21 Amazing And Equally Delicious Emmental Cheese Substitutes You Can Try

Emmental cheese is a famous Swiss cheese known for its unique appearance and delightful taste, which is why it often appears in many dishes like cheese fondue.

However, there are certain times when you might not be able to get your hands on Emmental cheese when you need it.

So, having a good substitute for moments like that is always a good idea. Up ahead, you’ll find some really amazing substitutes for Emmental cheese.

What Is Emmental Cheese?

Emmental cheese is a semi-hard swiss cheese made from cow’s milk. This cheese which originated in the Emme river valley region of Switzerland is one of the oldest and most popular cheeses in the swiss and alpine categories of cheese.

Emmental cheese is usually aged for at least four to eight months, but certain varieties are left to age for as long as eighteen months.

Aside from its semi-hard texture, this cheese is also well known for its distinct large holes formed during the aging process.

It has a nutty and buttery flavor and also melts really well. This is why it is a staple ingredient in cheese fondue and other dishes that require a good melting cheese.

It is very versatile and can be used for sandwiches, pasta, sauces, casseroles, egg, or even enjoyed cold as a snack.

Now let’s get into the best substitutes you can use when you don’t have Emmental cheese on hand. 

Quick Table: Emmental Cheese Substitutes

1. Gruyere Cheese

Gruyere is undoubtedly one of the best substitutes you can use in place of Emmental cheese. It is a swiss cheese, just like Emmental, and it is made from cow’s milk. 

It has a nutty and buttery flavor that is very similar to Emmental and melts really well. Gruyere is also famous for having nearly identical holes to Emmental cheese. 

In fact, gruyere cheese is usually combined with Emmental cheese in dishes like cheese fondue because of how similar they are. In addition, you can use gruyere cheese in sandwiches, casseroles, and potato dishes.

How To Substitute

Use a 1:1 ratio when replacing Emmental cheese with gruyere cheese.

2. Fontina

Fontina cheese is another great substitute you can use when you don’t have Emmental. It was first made in Italy but has since become popular in many parts of the world. 

It is made from cow’s milk and is semi-soft, so it melts really easily and can be added to a wide range of dishes. 

Fontina also has a buttery, creamy flavor with notes of roasted nuts and a pungent, woody taste.  Since this cheese melts really well, you can add it to sauces, sandwiches, cheese dips, and even pasta.

How To Substitute

Use a 1:1 ratio when replacing Emmental cheese with fontina cheese.

Here is  a video to show you how to make a tasty cheese dip with fontina cheese-

3. Raclette

Raclette is an incredible melting cheese that makes a fantastic substitute for Emmental cheese. This cheese is a traditional swiss cheese, but it is also very popular in many parts of France.

It is made from cows milk and has a creamy, slightly sweet, and nutty flavor that is very similar to Emmental cheese. It melts very easily and results in a perfect gooey texture that works well in any dish that calls for Emmental cheese. 

You can use raclette cheese for cheese fondue, casseroles, sandwiches, and pasta. It is also a great table cheese, so you can serve it on charcuterie boards as a snack.

How To Substitute

Use a 1:1 ratio when replacing Emmental cheese with raclette.

4. Comte Cheese

Comte is a tasty french cheese you can use in place of Emmental cheese. It is made from unpasteurized cow’s milk and has a fruity and nutty taste that mimics the flavor of Emmental cheese really well. 

Comte has a semi-hard texture and is usually aged anywhere between four to twelve months.

The fantastic melting properties of comte cheese have made it one of the most popular cheeses in France, where it is used in a wide range of dishes and commonly served as a snack. 

You can add comte cheese to omelets, cheese fondue, sandwiches, and even macaroni and cheese. 

How To Substitute

Use a 1:1 ratio when replacing Emmental cheese with comte cheese.

Here is a video to show you how to make cheese fondue with comte cheese-

5. Gouda Cheese

Gouda cheese is a popular dutch cheese used in many parts of the world for its rich flavor. However, its easy melting properties and sweet, creamy taste are what make it an ideal substitute for Emmental cheese. 

Additionally, It is also semi-hard and even has small pea-sized holes that are reminiscent of Emmental cheese.

Gouda cheese is very versatile when it comes to its uses. You can add it to cheese fondue, sauces, mashed potatoes, sandwiches, pasta,  baked pastries, or even serve it plain on a cheese board.

