Is Provolone a Good Melting Cheese? (Answered!)

What Makes Provolone a Good Melting Cheese?

So, you can guess by the heading of this section that I think that provolone is a good melting cheese!

Let’s find out why.

When it comes to melting, the texture of the cheese is important.

And it needs to slice or shred easily.

Provolone fits the bill on both these tasks as it is a semi-hard cheese.

Made in Italy, it has a similar texture to mozzarella but is not quite as soft.

Traditionally, provolone is a hand-stretched curd cheese made into a variety of weird and wonderful designs!

It keeps its shape, so it is easy to slice, doesn’t crumble, and is ready to slide into your grilled cheese sandwich!

Now, let’s look at the moisture content of provolone, which on average, is 45%. 

This gives it a lower moisture level than mozzarella but doesn’t put it in the category of a harder cheese such as Parmesan.

This is another factor that contributes to its melting ability.

Although provolone melts easily, some might say it is too bland to impart any flavor to the dish. 

But I can certainly detect the nutty note that it is famed for. 

Admittedly, it’s quite subtle, so you may wish to try provolone piccante, which is much sharper. 

The one thing you need to be aware of is that the piccante option is made with the use of animal enzymes, goat, in particular.

So, obviously, not suitable for vegetarians.

What Dishes Are Perfect for Provolone?

Because provolone melts in a lovely, stretchy, gooey way without an overpowering flavor, it is perfect for many dishes.

Here are some of my favorites!

Top of the list has to be grilled cheese sandwiches but cook these for longer than you normally would if using mozzarella, as provolone is slower to melt.

For an extra cheese hit, up your game by adding parmesan too!

Now, when it comes to melting cheese, we all think of pizza, and provolone certainly works here.

Replace the mozzarella with provolone, and why not add some porcini mushrooms for an extra earthy, nutty taste?

Finally, I can recommend provolone in an omelet, it is a worthy substitute for traditional Cheddar. 

For this, you need to shred the cheese, and for a delicious alternative breakfast, try adding spinach too. 

Are There Any Alternatives to Provolone?

You may prefer an alternative to provolone, as, unfortunately, it can be quite expensive.

Or perhaps you prefer a more flavorful cheese. 

Some substitutes include Gouda, Gruyere, Manchego, Taleggio, and of course, mozzarella. 

Fontina is also a great choice and is probably the closest in taste and texture to aged provolone.

It melts easily and has a subtle aroma.

You could also consider Havarti, a Danish cheese with a taste of hazelnut. 

It is gluten-free and is usually made with vegetarian rennet, making it a good option for vegetarians.

Finally, you can try the Swiss cheese, Emmental, with its characteristic holes. 

The Best Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

My Thoughts

One reason that people don’t perhaps use this cheese is the cost, so you may wish to read why provolone can be expensive.

What creative ways have you discovered to enhance the flavor of milder cheeses like provolone in your dishes?

Let us know in the comments below!