Sharp Cheddar Cheese

N/A (Dairy product, specifically Bos taurus milk) Dairy / Cheese

Sharp Cheddar Cheese Dairy / Cheese

At a Glance

  • Category Dairy / Cheese

The Forktionary Angle

"The "sharpness" in cheddar is a result of longer aging, during which enzymes break down fats and proteins, intensifying flavor and creating its characteristic texture."

Definition

A firm, natural cheese aged longer than mild cheddar, developing a more pronounced, piquant, and sometimes crumbly flavor.

Fat Content (approx.) ~33g per 100g
Minimum Aging Period 6-12 months (often longer)
Optimal Storage (Refrigerator) Up to 3-4 weeks (wrapped)

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Sharp Cheddar Cheese are:

Piquant tangy nutty savory sharp

Chef’s Secret

To prevent sharp cheddar from becoming oily when melted in sauces, grate it finely and add it gradually off the heat, stirring until fully incorporated for a smooth, creamy texture.

Best Substitutes

Aged Gruyère

Ratio 1:1

Parmesan

different texture but strong flavor
Ratio 1:1

extra-sharp white cheddar

Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for a firm texture and consistent color. Aged cheddar might show small white crystals, indicating desirable flavor development.

Recipes Using Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Dietary Time To Make Cuisine Mexican

Baked Chiles Rellenos

Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of these Baked Chiles Rellenos! This classic recipe, adapted from the Sunset Casserole Cookbook, features tender chiles stuffed with cheese, baked in a dreamy egg batter, and topped with melted cheddar. A vibrant marinara sauce adds the perfect finishing touch. Get ready for a fiesta of flavors in under an hour!

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Dietary Course Pasta Rice And Grains Occasion

All Day Macaroni And Cheese

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food! This recipe, passed down from a cherished photo teacher, creates a creamy, dreamy macaroni and cheese that's slow-cooked to cheesy perfection in your crockpot. Get ready for the most amazing, flavorful mac and cheese you've ever tasted – it's worth the wait!

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Main Ingredient Eggs Dairy 4 Hours Or Less Main Ingredient

Apache Cheese Bread

Elevate your holiday gatherings or any weeknight dinner with this irresistible Apache Cheese Bread! Inspired by Diane Gage's cookbooks, "Cooking and Gardening with Diane Gage" and "Celebrations on the Bayou," this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Imagine a warm, crusty loaf overflowing with a gooey, cheesy filling, perfect for dipping with tortilla chips. Prepare to be amazed!

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Pork Course Main Ingredient Dietary

Baked Ham Cheese And Broccoli Casserole

Indulge in this creamy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible Baked Ham, Cheese, and Broccoli Casserole! Perfect for using up leftover ham (or chicken/turkey!), this comforting classic is a freezer-friendly weeknight dinner solution. Get ready for a flavor explosion that the whole family will love!

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Pasta Rice And Grains Main Dish Inexpensive 60 Minutes Or Less

Best Mac And Cheese Ever

Indulge in the ultimate creamy, dreamy mac and cheese! This easy recipe delivers a rich, cheesy flavor that will impress everyone. Get ready for perfectly cooked pasta bathed in a luscious cheese sauce, topped with golden-brown breadcrumbs. This is comfort food at its finest!

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Low In Something Brunch Ham Stove Top

Baked Celery With Cheese And Ham

A comforting and cheesy casserole featuring tender celery, savory ham, and a creamy cheese sauce. Adapted from a classic recipe, this updated version is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck. Get ready for a burst of flavor in every bite!

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30 Minutes Or Less Main Ingredient Low Calorie Low Sodium

Bacon And Veggie Skillet Scramble

Start your weekend mornings with this delicious and customizable Bacon and Veggie Skillet Scramble! This hearty breakfast is packed with flavor and perfect for the whole family. Use bacon or sausage, add leftover baked potatoes to speed things up, and enjoy a crispy, cheesy delight that's sure to become a new favorite. Easy to make and endlessly adaptable, this recipe is a weekend breakfast winner!

