Do you love the taste of ricotta cheese but can’t have it because you follow a vegan or dairy-free diet? Are you looking for a substitute that tastes just as good?
If so, then you’ve stumbled on the the solution! In this article, we will list 20 different substitutes for ricotta cheese. Then, we’ll explain the differences and similarities between each one and provide the exact ratios to use when substituting.
Plus, we’ll give some examples of how to use these substitutes in your favorite recipes.
Substitutes For Ricotta Cheese:
- Cottage cheese
- Goat cheese
- Sour cheese
- Cream cheese
- Mascarpone
- Parmesan cheese
- Fromage blanc
- Buttermilk cheese
- Pot cheese
- Requeson
- Mozzarella cheese
- Topfen
- Clabber cream
- Paneer
- Brousse
- Bechamel sauce
- Burrata
- Tofu
- Coconut cream
- Soy yogurt
Cottage cheese
Cottage cheese is a versatile and lightweight cheese that can substitute for Ricotta in many recipes. It has a mild flavor that won’t overwhelm other ingredients and is also lower in calories and fat than Ricotta.
Cottage cheese is also a good choice if you’re looking for a cheese that’s easier to digest than Ricotta. When substituting cottage cheese for Ricotta, drain it well first to avoid adding too much moisture to your dish.
Or use less cottage cheese than the recipe requires. This way, you will not ruin the texture of the dish.
Goat cheese
The texture of fresh goat cheese is similar to Ricotta, making it a good choice for dishes where Ricotta is typically used as a filling, such as lasagnas or ravioli.
However, you should note that fresh goat cheese has a milder flavor than Ricotta, so you may need to adjust your seasonings accordingly.
If you’re looking for a stronger flavor, aged goat cheese is a good option. Aged goat cheese has a sharper flavor that can add a nice depth of flavor to dishes.
It’s also worth noting that aged goat cheese is less creamy than fresh goat cheese, so it may not suit all recipes.
Sour cheese
Many people don’t know that sour cheese is a great substitute for Ricotta cheese. It has a slightly different texture, but it’s just as delicious and can be used in all the same dishes. The benefits of using sour cheese instead of Ricotta cheese are numerous.
First, it’s lower in fat and calories, so you can use less than the recipe says. Second, it has a stronger flavor, so you don’t need to use as much. Finally, it’s easier to find and usually cheaper than Ricotta cheese.
Cream cheese
Unlike ricotta cheese, cream cheese is made with milk and cream. These ingredients give the cream cheese a creamy texture.
This cheese is also higher in fat content than ricotta cheese. So, remember that when using it in your dishes. A little goes a long way.
Lastly, due to the difference in ingredients, both the cheeses have slightly different tastes. And hence, cream cheese might not work with every ricotta cheese dish.
Mascarpone
Mascarpone is a popular Italian cheese often used as a substitute for Ricotta cheese. It has a thick, creamy texture and a strong flavor. It is used in both sour cream and sweet dishes.
Mascarpone is made from cream that has been thickened with rennet. The cheese has a high-fat content, which makes it ideal for use in baking and other cooked dishes.
Mascarpone is also a good source of protein and calcium. Ricotta cheese is made from whey, which is a by-product of cheese production. It is excellent for use in sweet dishes, such as cheesecake and tiramisu.
However, you can also use it in savory dishes like lasagna and eggplant Parmesan. When substituting Mascarpone for Ricotta, it is important to keep the ratio of cheese to liquid the same.
Otherwise, the dish may become too runny or too dry. For best results, use equal amounts of Mascarpone and Ricotta cheese.
Parmesan cheese
Hard and mature cheeses like Parmesan are perfect for savory dishes where you want a stronger flavor. Parmesan will give you a more robust flavor.
In addition, Parmesan is a hard cheese that can be grated, while Ricotta is a softer cheese that is typically spooned into dishes. When substituting Parmesan for Ricotta, you may need to adjust the amount you use since Parmesan has a more concentrated flavor.
Ultimately, whether you use Parmesan or Ricotta in your dish depends on your preferences and the flavors you are trying to achieve.
Fromage blanc
Fromage blanc is a type of fresh cheese that originates from France and Belgium. It is made from cow’s milk and has a buttery texture with a slightly tangy flavor.
Unlike Ricotta cheese, Fromage blanc has a very high water content, which makes it ideal for use in sauces and soups. Additionally, Fromage blanc can be used as a healthy alternative to cream cheese or sour cream in dips and spreads.
Thanks to its versatility and excellent flavor, Fromage blanc is a widely used cheese in French and Belgian cuisine.
Buttermilk cheese
Buttermilk cheese is a great substitute for Ricotta cheese. It has a moist and curdled texture and is sweet with a creamy texture.
It also has an acidic taste in savory dishes. However, there are some benefits to using this substitute as a replacement.
- First, it is less expensive than Ricotta cheese.
- Second, it is easier to find in stores.
- Finally, it has a longer shelf life than Ricotta cheese.
Pot cheese
Pot cheese is a soft, crumbly cheese that is drier than Ricotta. Because of this, it needs more moisture when used as a replacement.
To avoid drying out, add yogurt to the pot cheese. This will help keep the pot cheese moist.
Additionally, pot cheese has a higher fat content than Ricotta, so it may require less fat when used in recipes. However, the higher fat content also means that pot cheese is less likely to curdle when exposed to heat.
As a result, it can be a good choice for dishes that are baked or cooked at high temperatures. Overall, pot cheese is a versatile substitute for Ricotta that can be used in many different dishes.
Requeson
Requeson is a type of cheese that is similar to Ricotta. It is made from cow’s milk and has a creamy and moist texture.
Requeson is more spreadable than Ricotta, and it can be used in desserts and baking. The benefits of using requeson as a substitute for Ricotta include its creaminess and moisture.
