Best Gouda Cheese of 2026

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 10, 2026

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Gouda cheese is a semi-hard cheese traditionally made from cow's milk in the Netherlands. It has a creamy, nutty flavor with a slightly sweet aftertaste. The cheese is aged anywhere from a few weeks to several years, with older cheeses having a more intense flavor and crumbly texture. Gouda cheese is a versatile ingredient in the kitchen, perfect for snacking, sandwiches, and cooking. It pairs well with fruit, nuts, and wine, making it a popular choice for cheese boards and entertaining.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Beemster Classic 18 Month Aged Gouda Cheese 2 lb Cover #TOP 1
Beemster Classic 18 Month Aged Gouda Cheese 2 lb
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Gayo Azul Gouda Cheese Trio (6, 12, Mild) Cover #TOP 2
Gayo Azul Gouda Cheese Trio (6, 12, Mild)
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Beemster Classic 18 Month Aged Gouda Cheese Quarter Wheel Cover #TOP 3
Beemster Classic 18 Month Aged Gouda Cheese Quarter Wheel
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Gouda Cheese

#TOP 1

Beemster Classic 18 Month Aged Gouda Cheese 2 lb

Generic
2 lb
Beemster Classic 18 Month Aged Gouda Cheese 2 lb Cover
Generic Aged Gouda Cheese 18 Month by Beemster Classic - Cut 2 lb

The Beemster Aged Gouda Cheese offers a rich, flavorful experience with its 18-month aging process, making it a popular choice for cheese lovers. Made from pasteurized cow’s milk, this cheese ensures safety and quality, giving you peace of mind with every bite. It’s carefully cut from a large wheel and vacuum-sealed to keep it fresh and ready for your enjoyment. Whether you’re adding it to a cheese board or cooking, this cheese provides convenience and delicious taste in every slice.

What We Like
18-month aging for rich flavor
Made from pasteurized cow's milk
Vacuum-sealed freshness
Cut from whole cheese wheel
#TOP 2

Gayo Azul Gouda Cheese Trio (6, 12, Mild)

Gayo Azul Gouda Cheese Trio (6, 12, Mild) Cover
Gouda Cheese Trio – Vermeer 6-Month, Rembrandt 12-Month, Gayo Azul Mild – Imported Dutch Cheese Sampler from Holland (3 Pack)

The Gayo Azul Gouda Trio offers three unique types of Gouda cheese, giving you a range of flavors from mild and creamy to rich and aged. Since these cheeses are imported from Holland, you get an authentic taste that showcases the Dutch cheesemaking tradition. This trio is perfect for creating an impressive cheese board, easily paired with fruits, nuts, and wine for a delightful snack or appetizer. Plus, each cheese serves a different purpose in the kitchen: the mild variety melts well, the semi-aged slices nicely, and the aged Gouda is great for grating or enjoying on its own, making this set very versatile for your cooking and snacking needs.

What We Like
Three distinct Gouda varieties
Authentic Dutch import
Ideal for cheese boards
Versatile for cooking and snacking
#TOP 3

Beemster Classic 18 Month Aged Gouda Cheese Quarter Wheel

Generic
Beemster Classic 18 Month Aged Gouda Cheese Quarter Wheel Cover
Generic Aged Gouda Cheese 18 Month by Beemster Classic - Quarter Wheel (5.5~6 LB)

The Beemster Aged Gouda Cheese offers a rich and flavorful experience, aged for 18 months to develop its signature taste. Made from pasteurized cow's milk, it ensures a safe and consistent quality for your enjoyment. This cheese is cut directly from a large wheel and carefully vacuum-sealed, keeping it fresh and ready for your convenience. Whether you're serving it at a gathering or enjoying it on your own, this quarter wheel size provides a generous portion that lasts. With Beemster Aged Gouda Cheese, you get a classic and reliable choice for any cheese lover.

What We Like
18-month aging
Pasteurized cow's milk
Vacuum-sealed freshness
Quarter wheel portion
#TOP 4

Carmen & Lola Frans Hals 6-Month Goat Gouda Cheese 2-Pack

Carmen & Lola Frans Hals 6-Month Goat Gouda Cheese 2-Pack Cover
Frans Hals Goat Gouda Cheese – 6-Month Aged, 6.35 oz 2-Pack | Creamy & Nutty Dutch Goat Cheese

The Carmen & Lola Goat Gouda is a delicious cheese aged for six months, giving it a smooth and creamy texture with a mild nutty flavor that cheese lovers will enjoy. Made from high-quality goat milk, it offers a delicate tanginess with a clean finish, making it a refreshing choice for your palate. The 6.35 oz two-pack comes in individually wrapped portions, so you can easily share, gift, or enjoy it whenever you want. This versatile cheese works wonderfully on cheese boards, in salads, sandwiches, or simply as a tasty snack on its own, adding a rich Dutch tradition to your meals.

