Dairy | Vegetarian Keto Low Carb

Blue Cheese

Penicillium roqueforti/glaucum (cultures) Allergens: Milk
blue cheese

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family N/A (Fungus)
  • Primary Cuisine European
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Cow's milk, Sheep's milk, Goat's milk

The Forktionary Angle

"The bold, complex dairy delight that challenges and rewards the palate."

Definition

A category of cheese characterized by pungent flavor, distinct aroma, and blue-green mold veins produced by cultures of Penicillium bacteria.

Sensory Profile

TastePungent,salty,sharp,creamy,savory,umami
TextureCrumbly,creamy,sometimes firm,moist
AromaStrong,pungent,ammoniated,earthy,mushroomy
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Calcium Content

Excellent source

Mold Type

Penicillium cultures

Optimal Storage

Airtight, refrigerated

Nutrition Facts

Per 28g (1 oz)
Calories350 kcal
Total Fat29g
Saturated Fat18g
Trans Fat1g
Cholesterol75mg
Protein21g
Total Carbohydrate2.5g
Dietary Fiber0g
Total Sugars0.5g
Calcium530mg
Iron0.3mg
Potassium80mg

Chef’s Secret

Always bring blue cheese to room temperature before serving to allow its complex aromas and flavors to fully develop.

Substitutions

Best Match

Gorgonzola

1:1

Similar flavor profile and texture, good in salads or sauces.

Feta cheese

1:1

Salty and crumbly, but lacks the pungent mold flavor; good for texture in salads.

Goat cheese (chevre)

1:1

Tangy and creamy, offers a similar sharp note but without the distinct blue mold.

Aged Cheddar

1:1

Sharp and tangy, can substitute for a strong, savory cheese in some contexts, but without the blue notes.

Buying Guide

Purchase from a reputable vendor; look for fresh, earthy aroma, not ammonia-like; store wrapped tightly in the refrigerator.

Flavor Pairings

Salads dressings cheese boards burgers pasta sauces dips steak toppings.

Recipes Using Blue Cheese

Citrus Fruit Brunch Citrus

2Bleu's Pecan Danish

Indulge in this incredibly easy 2-Bleu cheese and pecan Danish recipe! This delectable treat can be baked as individual rolls or a stunning ring. For a super-speedy version, we're using crescent roll dough for a melt-in-your-mouth pastry that requires NO rising time! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave a warm, gooey, and utterly irresistible treat. Get ready for a flavor explosion of creamy blue cheese and crunchy pecans!

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Mushrooms Easy Served Hot Taste Mood

Almost Alice Chicken

Inspired by the Outback's Alice Springs Chicken, this recipe puts a delicious twist on a classic! Juicy chicken breasts are coated in a zesty blue cheese and cheddar crust, then baked to perfection. Cooking time is flexible based on your oven and desired doneness. (Marinating time not included). Get ready for a flavor explosion that'll transport you to the Australian outback!

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Apples Easy Fruit Cheese

Apple Blue Cheese Spread

Delight your taste buds with this refreshing Apple Blue Cheese Spread! Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, this creamy dip combines the sweetness of apples with the tangy bite of blue cheese, all perfectly balanced by the subtle sharpness of red onion and crunchy pecans. Don't skip the onion – it truly elevates the flavor! Serve with triscuits or your favorite crackers for a simple yet unforgettable appetizer.

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Number Of Servings 15 Minutes Or Less Course Preparation

Apple And Blue Cheese Salad

This vibrant and surprisingly satisfying Apple and Blue Cheese Salad is a meal in itself! Crisp romaine lettuce, sweet apples, tangy blue cheese, and crunchy almonds create a symphony of flavors and textures. Our secret? Ice-water chilling the romaine for maximum crispness. Use our homemade blue cheese dressing (recipe #175543) or your favorite bottled variety for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a stunning appetizer. This recipe is perfect for a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a delightful dinner.

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Greens Salad Dressings Midwestern Easy

Apple Pecan And Blue Cheese Salad With Dried Cherries

Inspired by Ree Drummond's Pioneer Woman, this vibrant salad is a symphony of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors! Crisp apples, crunchy pecans, creamy blue cheese, and juicy dried cherries are tossed in a simple yet unforgettable maple Dijon vinaigrette. A quick and easy recipe perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or appetizer.

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Occasion Time To Make Comfort Food European

Arugula Rocket And Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes

Elevate your mashed potatoes with a surprising twist! This recipe combines creamy garlic mashed potatoes with pungent blue cheese and peppery arugula for a flavor explosion. The bitterness of the arugula is perfectly balanced by the richness of the potatoes and cheese, making it a delicious introduction to this often-overlooked green. A quick and easy weeknight meal or impressive side dish.

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Asparagus Salads Main Ingredient Green Yellow Beans

Asparagus And Green Bean Salad With Herb Dijon Dressing

This vibrant Asparagus & Green Bean Salad is a delightful blend of fresh asparagus, crisp green beans, and a creamy herb Dijon dressing. The tangy dressing perfectly complements the tender-crisp vegetables, while crumbled blue cheese adds a salty, creamy bite. Easy to make and perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or starter for a summer gathering!

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Hanukkah Brunch Vegetables Dietary

Asparagus Rollups

Wow your guests with these elegant Asparagus Rollups! A simple yet impressive appetizer, perfect for parties or a special dinner. This recipe, inspired by Southern Living, features tender asparagus wrapped in creamy ham and cheese, then baked to golden perfection. Easily customizable to your taste – we suggest using half the blue cheese for a lighter flavor. Get ready to impress!

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Weeknight Time To Make Weeknight Easter

Asparagus Strawberry Salad

A vibrant and surprisingly delicious salad! Sweet strawberries meet crisp asparagus in a creamy poppy seed dressing, topped with crumbly blue cheese. This unique recipe is perfect for a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a stunning appetizer. Prep time includes chilling for optimal flavor.

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Easy Beginner Cook Preparation Course

Baby Greens Pear Walnut And Blue Cheese Salad

A delightful and elegant salad, perfect for book club or a special dinner! This recipe combines the freshness of baby greens with the sweetness of pears, the crunch of walnuts, and the tang of blue cheese for a flavor explosion in your mouth. Easy to make in just 10 minutes, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.

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Preparation Time To Make Very Low Carbs Beginner Cook

Bacon Blue Cheese Omelette Bleu Cheese Omelet

Craving a quick, flavorful breakfast or brunch that's bursting with bold flavors? This Bacon Blue Cheese Omelet is your answer! Ready in just 10 minutes, this recipe combines crispy bacon with creamy blue cheese for a taste sensation that will leave you wanting more. Perfect for blue cheese lovers!

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Time To Make Low Carb Low In Something Dietary

Bacon Cheese Dip Southern Living

Game day just got a whole lot tastier! This creamy, dreamy Bacon Cheese Dip, inspired by Southern Living, is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Sharp blue cheese provides a tangy kick that perfectly complements the smoky bacon. Serve warm (try it in a mini crock-pot!) or chilled with your favorite crackers for an unforgettable appetizer. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Dietary Time To Make Main Ingredient Main Dish

Baked Blue Cheese Chicken

Indulge in this creamy, decadent Baked Blue Cheese Chicken! A crowd-pleaser perfect for family dinners or elegant parties. This recipe features juicy chicken breasts baked to perfection in a rich blue cheese sauce. Served alongside baked potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad, it's a complete and unforgettable meal. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Preparation Poultry Main Ingredient Preparation

Baked Buffalo Thighs

Juicy, tender chicken thighs with a fiery buffalo wing flavor! This recipe delivers all the bold, tangy goodness of your favorite buffalo wings, but with the added satisfaction of succulent, meaty thighs. Get ready for a flavor explosion that's easy to make and perfect for game day, weeknight dinners, or any occasion!

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Preparation Cheese Side Dishes Occasion

Barefoot Contessa's Blue Cheese Cole Slaw

This vibrant and flavorful blue cheese coleslaw is the perfect side dish for your next barbecue! Its creamy, tangy dressing complements smoky brisket and grilled hamburgers beautifully. Imagine the incredible combination of crunchy cabbage, sharp blue cheese, and a hint of sweetness – it's a flavor explosion in every bite! Elevate this classic with diced apples and walnuts for an extra layer of texture and sophistication. Plus, it's a fun Fourth of July treat with its red, white, and blue color scheme! Don't worry about using expensive blue cheese – even a more affordable variety will deliver delicious results. Make it ahead of time and chill for several hours to allow the flavors to fully develop and meld.

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30 Minutes Or Less Preparation Time To Make Main Dish

Beef Blue Cheese And Spinach Quesadillas

Craving a flavorful and satisfying dinner that won't derail your weight loss goals? These Beef, Blue Cheese, and Spinach Quesadillas are a game-changer! Inspired by a Weight Watchers recipe, this cheesy, savory delight packs in lean beef, creamy blue cheese, and healthy spinach. Each quesadilla is surprisingly only 8 Weight Watchers points (1/4 quesadilla = 2 points!), making it a guilt-free indulgence. The unique combination of flavors creates a delicious twist on traditional quesadillas – you'll love the unexpected burst of blue cheese! Customize the spice level with your favorite taco sauce and red pepper flakes. Serve with extra sauce for dipping.

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French Course Preparation Meat

Chicken With Blue Cheese

Indulge in this sophisticated French-inspired dish! Our Chicken with Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce features succulent chicken perfectly complemented by a rich, tangy blue cheese sauce. The strong flavor of blue cheese makes this a recipe for adventurous palates – those who love it will adore it! Easy to follow instructions and a reasonable cook time make this a perfect weeknight dinner.

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