Dairy, Cheese | Vegetarian High Fat Ketogenic

Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Bos taurus Allergens: Milk
sharp cheddar cheese

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Animal Product (Mammalian)
  • Primary Cuisine British, American
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Cow's Milk

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, aged cow's milk cheese known for its distinctively robust, tangy, and sometimes nutty flavor profile and crumbly texture.

Sensory Profile

TastePungent, Tangy, Nutty, Salty, Umami
TextureFirm, Crumbly, Creamy (when melted)
AromaPungent, Milky, Earthy
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Fat Content (approx.)

~33g per 100g

Minimum Aging Period

6-12 months (often longer)

Optimal Storage (Refrigerator)

Up to 3-4 weeks (wrapped)

Nutrition Facts

Per 28g (1 oz)
Calories404 kcal
Total Fat33.3 g
Saturated Fat20.0 g
Trans Fat1.0 g
Cholesterol100 mg
Protein25.0 g
Total Carbohydrate1.4 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars0.5 g
Calcium700 mg
Iron0.2 mg
Potassium70 mg

Chef’s Secret

For superior macaroni and cheese, shred sharp cheddar from a block and add a pinch of sodium citrate to the sauce for an extra smooth, clump-free melt.

Substitutions

Best Match

Aged White Cheddar

1:1

Identical flavor and texture, difference is merely color (no annatto).

Gruyère

1:1

Nutty, savory, excellent melting properties, adds complexity to dishes.

Monterey Jack

1:1

Milder, creamier, good melting, but lacks the sharp tang of cheddar.

Nutritional Yeast (for flavor)

Varies

Vegan, umami, cheesy flavor, but no melting or texture match.

Buying Guide

Look for firm, dense blocks. Avoid pre-shredded if possible, as it may contain anti-caking agents. Store wrapped in parchment then plastic wrap in the fridge.

Flavor Pairings

Apples Pears Crackers Burgers Mac & Cheese Chili Beer Red Wine

Recipes Using Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Low Calorie Soups Stews Kid Friendly Main Ingredient

Bacon Cheeseburger And Fries Soup

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food: Bacon Cheeseburger & Fries Soup! This decadent recipe transforms the classic cheeseburger and fries into a rich, layered soup, where every bite is a flavor explosion. Imagine juicy bacon, melty cheese, crispy fries, and savory burger all swimming in a creamy broth. Celery cleverly stands in for crisp lettuce, completing this unforgettable culinary masterpiece. This isn't your average soup; it's a taste of pure bliss – even better than the real thing! Perfect for a chilly night or anytime you crave a seriously satisfying meal.

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Cheese 60 Minutes Or Less For Large Groups Appetizers

1 2 3 Hors D Oeuvres

Grandma's vintage recipe! These bite-sized sausage and cheese balls are incredibly easy to make and perfect for parties or a quick snack. A nostalgic recipe promising crispy, cheesy goodness in under an hour!

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Eggs Dairy Cheese Peppers High Calcium

A Lulu Of A Wrap

Spice up your lunch with this vibrant and flavorful wrap! Lulu's (or maybe Uncle Lawrence's?) secret spicy veggie and cheddar filling makes this recipe a family favorite. Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, this recipe is perfect for a satisfying and exciting meal. Get ready to experience a culinary adventure in just 10 minutes!

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Low Carb Low In Something Low Carb Time To Make

Allrighty Then The Fluffiest Scrambled Eggs

Get ready to experience the fluffiest scrambled eggs of your life! This recipe is a masterful fusion of two incredible recipes (recipe #73033 by chef #37449 and recipe #251220 by chef #89831), resulting in a light and airy texture that will leave you wanting more. Perfect for brunch, a quick weeknight meal, or a delightful weekend treat. Doubling this recipe? Keep the baking powder to a maximum of 1/4 teaspoon for optimal results. Enjoy!

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60 Minutes Or Less Course Breads Cheese

Apple Streusel Cheddar Muffins

Indulge in the irresistible combination of sweet apples and savory cheddar cheese in these delightful muffins! Inspired by King Arthur Flour, this recipe features a unique layering technique with a crunchy streusel topping. Prepare for a burst of flavor in every bite – a perfect blend of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more!

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Time To Make Course Equipment Time To Make

Aunt Bettye's Famous Crock Pot Macaroni And Cheese

Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of Aunt Bettye's legendary macaroni and cheese, made effortlessly in your slow cooker! This foolproof recipe, perfected in a 5-qt Rival Crock-Pot (easily doubled!), delivers perfectly cooked pasta and a rich, unforgettable cheese sauce every time. Get ready for the ultimate comfort food – perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in.

