What's the Best Substitute for Provolone?
Whether you're out of Provolone or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Italian semi-hard cheese with mild, slightly tangy flavor, excellent for melting and sandwiches 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 Provolone are mozzarella, Swiss cheese, or Gouda depending on the use.
Best Substitutes for Provolone
Mozzarella Cheese
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- pizza
- sandwiches
- melting
- Italian dishes
Description
Mild, melty cheese with similar texture and melting properties
Very similar flavor and texture. Perfect substitute for most applications.
Swiss Cheese
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- sandwiches
- melting
- cooking
- snacking
Description
Mild, nutty cheese with similar melting properties
Slightly different flavor but similar texture and melting properties.
Gouda Cheese
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- sandwiches
- melting
- cooking
- snacking
Description
Mild, creamy cheese with similar melting properties
Slightly sweeter than Provolone but similar texture. Good for melting.
Monterey Jack
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- sandwiches
- melting
- cooking
- Mexican dishes
Description
Mild, creamy cheese with excellent melting properties
Very similar to Provolone in flavor and texture. Great melting cheese.
Fontina Cheese
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- melting
- cooking
- Italian dishes
- fondue
Description
Italian cheese with similar mild flavor and melting properties
Slightly more complex flavor than Provolone but similar texture.
Vegan Cheese
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- vegan cooking
- sandwiches
- melting
- pizza
Description
Plant-based alternative with similar melting properties
Quality varies by brand. Look for brands with good melting properties.
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Provolone, 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
Provolone is perfect 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
Perfect for making cheese sauces and fondue
Great for stuffing chicken breasts and making cheese rolls
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications