Dairy, Cheese | Vegetarian

Fontina

N/A Allergens: Milk
Fontina

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family N/A
  • Primary Cuisine Italian
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Cow's milk

The Forktionary Angle

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Definition

A semi-soft, unpasteurized, cow's milk cheese originating from the Aosta Valley, Italy, known for its mild, nutty, and earthy flavor.

Sensory Profile

TasteMild, Nutty, Earthy, Milky, Slightly Fruity
TextureSemi-soft, Creamy, Elastic, Smooth, Melts well
AromaMild, Mushroomy, Nutty, Buttery
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 28g (1 oz)
Calories389 kcal
Total Fat32 g
Saturated Fat20 g
Trans Fat1 g
Cholesterol100 mg
Protein26 g
Total Carbohydrate0 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars0 g
Calcium700 mg
Iron0.1 mg
Potassium100 mg

Chef’s Secret

For a perfect fondue, grate Fontina and toss with a little cornstarch before adding to liquid to prevent clumping and ensure a smooth melt.

Substitutions

Best Match

Gruyère

1:1

Similar nutty flavor and excellent melting properties.

Havarti

1:1

Softer texture and buttery flavor, good for sandwiches.

Taleggio

1:1

More pungent, but similar semi-soft, creamy texture for melting dishes.

Provolone (mild)

1:1

Less complex flavor but melts very well and is widely available.

Buying Guide

Look for Fontina Val d'Aosta for authentic, protected designation of origin quality.

Flavor Pairings

Fondue sandwiches gratins pizza pasta risotto fruit crusty bread.

Recipes Using Fontina

Time To Make One Dish Meal Cheese Elbow Macaroni

Extraordinary Macaroni And Cheese

Creamy, dreamy, and unbelievably easy! This 30-minute macaroni and cheese recipe skips the pre-cooking step, saving you time and effort. Adapted from a classic box recipe, this versatile dish is elevated with simple additions for a gourmet taste. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing side dish. Customize it with your favorite cheeses for endless flavor combinations!

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4 Hours Or Less Tomatoes Preparation Main Dish

Awesome Grilled Pizza

Prepare for pizza perfection! This recipe, inspired by America's Test Kitchen, is a labor of love resulting in an unbelievably delicious grilled pizza. While it involves multiple steps, the incredible flavor and impressive presentation are well worth the effort. Easily adaptable with your favorite light toppings, it's also perfect for make-ahead entertaining. Grill it once, then simply reheat for company! Don't be intimidated by the oil – you won't use the entire amount. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this gourmet grilled pizza experience!

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Appetizers Course Very Low Carbs High Calcium

Baked Fontina With Garlic Olive Oil And Thyme

Indulge in this irresistible appetizer – a delightful twist on fondue, without the fuss! This recipe from the Red Cat Cookbook features creamy Italian Fontina cheese (Dutch Fontina won't melt the same!), baked to bubbly perfection with fragrant garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Simply broil until golden and serve with crusty bread for dipping. It's the perfect starter for a romantic dinner or a cozy night in!

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Pasta Main Ingredient Pasta Rice And Grains Side Dishes

Baked Rigatoni With Bechamel Sauce

Giada De Laurentiis' irresistible baked rigatoni is elevated with a rich, creamy béchamel sauce, savory prosciutto, and nutty fontina cheese. This comforting pasta bake makes a fantastic side dish or a satisfying main course – perfect for family dinners or weeknight meals! Get ready for cheesy, bubbly perfection!

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Occasion High In Something Pasta Occasion

Baked Ziti With Four Cheeses

Indulge in cheesy bliss with this irresistible Baked Ziti! Featuring four decadent cheeses – Gruyère, Fontina, Parmesan, and Mozzarella – this recipe creates a creamy, dreamy baked pasta dish with a perfectly crusty, golden-brown top. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family dinners and gatherings.

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Time To Make Meat Sandwiches 60 Minutes Or Less

Basil Lemon Chicken Panini

This vibrant panini bursts with fresh basil and zesty lemon, perfectly complementing juicy grilled chicken and melted Fontina cheese. Grilled to golden perfection in a panini press or skillet, this recipe is a quick and easy weeknight meal or a delightful lunch. Use leftover grilled chicken (recipe available separately!) or quickly pan-fry chicken breasts for this crowd-pleasing sandwich.

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Easy Low Carb Equipment Oven

Frittata With Ham And Roasted Pepper

A delightful Frittata recipe inspired by Coup de Pouce (February 2008), perfect for a quick and flavorful Italian-inspired meal. This recipe features savory ham, sweet roasted peppers, and a creamy egg base, creating a dish that's both elegant and easy to make. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet stunning frittata!

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