Dairy, Cheese | Vegetarian

Provolone Cheese

Bos taurus Allergens: Milk, Lactose
provolone cheese

Sourcing & Taxonomy

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

The Forktionary Angle

"Unravel the duality of Provolone: how aging transforms a sweet, creamy cheese into a robust, piquant delight."

Definition

An Italian semi-hard cheese, often shaped into large forms, with a mild to sharp flavor depending on age.

Sensory Profile

TasteMild, Nutty, Salty, Slightly Sharp (aged)
TextureSemi-hard, Smooth, Melty
AromaMilky, Creamy
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Aging Process

Provolone Dolce ages 2-3 months; Provolone Piccante ages 6-12 months.

Melting Quality

Excellent melting cheese, ideal for sandwiches, pizzas, and gratins.

Milk Source

Traditionally made from pasteurized cow's milk.

Nutrition Facts

Per 28g (1 slice)
Calories351 kcal
Total Fat26.6g
Saturated Fat16.7g
Trans Fat1.2g
Cholesterol78mg
Protein25.6g
Total Carbohydrate2.1g
Dietary Fiber0g
Total Sugars0.5g
Calcium756mg
Iron0.2mg
Potassium78mg

Chef’s Secret

For the best melt on sandwiches or pizzas, shred or slice provolone thinly and layer evenly to prevent clumping.

Substitutions

Best Match

Mozzarella (low-moisture)

1:1

Excellent melt and stretch, milder flavor.

Swiss Cheese

1:1

Nutty flavor, good melt, distinct holes.

White Cheddar

1:1

Sharpness and melt are comparable, different flavor profile.

Fontina Cheese

1:1

Creamy texture, nutty flavor, good for melting.

Buying Guide

Look for "Provolone Piccante" for a sharper, aged flavor, or "Provolone Dolce" for a milder, sweeter version.

Flavor Pairings

Sandwiches Pizzas Baked pasta Cured meats

Recipes Using Provolone Cheese

European Time To Make Oamc Freezer Make Ahead Beef

Adriana's Pasta Pie

Prepare for a culinary revelation! This Adriana's Pasta Pie recipe, straight from the legendary St. Louis Italian hilltop restaurant, is a game-changer. Get ready for a rich, meaty crust and a decadent pasta filling that will leave you craving more. This recipe makes extra delicious sauce, perfect for future meals. Plus, it's freezer-friendly! Bake it partially, freeze it, and bake it later for ultimate convenience. Featured on FoodTV.com (with slight variations), this is a must-try for pasta lovers.

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Pizza Course Pizza Time To Make

Amazing Thin Crust Pizza

Conquer pizza night with this game-changing recipe! Inspired by Cook's Illustrated and seasoned pizzaiolo techniques, this recipe creates a ridiculously crispy-tender, 13x18 inch (half-sheet pan) thin crust pizza (or two 12-inch rounds). My husband claims it's the highlight of his day – and it might be yours too! This recipe features a flavorful sauce (enough for 3 medium or 6 thin crust pizzas!), and meticulous instructions for achieving perfect crust and topping balance. A pizza stone is essential for that authentic pizzeria crisp. Learn the trick for effortless pizza transfer using parchment paper and a half-sheet pan. Get ready to impress – this pizza is better than takeout, and once you try it, you'll never order pizza again!

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Cuisine Preparation 15 Minutes Or Less Easy

Antipasta Salad

A vibrant and flavorful Antipasto Salad perfect as a light lunch, side dish to your favorite Italian entree, or a delightful appetizer! This recipe bursts with Mediterranean freshness, combining juicy tomatoes, salty olives, crisp peppers, and savory salami for an unforgettable taste experience. Easy to prepare in just 10 minutes!

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4 Hours Or Less 4 Hours Or Less Preparation Time To Make

Antipasto Bread

This crowd-pleasing Antipasto Bread is perfect for lunch, appetizers, picnics, and beach days! A vibrant medley of Italian flavors baked into a crusty loaf, it's bursting with fresh ingredients and irresistible taste. Easy to make and even easier to devour, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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Course Pasta Vegetables Main Ingredient

Antipasto Rotini Pasta Salad

This crowd-pleasing Antipasto Rotini Pasta Salad is a guaranteed hit! Perfect for potlucks, parties, or busy weeknights, this recipe is so popular, it's always devoured. Get ready to experience a burst of Mediterranean flavors with perfectly cooked rotini pasta, vibrant vegetables, salty olives, and tangy cheeses – all tossed in a light and zesty dressing. Make a big batch – it disappears fast!

