5 Cheeses That Pair Perfectly with Turkey

Turkey and cheese are two of the most popular Thanksgiving dinner staples, and for good reason. They’re both delicious, versatile, and pair perfectly together. But what kind of cheese goes with turkey?

The answer depends on your personal preferences and the rest of your meal. If you’re looking for a classic combination, go with a mild cheddar or Havarti. For something more flavorful, try a sharp cheddar, Gouda, or blue cheese. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you could even try a smoked cheese or a goat cheese.

No matter what kind of cheese you choose, you’re sure to enjoy it with your Thanksgiving turkey. So next time you’re planning your holiday feast, don’t forget to include a little cheese on the side!In this article, we’ll explore the different types of cheese that go well with turkey, as well as some tips for pairing cheese with other Thanksgiving dishes. We’ll also provide you with some recipes that you can use to create your own delicious turkey and cheese dishes.

Cheese	Flavor Profile	Pairing Notes
Cheddar	Mild, nutty, and slightly tangy	Pairs well with roasted turkey, especially when melted over the meat.
Gouda	Rich, creamy, and slightly sweet	Pairs well with smoked turkey, especially when melted over the meat.
Gruyre	Sharp, nutty, and slightly salty	Pairs well with grilled turkey, especially when melted over the meat.
Monterey Jack	Mild, buttery, and slightly tangy	Pairs well with roasted turkey, especially when melted over the meat.
Parmesan	Sharp, salty, and nutty	Pairs well with cold turkey, especially when grated over the meat.
Provolone	Mild, creamy, and slightly salty	Pairs well with roasted turkey, especially when melted over the meat.

Types of Cheese that Go Well with Turkey

Turkey is a versatile meat that can be paired with a variety of cheeses. The type of cheese you choose to serve with turkey will depend on your personal preferences and the flavors you want to highlight.

Soft cheeses are a good choice for pairing with turkey because they are creamy and mild in flavor. Some popular soft cheeses that go well with turkey include brie, camembert, goat cheese, and ricotta.

Semi-soft cheeses are also a good option for pairing with turkey. These cheeses are typically a bit more flavorful than soft cheeses, but they still have a creamy texture. Some popular semi-soft cheeses that go well with turkey include cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack.

Hard cheeses can also be paired with turkey, but they should be used in moderation. Hard cheeses are typically more flavorful and sharper than soft or semi-soft cheeses, so they can easily overpower the flavor of the turkey. Some popular hard cheeses that go well with turkey include Parmesan, pecorino Romano, and gruyere.

Blue cheeses are a unique and flavorful option for pairing with turkey. Blue cheeses have a tangy, salty flavor that can complement the rich flavor of turkey. Some popular blue cheeses that go well with turkey include Roquefort, Gorgonzola, and Stilton.

When choosing a cheese to serve with turkey, it is important to consider the flavors you want to highlight. If you are looking for a creamy, mild cheese, a soft cheese like brie or camembert would be a good choice. If you want a cheese with more flavor, a semi-soft cheese like cheddar or mozzarella would be a good option. And if you want a cheese with a sharp, tangy flavor, a hard cheese like Parmesan or pecorino Romano would be a good choice.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Cheese to Serve with Turkey

In addition to the type of cheese you choose, there are a few other factors to consider when choosing cheese to serve with turkey.

The flavor of the cheese is the most important factor to consider. The cheese should complement the flavor of the turkey, not overpower it. If you are serving a simple, roasted turkey, a mild cheese like brie or camembert would be a good choice. If you are serving a more flavorful turkey, a stronger cheese like cheddar or mozzarella would be a good option.

The texture of the cheese is another important factor to consider. The cheese should be a good match for the texture of the turkey. A soft cheese like brie or goat cheese would be a good choice for a moist, tender turkey. A hard cheese like Parmesan or pecorino Romano would be a good choice for a drier, more flavorful turkey.

The temperature of the cheese is also important to consider. The cheese should be served at the same temperature as the turkey. If you are serving a warm turkey, the cheese should be warm as well. If you are serving a cold turkey, the cheese should be cold as well.

By considering the type, flavor, texture, and temperature of the cheese, you can choose the perfect cheese to serve with your turkey.

Cheese is a delicious and versatile food that can be paired with a variety of dishes. Turkey is a popular choice for holiday meals, and cheese can be used to enhance the flavor of the turkey. By considering the type, flavor, texture, and temperature of the cheese, you can choose the perfect cheese to serve with your turkey.

Cheese That Goes with Turkey

Turkey and cheese are a classic combination that is perfect for any holiday or special occasion. The salty, umami flavor of turkey pairs perfectly with the creamy, tangy flavor of cheese. There are many different types of cheese that go well with turkey, so you can choose the perfect one to match your taste and the dish you are making.

Some of the best cheeses to pair with turkey include

• Cheddar cheese. Cheddar is a versatile cheese that can be enjoyed with a variety of dishes. It has a sharp, salty flavor that complements the rich flavor of turkey.
• Gouda cheese. Gouda is a Dutch cheese that is known for its creamy, nutty flavor. It is a good choice for those who prefer a milder cheese.
• Gruyre cheese. Gruyre is a Swiss cheese that is known for its sharp, salty flavor. It is a good choice for those who want a cheese with a lot of flavor.
• Monterey Jack cheese. Monterey Jack is a mild, creamy cheese that is perfect for those who want a cheese that is not too overpowering.
• Mozzarella cheese. Mozzarella is a soft, white cheese that is often used in Italian dishes. It has a mild, milky flavor that pairs well with the salty flavor of turkey.