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Preparation Appetizers Easy Time To Make

Beer And Cheese Dip In A Bread Round

This irresistible Beer and Cheese Dip, baked in a crusty bread bowl, is the ultimate game-day snack or party appetizer! The creamy cheese blend infused with a zesty beer flavor is unbelievably delicious and surprisingly easy to make. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Occasion Easy Preparation 30 Minutes Or Less

Stove Top Cheddar Mac

Creamy, dreamy, cheesy Stove Top Cheddar Mac & Cheese! This quick and easy recipe, inspired by Rachael Ray, delivers restaurant-quality mac and cheese in just 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend treat. Get ready for cheesy goodness!

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Equipment North American Main Ingredient Refrigerator

5 Layer Seafood Appetizer

Wow your guests with this stunning 5-layer seafood appetizer! Perfect for cocktail parties or game day gatherings, this recipe features fresh shrimp or crab (your choice!) layered with vibrant flavors and textures. Prepare each layer ahead of time for easy assembly – ideal for busy schedules. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Eggs Dairy Course Equipment Apples

Apple Sausage Raisin Strata

This Apple Sausage Raisin Strata is a delicious and easy make-ahead breakfast casserole! Juicy apples and savory sausage combine with sweet raisin bread, sharp cheddar cheese, and a creamy egg custard for a truly satisfying morning meal. Prepare it the night before for a stress-free breakfast that's sure to impress.

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Course Pork 30 Minutes Or Less Lunch

Baked Breakfast Meatballs

Fuel your morning with these delicious, low-carb, high-protein Baked Breakfast Meatballs! A quick and easy recipe perfect for a satisfying and healthy breakfast that will keep you full and energized. No more boring breakfasts – these savory meatballs are packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes!

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4 Hours Or Less Dietary High Calcium High In Something

Baked Mac N Cheese

Creamy, dreamy, baked mac and cheese! This classic comfort food recipe delivers a rich, cheesy, and utterly irresistible dish. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in. Get ready to experience mac and cheese perfection!

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Beginner Cook Pork Meat Cheese

Bacon And Cheese Deviled Eggs

Elevate your deviled egg game with this family-favorite recipe! We've taken the classic and added crispy bacon and sharp cheddar for an irresistible twist. Perfectly balanced with honey mustard and a touch of salt, these Bacon and Cheese Deviled Eggs are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Cheese Main Dish Taste Mood North American

Asparagus Grill Sandwiches

Elevate your weeknight meal with these irresistible Asparagus Grill Sandwiches! This treasured family recipe, reminiscent of elegant gatherings, delivers a delightful combination of savory ham, juicy tomato, crisp asparagus, and melty cheese, all nestled between perfectly golden-brown grilled bread and drizzled with a creamy cheese sauce. A guaranteed comfort food hit that's surprisingly easy to make!

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Kid Friendly Elbow Macaroni Summer Course

Best Macaroni Salad

This easy macaroni salad recipe elevates classic Kraft Mac & Cheese to picnic and potluck perfection! Creamy, dreamy, and bursting with flavor, this crowd-pleasing dish is ready in under 30 minutes. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Bacon Low Carb Pork 3 Steps Or Less

Bacon Cream Cheese And Horseradish Dip

Indulge in this savory Bacon Cream Cheese & Horseradish Dip, a tantalizing appetizer perfect for parties or a cozy night in. Inspired by James Villas' The Bacon Cookbook, this creamy dip features crispy bacon, tangy horseradish, and a touch of cream cheese for the ultimate flavor explosion. Get ready to impress your guests with this easy-to-make, yet incredibly delicious recipe!

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To Go Dips Technique Presentation

Bagel Cheese Dip

This incredibly easy bagel cheese dip is ready in 15 minutes and is the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer! Creamy, cheesy, and satisfyingly filling, it's guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering. Get ready for rave reviews!

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