What We Like
Creamy, nutty flavor
High-quality goat milk
Convenient two-pack
Versatile for many dishes
#TOP 5

Dutchmark Red Wax Gouda Cheese 3 lb

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Dutchmark Red Wax Gouda Cheese 3 lb Cover
Dutchmark Red Wax Gouda Cheese, from Holland - With a butterfat content of 48%, gouda hits the midpoint of creaminess in the spectrum of cheeses 3 pound

Dutchmark Red Wax Gouda is a popular cheese made from pasteurized cow's milk, offering a smooth and creamy taste thanks to its balanced 48% butterfat content. This cheese includes natural ingredients like salt, starter cultures, rennet, and beta carotene, ensuring a rich flavor and quality you can trust. You have the option to receive it as a whole wheel or conveniently pre-cut and vacuum-sealed for freshness and easy storage. Whether you prefer a large block or smaller portions, this cheese is perfect for your snacking or cooking needs.

What We Like
High butterfat content
Natural ingredients
Vacuum-sealed packaging
Whole wheel or cut options
#TOP 6

Generic Naturally Hardwood Smoked Gouda Cheese 2 lb

Generic
8 Ounce
Generic Naturally Hardwood Smoked Gouda Cheese 2 lb Cover
Naturally Hardwood Smoked Gouda Pasteurized Process Cheese, 2 pound

The Generic Smoked Gouda Cheese offers a rich, authentic smoked flavor that comes from real hardwood smoking, not artificial additives. Originating from Wisconsin, this cheese guarantees quality and a traditional taste that enhances any meal. Made from cow's milk, it provides a familiar, creamy texture that pairs well with various dishes. Plus, it is pasteurized, ensuring safety and longer shelf life for your convenience. Whether you're adding it to burgers or serving it on a cheese board, this cheese brings a deep, smoky flavor that can elevate your food experience.

What We Like
Real hardwood smoked flavor
Wisconsin origin
Cow's milk cheese
Pasteurized for safety
#TOP 7

ARTIKAAS Holland Gouda Cheese Wheel 10Lb

10 pounds
ARTIKAAS Holland Gouda Cheese Wheel 10Lb Cover
Holland Gouda Cheese Wheel - Red Wax - Approx. 10Lb-Wheel

The ARTIKAAS Gouda Cheese Wheel offers you a generous size of about 10 pounds, perfect for gatherings or long-term use. Its red wax coating helps keep the cheese fresh and flavorful while making storage easy. Imported directly from Holland, this cheese brings authentic Dutch taste right to your table. Whether you're slicing it for sandwiches or grating it over dishes, this cheese wheel provides versatility and quality that cheese lovers will appreciate.

What We Like
Large 10-pound size
Red wax coating
Authentic Dutch import
Versatile use
#TOP 8

Van Kaas Gouda Cheese Wheel 9 lb

Van Kaas Gouda Cheese Wheel 9 lb Cover
Van Kaas Gouda Cheese 9, Lb, Wheel

The Van Kaas Gouda Cheese is crafted in The Netherlands, known for its rich cheese-making tradition. This cheese comes in a red wax-coated wheel weighing about 10 pounds, making it easy to store and keep fresh for longer. It offers a unique flavor that combines the creamy, nutty taste of classic Gouda with a tangy twist from aged goat milk cheese. This blend gives you a delicious and versatile cheese that works well for snacking, cooking, or serving on a cheese board. The Van Kaas Gouda Cheese is a great choice if you want a distinctive cheese experience with a reliable quality.

What We Like
Authentic Dutch origin
Red wax coating
Large 10-pound wheel
Rich, nutty and tangy flavor
#TOP 9

The Chef and his Wife Smoked Gouda Pimento Cheese

The Chef and his Wife Smoked Gouda Pimento Cheese Cover
The Chef and his Wife Foods Smoked Gouda Pimento Cheese single (1)

The Chef and his Wife Pimento Cheese brings together a premium mix of shredded cheddar, smoked Gouda, pimentos, and buttermilk, creating a creamy and flavorful spread you'll enjoy. The blend of applewood smoked Gouda and mild cheddar offers a bold and zesty taste, adding excitement to your snacks. You can use this versatile cheese spread in many ways, such as a sandwich spread, a dip for crackers, or a tasty addition to your favorite dishes. Handcrafted with carefully chosen ingredients, it delivers an authentic Southern flavor that makes every bite special and satisfying.

