The 10 Best Cheeses for Focaccia (+7 Alternatives)

If you’re a fan of Italian cuisine, you’re probably familiar with focaccia bread.

This delicious flatbread is a staple in many Italian households and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, from topping it with olive oil and herbs to adding meats, vegetables, and cheese.

Speaking of cheese, selecting the right type of cheese can take your focaccia to the next level.

In this article, we’ll explore the best cheese for focaccia bread and provide you with a list of ten top options, as well as seven alternative cheeses that can work just as well.

We’ll also share some tips for pairing cheese with focaccia and offer some recipe ideas to help you get started.

So, whether you’re a cheese lover or a focaccia fan, read on to discover how to make the perfect pairing and take your focaccia to new heights.

cheesy Focaccia bread

How To Pick The Right Cheese for Focaccia

When it comes to pairing cheese with focaccia bread, it’s important to select the right type of cheese to complement the flavors of the bread and any additional toppings. Here are some tips for selecting the perfect cheese:

  • Consider the flavor profile of the cheese: The first step in selecting the right cheese for focaccia is to consider its flavor profile. You want a cheese that will enhance the flavors of the bread and any toppings, rather than overpower them. For example, a sharp cheese like cheddar may not work as well as a mild cheese like mozzarella.
  • Think about the texture of the cheese: The texture of the cheese is also an important factor to consider. You want a cheese that will complement the texture of the bread. For example, a soft cheese like brie may be too creamy for focaccia, while a hard cheese like parmesan may be too dry.
  • Consider the toppings: If you’re planning to add toppings to your focaccia bread, consider how they will interact with the cheese. For example, if you’re adding salty olives, a mild cheese like feta or goat cheese may work well. If you’re adding spicy peppers, a cheese with a milder flavor like provolone may be a better choice.
  • Experiment with different types of cheese: Ultimately, the best way to find the perfect cheese for your focaccia bread is to experiment with different types of cheese. Try a few different options and see which ones work best with your preferred toppings and flavor profile.
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The 10 Best Cheeses for Focaccia

Fresh Mozzarella
Source: seriouseats.com

When it comes to selecting the best cheese for focaccia bread, there are several delicious options to choose from. Here are 10 of the top cheeses to consider:

  1. Mozzarella: Mozzarella is a classic cheese for focaccia bread. Its mild, creamy flavor and stretchy texture make it a great complement to the bread and any toppings.
  2. Parmesan: Parmesan is a hard, nutty cheese that adds a rich, savory flavor to focaccia bread. Its crumbly texture also adds a nice contrast to the soft, fluffy bread.
  3. Feta: Feta is a salty, crumbly cheese that works well with savory toppings like olives and tomatoes. Its tangy flavor adds a nice kick to the bread.
  4. Provolone: Provolone is a mild, slightly sweet cheese that pairs well with a variety of toppings. Its smooth, buttery texture also adds a nice richness to the bread.
  5. Gorgonzola: Gorgonzola is a tangy, blue cheese that adds a bold flavor to focaccia bread. Its creamy texture also adds a nice contrast to the soft bread.
  6. Asiago: Asiago is a nutty, slightly sweet cheese that adds a nice flavor to focaccia bread. Its semi-hard texture also adds a nice chewiness to the bread.
  7. Fontina: Fontina is a mild, buttery cheese that melts well on focaccia bread. Its nutty flavor also adds a nice richness to the bread.
  8. Cheddar: Cheddar is a sharp, tangy cheese that adds a bold flavor to focaccia bread. Its crumbly texture also adds a nice contrast to the soft bread.
  9. Goat cheese: Goat cheese is a tangy, creamy cheese that pairs well with a variety of toppings. Its tangy flavor adds a nice kick to the bread.
  10. Ricotta: Ricotta is a mild, creamy cheese that adds a nice richness to focaccia bread. Its smooth texture also adds a nice contrast to the fluffy bread.
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7 Alternative Cheeses for Focaccia

Focaccia with cheese

If you’re looking for something a little different to top your focaccia bread, there are several alternative cheese options to consider. Here are seven cheeses that can work just as well:

