🥛 Dairy

Grated Parmesan Cheese Substitute - for Grating Guide

Find the best substitutes for grated parmesan cheese. Learn which alternatives work best for grating, sprinkling, and finishing dishes.

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Quick Answer

The best substitutes for grated parmesan cheese are pecorino romano, asiago, grana padano, or nutritional yeast. Use 1:1 ratio and grate finely for best results.

Best Substitutes

Pecorino Romano

1:1

Hard Italian cheese that grates easily and has similar texture to parmesan

Best for:

pastarisottosoupssaladspizzafinishing dishes

Most similar texture and grating properties to parmesan

Asiago

1:1

Hard Italian cheese with nutty flavor that grates well and melts smoothly

Best for:

pastarisottosoupssaladspizzafinishing dishes

Similar flavor and grating properties to parmesan

Grana Padano

1:1

Hard Italian cheese with nutty flavor that grates easily and melts well

Best for:

pastarisottosoupssaladspizzafinishing dishes

Very similar to parmesan in flavor and grating properties

Manchego

1:1

Spanish hard cheese with nutty flavor that grates easily and melts smoothly

Best for:

pastarisottosoupssaladspizzafinishing dishes

Spanish cheese with nutty flavor, grates well

Nutritional Yeast

1:1

Deactivated yeast flakes that can be sprinkled like grated cheese

Best for:

pastasoupssaladspopcorngrain bowlsvegan recipes

Vegan option, doesn't need grating

Cheddar

1:1

Hard cheese with different flavor that grates easily and melts well

Best for:

pastasoupssaladspizzafinishing dishes

Different flavor but grates well

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Grate cheese finely for best melting and distribution
  • 💡Use a microplane grater for the finest, most even grating
  • 💡Grate cheese just before using for best flavor and texture
  • 💡For nutritional yeast: Sprinkle directly from the container
  • 💡Store grated cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator
  • 💡Freeze grated cheese for up to 3 months for longer storage
  • 💡For pasta: Toss grated cheese with hot pasta for best melting
  • 💡For soups: Add grated cheese gradually while stirring

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best substitute for grated parmesan cheese?

Pecorino romano is the best substitute for grated parmesan cheese. It has similar texture and grating properties, though it has a sharper, saltier flavor than parmesan.

Can I use asiago instead of grated parmesan?

Yes, asiago is an excellent substitute for grated parmesan cheese. It has similar flavor and texture, grates easily, and melts well in most recipes.

What about grana padano for grating?

Grana padano is very similar to parmesan and works excellently for grating. It has a nutty flavor and grates easily, making it perfect for finishing dishes.

Can I use nutritional yeast instead of grated parmesan?

Yes, nutritional yeast can be used instead of grated parmesan. It doesn't need grating and can be sprinkled directly from the container, though it has a different texture and flavor.

How do I grate cheese for the best results?

Use a microplane grater for the finest, most even grating. Grate cheese just before using for best flavor and texture. Store grated cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I use cheddar instead of grated parmesan?

Yes, cheddar can work as a substitute for grated parmesan cheese. It grates easily and melts well, though it has a different flavor profile than parmesan.

Summary

Find the best substitutes for grated parmesan cheese. Pecorino romano, asiago, grana padano, and nutritional yeast alternatives with grating tips.