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Dietary Eggs Dairy Main Ingredient Time To Make

Bacon And Cheddar Quiche

A crowd-pleasing Bacon and Cheddar Quiche recipe, perfect for brunch, a potluck, or any special occasion! This recipe boasts a flaky homemade crust (or use store-bought for convenience) and a rich, savory egg custard filled with crispy bacon and sharp cheddar cheese. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy-to-follow recipe. This recipe was a hit at a wedding shower and is now ready to be enjoyed by you!

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Low Carb Occasion Meat Low In Something

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf Paula Deen

Indulge in this mouthwatering Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf, a Paula Deen classic from the May/June 2006 edition of "Cooking with Paula Deen" magazine! This recipe transforms the beloved burger into a comforting meatloaf, bursting with bacon, cheese, and savory burger flavors. Serve alongside creamy macaroni and cheese for a truly unforgettable meal. Leftovers make amazing cheeseburger melts! Prepare for a flavor explosion that will have your family begging for seconds.

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Meat Occasion Main Ingredient Time To Make

Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Juicy, savory meatloaf gets a delicious upgrade with the irresistible flavors of a cheeseburger! This recipe combines the comfort of classic meatloaf with crispy bacon and melty cheese for a truly unforgettable meal. Perfect for a family dinner or a casual weeknight treat!

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Dietary Sandwiches Number Of Servings Vegetarian

Baked Beans Cheddar And Pickle Sandwich

Sweet, tangy, and cheesy all in one bite! This unique sandwich combines the sweetness of baked beans, the sharpness of cheddar cheese, and the delightful crunch of pickles for an unexpectedly delicious flavor explosion. Perfect for a quick lunch or a fun, quirky snack. Get ready to be amazed!

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Main Ingredient Time To Make Pasta Rice And Grains Main Ingredient

Baked Macaroni And Cheese With Bacon

This creamy, dreamy baked macaroni and cheese is elevated with the smoky crunch of crispy bacon! A family favorite that's both incredibly satisfying and budget-friendly. Get ready for cheesy, comforting goodness in just an hour. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.

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Pasta Rice And Grains Comfort Food Cheese Easy

Baked Macaroni With Cheese And Tomatoes

Rediscover comfort food with this creamy baked macaroni and cheese elevated by juicy, sweet tomatoes! This nostalgic recipe, unearthed from a treasured cookbook, delivers a heartwarming dinner perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Get ready for a cheesy, tomatoey explosion of flavor in every bite.

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Main Ingredient Main Ingredient Oamc Freezer Make Ahead Low Carb

Baked Stuffed Bell Peppers

Craving a hearty, flavorful meal that's both comforting and impressive? Look no further than these Baked Stuffed Bell Peppers! This family recipe, passed down through generations, features sweet red and yellow bell peppers brimming with a savory ground beef and rice filling. A touch of Italian seasoning and melted cheese elevates this classic dish to new heights. Perfect for meal prepping (make-ahead and freeze!), this recipe is a weeknight winner and a crowd-pleaser. Serve with crusty bread and a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying dinner.

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Eggs Dairy Holiday Event Occasion Dietary

Beer Cheese Fondue

This creamy, dreamy Beer Cheese Fondue is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Perfect for holiday gatherings, game nights, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. Warm, cheesy, and with a subtle beer flavor, it's incredibly easy to make and endlessly dippable. Serve with crusty bread, pretzels, or your favorite veggies for an unforgettable appetizer experience.

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Low In Something Occasion Comfort Food 4 Hours Or Less

Beer Bacon Potato Soup Aka Man Soup

Indulge in this decadent Beer Bacon Potato Soup, a once-a-year treat for the bold! Inspired by classic French techniques, this hearty soup is packed with flavor and richness. Perfect for Super Bowl Sunday or any occasion demanding a truly satisfying splurge, this recipe isn't for the faint of heart (or the calorie-conscious!). Prepare for an artery-clogging, lip-smacking experience that's well worth the time and effort. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will redefine your idea of potato soup!

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Time To Make Elbow Macaroni Lunch 4 Hours Or Less

Best Macaroni And Cheese Ever

This creamy, dreamy macaroni and cheese is so good, it even won over a macaroni and cheese hater! My mom, a notorious mac & cheese skeptic, was blown away, and my 1 1/2-year-old brother devoured an entire plate! Get ready for the ultimate comfort food experience – cheesy, rich, and utterly irresistible. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in.

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Preparation Easy Number Of Servings 60 Minutes Or Less

Vidalia Onion Cornbread

Elevate your cornbread game with this irresistible recipe inspired by Paula Deen! Sweet Vidalia onions caramelized in butter create a flavor explosion that sets this cornbread apart from the ordinary. It's incredibly moist, subtly sweet, and perfect alongside your favorite Southern comfort food. Get ready for rave reviews!

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