The 10 Best Cheeses to Buy at Trader Joe's for Every Occasion

From classics like Unexpected Cheddar to imported wine-soaked cheese, we've got your next charcuterie board covered.

mango anejo cheese from trader joes
Photo: Trader Joe's

Shopping at Trader Joe's is almost always a heavenly experience, but sometimes an overly crowded store can make browsing the aisles a tad overwhelming. If you're a frequent TJ's shopper, you're likely already aware of the robust and affordable cheese section, but if you haven't had the opportunity to peruse the countless varieties—run don't walk. From classic cheddars, Parmesans, and Bries, to unique and innovative cheeses, there's truly something for everyone.

To help you seamlessly navigate the cheese section, we've rounded up 10 must-haves for your next TJ's haul. Whether you're crafting the perfect charcuterie board, whipping up a homemade mac and cheese or looking for something new to try, you won't be disappointed by our top picks.

01 of 10

Unexpected Cheddar

This has been TJ's top-ranked cheese, as rated by customers, for the past six years in a row—and for good reason. What makes this otherwise basic cheese choice so "unexpected" is the nutty taste of Parmesan woven throughout. Due to its immense popularity, Trader Joe's just started offering Unexpected Cheddar in shredded form, making it even easier to use in all your favorite recipes.

02 of 10

Italian Truffle Cheese

This semi-soft cheese is imported from Italy's Umbria region, and is perfect for those who love truffles. Crafted with both black truffle pieces and concentrated truffle oil, this cheese is earthy, aromatic, and flavorful—and is yet still incredibly mild. Make it the star of your charcuterie board, add it to a rich and cheesy pasta dish, or melt it on top of roasted potatoes for the perfect side.

03 of 10

Chèvre With Honey

Sweet honey with tangy, creamy goat cheese is a classic combination, and this version does not disappoint. This cheese is fantastic sliced into medallions in a salad, spread onto a sandwich, slathered on crackers, or even dolloped on figs and broiled for a surprising appetizer or after-dinner treat.

RELATED: 20+ Cheese Types You Should Know—and What to Pair Them With

04 of 10

English Cheddar With Caramelized Onions

Traditional English cheddar cheese that's both sweet and savory? Sign us up. This classic farmhouse cheese is blended with custom-crafted onion marmalade, which adds a unique and mildly delicate flavor. If you're looking to up your grilled cheese game, try subbing this cheddar on a crusty, buttered sourdough, or add it to a snack plate with salty olives, dried fruit, and assorted nuts.

05 of 10

Mini Brie Bites

The only downside to being a cheese lover is that it can be hard to know when to stop (anyone else ever devour a block of cheese in one sitting?). That's why these mini snackable Brie bites are perfect to have on hand in your fridge at all times. Each miniature round has the most decadent silky cheese inside a traditional Brie rind. Pair it with a handful of grapes and nuts for a little afternoon snack, or transform these bites into a delicious hors d'oeuvre by wrapping them in puff pastry and baking them until they're golden brown.

06 of 10

Vegan Feta Cheese

Truth be told, some vegan cheeses just don't taste like the real thing. But that's simply not the case with TJ's plant-based feta alternative. Not only does it have the same light, salty taste, but the texture is also spot on. Marinate it in some Greek olive oil with herbs, crumble it over a salad, or take advantage of the TikTok baked feta pasta trend.

RELATED: 12 Vegan Foods You Can Buy at Trader Joe's to Make Meatless Mondays Even Easier

07 of 10

Havarti Cheese With Dill

Whether you're trying to impress your friends with the ultimate charcuterie board or want to have a simple snack ready for your kids, this mild Havarti cheese with fresh dill is sure to be a crowd pleaser. Traditionally, Havarti pairs well with sweet fruits like pear, apple, and figs, but it's also a great addition to a classic steak sandwich or grilled cheese.

08 of 10

Dutch Smoked Gouda

If you're a Gouda fan, let me introduce you to this divinely smoked option imported from Holland. It's fantastic to snack on with crackers, or try it in a mac and cheese recipe for a unique, flavorful twist. It's also incredibly affordable at just $5 per pound.

09 of 10

Marinated Fresh Mozzarella

There's nothing better than some fresh mozz, am I right? And marinated mozzarella in olive oil with basil, and other fresh herbs—now, that's amore! If you want to whip up something simple yet delicious, you can't go wrong with a toasted baguette, fresh tomatoes, sliced mozzarella, and a drizzle of balsamic. Are you drooling yet?

RELATED: Yes, Healthy Cheeses Exist—These Are The Best

10 of 10

Creamy Toscano Cheese Soaked in Syrah

We all know wine pairs well with cheese, but have you ever experienced wine soaked cheese? If you have yet to try it, you're going to want to as soon as humanly possible. This creamy Toscano tastes like a combination of nutty Parmesan, and rich, creamy cheddar with a subtle red wine flavor.

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