Cheese, Dairy | Low Fat Vegetarian

Neufchatel Cheese

Bos taurus (Cow) Allergens: Milk
Neufchatel Cheese

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Bovidae (Cow)
  • Primary Cuisine French, American
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Cow's Milk

The Forktionary Angle

"Neufchâtel offers a sophisticated, tangy twist on familiar creaminess, with a historical heart-shaped tradition."

Definition

A soft, white, unripened cheese, similar to cream cheese but with a lower fat content and a slightly tangier flavor.

Sensory Profile

TasteTangy, Mild, Creamy, Slightly sour
TextureSoft, Spreadable, Smooth, Creamy
AromaLactic, Fresh, Mildly tangy
AcidityMedium

Technical Metrics

Fat Content (Compared to Cream Cheese)

~1/3 less fat

PDO Status

Granted in 1969

Storage Life (Refrigerated)

2-3 weeks (unopened)

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 oz (28g)
Calories250 kcal
Total Fat23 g
Saturated Fat15 g
Trans Fat1 g
Cholesterol70 mg
Protein9 g
Total Carbohydrate4 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars3 g
Calcium90 mg
Iron0.1 mg
Potassium120 mg

Chef’s Secret

Due to its lower fat, Neufchatel can curdle more easily than cream cheese when heated. Temper it or mix with a bit of flour/starch when using in hot dishes.

Substitutions

Best Match

Cream Cheese

1:1

Most direct substitute, higher fat content, but similar texture and uses.

Mascarpone Cheese

1:1

Richer, sweeter, and higher fat, but provides similar creamy texture in desserts.

Ricotta Cheese (drained)

1:1 (drained)

Lumpier texture, but can be whipped smooth for some uses; lower fat.

Greek Yogurt (strained)

1:1

Tangier and lower fat, provides creamy texture for dips or spreads, not ideal for baking.

Buying Guide

Found in the dairy aisle near cream cheese. Check for freshness and expiration date.

Flavor Pairings

Bagels Crackers Fruits (berries peaches) Smoked salmon Herbs Sugar (for desserts)

Recipes Using Neufchatel Cheese

Authentic Lindy's Famous New York Cheesecake image 205
Course Desserts Course Number Of Servings

Authentic Lindy's Famous New York Cheesecake

Indulge in the legendary Lindy's New York Cheesecake! This recipe recreates the dense, creamy texture and rich flavor that made this cheesecake a classic. Perfect for special occasions or a decadent treat, this recipe is sure to impress. Get ready to experience the ultimate New York-style cheesecake!

See Complete Recipe
Barefoot Contessa's Sun Dried Tomato Dip Light Version image 151
Preparation Course 3 Steps Or Less Appetizers

Barefoot Contessa's Sun Dried Tomato Dip Light Version

A lighter, healthier twist on Ina Garten's classic sun-dried tomato dip! This recipe uses reduced-fat ingredients without sacrificing any of the incredible flavor. Creamy, tangy, and bursting with bright sun-dried tomato flavor, this dip is perfect for parties, game day, or a simple weeknight snack. Get ready to impress your guests – they won't believe it's the lighter version!

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Basil Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast image 179
Occasion Main Dish Preparation Chicken

Basil Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast

Juicy chicken breasts get a flavor explosion with a creamy feta and basil filling! This lightened-up recipe, inspired by a low-fat cookbook, delivers a rich and savory experience in just 35 minutes. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner that's both satisfying and delicious.

See Complete Recipe