How To Substitute

Use a 1:1 ratio when replacing Emmental cheese with gouda cheese.

If you’re curious about how you can use gouda cheese in your cooking, here is a video to give you some inspiration-

6. Provolone Cheese

Provolone is an aged Italian cheese that works well as a substitute for Emmental cheese. It is made from cow’s milk and is closely related to mozzarella cheese, but it is a bit drier since it goes through an aging process. 

Provolone has a mild nutty and buttery taste that mimics the flavor of Emmental cheese really well. It also melts fairly easily and blends into any dish you add it to. Therefore, it is an ideal choice for dishes like pasta, sauces, and sandwiches.

How To Substitute

Use a 1:1 ratio when replacing Emmental cheese with provolone cheese.

If you’re looking for ideas on how to incorporate provolone cheese into your cooking, here is a video to give you some inspiration-

7. Manchego Cheese

If all you’re looking for is a cheese that will melt as well as Emmental, then manchego is the perfect substitute for you.

It is made from sheep’s milk and comes from the La Mancha region of Spain, but it is very easy to get and can be found in most grocery stores. 

The flavor of manchego cheese is slightly different from Emmental as it is sweet, buttery, and slightly tangy. However, it melts really well and will go with any dish where Emmental is mainly being used for its gooey melty taste. 

This cheese is traditionally enjoyed plain and served with ham. However, you can add it to sandwiches, pasta,  or creamy sauces.

How To Substitute

Use a 1:1 ratio when replacing Emmental cheese with manchego cheese.

8. Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan cheese is another lovely alternative you can use in place of Emmental cheese. 

It is made from cow’s milk and aged for much longer than Emmental cheese. So, it has a harder and slightly drier granular texture. However, its distinct nutty taste and fairly easy melting ability make it an ideal replacement for Emmental.

Parmesan cheese works best when added to sauces, soups, and creamy pasta dishes. However, you can also use it for casseroles, eggs, cheese fondue, and potato dishes.

It is also best to only use fresh Parmigiano Reggiano to get the best flavor and melting properties. If you use the pre-shredded parmesan cheese sold in stores, it may not melt at all since it has been dried out.

How To Substitute

Use a 1:1 ratio when replacing Emmental cheese with parmesan cheese.

9. Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar cheese is another lovely substitute for Emmental cheese. It is made from cow’s milk and is often aged for several months, which results in a pungent and sharp flavor.

Its melting properties and nutty finish make it an excellent replacement for Emmental cheese. 

There are different varieties of cheddar, ranging from mild to sharp. However, mild cheddar is the best option to go for when you’re trying to mimic the flavor of Emmental cheese.

Cheddar cheese is also very versatile. You can serve it on a cheese board and enjoy it plain or incorporate it into sandwiches, eggs, mac and cheese, and potato dishes.

How To Substitute

Use a 1:1 ratio when replacing Emmental cheese with cheddar cheese.

10. Jarlsberg 

Jarlsberg cheese is unique cheese made with the combined qualities of Emmental cheese and gouda cheese. It is aged for a few months to create a smooth rubbery texture and small holes similar to Emmental. 

However, it also has a distinct nutty and slightly sweet buttery smooth flavor that mimics the taste of Emmental cheese really well. 

This cheese melts really well, so you can add it to anything you want, from sauces to sandwiches and cheese dips. The sky is the limit when it comes to Jarlsberg.

How To Substitute

Use a 1:1 ratio when replacing Emmental cheese with Jarlsberg cheese.

11. Beaufort Cheese

Beaufort cheese is another fantastic option you can try when you don’t have Emmental cheese.

It has a buttery and mildly sweet flavor with floral and fruity notes. It also melts really well and is a popular ingredient in many cheese dips and fondues.

How To Substitute

Use a 1:1 ratio when replacing Emmental cheese with Beaufort cheese.

12. Havarti Cheese

Havarti is a semi-soft Dutch cheese that makes a lovely substitute for Emmental cheese. 

It is buttery and creamy and has a subtle sweet taste that mimics the flavor of Emmental cheese really well. It also melts very easily and can be added to a wide range of dishes.

How To Substitute

Use a 1:1 ratio when replacing Emmental cheese with Havarti cheese.

13. Brie Cheese

If you’re looking for a cow’s milk cheese with a very similar flavor to Emmental cheese, brie cheese is a great option you can try.

