Dairy,Cheese | Vegetarian

Fontina Cheese

N/A Allergens: Milk
fontina cheese

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family N/A
  • Primary Cuisine Italian
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Milk

The Forktionary Angle

"Explore Fontina's rich heritage and culinary versatility."

Definition

A semi-hard, nutty, and creamy cow's milk cheese from Italy, known for its excellent melting properties.

Sensory Profile

TasteNutty,Buttery,Earthy,Mild,Sweet
TextureSemi-hard,Smooth,Creamy
AromaMild,Milky,Nutty
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Fat Content

25-30%

Fridge Shelf Life (Opened)

1-2 weeks

Melting Point

~100-110°F (Exceptional for melting)

Nutrition Facts

Per 28g (1 oz)
Calories389 kcal
Total Fat30.6g
Saturated Fat19.3g
Trans Fat1.2g
Cholesterol99mg
Protein25.5g
Total Carbohydrate1.4g
Dietary Fiber0g
Total Sugars0.1g
Calcium800mg
Iron0.2mg
Potassium90mg

Chef’s Secret

Fontina excels in dishes where a smooth, stretchy melt is desired, like macaroni and cheese or grilled cheese sandwiches.

Substitutions

Best Match

Gouda Cheese

1:1

Similar nutty, mild flavor and excellent melting properties.

Gruyère Cheese

1:1

More complex, fruity, and nutty flavor with great melt, slightly stronger.

Swiss Cheese

1:1

Mild, nutty, good melt, but a distinctly different flavor profile.

Provolone Cheese (mild)

1:1

Good melting properties, but less nuanced flavor.

Buying Guide

Look for a cheese with a smooth, firm texture and a reddish-brown natural rind.

Flavor Pairings

Fondue gratins sandwiches pasta pizza charcuterie boards.

Recipes Using Fontina Cheese

Course 4 Hours Or Less Main Ingredient Course

Alpine Cabbage Soup

Transform leftover bread into a magical, earthy Italian soup! This Alpine Cabbage Soup recipe uses stale bread (any kind works!) to thicken a rich and flavorful broth, bursting with cabbage and aromatic herbs. Inspired by the Moosewood Restaurant, this recipe is a celebration of resourcefulness and deliciousness. Perfect for a cozy night in!

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Occasion American Time To Make Cuisine

Antipasto Chicken Sandwich

Elevate your lunch game with this incredible Antipasto Chicken Sandwich! Adapted from a Cooking Light recipe, this flavorful sandwich is perfect for using leftover grilled or roasted chicken. Packed with artichokes, tomatoes, peppers, prosciutto, and creamy cheese, it's a taste sensation. Make ahead for easy picnics, camping trips, or school lunches – simply cut into wedges and wrap in foil for on-the-go goodness!

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Seasonal Course 60 Minutes Or Less Vegetables

Asparagus Risotto With Shiitake Mushrooms

A creamy and decadent Asparagus Risotto with earthy Shiitake Mushrooms, adapted from renowned chef Michael Chiarello! This recipe boasts vibrant asparagus and savory mushrooms in a perfectly cooked Arborio rice base. Elevate your weeknight dinner with this sophisticated yet surprisingly easy dish. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Omelets And Frittatas Time To Make European Cuisine

Bacon Swiss Chard Vacherin Cheese Quiche

Indulge in this exquisite Bacon Swiss Chard Quiche featuring creamy Vacherin cheese, a semi-hard Swiss cheese with a nutty, Fontina-like flavor. This recipe, adapted from a Seattle Times classic, elevates simple ingredients into a sophisticated and satisfying meal. The flaky crust cradles a savory blend of crispy bacon, tender Swiss chard, and the unique richness of Vacherin, creating a taste sensation that's both comforting and unforgettable. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner.

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60 Minutes Or Less 60 Minutes Or Less One Dish Meal Course

Baked Cavatappi With Smoked Ham And Fontina

Elevate your weeknight meal with this upscale baked cavatappi, featuring smoky ham and rich Fontina cheese. A gourmet twist on classic mac and cheese, this recipe is surprisingly easy and guaranteed to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Inspired by Antonio's pasta – get ready for cheesy, comforting deliciousness!

