21 Must-Have Cheeses from Trader Joe’s, Recommended by Experts!

Calling all cheese lovers! Dive into Trader Joe’s global selection of the finest cheeses, curated by experts just for you. Here’s your ultimate guide to 21 must-have cheeses, ready to transform your cheeseboard and delight your taste buds.

Get set to experience the best in creaminess and tang—each one a must-try!

1. Blue Stilton Cheese $12.99/7 oz

Blue Stilton is a rich and tangy English cheese with distinctive blue veins. It has a crumbly yet creamy texture and is known for its bold umami flavor.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 120
  • Fats: 10g
  • Carbs: 1g
  • Sodium: 380mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Protein: 6g

Ingredients

Pasteurized cow’s milk, salt, microbial rennet, penicillium roqueforti.

Preparation Instructions

  • Serve with crackers and honey.
  • Crumble over salads or steaks.
  • Pair with a glass of port wine.

2. Toscano Cheese with Black Pepper $11.99/1 lb

This Italian-style cheese is semi-hard with a nutty flavor, enhanced by the sharpness of black pepper. Perfect for those who love a bit of spice in their cheese.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 110
  • Fats: 9g
  • Carbs: 1g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Protein: 7g

Ingredients

Pasteurized cow’s milk, salt, black pepper, microbial rennet, cultures.

Preparation Instructions

  • Slice and serve on a cheese platter.
  • Grate over pasta for extra flavor.
  • Pair with a full-bodied red wine.

3. Délice de Bourgogne Triple Cream Soft Ripened Cheese $16.99/7 oz

This French delicacy is ultra-creamy with a buttery texture and mild tangy finish. A luxurious cheese perfect for special occasions.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 140
  • Fats: 12g
  • Carbs: 1g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Protein: 5g

Ingredients

Pasteurized cow’s milk, cream, salt, cultures, microbial rennet.

Preparation Instructions

  • Best served at room temperature with baguette slices.
  • Spread on crackers with fruit preserves.
  • Pairs beautifully with Champagne or Chardonnay.

4. Cheddar Cheese with Caramelized Onions $10.99/8 oz

Aged cheddar infused with sweet caramelized onions, offering a delightful balance of savory and sweet flavors.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 120
  • Fats: 9g
  • Carbs: 2g
  • Sodium: 340mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Protein: 7g

Ingredients

Pasteurized cow’s milk, caramelized onions, salt, microbial rennet, cultures.

Preparation Instructions

  • Melt into burgers or grilled cheese sandwiches.
  • Enjoy with apples or pears for a sweet-savory snack.
  • Pairs well with dark beer or cider

5. 1,000 Day Gouda Cheese $18.99/6 oz

Aged for over three years, this Gouda has a rich, nutty flavor with caramel notes and a crumbly yet smooth texture.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 130
  • Fats: 10g
  • Carbs: 0g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Protein: 8g

Ingredients

Pasteurized cow’s milk, salt, microbial rennet, cultures.

Preparation Instructions

  • Serve with fig jam or nuts.
  • Grate over pasta or soups.
  • Pairs well with aged whiskey or full-bodied red wine.

6. Jalapeño Monterey Jack Cheese $9.99/8 oz

A creamy, slightly tangy cheese infused with spicy jalapeños, adding a kick to your favorite dishes.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 110
  • Fats: 9g
  • Carbs: 1g
  • Sodium: 330mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Protein: 6g

Ingredients

Pasteurized cow’s milk, jalapeños, salt, microbial rennet, cultures.

Preparation Instructions

  • Melt into quesadillas or nachos.
  • Slice for sandwiches or burgers.
  • Pair with a light beer or margarita.

7. Cambozola Triple Cream Soft Ripened Cheese $15.49/7 oz

A fusion of Camembert and Gorgonzola, Cambozola offers the best of both worlds: creamy texture with mild blue cheese undertones.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 130
  • Fats: 11g
  • Carbs: 1g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Protein: 5g

Ingredients

Pasteurized cow’s milk, cream, salt, cultures, microbial rennet, penicillium roqueforti.