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Time To Make Preparation 60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make

Antipasto Squares

Elevate your appetizer game with these irresistible Antipasto Squares! A delightful blend of savory Italian flavors, these squares are perfect for parties, game day, or a quick and easy weeknight snack. Crispy phyllo cups are brimming with creamy ricotta, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, salty olives, and savory salami. Get ready to impress your guests with this stunning and delicious recipe!

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Sandwiches Occasion Meat Poultry

Applebee's Club House Grill

Craving that delicious Applebee's Club House Grill taste? This copycat recipe lets you recreate the iconic dish at home! We've perfected the recipe to capture the signature smoky BBQ flavor, with a juicy chicken breast and all the classic toppings. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow recipe. Bullseye BBQ sauce is highly recommended for an authentic taste!

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Time To Make Presentation Vegetables Lunch

Artichoke Chicken Calzones

These irresistible Artichoke Chicken Calzones are a flavor explosion! Inspired by a Cooking Light recipe, these savory calzones are filled with tender chicken, artichoke hearts, spinach, and creamy provolone cheese, all baked to golden perfection. Get ready for a taste sensation that'll have you going back for seconds!

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30 Minutes Or Less Pasta Salads Pasta Rice And Grains

Aunt B's Pasta Salad

This incredibly easy pasta salad is a crowd-pleaser perfect as a side dish or a light meal! Always a hit at cookouts, this recipe is bursting with fresh vegetables and a zesty Italian dressing. Customize it with your favorite veggies – the possibilities are endless! Get ready for requests for this family favorite!

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60 Minutes Or Less Holiday Event Appetizers Preparation

Autumn Reuben Dip

Spice up your game day spread with this irresistible Autumn Reuben Dip! A delicious twist on the classic, this creamy and savory appetizer is perfect for cooler evenings and football Sundays. Featuring tangy sauerkraut, melty provolone, and a secret blend of spices, it's guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve warm with rye rounds, party rye, Triscuits, or wheat thins for the ultimate comfort food experience. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Lunch 5 Ingredients Or Less Preparation High In Something

Bagel Pizza

This 5-minute bagel pizza is a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying lunch or snack! Transform a simple bagel into a cheesy, meaty masterpiece with this unbelievably fast recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you're craving something delicious without the fuss.

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North American Preparation Main Dish European

Baked Italian Heros

Warm up your taste buds with these irresistible Baked Italian Heros! A family favorite, this recipe features melty cheese, savory meats, and fresh veggies all baked to perfection in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer!

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Time To Make Time To Make Lunch Sandwiches

Baked Italian Sub Sandwiches

Elevate your weeknight meal with these incredible Baked Italian Sub Sandwiches! Crispy on the outside, melty and cheesy on the inside – you won't believe they're homemade. This recipe is quick, easy, and delivers restaurant-quality results every time. Perfect for a family dinner or a crowd-pleasing party snack!

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Preparation Course Casseroles Time To Make

Baked Manicotti With Pepperoni Meat Sauce

Craving a comforting, cheesy, and incredibly flavorful dinner? This Baked Manicotti with Pepperoni Meat Sauce recipe is your answer! Using convenient no-boil lasagna noodles, this recipe is surprisingly quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights. Adapted from Cook's Country TV and perfected for family enjoyment, this dish is guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Get ready for a taste of pure Italian-American deliciousness!

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Chicken Breasts Poultry Main Ingredient Beginner Cook

Balsamic Chicken Sandwich Or Panini

Relive the taste of that amazing Balsamic Chicken Sandwich/Panini! This recipe, salvaged from a beloved cooking magazine, is a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy tender chicken marinated in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, nestled between crispy ciabatta bread (or your favorite crusty bread). Grill it panini-style for a warm, gooey, and utterly satisfying meal, or enjoy it as a quick and delicious sandwich. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner!

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Course Oven Equipment Lunch

Bbq Chicken French Bread Pizza

Satisfy your cravings with this mouthwatering BBQ Chicken French Bread Pizza! Tangy homemade BBQ sauce, smoky provolone cheese, and tender chicken create a flavor explosion in every bite. Perfect for a quick lunch, satisfying snack, or game-day appetizer. This easy recipe combines the best of pizza and BBQ in one unforgettable dish!

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Preparation Main Ingredient 60 Minutes Or Less European

Best Baked Ziti

This baked ziti recipe is a game-changer! Forget your grandma's recipe – this one features a creamy sour cream and provolone cheese blend that sets it apart. Get ready for unbelievably cheesy, comforting deliciousness. Our readers rave about this recipe – find out why it's earned a zillion 5-star reviews (almost)! This easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

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