  1. Blue cheese: Blue cheese is a pungent, bold cheese that pairs well with savory toppings like bacon and mushrooms. Its creamy texture also adds a nice contrast to the bread.
  2. Brie: Brie is a soft, creamy cheese that melts well on focaccia bread. Its mild flavor also allows the bread and toppings to shine.
  3. Camembert: Camembert is a creamy, slightly earthy cheese that pairs well with sweet toppings like caramelized onions and roasted garlic.
  4. Burrata: Burrata is a fresh, creamy cheese that adds a nice richness to focaccia bread. Its soft, pillowy texture also adds a nice contrast to the fluffy bread.
  5. Blue goat cheese: Blue goat cheese is a tangy, creamy cheese that pairs well with a variety of toppings. Its mild, tangy flavor adds a nice kick to the bread.
  6. Smoked gouda: Smoked gouda is a rich, smoky cheese that adds a nice depth of flavor to focaccia bread. Its firm texture also adds a nice chewiness to the bread.
  7. Manchego: Manchego is a nutty, slightly sweet cheese that adds a nice flavor to focaccia bread. Its firm texture also adds a nice chewiness to the bread.

5 Tips for Pairing Cheese with Focaccia

Pairing cheese with focaccia bread is an art form that takes some practice to master. Here are five tips to help you create the perfect pairing:

  1. Consider the flavor intensity: When pairing cheese with focaccia bread, it’s important to consider the intensity of the flavors. For example, if you’re using strong, bold flavors in your toppings, you may want to use a mild cheese to balance out the flavors.
  2. Match textures: Pairing cheese with focaccia bread is also about matching textures. Soft, creamy cheeses work well with fluffy bread, while hard, crumbly cheeses add a nice contrast to the soft bread.
  3. Experiment with different pairings: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheese pairings to find the perfect flavor combination. Try pairing a sharp cheese with a sweet topping, or a creamy cheese with a savory topping to create unique and delicious flavor combinations.
  4. Consider wine and beer pairings: Pairing cheese with wine or beer can also enhance the flavors of your focaccia bread. For example, a light white wine pairs well with a mild cheese like mozzarella, while a hoppy IPA pairs well with a sharp cheddar.
  5. Don’t overdo it: When pairing cheese with focaccia bread, it’s important not to overdo it. Stick to a few well-chosen toppings and one or two cheeses to create a balanced and delicious dish.
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Conclusion

In this article, we’ve explored the best cheeses for focaccia bread, as well as some alternative cheese options and tips for pairing cheese with focaccia. Whether you prefer mild, creamy cheeses like mozzarella or bold, tangy cheeses like blue cheese, there’s a cheese out there that will complement the flavors of your focaccia bread perfectly.

When selecting a cheese for your focaccia, consider its flavor profile, texture, and the toppings you plan to use. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheese pairings and wine or beer pairings to find the perfect flavor combination.

In summary, the best cheese for focaccia bread is one that complements the flavors of the bread and any toppings. By following the tips and suggestions in this article, you’ll be able to create delicious and unique cheese pairings that will take your focaccia bread to new heights.

We hope you’ve found this article helpful and inspiring. Now, it’s time to get in the kitchen and start experimenting!

cheesy Focaccia bread

The 10 Best Cheeses for Focaccia

Looking for the best cheese for focaccia bread? Look no further! In this article, we've compiled a list of the top 10 best cheeses for focaccia, as well as seven alternative cheese options that are sure to impress. We've also included tips for pairing cheese with focaccia bread and suggestions for wine and beer pairings. Whether you're a cheese lover or a focaccia fan, this article has everything you need to create the perfect pairing.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Bread, Cheese
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 4 people
Calories 365 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Mozzarella
  • Parmesan
  • Feta
  • Provolone
  • Gorgonzola
  • Asiago
  • Fontina
  • Cheddar
  • Goat cheese
  • Ricotta

Instructions
 

  • Select your favorite cheese from this article.
  • Organize all the required ingredients.
  • Prep a delicious cheesy Focaccia bread in 30 minutes or less!