Check out Italy's top cheese brands, from the bold Pecorino Romano to the creamy Burrata. Get into these authentic Italian brands and step up your next meal with these cheesy gems!
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Can you buy Italian cheese in the U.S.?
Yes, you can buy Italian cheese in the U.S., and Amazon makes it easy. Parmigiano Reggiano, Pecorino Romano, and Gorgonzola are all available in different sizes. Amazon sells popular Italian brands and DOP-certified cheeses, so you know they’re legit. Other specialty sites like Gourmet Food World and Supermarket Italy have even more options and deliver right to your door.
The Best Italian Cheese Brands
Italian cheeses are known worldwide for their variety, flavor, and quality. Here are some of the top Italian cheese brands and popular types used in different ways:
Parmigiano Reggiano
Known as the "King of Cheeses," it’s a hard, nutty cow’s milk cheese. Aged at least 12 months, perfect for grating over pasta or risotto.
Grana Padano
Similar to Parmigiano, but milder and creamier. It’s versatile, great for cooking or snacking.
Pecorino Romano
This salty, sheep's milk cheese is a go-to for grating. Its bold flavor shines in dishes like Cacio e Pepe and Carbonara.
Gorgonzola
A famous blue cheese with two types: Dolce (creamy) and Piccante (sharp). Use it in salads, pastas, or on bread with honey.
Asiago
Comes fresh or aged. Fresh is soft and creamy, aged is harder with a sharp flavor. Great for grating, snacking, or sandwiches.
Burrata
A creamy, mozzarella-based cheese with a gooey center. Pairs well with tomatoes, olive oil, or in salads.
Provolone
A semi-hard cheese, available in Dolce (mild) and Piccante (sharp). Perfect for sandwiches, pizzas, or baked dishes.
Mascarpone
A rich, creamy cheese, famous in desserts like tiramisu. Also great in savory dishes like risotto or as a spread.
How to Pick Good Italian Cheese: Getting Certified DOP!
If you’re looking for Italian cheese, you have to know what DOP (Denominazione di Origine Protetta) is. That label assures you that the cheese is produced using traditional, local techniques. Every aspect of production, from milk to maturity, happens in one place. It’s legitimate if a cheese has a DOP sticker on it.
What Is DOP Certification?
DOP accreditation means that the cheese adheres to rigorous regulations for production. Parmigiano Reggiano, for instance, has to originate in the provinces of Parma or Modena. Even the cows’ diet is regulated. The same is true for Pecorino Romano, made from Sardinian or Lazian sheep’s milk. These regulations ensure that the flavor comes straight from the land. No shortcuts.
How to Spot a Fake
Fake versions flood the market, especially in the U.S. Nine out of ten cheeses sold as “Parmesan” in America are knock-offs. Most are made in places like California or Wisconsin. These imitations might look close, but without that DOP label, you’re not getting the real deal. Always check for the red and yellow DOP seal before buying.
Why DOP Matters
DOP certifies traditions and local economies—not just the cheese. It preserves cheesemaking and ensures regional variation. Buy DOP cheese, and you’re not only purchasing food, but you’re also buying into centuries-old culture.
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