The 10 Best Cheeses for Sourdough Bread (+7 Alternatives)

When it comes to enjoying a slice of freshly baked sourdough bread, choosing the right cheese to pair with it can elevate the experience to a whole new level.

Whether you’re a cheese connoisseur or a casual bread lover, finding the best cheese for sourdough bread can be a delicious and rewarding pursuit.

In this article, we’ll explore ten of the most flavorful and satisfying cheeses to pair with sourdough bread, as well as seven alternative options for those looking to experiment with new tastes.

We’ll also share some tips on how to pair cheese and bread effectively, so you can create your own perfect combinations at home.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a snack, finding the best cheese for sourdough bread is sure to be a delicious adventure.

How To Pick The Right Cheese for Sourdough Bread

When it comes to pairing cheese with sourdough bread, there are several factors to consider. To ensure the best flavor and texture combination, follow these tips:

• Consider the strength of the cheese: One important factor to consider is the strength of the cheese. Generally, milder cheeses pair well with lighter sourdough breads, while stronger cheeses are better suited to heartier, more robust sourdough breads. For example, a mild brie cheese can complement the subtle flavors of a lighter sourdough loaf, while a tangy blue cheese can hold its own against a denser, chewier sourdough bread.
• Think about texture: Texture is another key consideration when selecting a cheese to pair with sourdough bread. A cheese with a soft, creamy texture, such as goat cheese or feta, can add a nice contrast to a crusty sourdough loaf. In contrast, a hard, aged cheese like cheddar or gouda can add a satisfying crunch to a softer sourdough bread.
• Balance flavors: Finally, it’s important to think about balancing flavors when pairing cheese with sourdough bread. You want to choose a cheese that complements, rather than overwhelms, the flavor of the bread. For example, a sharp cheddar can balance out the sourness of a sourdough bread, while a nutty Gruyere can enhance its natural sweetness.

The 10 Best Cheeses for Sourdough Bread

Now that you know how to pick the right cheese for sourdough bread, let’s explore ten of the best cheese options to pair with this delicious bread:

1. Gouda

A hard, nutty cheese with a slightly sweet taste, gouda pairs well with a hearty sourdough bread. Its firm texture makes it a great choice for toasting.

2. Brie

A mild, creamy cheese with a delicate flavor, brie is a great choice for a lighter sourdough bread. It pairs well with fruits and nuts, making it a great option for a sweet and savory snack.

3. Cheddar

A classic, sharp cheese that is both tangy and rich, cheddar is a great pairing for a sourdough bread with a dense, chewy texture. It can also be melted on top of toast for a delicious grilled cheese sandwich.

4. Blue Cheese

A pungent, salty cheese with a bold flavor, blue cheese is best paired with a crusty sourdough bread. It can be crumbled on top of salads or added to a cheese board.

5. Feta

A salty, tangy cheese with a crumbly texture, feta pairs well with a softer sourdough bread. It is a popular choice for Greek-inspired dishes and can be added to salads or baked goods.

6. Gruyere

A nutty, slightly sweet cheese with a firm texture, Gruyere pairs well with a crusty sourdough bread. It can also be used in dishes like quiches or fondue.

7. Parmesan

A hard, salty cheese with a rich flavor, parmesan is a great addition to a cheese board or grated on top of pasta dishes. It pairs well with a denser, chewier sourdough bread.

8. Havarti

A mild, buttery cheese with a smooth texture, Havarti is a great choice for a softer sourdough bread. It can be used in sandwiches or melted on top of toast.

9. Camembert

A soft, creamy cheese with a rich, earthy flavor, camembert pairs well with a lighter sourdough bread. It can also be used in baked dishes or melted on top of pizza.

10. Swiss

A mild, nutty cheese with a distinctive flavor, Swiss pairs well with a denser, chewier sourdough bread. It can also be melted on top of toast or added to sandwiches.

7 Alternative Cheeses for Sourdough Bread

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of alternative cheese options to consider pairing with sourdough bread. Here are seven alternative cheeses to try:

1. Manchego: A Spanish cheese with a firm texture and nutty flavor, Manchego pairs well with a crusty sourdough bread. It can also be added to salads or used in sandwiches.
2. Roquefort: A tangy, crumbly blue cheese with a bold flavor, Roquefort is a great choice for a crusty sourdough bread. It can be added to salads or used as a topping for pizza.
3. Asiago: A nutty, slightly sweet cheese with a firm texture, Asiago pairs well with a denser, chewier sourdough bread. It can be used in dishes like mac and cheese or grated on top of soup.
4. Provolone: A mild, slightly smoky cheese with a firm texture, Provolone pairs well with a softer sourdough bread. It can be used in sandwiches or melted on top of pizza.
5. Chevre: A tangy, creamy goat cheese with a soft texture, Chevre pairs well with a lighter sourdough bread. It can be used in salads or baked goods.
6. Fontina: A mild, nutty cheese with a creamy texture, Fontina pairs well with a denser, chewier sourdough bread. It can be used in dishes like grilled cheese or added to a cheese board.
7. Burrata: A creamy, indulgent cheese with a delicate flavor, Burrata pairs well with a lighter sourdough bread. It can be used in salads or enjoyed on its own with a drizzle of olive oil.

5 Tips for Pairing Cheese and Bread

Pairing cheese and bread can be a delicate art, but with these five tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating delicious and satisfying combinations:

1. Match the intensity of the cheese to the bread. As mentioned in section II, it’s important to consider the strength of the cheese when pairing it with sourdough bread. A stronger cheese, like a blue cheese, pairs well with a crusty, robust sourdough bread, while a milder cheese, like brie, works better with a lighter, more delicate sourdough bread.
2. Contrast textures. Texture is also an important consideration when pairing cheese and bread. A soft, creamy cheese like goat cheese pairs well with a crusty sourdough loaf, while a harder cheese like cheddar can add a satisfying crunch to a softer sourdough bread.
3. Complement flavors. While it’s important to contrast textures, it’s also essential to balance flavors when pairing cheese and bread. Look for flavors that complement each other, like a nutty cheese with a sweet sourdough bread or a tangy cheese with a sourdough bread that has a hint of sweetness.
4. Experiment with different temperatures. The temperature of the cheese can also affect the pairing. Some cheeses, like brie, are best served at room temperature, while others, like cheddar, are better when melted. Experiment with different temperatures to see which works best with your chosen sourdough bread.
5. Pair with accompaniments. Finally, consider pairing your cheese and sourdough bread with accompaniments like fruit, nuts, or spreads. For example, a sharp cheddar pairs well with apple slices, while a soft cheese like Camembert can be enjoyed with a drizzle of honey.

Conclusion

Choosing the right cheese for sourdough bread can be a delicious and rewarding experience. By considering factors like strength, texture, and flavor, you can create a perfect pairing that will delight your taste buds. Whether you opt for classic cheeses like cheddar and brie, or experiment with alternative options like Asiago or Chevre, there are endless possibilities for pairing cheese and sourdough bread.

By following the tips in this article, you can create a variety of delicious combinations that will impress your friends and family. Remember to match the intensity of the cheese to the bread, contrast textures, complement flavors, experiment with different temperatures, and pair with accompaniments to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

So go ahead, grab some sourdough bread and your favorite cheese, and start exploring the wonderful world of cheese pairings. With the right combination, you’re sure to have a delicious and satisfying experience every time.