is essential for maintaining healthy teeth.
So next time you’re craving a grilled cheese sandwich or some cheesy mashed potatoes, reach for the cottage cheese instead of the cheese curds.
Your wallet (and your teeth) will thank you!
Yogurt
Yogurt used as a substitute for Cheese Curd is becoming a popular trade. This full-fat and viscous yogurt can be used as a 1-to-1 replacement for cheese curd.
The main benefits of using the substitute are that it is protein-rich and full of probiotics. Yogurt also alters the taste a bit, making it more unique.
Some dishes prepared using these substitutes are macaroni and cheese, lasagna, enchiladas, quesadillas, grilled cheese sandwiches, and more.
In each dish, the yogurt provides a delicious creamy texture and a boost of health benefits.
Plus, it’s a great way to get your daily dose of probiotics!
Ricotta cheese
So you want to use ricotta cheese as a Cheese Curd substitute?
I say go for it!
This swap is sweeter than cheese curd, so it’s mainly used in desserts. But that’s not to say you can’t get creative with it.
Some awesome dishes you can prepare using ricotta cheese as a Cheese Curd substitute include lasagna, mac and cheese, and even pancakes!
And ricotta cheese isn’t just a delicious Cheese Curd substitute, it’s also good for you.
Ricotta cheese is lower in fat and sodium than Cheese Curd, and it’s a good source of vitamin B12 and riboflavin. So not only will your dishes be tasty, but they’ll also be healthier!
Mozzarella
Mozzarella makes a perfect 1-to-1 replacement for cheese curd.
More potent and flavorful than its milder cousin, mozzarella makes a great substitute for cheese curds in any dish.
Plus, it’s easy to grate, so you can use it as a topping for pizzas, salads, or even pasta dishes.
And since it’s a probiotic food, it’s also great for your gut.
Vegan cashew cheese
Vegan cashew cheese makes a superb replacement for cheese curd!
This delicious cheese can be used as a substitute for cheese curd in a variety of dishes.
Veggie Pizza, anyone?
The great taste and lovable results will have you feeling like a top chef in no time.
Plus, vegan cashew cheese is packed with B vitamins and selenium, making it a great choice for those looking for a nutritious option.
And let’s not forget the fiber! Cashew cheese is an excellent source of fiber, which is essential for a healthy diet.
So go ahead and enjoy your next meal with a delicious vegan cashew cheese substitute.
Your body will thank you for it!
Cheddar cheese
Cheddar cheese is another possible swap for cheese curd.
In fact, this sharp, pungent cheese is a great 1-to-1 alternative to cheese curds and can be used in a variety of dishes.
Cheddar is rich in calcium, which is essential for bone health, and it also contains vitamin K, which helps with blood clotting.
Plus, it’s just plain delicious.
Some dishes that can be prepared with this cheddar cheese substitution include macaroni and cheese, grilled cheese sandwiches, and cheeseburgers.
High-fat sour cream
I’m always looking for new ways to make my cooking more interesting.
So when I found out that you could use high-fat sour cream as a substitute for cheese curd, I was fascinated.
This viscous dairy product is richer in flavor than its cheese curd counterpart, and its array of herb flavors can help boost your digestion.
In addition, high-fat sour cream helps absorb fat-soluble vitamins and minerals, making it a great way to get all the nutrients your body needs.
It’s amazing when used in dips, wraps, and basically, any dish that requires cheese curd.
Colby cheese
Colby cheese is the yummiest cheese around, and it’s perfect for dishes that call for cheese curds.
This robust cheese is packed with vitamin A and minerals, making it a healthy and delicious 1-to-1 alternative to traditional cheese curds.
Plus, Colby cheese provides all the same delicious taste and texture of cheese curds, making it the perfect substitution in any dish.
For example, Colby cheese makes the perfect cheeseburger.
Not only does it add a delicious flavor to the burger, but it also helps to hold the burger together.
FAQ
Which cheese can I use in place of Curd cheese for my cheesecake?
The perfect cheese to use as a cheese curd substitute in cheesecake is ricotta cheese.
Ricotta cheese is milder in flavor than cheese curd, so it won’t overpower the other flavors in your cheesecake.
It’s also higher in fat and lower in moisture, which makes it the perfect consistency for cheesecake.
Plus, ricotta cheese is a good source of protein and calcium.
So not only will your cheesecake be delicious, but it will also be nutritious!
What’s the best cheese to use as a cheese curd substitute in macaroni and cheese?
The best cheese to use as a cheese curd substitute in macaroni and cheese is cheddar cheese.
Cheddar cheese has a strong, sharp flavor that pairs well with the creamy sauce in macaroni and cheese.
It also melts easily and provides a delicious, cheesy texture.
What cheese can I use instead of cheese curds in my nachos?
The best cheese to use as a cheese curd substitute in nachos is Colby cheese.
Colby cheese is a delicious, mild cheese that pairs well with the other flavors in nachos.
It’s also easy to melt and provides a delicious, cheesy texture.
In conclusion
There are a variety of cheese curd substitutes that can be used in an array of dishes.
Each cheese has its own distinctive flavor and character, so it’s important to choose the right cheese for the dish you’re making.
When substituting cheese curds, be sure to use the same amount of cheese as you would cheese curds.
This will ensure that your dish has the same delicious flavor and texture.
Bon appetite cheese lovers!