Thanksgiving Cheese Board: 5 Perfect Cheeses to Elevate Your Holiday Feast

Swiss Cheese

Swiss cheese is pale yellow, firm in texture, and creamy and nutty in the flavor profile. The cheese is mild enough to go with the turkey and works even better if you pair it up with some prosciutto and salami. So whether you want a turkey topped with melted cheese or prefer to enjoy a salami sandwich with your friends, this cheese is a safe bet regardless! What's even better is that you can have it with some fruity wine, while the kids can sip on some raspberry juice alongside it. Win-win!

Brie

Mild, creamy, and buttery, Brie is an instant crowd favorite especially for those who prefer their cheese spread over a quick snack. Made from cow's milk, this cheese is perfect to get the party started, and a favorite for those who don't like strong cheese profiles. Add them on crackers and get the appetizers rolling! It's the best sweet, creamy, and salty mixture you will ever have; and it's light enough to move on to the next dish.

Burrata

If we told you that you could enjoy kale, spinach, sweet potato, and cheese, would you believe us? Burrata is decadent, creamy, and incredibly nutritious. You can top the salad with some olive oil, pomegranate seeds, and balsamic vinegar and dig into the cheesy goodness! This way of enjoying the creamy, buttery Burrata cheese is incredibly smart, especially if you're going all-out and hosting a multiple-course meal. It keeps you light, but full enough to carry on with the festivities.

Cheddar

From the kids to the adults, everyone loves the deliciously sharp and tangy taste of cheddar. This cheese is a pantry staple in almost every household! Orange in color and creamy in taste, this cheese should be used especially if you're cooking hamburgers or cheese sandwiches. In fact, for a Thanksgiving feast that is more casual; we recommend adding a generous portion of cheddar in the classic Mac n' Cheese combination. It's a definite crowd-pleaser! And while you’re at it, why not whip up some creamy cheddar sauce?

Gouda

Gouda is another staple on the cheeseboard. But this hard, yellow cheese is another excellent starter for adults who prefer to sip on some red wine or a liquor of choice. It is served best as slices or cubes, and there are several flavor profiles from aged Gouda to smoked Gouda; some cheese types are infused with herbs & spices. The traditional Gouda is nutty and mildly sweet, and we recommend shredding it and sprinkling it on toasted bread to get the little ones fed and full! You can also prepare French onion soup with Gouda.

Blue Cheese

Blue cheese is not for the faint of heart, and many shy away from trying such bold flavors in a traditional holiday setting. This cheese also comes in several different types, including Roquefort, Danish Blu, and the well-known Stilton and Gorgonzola. Fun fact- All these types of cheese are made in several parts of Europe! While the creamy taste of the cheese pairs well with turkey, we also suggest crumbling it up over a salad filled with pears, figs, and walnuts, or try it over a brussel sprouts slaw. Nutritious, tasty, and very filling! 

Mozarella

Compared to the rest of the cheese types on this list, mozzarella is a crowd favorite and also very well-liked regardless of the drinks. Have a pizza party with fresh mozzarella, or enjoy it with some salad and pasta. What's even better is that mozzarella pairs well with seafood as well. So if you're planning to ditch the turkey, this cheese should be on your main course dish!

All of these cheese mixtures work extremely well on a cheeseboard and some even pair well with red wine, champagne, and even some spirits. But you can also try adding them to your meals and menu for that extra X-factor! Happy hosting & Happy Thanksgiving!

We’d love to hear from you! Share your creations and ideas in the comments, and let us know how this article helped elevate your Thanksgiving celebration. Which cheeses did you use? Tell us all about it!