Provolone substitutes
Provolone substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Also called Provolone Cheese
Use Mozzarella cheese
Same amount as the Provolone
Mild, melty cheese with similar texture and melting properties.
The best substitutes for Provolone are mozzarella, Swiss cheese, or Gouda depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- pizza
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of Provolone | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mozzarella cheesepizza | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Swiss cheesesandwiches | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Gouda cheesesandwiches | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Monterey Jacksandwiches | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Fontina cheesemelting | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Vegan cheesevegan cooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Mozzarella cheese
similar taste and texture
Mild, melty cheese with similar texture and melting properties.
- Best for
- pizza, sandwiches, melting, Italian dishes
Very similar flavor and texture. Close substitute for most applications.
Swiss cheese
different taste, similar texture
Mild, nutty cheese with similar melting properties.
- Best for
- sandwiches, melting, cooking, snacking
Slightly different flavor but similar texture and melting properties.
Gouda cheese
different taste, similar texture
Mild, creamy cheese with similar melting properties.
- Best for
- sandwiches, melting, cooking, snacking
Slightly sweeter than Provolone but similar texture. Good for melting.
Monterey Jack
similar taste and texture
Mild, creamy cheese with excellent melting properties.
- Best for
- sandwiches, melting, cooking, Mexican dishes
Very similar to Provolone in flavor and texture. Great melting cheese.
Fontina cheese
different taste, similar texture
Italian cheese with similar mild flavor and melting properties.
- Best for
- melting, cooking, Italian dishes, fondue
Slightly more complex flavor than Provolone but similar texture.
Vegan cheese
different taste, similar texture
Plant-based alternative with similar melting properties.
- Best for
- vegan cooking, sandwiches, melting, pizza
Quality varies by brand. Look for brands with good melting properties.
Questions
4 questionsWhat's the difference between Provolone and mozzarella?
Provolone is slightly firmer and has a more complex flavor than mozzarella. Both melt well and are commonly used in Italian cooking.
Can I use Swiss cheese instead of Provolone?
Yes, Swiss cheese works well as a substitute, though it has a slightly different flavor profile. It melts similarly and has a mild taste.
Is Provolone good for melting?
Yes, Provolone is excellent for melting. It melts smoothly and doesn't separate, making it good for sandwiches and casseroles.
Can I use Provolone in pizza?
Yes, Provolone works well on pizza, though it's not as traditional as mozzarella. It melts well and adds a slightly different flavor profile.
Tips for substituting Provolone
8 tips- Provolone is good for melting in sandwiches and casseroles
- Great for making grilled cheese sandwiches and paninis
- Use in Italian dishes like lasagna and baked pasta
- Provolone melts smoothly and doesn't separate when heated
- Store wrapped in parchment paper in the refrigerator
- Provolone pairs well with Italian herbs and cured meats
- Good for making cheese sauces and fondue
- Great for stuffing chicken breasts and making cheese rolls