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American Main Ingredient Taste Mood American

Baked Couscous With Summer Squash

This light and flavorful Baked Couscous with Summer Squash is a crowd-pleasing side dish perfect for any occasion! Featuring tender summer squash, herbs, and creamy cheese, this recipe is naturally low in fat and easily adaptable for vegetarians. Inspired by Cooking Light magazine, it's a delicious and healthy addition to your weeknight dinner rotation or summer barbecue.

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Preparation Course Preparation Main Dish

Baked Four Cheese Pasta With Tomatoes And Basil

Indulge in this irresistible Baked Four Cheese Pasta with Tomatoes and Basil! A creamy, cheesy masterpiece, perfect as a comforting side dish or a satisfying main course alongside a fresh salad. This recipe, inspired by Cook's Illustrated, delivers a restaurant-quality experience in under 40 minutes. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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60 Minutes Or Less 60 Minutes Or Less Preparation Main Ingredient

Baked Orzo With Fontina And Peas

Inspired by Giada De Laurentiis, this creamy baked orzo pasta dish is a comforting and flavorful masterpiece! Tender orzo pasta is baked with creamy fontina cheese, sweet peas, and a savory mushroom and marsala wine sauce. Topped with a crunchy breadcrumb topping, it's the perfect weeknight dinner or special occasion side dish. Get ready for a taste of Italy!

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Poultry Number Of Servings Meat Oamc Freezer Make Ahead

Baked Pasta With Chicken Sausage

This incredible baked pasta recipe is a dream come true! Make two pans – enjoy one tonight, and freeze the other for a quick and delicious meal later. This hearty dish features tender chicken sausage, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, all baked to golden perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping!

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Equipment Course Dietary 4 Hours Or Less

Baked Penne With Roasted Vegetables Courtesy Giada De La

A crowd-pleasing vegetarian bake inspired by Giada De Laurentiis! This recipe, adapted from her Everyday Italian show, features perfectly roasted vegetables tossed with al dente penne, rich marinara, and melted cheeses. A family favorite, even picky eaters will love this hearty and flavorful dish. (Note: This version includes garlic, unlike Giada's original garlic-free recipe for her mother.)

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Comfort Food Vegetarian Italian North American

Baked Polenta With Mushrooms

This creamy, dreamy baked polenta with mushrooms is the perfect side dish for any occasion! Elevate your weeknight dinner or impress your guests with this flavorful and surprisingly easy recipe. Pair it with a simple green salad and a fruity red wine like Burgundy for a complete and satisfying meal. Suitable for diabetic diets in moderation. (Gluten-free option available – see notes).

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Spinach Time To Make Preparation 60 Minutes Or Less

Baked Rigatoni With Spinach Ricotta And Fontina

This cheesy, comforting baked rigatoni is a quick and easy weeknight meal inspired by Food & Wine magazine! Skip the stuffing and enjoy perfectly cooked rigatoni tossed in a creamy spinach and ricotta filling, topped with melted fontina, and baked to golden perfection. A faster, simpler take on classic cannelloni, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

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Italian Course Dietary Weeknight

Baked Tortellini

Indulge in cheesy bliss with this irresistible Baked Tortellini recipe! Say goodbye to red sauce and hello to a creamy, dreamy Fontina cheese sauce that perfectly complements tender tortellini. This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep – double the recipe and freeze half for a future heat-and-eat delight. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Cuisine Weeknight Eggs Dairy 60 Minutes Or Less

Best Ever Alfredo Sauce

This lighter take on classic Alfredo sauce is a family favorite! Made with less butter than traditional recipes, it's surprisingly healthy without sacrificing creamy, cheesy deliciousness. Perfect for tossing with your favorite pasta, chicken, or shrimp, this easy-to-follow recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Get ready for rave reviews!

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