Discovering the Best Store-Bought Cheddar Cheese Brands
Cheddar cheese is not merely an ingredient; it’s the heart of countless culinary creations. Whether crafting the ultimate grilled cheese sandwich or assembling a stunning charcuterie board, the right cheddar can elevate any dish. Join us as we dive into the world of cheddar—exploring, tasting, and ranking the best store-bought brands available on the market today.
How We Tested
In the quest for cheddar excellence, our team at Southern Living handpicked a selection of nine popular sharp cheddar brands found in most grocery stores. Each cheese was meticulously unwrapped, cubed, and served incognito to our testers, ensuring that only the flavor and texture would guide their evaluations.
The Contenders
Our taste test lineup included cheddar champions from various grocery chains:
- Kirkland Signature Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Costco)
- Tillamook Sharp Cheddar Cheese
- Kraft Sharp Cheddar Cheese
- Publix Sharp Cheddar Cheese
- Cracker Barrel Sharp Cheddar Cheese
- Great Value Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Walmart)
- Happy Farms Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Aldi)
- Good & Gather Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Target)
- Member’s Mark Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Sam’s Club)
How Each Brand Scored
Kirkland Signature Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Costco)
Bold and robust, this cheddar doesn’t hold back. Testers noted a delightful firmness and a sharp bite—exactly what one looks for in a standout cheddar. The cheese crumbles beautifully, making it perfect for snacking or grating over dishes, like mouth-watering pimiento cheese.
Tillamook Sharp Cheddar Cheese
Appreciated for its smoothness and creaminess, Tillamook held strong against the competition. Described as perfectly balanced, it offers a sharpness that doesn’t overwhelm. One editor aptly remarked, “Nice sharpness without being too much”—a sentiment echoed by most testers.
Kraft Sharp Cheddar Cheese
Kraft delivers a creamy yet assertive flavor that tantalizes the taste buds. Its even texture impressed many testers. “Soft and creamy but sharper than the rest,” said one editor, suggesting it could be an excellent option for nachos, merging classic cheese flavors with a modern twist.
Publix Sharp Cheddar Cheese
Milder in flavor, Publix’s cheddar is the quintessential "reliable option." A subtle sharpness and savory hint make it ideal for melting into grilled cheese or hot sandwiches, ensuring a classic experience every time.
Cracker Barrel Sharp Cheddar Cheese
This one features divisive flavors; while some detected a garlicky undertone, others found it slightly sweet. Despite mixed reviews, its softness made it a suitable choice for snacking.
Great Value Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Walmart)
Described as "Velveeta-y," this cheese aligns more closely with soft, American-style cheeses. Its excellent melting properties make it a go-to for comfort dishes like macaroni and cheese, though the texture might not be traditional cheddar.
Happy Farms Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Aldi)
With a thicker consistency, this cheese showcases a slight buttery flavor, veering towards mild rather than sharp. A few testers even detected a nutty hint, adding an unexpected twist to its profile.
Good & Gather Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Target)
Perhaps the wild card of the batch, this cheddar inspired diverse comparisons among testers. From citrus notes to cravings for Colby Jack, it stands out for its intriguing flavor combinations, even if it lacks that classic cheddar intensity.
Member’s Mark Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Sam’s Club)
Characterized as having a good classic flavor, this cheese is both tangy and subtly nutty. Although not overwhelmingly sharp, it still fulfills every cheddar lover’s cravings, making it a solid choice for a traditional option.
The Winner
After rigorous tasting, Tillamook emerged as the clear champion, with Kraft close behind. Both brands exhibited a remarkable balance of flavor, texture, and meltability, making them suitable for a multitude of culinary applications—be it snacking or running the cheese game at your next gathering.
In the grand world of cheddar, it’s clear: the right cheese can make a culinary masterpiece sing! Whether you revel in the sharpness of Tillamook or the creaminess of Kraft, there’s a cheddar out there for everyone. Embrace the journey of flavor and make your next cheesy creation truly special!
