What's the Best Substitute for Pecorino Cheese?
Whether you're out of Pecorino Cheese or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Italian hard cheese made from sheep's milk, with sharp, salty flavor and granular texture, used for grating over pasta, risotto, and soups In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for Pecorino cheese are Parmesan, Romano, or Asiago. For carbonara, use Parmesan. For vegan options, try nutritional yeast with cashew cream.
Best Substitutes for Pecorino Cheese
Parmesan
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- grating
- pasta
- risotto
- soups
- salads
Description
Italian hard cheese with similar salty, nutty flavor and granular texture
Very similar to Pecorino in texture and flavor. Slightly different taste but works well in most recipes.
Romano
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- grating
- pasta
- risotto
- soups
- when you want similar saltiness
Description
Italian hard cheese with sharp, salty flavor and granular texture
Very similar to Pecorino in flavor and texture. Both are made from sheep's milk.
Asiago
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- grating
- pasta
- risotto
- soups
- when you want milder flavor
Description
Italian cheese with nutty, slightly sweet flavor and firm texture
Milder than Pecorino but similar texture. Good for those who find Pecorino too salty.
Manchego
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- grating
- pasta
- risotto
- when you want similar origin
- cheese boards
Description
Spanish sheep's milk cheese with nutty, buttery flavor and firm texture
Made from sheep's milk like Pecorino but has a more buttery, less salty flavor.
Aged Gouda
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- grating
- pasta
- risotto
- when you want sweet notes
- cheese boards
Description
Dutch cheese with nutty, caramel-like flavor and firm texture when aged
Sweeter than Pecorino but similar texture. Look for aged varieties (2+ years).
Aged Cheddar
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- grating
- pasta
- risotto
- when you want sharp flavor
- cooking
Description
English cheese with sharp, tangy flavor and firm texture when aged
More tangy than Pecorino but similar texture. Look for aged varieties (2+ years).
Nutritional Yeast + Cashew Cream
Ratio
1/4 cup Pecorino = 2 tbsp nutritional yeast + 1 tbsp cashew cream
Best For
- vegan pasta
- vegan carbonara
- vegan pesto
- dairy-free cooking
- toppings
Description
Vegan alternative that mimics the salty, umami flavor of Pecorino
Best vegan substitute for Pecorino. Nutritional yeast provides the salty, cheesy flavor while cashew cream adds richness.
Mozzarella (for melting applications)
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- pizza
- pasta bakes
- when you want mild flavor
- melting applications
Description
Mild Italian cheese that melts well, though much milder than Pecorino
Much milder than Pecorino but melts beautifully. Add extra salt to compensate for mildness.
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Pecorino Cheese, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Pecorino cheese is essential for authentic Italian pasta dishes like carbonara and cacio e pepe
It has a sharp, salty flavor that adds depth to recipes - use sparingly at first
Perfect for grating over pasta, risotto, and soups as a finishing touch
Can be used in place of Parmesan in most recipes, but is saltier
Store in the refrigerator wrapped in wax paper or cheese paper
Grate fresh for the best flavor and texture - pre-grated loses flavor quickly
Works well in breadcrumbs for coating meats and vegetables
Adds saltiness to dishes, so reduce other salt in the recipe
For carbonara, Pecorino Romano is traditional and provides the authentic flavor
In pesto, Pecorino adds saltiness and depth - adjust salt accordingly
For vegan alternatives, combine nutritional yeast with cashew cream for richness
When substituting with Parmesan, the dish will be slightly less salty
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications
Frequently Asked Questions
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