Preparation Instructions

  • Serve with honey and walnuts on a cheese board.
  • Spread on warm bread or crackers.
  • Pairs well with Riesling or dessert wines.

8. Creamy Toscano Cheese (Black Pepper, Syrah-Soaked, Cinnamon-Dusted) $11.99/1 lb

 

Creamy Toscano is a semi-hard cheese that combines the rich, nutty flavor of aged Parmesan with the creaminess of farmstead Cheddar. Available in three unique variations: Black Pepper, Syrah-Soaked, and Cinnamon-Dusted, each offers a distinct flavor profile.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 110
  • Fats: 9g
  • Carbs: 1g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Protein: 7g

Ingredients

Pasteurized cow’s milk, salt, microbial rennet, cultures, black pepper/Syrah wine/cinnamon.

Preparation Instructions

  • Enjoy with fresh fruit and nuts.
  • Pair the Syrah-soaked variety with red wine.
  • Grate over pasta or risotto for extra depth of flavor.

9. Blueberry Vanilla Chèvre $6.99/4 oz

A delightful blend of tangy goat cheese with the sweetness of blueberries and a hint of vanilla, creating a smooth and creamy spreadable texture.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 100
  • Fats: 8g
  • Carbs: 3g
  • Sodium: 90mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Protein: 5g

Ingredients

Pasteurized goat’s milk, blueberries, vanilla, cultures, microbial rennet, salt.

Preparation Instructions

Spread on crackers or toast with a drizzle of honey.

  • Crumble over salads for a sweet-savory contrast.
  • Pair with a light, crisp white wine.

10. Everything but the Bagel Cheddar Cheese $9.99/8 oz

Inspired by the popular seasoning blend, this cheddar is infused with garlic, onion, sesame, and poppy seeds, creating a flavorful and textured cheese.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 120
  • Fats: 10g
  • Carbs: 1g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Protein: 7g

Ingredients

Pasteurized cow’s milk, salt, microbial rennet, cultures, sesame seeds, garlic, onion, poppy seeds.

Preparation Instructions

  • Enjoy with bagel chips or crusty bread.
  • Melt into a grilled cheese sandwich.
  • Pairs well with a light beer or Sauvignon Blanc.

11. Marinated Fresh Mozzarella Cheese $3.99/8 oz

Soft and delicate mozzarella balls marinated in olive oil, garlic, and herbs, making them flavorful and ready to enjoy.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 70
  • Fats: 4.5g
  • Carbs: 1g
  • Sodium: 75mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Protein: 5g

Ingredients

Pasteurized cow’s milk, olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt, microbial rennet, cultures.

Preparation Instructions

  • Serve with fresh tomatoes and basil for a Caprese salad.
  • Toss into pasta dishes for extra creaminess.
  • Pair with a crisp white wine or sparkling water.

12. Unexpected Cheddar Cheese $3.99/7 oz

Aged cheddar with a surprise twist—it has the crumbly texture of Parmesan and a tangy, slightly sweet finish.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 110
  • Fats: 6g
  • Carbs: <1g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Protein: 7g

Ingredients

Pasteurized cow’s milk, salt, microbial rennet, cultures.

Preparation Instructions

  • Crumble over salads or roasted vegetables.
  • Enjoy with dried fruit and nuts.
  • Pairs well with a robust red wine.

13. Comté Cheese $18.99/7 oz

A classic French cheese with a smooth, nutty, and slightly caramelized flavor, aged for a minimum of four months to develop complexity.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 120
  • Fats: 10g
  • Carbs: 0g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Protein: 8g

Ingredients

Raw cow’s milk, salt, microbial rennet, cultures.

Preparation Instructions

  • Melt into fondue or grilled sandwiches.
  • Enjoy with apples and walnuts for a snack.
  • Pair with Chardonnay or Champagne.

14. Parmigiano Reggiano $19.99/8 oz

Known as the “King of Cheeses,” Parmigiano Reggiano is a hard, aged cheese with a rich, nutty flavor and crystalline texture. It’s perfect for grating over pasta or enjoying in chunks.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 110
  • Fats: 7g
  • Carbs: 1g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Protein: 10g

Ingredients

Raw cow’s milk, salt, rennet, cultures.

