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Home - Cooking - Substitutes

Latest Updated: Feb 28, 2026 by Andrew Gray

5 BEST Substitutes for Feta Cheese

If you're out of Feta Cheese, reach for Ricotta Cheese, Cottage Cheese, Queso Blanco, Halloumi Cheese, and Goat Cheese.

Ricotta Cheese

Ricotta cheese is a fresh Italian cheese made from milk.

Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is a type of cheese that is known for its mild flavor and creamy texture.

Feta cheese holds a unique spot in our kitchens, irreplaceable for its crumbly texture and tangy flavor. Yet, we often find ourselves in need of an alternative.

Substitutes must offer similar depth and versatility. In our quest, we prioritize options that maintain the integrity of our dishes.

Finding the right substitute involves understanding the balance of flavors and textures. We've identified five exceptional alternatives that stand up to rigorous culinary standards.

Table of Contents

Toggle
  • Top Feta Cheese Alternatives
    • 1 - Ricotta Cheese
    • 2 - Cottage Cheese
    • 3 - Queso Blanco
    • 4 - Halloumi Cheese
    • 5 - Goat Cheese
  • Frequently Asked Questions

Top Feta Cheese Alternatives

If you're looking for a Feta cheese alternative, you've come to the right place.

We've compiled a list of the five best substitutes for Feta cheese, so you can still enjoy your favorite dishes without the dairy.

1 - Ricotta Cheese

ricotta cheese Save for Later!

Ricotta cheese is a fresh Italian cheese made from milk.

It has a sweet, mild taste and a creamy, smooth texture.

Ricotta cheese is often used in lasagnas, pizzas, and other Italian dishes.

It can also be used as a spread on crackers or bread or as a filling for tacos or burritos.

Ricotta cheese is a good choice for those who are looking for a lower-fat alternative to feta cheese.

It is also less salty than feta cheese.

When substituting ricotta cheese for feta cheese, it is important to add extra seasoning to compensate for the lack of saltiness.

2 - Cottage Cheese

cottage cheese Save for Later!

Cottage cheese is a type of cheese that is known for its mild flavor and creamy texture.

It can be made from cow's milk, goat's milk, or sheep's milk and is often used in dips, salads, and desserts.

While it is not as strong-tasting as some other cheeses, it still has a distinctive flavor that many people enjoy.

Cottage cheese also has a softer texture than most cheeses, making it easy to spread or crumble.

One reason to consider substituting cottage cheese for feta cheese is that it is lower in fat and calories.

Cottage cheese is also a good source of protein, calcium, and phosphorus.

In addition, cottage cheese contains live and active cultures, which can aid digestion.

So if you are looking for a healthier alternative to feta cheese, cottage cheese may be a good option.

3 - Queso Blanco

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Queso Blanco, or white cheese, is a type of cheese that originated in Spain.

It is made from cow's milk and has a mild, creamy flavor.

The texture of queso Blanco is similar to that of feta cheese, but it is less crumbly.

Queso Blanco can be used in the same way as feta cheese, but it may be a better choice for dishes where a creamier texture is desired.

When substituting queso Blanco for feta cheese, note that the flavor will be milder.

However, this may be desirable in some dishes.

Overall, queso Blanco is a versatile cheese that can be used in place of feta cheese in many recipes.

4 - Halloumi Cheese

halloumi cheese Save for Later!

If you're a fan of Mediterranean cuisine, then you're probably no stranger to halloumi cheese.

This firm, white cheese originates from Cyprus and is commonly used in dishes like grilled vegetables and salads.

But what sets halloumi apart from other cheeses?

For one, halloumi has a very distinctive taste that is both salty and slightly sour.

It's also quite chewy in texture, making it perfect for grilling or frying.

And because it doesn't melt easily, it's often used as a feta cheese substitute in dishes like spanakopita or Greek salad.

In addition to its unique flavor and texture, halloumi is also a good source of protein and calcium.

5 - Goat Cheese

goat cheese Save for Later!

Goat cheese is a type of cheese that is made from goat's milk.

It has a milder, tangier flavor than cow's milk cheese and a smooth, creamy texture.

Goat cheese is a flexible ingredient that can be used in savory or sweet dishes.

It is commonly used as a spread on crackers or bread or as a topping for salads and pizzas.

Goat cheese can also be used in baking and makes an excellent substitution for feta cheese.

If you are looking for delicious and healthy cheese to add to your diet, consider giving goat cheese a try.

You might also want to know how feta cheese compares and what feta cheese tastes like.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best substitute for Feta Cheese?

Ricotta Cheese Ricotta cheese is a fresh Italian cheese made from milk. Use it at a 1:1 ratio in any recipe that calls for Feta Cheese.

Can I use a different ingredient instead?

Absolutely. Ricotta Cheese is the closest swap.

Cottage Cheese also works in a pinch. Match the original amount and tweak from there.

Can this substitute be used in baking as well as cooking?

Some work in both, but baking is less forgiving.

Substitutes that alter fat content, sweetness, or moisture can shift the structure of baked goods.

Test with a small batch first.

Does freezing affect how well the substitute performs?

Frozen substitutes sometimes change texture after thawing. This matters more in raw applications like salads than in cooked dishes where texture is softened by heat anyway.

Explore more: This post is part of our Ingredient Substitutes Guide.
Andrew Gray

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Andrew Gray - GustoMeadow founder

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Food Writer & Recipe Developer

Restaurant industry veteran sharing real recipes, honest substitutes, and tips that actually work in a home kitchen.

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