When choosing a cheese to pair with turkey, it is important to consider the flavor of the cheese and how it will complement the turkey. If you are making a simple dish, such as a turkey sandwich, you may want to choose a milder cheese, such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella. If you are making a more complex dish, such as a turkey casserole, you may want to choose a stronger cheese, such as cheddar or gruyre.

No matter what type of cheese you choose, you are sure to enjoy the classic combination of turkey and cheese.

Tips for Serving Cheese with Turkey

When serving cheese with turkey, there are a few things you can do to make the most of the combination.

Pair the cheese with complementary flavors. Some good flavor combinations include:
Cheddar cheese and cranberry sauce
Gouda cheese and applesauce
Gruyre cheese and fig jam
Monterey Jack cheese and salsa
Mozzarella cheese and pesto sauce

Serve the cheese at the right temperature. Cheese is best served at room temperature, so take it out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before you plan to serve it.
Cut the cheese into small pieces. This will make it easier to eat and will allow you to enjoy the flavor of the cheese more fully.

Here are a few more tips for serving cheese with turkey

Serve cheese on a cheese platter with crackers, bread, and fruit.
Add cheese to a salad or soup.
Use cheese as a topping for pizza or pasta.
Melt cheese over turkey for a delicious and cheesy dish.

With so many different ways to enjoy cheese with turkey, you are sure to find a combination that you love.

Recipes for Turkey and Cheese Dishes

Here are a few recipes for turkey and cheese dishes that you can try:

* Turkey and Cheese Sandwiches

Ingredients:

* 2 slices of bread
* 1/2 cup of turkey breast, cooked and sliced
* 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese, shredded
* 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
* 1/4 cup of lettuce, shredded
* 1/4 cup of tomato, sliced

Instructions:

1. Spread mayonnaise on one slice of bread.
2. Layer the turkey, cheese, lettuce, and tomato on the bread.
3. Top with the other slice of bread.
4. Cut the sandwich in half and enjoy!

* Turkey and Cheese Casserole

Ingredients:

1 pound of ground turkey
1/2 cup of chopped onion
1/2 cup of chopped green bell pepper
1/2 cup of chopped red bell pepper
1/2 cup of chopped celery
1 (10.75 ounce) can of condensed cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup of milk
1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese
1/2 cup of bread crumbs

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground turkey over medium heat.
3. Add the onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and celery and cook until softened

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Cheeses Pair Best With Roast Turkey?

Answer: The best cheeses for pairing with roast turkey are mild and creamy options such as Brie and Gouda, which complement without overwhelming the turkey’s flavor. Aged Cheddar provides a sharper contrast, while Swiss cheese offers a nutty taste, and Goat Cheese brings a welcome tanginess.

2. Can You Recommend a Cheese for a Turkey Sandwich?

Answer: For a turkey sandwich, Swiss cheese is an excellent choice due to its meltability and mild flavor. Alternatively, a sharp Cheddar can add depth, while a spread of Goat Cheese can offer a creamy and tangy element to the sandwich.

3. Which Cheese Is Best for a Turkey and Cheese Platter?

Answer: Brie is ideal for a turkey and cheese platter because of its creamy texture and rich flavor, which doesn’t overpower turkey. Pair it with some fruit and crackers for a balanced offering.

4. What Cheese Goes Well in a Turkey Casserole?

Answer: Gouda cheese, with its smooth melt and slightly sweet, nutty flavor, is perfect for a turkey casserole. It blends well with the casserole’s creamy components and enhances the turkey’s flavor.

5. How Can I Incorporate Goat Cheese into a Turkey Dish?

Answer: Goat Cheese can be crumbled over a turkey salad for a burst of creamy tartness or mixed into turkey stuffing for a richer flavor profile. It’s also excellent when spread on turkey sliders for a tangy twist.

Final Word

The five cheeses that elevate the flavor of turkey are Brie, Gouda, Swiss, Cheddar, and Goat Cheese. Each of these cheeses brings a unique texture and taste that complements the succulent, mild flavor of turkey without overpowering it.

Brie adds a creamy, velvety contrast, while Gouda introduces a sweet and nutty note. Swiss cheese offers a mild yet distinct taste, perfect for a classic pairing. Cheddar, with its sharpness, enhances the turkey’s savory side, and Goat Cheese contributes a tangy freshness that can lighten up the heavier turkey dishes.

When selecting cheese to accompany turkey, consider the preparation of the bird and the desired flavor profile of the overall dish. These cheeses are versatile, pairing well with both the lightness of turkey breast and the richness of darker cuts.

They can be included on a charcuterie board, melted into a sandwich, or even incorporated into stuffing or casseroles. Remember, the key is to balance the flavors to enhance the dining experience, ensuring that both the cheese and the turkey can shine on the palate.