What's The Best Substitute For Raclette Cheese?

What to expect from these raclette cheese substitutes

Gruyère is often regarded as the top alternative to raclette cheese and is typically available in many supermarkets across the U.S. It shares a similar flavor profile—nutty, creamy, and slightly sweet—and has a comparable melting point. In fact, Gruyère is frequently used in fondue, highlighting its reputation as a favored melted cheese in traditional Swiss cuisine. However, there are some distinctions: Gruyère tends to be firmer and is usually aged longer, resulting in a bolder flavor. If you decide to use it as a substitute, opting for a younger Gruyère might be best.

For those who crave a more robust flavor, Appenzeller could be an excellent choice as a raclette replacement. This alpine cheese is aged in an herbal brine, imparting a stronger taste than raclette. It melts beautifully and has a creamy texture, but if you prefer milder cheeses, it might be a bit overwhelming. Additionally, it can be more challenging to find in the U.S., so you may need to shop online.

Lastly, there's fontina cheese. Although it's not Swiss, it is sometimes viewed as an Italian equivalent to traditional raclette. It meets most criteria: creamy, nutty, and melts well. While it isn't an exact match—being slightly firmer and having a more pronounced flavor—it comes quite close. While you might find it in some supermarkets, it’s not universally available, so you may need to visit a cheese shop or an Italian specialty store to get it.