Preparation Instructions

  • Shave over salads or pasta dishes.
  • Enjoy with honey and nuts.
  • Pairs well with full-bodied red wine.

15. Yancey’s Fancy Horseradish New York Cheddar Cheese $8.99/7 oz

This bold cheddar is infused with zesty horseradish, adding a sharp, spicy kick to the creamy texture.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 120
  • Fats: 10g
  • Carbs: 1g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Protein: 7g

Ingredients

Pasteurized cow’s milk, salt, microbial rennet, cultures, horseradish.

Preparation Instructions

  • Slice for sandwiches or burgers.
  • Melt into mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
  • Pairs well with dark beer.

16. Mini Basque Cheese $15.99/7 oz

This semi-hard cheese from the Basque region of France has a mild, nutty flavor with a hint of sweetness, making it a versatile choice.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 120
  • Fats: 9g
  • Carbs: 0g
  • Sodium: 240mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Protein: 8g

Ingredients

Pasteurized sheep’s milk, salt, microbial rennet, cultures.

Preparation Instructions

  • Enjoy with fresh fruit and bread.
  • Grate over roasted vegetables.
  • Pairs well with dry white wine.

17. Double Cream Gouda $10.99/8 oz

A rich and buttery Dutch cheese with a smooth, creamy texture, perfect for melting or snacking.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 130
  • Fats: 11g
  • Carbs: 1g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Protein: 7g

Ingredients

Pasteurized cow’s milk, cream, salt, microbial rennet, cultures.

Preparation Instructions

  • Melt into sandwiches or mac and cheese.
  • Pair with fresh apples or pears.
  • Enjoy with a malty beer or Chardonnay.

18. Société Roquefort 1863 $16.99/5 oz

This French blue cheese is made from sheep’s milk and has a bold, tangy flavor with a creamy, crumbly texture.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 120
  • Fats: 10g
  • Carbs: 1g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Protein: 6g

Ingredients

Raw sheep’s milk, salt, microbial rennet, penicillium roqueforti.

Preparation Instructions

  • Crumble over salads or steaks.
  • Spread on crackers with honey.
  • Pairs well with Sauternes or Port wine.

19. Chèvre with Honey $7.99/4 oz

A tangy and creamy goat cheese infused with sweet honey, creating a deliciously balanced flavor.

Nutritional Facts (per serving)

  • Calories: 100
  • Fats: 8g
  • Carbs: 3g
  • Sodium: 90mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Protein: 5g

Ingredients

Pasteurized goat’s milk, honey, salt, cultures, microbial rennet.

Preparation Instructions

  • Spread on toast or crackers.
  • Crumble over salads for a sweet-savory contrast.
  • Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc.

20. Triple Creme Brie Cheese $12.99/8 oz

An ultra-rich and buttery French Brie with an extra creamy texture, perfect for spreading.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 140
  • Fats: 12g
  • Carbs: 1g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Protein: 5g

Ingredients

Pasteurized cow’s milk, cream, salt, cultures, microbial rennet.

Preparation Instructions

  • Serve with crackers and fruit preserves.
  • Let it come to room temperature for the best texture.
  • Pair with Champagne or Chardonnay.

21. Creamy Toscano Cheese Soaked in Syrah $14.49/8 oz

A semi-hard cheese with a nutty, creamy profile, aged and soaked in Syrah wine for a fruity, rich finish.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 110
  • Fats: 9g
  • Carbs: 1g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Protein: 7g

Ingredients

Pasteurized cow’s milk, salt, microbial rennet, cultures, Syrah wine.

Preparation Instructions

  • Enjoy with dark chocolate or nuts.
  • Pair with a glass of Syrah wine.
  • Grate over pasta for a rich, wine-infused flavor.

Conclusion

Whether you crave a creamy delight, a tangy twist, or a bold bite, these cheeses offer a variety of flavors to suit any palate. Try them on your next cheese board or incorporate them into your favorite dishes to elevate every bite. Happy cheese tasting!

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