These qualities make it an ideal cheese for use in desserts and baking. In addition, Requeson’s more spreadable texture makes it easier to use as a replacement for Ricotta in recipes.
When substituting requeson for Ricotta, it is important to note that the cheese will have a slightly different flavor than Ricotta. However, this difference will be undetectable in most cases.
Mozzarella cheese
Mozzarella cheese is a delicious, mild-tasting cheese that can be used as a substitute for Ricotta cheese in many recipes. While Ricotta cheese has a slightly sweeter taste, Mozzarella cheese is more similar in flavor to Ricotta cheese. And can be used interchangeably in many dishes.
Mozzarella cheese is often used in baking pizza and lasagna, as it gives the dish a more cheesy flavor. In addition, Mozzarella cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, making it a healthy choice for those who are looking for a nutritious alternative to Ricotta cheese.
Topfen
Topfen cheese, also known as quark, is a type of cheese that is found in Germany and Austria. It is made from sour milk and has a tangy flavor.
Many people use it as a substitute for Ricotta cheese. For a more tangy flavor, you can use Topfen in cheesecakes, cheese dips, and lasagna.
Clabber cream
Clabber cheese is a type of cheese that is made from unpasteurized sour milk. It has a thick consistency and is often used as a topping on pizzas or other dishes.
While it is not as widely available as Ricotta cheese, it can sometimes be a good substitute.
One benefit of Clabber cheese is that it is less likely to separate when heated, making it ideal for use in sauces or other cooked dishes. In addition, its stronger flavor can add an extra boost of flavor to a dish.
When choosing a substitute for Ricotta cheese, remember that Clabber cheese may not be suitable for all recipes. However, in cases where its unique flavor would be complementary, Clabber cheese can be a great option.
Paneer
Paneer is a traditional Indian cottage cheese that has a strong, dry texture. It can be crumbled and blended into various dishes, making it a versatile substitute for ricotta cheese.
One of the most popular uses for paneer is in pizza. The cheese can be easily shredded and sprinkled over the toppings, providing a delicious and healthy alternative to Ricotta. It is also used in pies, curries, and even desserts.
Paneer is also an excellent source of protein, making it a nutritious choice for those who are looking to add more protein to their diet. As a result, paneer is an ideal substitute for ricotta cheese in both sweet and savory dishes.
Brousse
Brousse cheese is a soft cheese made from goat or sheep milk. It has a similar texture and taste to ricotta cheese, making it a good substitute for Ricotta in baking recipes.
Brousse cheese is lower in fat and calories than Ricotta and is also a good source of protein and calcium. When substituting Brousse for Ricotta, use the same amount of cheese called for in the recipe.
You can find Brousse cheese in specialty food stores or online. And it is usually used in uncooked dishes, like salads.
Bechamel sauce
Although bechamel sauce is not a cheese, it can be used as a substitute for ricotta cheese in many cases. In addition, this white, silky sauce has neutral flavors, making it a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes.
In addition, bechamel sauce is thick and creamy, just like ricotta cheese. As a result, it can be used as a 1:1 replacement in recipes that call for ricotta cheese.
Not only will this substitution save you money, but it will also give your dish a unique flavor.
Burrata
Burrata is a type of Italian cheese that is made with cow’s milk. It has a looser, creamier texture than Ricotta and is solid on the outside.
Burrata can be used as a substitute for Ricotta in many dishes, including lasagna, ravioli, and cannoli. There are several benefits to using Burrata as a substitute for Ricotta.
First, Burrata has a richer flavor than Ricotta, which can give your dish more depth of flavor. Second, Burrata is less likely to curdle when heated, making it a good choice for baked dishes. Finally, Burrata is higher in fat than Ricotta, making your dish more creamy and flavorful.
Tofu
Tofu, also known as Japanese tofu, is an excellent substitute for ricotta cheese. It has a similar taste and texture and can be used in cooked dishes where you would traditionally use Ricotta.
Tofu is also a good source of protein and healthy fats and is low in calories. As a result, it can be a healthy alternative to ricotta cheese for those trying to lose weight or consume fewer calories.
Additionally, tofu is also a good source of calcium and iron, making it a nutrient-rich substitute for ricotta cheese.
Coconut cream
For those looking for a vegan ricotta cheese substitute, coconut cream is a great option. Coconut cream is sweet and creamy, making it a perfect replacement for Ricotta in desserts and dips.
In addition, coconut cream is high in healthy fats and fiber, making it a nutritious alternative to ricotta cheese. So next time you’re looking for a vegan-friendly cheese substitute, reach for the coconut cream.
Soy yogurt
Some recipes may accept using soy yogurt as a substitute for Ricotta cheese. It has a similar consistency and can add moisture and creaminess to dishes. However, it is not suitable for every recipe.
Soy yogurt is thinner and less dense than Ricotta cheese, so it may not work well in dishes that require a firmer texture. Additionally, the flavor of soy yogurt is not as pronounced as Ricotta cheese, so it may be less suitable for dishes where the cheese flavor is an important component.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the vegan ricotta cheese substitute?
Tofu is a great vegan cheese substitute for ricotta cheese. It has a similar taste and texture and can be used in cooked dishes.
What is the ricotta cheese substitute for ravioli?
Cottage cheese is a ricotta cheese substitute for ravioli. It is similar in taste and can be used as a filling. However, cottage cheese has a higher moisture content than ricotta cheese. So, use it wisely.
In conclusion
There are a variety of substitutes for ricotta cheese that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. So whether you’re looking for a vegan-friendly substitute or need a substitute that is low in calories, there is likely an option that will work for you.
If you’re in the mood for a light ricotta cheese dessert, try using one of these ricotta cheese alternatives instead.