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

Finger Food Cheese Finger Food Pizza

Absolutely Yummy Vegetable Pizza

Recreate the magic of a beloved grocery store deli pizza! This recipe captures the irresistible flavor of a discontinued favorite, bringing you a veggie-loaded pizza experience that's just as good, if not better. Get ready for a crispy crust topped with a creamy ranch base, a vibrant array of fresh vegetables, and melted cheese perfection. Easy to make and guaranteed to impress!

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Time To Make Preparation 60 Minutes Or Less Occasion

All American Ranch Spinach Shrimp Pizza Rsc

Get ready to devour this incredible All-American Ranch Spinach Shrimp Pizza! This recipe, inspired by a Hidden Valley contest, features succulent shrimp, vibrant spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic roasted garlic, all nestled on a cheesy, flavorful crust. But the real game-changer? A creamy ranch-infused crust that's both delicious and visually stunning! The crust is cleverly folded to create a perfect pocket for extra ranch dip, served on the side for ultimate dipping pleasure. Prepare for a flavor explosion in every bite!

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Occasion Cuisine Eggs Dairy Main Dish

Alton Brown's Cuban Sandwich

Master the art of the Cuban sandwich with this authentic recipe from culinary genius Alton Brown! This ultimate guide delivers juicy roasted pork, tangy pickles, melty Swiss cheese, and savory mustard all pressed to golden perfection. Get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite!

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Number Of Servings Oven Number Of Servings Preparation

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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Preparation Italian Vegetables Main Ingredient

Anti Stress Antipasto

Whip up this vibrant Anti-Stress Antipasto Platter in just 20 minutes! Perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight meal or a stress-free appetizer. This colorful platter bursts with Mediterranean flavors and textures, guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and soothe your soul.

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60 Minutes Or Less Preparation Vegetables Dietary

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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Finger Food One Dish Meal Lunch Vegetables

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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Course Preparation Pasta 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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Meat Main Dish French Equipment

Awesome Chicken Cordon Bleu

Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with savory ham and cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon, and baked to perfection! This easy-to-follow recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under an hour. A crowd-pleasing favorite, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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Equipment Cheese Finger Food Eggs Dairy

Bada Bing Betty's Tuscan Portobello Melt Grilled Cheese

This award-winning Tuscan Portobello Melt Grilled Cheese, a sensation from Betty Fraser's Top Chef 'comfort food' challenge, is a culinary masterpiece! This recipe, originally paired with recipe #193721, became a TGI Friday's menu star. The judges raved – and you will too! Imagine juicy portobellos, roasted with sweet onions and tomatoes in balsamic, nestled between perfectly grilled cheese with provolone and Monterey Jack. Get ready for a flavor explosion that's both comforting and sophisticated. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or impressing your friends.

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60 Minutes Or Less Preparation Course Time To Make

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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Number Of Servings Dietary Sandwiches Savory

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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Beginner Cook Meat Course Main Ingredient

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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Preparation Equipment Meat Course

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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Barbecue Mushrooms Low Sodium For 1 Or 2

Bbq Portabella

Satisfy your vegetarian cravings with this quick and easy BBQ Portabella Pizza! Juicy, smoky portabella mushrooms take center stage on a crispy crust, topped with a tangy BBQ sauce and your favorite pizza toppings. Ready in under 20 minutes, it's the perfect weeknight meal or a fun weekend lunch.

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Served Cold Preparation American Easy

Bears Style Sub

Fuel your Chicago Bears game day with this epic sub! Inspired by playoff noshing, this recipe features a hearty blend of salami, mortadella, hot capicola, and provolone, layered with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and sharp onions. A zesty homemade dressing ties it all together. Easy to make in under 15 minutes!

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Fall Inexpensive Taste Mood Preparation

Better Than Tgi Friday's French Onion Soup

Experience pure French onion soup bliss with this copycat recipe, surpassing even TGI Fridays! Rich, caramelized onions simmered in a savory broth, topped with melted provolone and a crusty baguette. This recipe elevates the classic with a touch of dry white wine (optional) for extra depth of flavor. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this restaurant-quality soup, easily made at home!

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