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Best Cotija Cheese Substitute

By chef Henry

There are a few options if you can’t find this specialty Mexican cheese! Here’s the best cotija cheese substitute to use in all your recipes.

cotija cheese substitute

Can’t find cotija cheese? We’ve got your back! Cotija cheese is a Mexican cow’s milk cheese: it’s white with a dry texture and salty flavor. You can buy it fresh or aged, but it’s usually easiest to find fresh at the grocery.

It’s often called for in Mexican-style recipes like tacos, enchiladas, and nachos. This cheese can be tough to find at the grocery, so here’s the best cotija cheese substitute!

Best Substitute For Cotija Cheese

1. Feta cheese

The best fresh cotija cheese substitute? Feta cheese. Feta has a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor to cotija cheese, and is usually easier to find at the store. Of course if you can find cotija, it has a unique flavor that’s worth seeking out.

2. Queso fresco

Another cotija cheese substitute? Queso fresco, if you can find it! Queso fresco, which means fresh cheese in Spanish, is another Mexican cow’s milk cheese. Keep in mind, queso fresco has a much milder flavor and is not nearly as salty as Cotija (which is why feta is the top choice here).

3. Goat cheese crumbles

The next best substitute for the fresh stuff? Goat cheese crumbles. Make sure to look for the goat cheese crumbles that have a firm texture similar to feta cheese, not a soft goat cheese log (chevre).

4. Ricotta salata

This type of cheese is pressed, salted and dried ricotta: it has a very similar texture to cotija and crumbles in the same way. Use it as a 1:1 sustitute.

5. Parmesan or Pecorino romano (aged Cotija cheese only)

Looking for a substitute for aged cotija cheese? The aged version has a stronger flavor, similar to a Parmesan cheese. But the cheeses above are more suited to substituting in Mexican-style recipes. Parmesan cheese has a more Italian vibe. But you could use it in a pinch, especially with elote.

6. Vegan feta (for dairy-free)

A good vegan feta or even Parmesan both crumble and salt in a similar way for vegan dishes Use as a 1:1 substitute.



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