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Best Substitutes for Cheddar Cheese — What to Use Instead

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Nutritional Yeast: 2-3 tbsp per 1/4 cup shredded cheddar — Vegan option. Cheesy, nutty flavor. Great for mac and cheese and popcorn.

Gouda: 1:1 — Similar meltability and richness. Smoked gouda adds extra depth.

Overview

Top substitute for cheddar cheese: Nutritional Yeast (2-3 tbsp per 1/4 cup shredded cheddar). Vegan option. Cheesy, nutty flavor. Great for mac and cheese and popcorn. Plus 3 more alternatives.

Key Details

  • Nutritional Yeast: 2-3 tbsp per 1/4 cup shredded cheddar — Vegan option. Cheesy, nutty flavor. Great for mac and cheese and popcorn.
  • Gouda: 1:1 — Similar meltability and richness. Smoked gouda adds extra depth.
  • Colby or Colby Jack: 1:1 — Milder but similar texture and melting properties.
  • Cashew Cheese Sauce: Blend 1 cup soaked cashews + 1/4 cup nutritional yeast + liquid — Vegan cheddar alternative for sauces. Add turmeric for color.

Why This Matters

  • Cheddar Cheese may need substituting due to dietary restrictions
  • Running out of an ingredient mid-recipe is common
  • Allergies or preferences may require alternatives

How To

  1. 1Best overall substitute: Nutritional Yeast at 2-3 tbsp per 1/4 cup shredded cheddar
  2. 2Consider what role the ingredient plays in the recipe
  3. 3Test substitutes in small batches first
  4. 4Adjust other ingredients as noted for best results

Tags

substitutesdairy-subcheddar-cheeseingredient-swapcooking-tips

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Frequently Asked Questions

The best substitute is Nutritional Yeast at 2-3 tbsp per 1/4 cup shredded cheddar. Vegan option. Cheesy, nutty flavor. Great for mac and cheese and popcorn.