It is creamy and buttery and has a refreshing fruity taste that delights the palate. It also has a soft texture which makes it melt very quickly. It is the perfect cheese for casseroles, sandwiches, cheese dips, and baked pastries.

How To Substitute

Use a 1:1 ratio when replacing Emmental cheese with brie cheese.

14. Greve Cheese

Greve cheese is a French cheese with a sharp, piquant flavor that pairs well with various dishes. It is a hard, salty cheese from cow’s milk found in France (Alpine Region). 

Due to its melting properties, it can be added to sauces to create a unique taste. In addition, it can be used in place of emmental cheese in recipes that call for the cheese. It can also be eaten on its own with crackers or bread.

Greve cheese is a fresh cheese similar to a mild Emmental that is creamy and slightly salty. It is the most used cheese substitute in fondue and is an ingredient in sauces, soups, and other savory dishes. 

How To Substitute

Use a 1:1 ratio when replacing Emmental cheese with greve cheese.

15. Jerisberg Cheese

Jerisberg is a hard, semi-firm swiss-style cheese famous in Germany. Made with a mixture of goat’s and cow’s milk, it is a favorite cheese known for its spicy, nutty, and earthy flavor. 

It is aged for at least 12 months, which allows it to develop a smooth, creamy texture. In addition, it gives a crunchy texture and is available in different varieties. It can be used in fondue, spreads, or sandwiches. 

It’s also less expensive than Emmental, so it’s an excellent way to get a similar flavor without spending as much.

How To Substitute

Use a 1:1 ratio when replacing Emmental cheese with Jeriberg cheese.

16. Edam Cheese

Edam cheese, also known as a Dutch cheese, is made from pasteurized cow milk. It is similar to Emmental cheese but is slightly sweeter, creamier, and milder in flavor. 

It is also used in cooking and baking as the cheese can be melted, sliced, and most often used in Dutch recipes. It gives a creamier taste that is perfect for cheesecakes, spreads, and dips. 

The cheese is often sold in its natural color but is also commonly found in various colors. It is also used as a topping on bread or salads. The cheese is also safe for persons with lactose intolerance. 

How To Substitute

Use a 1:1 ratio when replacing Emmental cheese with Edam cheese.

17. Maasdam Cheese

Maasdam cheese is perfectly found for snacking, making cheese sandwiches, and a simple pasta dish. It is a mild, fresh, cheesy cheese that is a great option to make a great snack. 

The cheese can be used easily in place of emmental cheese (yellow color). It is made in different sizes, from miniature to half-wheel, and is commonly served with fruit, nut and honey spreads, and wine.

The hard cheese creates a mild, nutty flavor that is popular in savory dishes. It is perfect for recipes that call for soft cheese, like lasagna. 

How To Substitute

Use a 1:1 ratio when replacing Emmental cheese with Maasdam cheese.

18. Taleggio Cheese

Taleggio cheese is a soft, creamy, mild-flavored cheese that is slightly salty. It is commonly found in Italy but is also made in France and the United States.

It is often used as a melting cheese mixed with other cheeses to make a brie-like cheese. 

Taleggio is a cheese made from cow’s milk with a smooth and elastic texture. It is known for its distinctive flavor, which has a taste of a combination of mild garlic, herbs, and nutty flavors. It is often used in Italian dishes.

It is softer and creamier in texture and can be found in various forms, including a paste, a grating, and a wedge.

How To Substitute

Use a 1:1 ratio when replacing Emmental cheese with Taleggio cheese.

19. French Comte

The french comte is a sharp, salty, white cheese made from unpasteurized cow’s milk. It is a versatile cheese that can be used in various recipes, from savory to sweet. 

It has a slightly tangy taste and crumbly texture, making it a versatile cheese that can be used in various dishes. The cheese is typically used in multiple dishes in France, such as quiche, croissant, macaroni, and cheese.

One way to use the cheese is in an appetizer recipe, where the cheese is baked with bacon and honey. Another way to use the cheese is in a savory recipe, mixed with onions and mustard to make a gouda-style sauce. 

How To Substitute

Use a 1:1 ratio when replacing Emmental cheese with French comte cheese.

20. Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan is a hard, salty cheese made from unpasteurized cow’s milk, which is cured with lactic acid and then rubbed with salt. It is commonly grated or shaved into small pieces and can be found in dishes such as lasagna and pasta.

The cheese is usually grated but can also be crumbled. It is a firm, tangy cheese that can be used in various recipes, including pasta, soups, and even salads. 

With a distinctive flavor, the cheese has a very mild taste and a slightly nutty flavor. It is often used as a topping for pasta, but it can also be used in salads, pizza, and casseroles.

How To Substitute

Use a 1:1 ratio when replacing Emmental cheese with Parmesan cheese.

21. Leerdammer Cheese

The Leerdammer cheese is one of the perfect cheeses that can be used in place of emmental cheese. The cheese has a very mild taste and a slightly nutty flavor. It is often used as a topping for pasta, but it can also be used in salads, pizza, and casseroles.

It is used for grating and topping dishes like pizza, pasta, and omelets. The cheese has a hard texture and is perfect for grating or using in soups and salads.

However, it can also be used in other ways, such as adding it to salads and dressings.

How To Substitute

To substitute Leerdammer cheese with emmental cheese, use a 1:1 ratio.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Emmental Cheese The Same As Cheddar Cheese?

Emmental cheese is not the same as cheddar cheese. Although the two are made from cow’s milk and have a somewhat similar flavor, they are made using very different processes.

What Is Similar To Emmental Cheese? 

The most similar cheese to Emmental is gruyere cheese. It is of swiss heritage, just like Emmental cheese, and it is made from cow’s milk and has a similar taste and melting properties. 

However, some other similar options include fontina, Jarlsberg, mild cheddar cheese, French comte, and manchego cheese.

Is Emmental Cheese Swiss Cheese? 

Emmental cheese originated in Switzerland’s Emme river valley region, so it is classified as swiss cheese. In fact, it is one of the most popular swiss cheeses in the alpine Swiss cheeses category.

Can I Use Gruyere Cheese Instead Of Emmental Cheese? 

You can use gruyere cheese in place of Emmental cheese. The two have a similar taste and are both made from cow’s milk. Gruyere also melts really well, like Emmental cheese.

Does Emmental Cheese Melt?

Emmental cheese melts easily and is commonly used in cheese fondue for its melting properties.

Why Does Emmental Cheese Have Holes? 

Emmental cheese is made with certain propionic bacteria added during maturation. During the aging process, these propionic bacteria release bubbles of carbon dioxide that eventually turn into the holes you see in Emmental cheese.

Is Emmental Cheese Like Jarlsberg? 

Jarlsberg is very similar to Emmental cheese because it is made from cow’s milk and is designed to have the properties of both Emmental cheese and gouda cheese. So, it has a similar taste and melting properties to Emmental cheese.

21 Delicious Emmental Cheese Substitutes You Can Try

Prep Time

30

minutes

Cooking Time

25

minutes

Total Time

55

minutes

Looking for a substitute for Emmental cheese? Here are 13 amazing and equally delicious substitutes you can try.

Ingredients

• Gruyere Cheese

• Fontina

• Raclette

• Comte Cheese

• Gouda Cheese

• Provolone Cheese

• Manchego Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese

• Cheddar Cheese

• Jarlsberg

• Beaufort Cheese

• Havarti Cheese

• Brie Cheese

• Greve Cheese

• Jerisberg Cheese

• Edam Cheese

• Maasdam Cheese

• Taleggio Cheese

• French Comte

• Parmesan Cheese

• Leerdammer Cheese

Directions

• Choose your favorite substitute from the list given above
• Follow the directions given in the recipe after having substituted the ingredient in the correct ratio

Recipe Video

• Author
• Recent Posts

Jess Smith

Hi, my name is Jess Smith, and I love cooking in my spare time. Around three years ago, I decided to give up my day job as a teacher to pursue my passion for food. While I have enjoyed sharing tips and tricks on Social Media, I have decided to expand my horizons through this blog.

Through this blog I hope to help others learn the basics and more intricate details of cooking. I know from personal experience how frustrating it can be to cook a meal, only to realize you are missing one ingredient from your list. This is why I love to write articles chatting readers through some great substitutes that can be used in an emergency.

I hope you will find this blog useful, and that it will help you to develop your culinary skills, to help you cook up a storm!

Latest posts by Jess Smith (see all)

• Top Main Differences Between Tagliatelle And Fettuccine Pasta - March 10, 2023
• The Main Differences Between Red And Green Jalapeno Peppers - March 10, 2023
• Perfect Griddle Cakes To Make Simply Delicious Recipes For The Meal - March 9, 2023