Best Parmesan Cheese Substitutes
Out of parmesan cheese? These are the best parmesan cheese substitutes you can use in cooking and baking — ranked by how well they work in most recipes. Whether you need a dairy-free swap, a pantry staple alternative, or just ran out mid-recipe, one of these 4 options will have you covered.
Parmesan Cheese Substitution Options
¼ cup Nutritional Yeast
Use instead of ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
Nutritional yeast has a naturally cheesy, umami-rich flavor from glutamates. It's vegan and packed with B vitamins. Use 1:1 as a topping on pasta, popcorn, and roasted vegetables, or stir into sauces.
¼ cup Pecorino Romano
Use instead of ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
Pecorino Romano is sharper and saltier than parmesan — made from sheep's milk rather than cow's milk. Use 1:1 but reduce added salt in the recipe. Excellent in pasta, soups, and risotto.
¼ cup Asiago Cheese, grated
Use instead of ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
Aged Asiago has a sharp, nutty flavor similar to parmesan with a slightly creamier texture when young. A reliable 1:1 swap in pasta, pizza, soups, and gratins.
¼ cup Vegan Parmesan (cashew + nutritional yeast blend)
Use instead of ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
Blend ½ cup raw cashews, ¼ cup nutritional yeast, ½ tsp garlic powder, and ¾ tsp salt in a food processor until crumbly. Stores in the fridge for 2 weeks. Use 1:1 as a topping or in sauces.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for parmesan cheese?
The best substitutes for parmesan cheese are ¼ cup Nutritional Yeast, ¼ cup Pecorino Romano, ¼ cup Asiago Cheese, grated. Nutritional yeast has a naturally cheesy, umami-rich flavor from glutamates. It's vegan and packed with B vitamins. Use 1:1 as a topping on pasta, popcorn, and roasted vegetables, or stir into sauces.
Can I use ¼ cup Pecorino Romano instead of parmesan cheese?
Pecorino Romano is sharper and saltier than parmesan — made from sheep's milk rather than cow's milk. Use 1:1 but reduce added salt in the recipe. Excellent in pasta, soups, and risotto.
How do I substitute parmesan cheese in baking?
When substituting parmesan cheese in baking, it's important to match the ratio carefully. Check the individual substitution notes above for exact measurements and tips for each swap.