What We Like
Premium cheese blend
Bold, zesty flavor
Versatile usage
Handcrafted quality
#TOP 10

Yancey's Fancy Smoked Gouda 7.6 oz

Generic
Yancey's Fancy Smoked Gouda 7.6 oz Cover
Yancey's Fancy Smoked Gouda 7.6 oz

The Yancey's Fancy Smoked Gouda offers a rich, smoky taste combined with a smooth and creamy texture, perfect for cheese lovers looking for bold flavors. This 7.6 oz wedge is carefully packaged with gel packs and shipped via Priority Mail, ensuring it arrives fresh and ready to enjoy. Made from part-skim milk and enhanced with natural smoke flavor, this cheese provides a delicious and satisfying snack or addition to your meals. Whether you’re pairing it with crackers, bread, fruit, or a glass of red wine, this handcrafted cheese promises quality and convenience for your tasting pleasure.

What We Like
Bold smoky flavor
Creamy texture
Priority Mail shipping
Gel pack freshness
Handcrafted quality
Buying Guide Image

Get the Best Gouda Cheese

Gouda cheese is a Dutch cheese that is named after the Dutch city of Gouda. It is a versatile cheese that is perfect for snacking, melting, grilling, or slicing. Gouda cheese has a rich, creamy texture and a slightly sweet, nutty flavor that pairs well with a variety of foods.

History of Gouda Cheese

Gouda cheese has a long history that dates back to the 12th century. The cheese was originally made by farmers in the Dutch city of Gouda, who used cow's milk to make the cheese. The cheese was then aged in cellars for several months, which helped to develop its flavor and texture. Over time, Gouda cheese became a popular export, and it is now enjoyed around the world.

Types of Gouda Cheese

There are many different types of Gouda cheese, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Some of the most common types of Gouda cheese include:

  • Young Gouda: This is a mild, creamy cheese that has a soft, smooth texture. It is typically aged for two to three months, and has a slightly sweet, nutty flavor.
  • Aged Gouda: This cheese is aged for six months to a year, which gives it a stronger, more pronounced flavor. It has a harder, more crumbly texture, and a slightly sharp, tangy flavor.
  • Smoked Gouda: This type of Gouda cheese is smoked over a fire, which gives it a smoky, earthy flavor. It has a slightly firmer texture than other types of Gouda cheese, and pairs well with grilled meats and vegetables.
  • Spiced Gouda: This type of Gouda cheese is flavored with herbs and spices, such as cumin or chili peppers. It has a slightly spicy flavor and a creamy, smooth texture.

How to Choose the Best Gouda Cheese

When shopping for Gouda cheese, there are a few things to consider. First, look for cheese that is made from high-quality cow's milk, as this will help to ensure a rich, creamy flavor. You should also look for cheese that is aged for the right amount of time. Younger Gouda cheeses will have a milder, sweeter flavor, while aged Gouda cheeses will have a stronger, more pronounced flavor.

Additionally, consider the type of Gouda cheese that you want to buy. Do you want a smoky, spicy, or plain Gouda cheese? The type of Gouda cheese that you choose will depend on your personal taste preferences, as well as the recipe that you are using it for.

How to Store Gouda Cheese

Gouda cheese should be stored in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or wax paper. This will help to prevent the cheese from drying out and losing its flavor. Gouda cheese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three weeks, but it will taste best if it is eaten within a week of being purchased.

How to Enjoy Gouda Cheese

Gouda cheese is a versatile cheese that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas for enjoying Gouda cheese:

  • Snack on slices of Gouda cheese with crackers or fruit
  • Grate Gouda cheese over salads, soups, or pasta dishes
  • Melt Gouda cheese on sandwiches, burgers, or grilled cheese
  • Cube Gouda cheese and serve it as part of a cheese platter with other types of cheese and accompaniments

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is special about Gouda cheese?

Gouda cheese is known for its unique shape, which is a flattened wheel, and its specific make technique. It is made by coagulating milk and pressing the resulting curds into molds. These factors contribute to the distinct character of Gouda cheese, regardless of where it is made.

2. How is Gouda cheese eaten?

Gouda cheese can be enjoyed in various ways. It can be sliced and eaten with whole grain bread, used to make a grilled cheese sandwich, or added to a cold sandwich. Gouda cheese also pairs well with whole grain bread on a cheese platter. The heaviness of the bread complements the flavor of Gouda cheese.

3. Is Gouda cheese better than cheddar cheese?

The preference between Gouda cheese and cheddar cheese depends on personal taste. Older Gouda cheese is often preferred for cooking due to its stronger, nutty, and buttery flavor. Cheddar cheese, on the other hand, tends to have a less sweet, more buttery, and generally stronger taste compared to Gouda cheese.

4. What does Gouda cheese taste like?

Gouda cheese has a range of flavor notes depending on its age. Young Gouda, aged a few weeks, has a sweet, mild, and slightly fudgy taste. As Gouda ages for months or even years, it develops more caramel notes, nuttiness, and a subtle tang.

5. Is Gouda cheese healthy?

Gouda cheese is a full-fat dairy product that contains saturated fats, which are not considered healthy in excess. However, Gouda cheese also provides various beneficial nutrients. The healthiness of Gouda cheese as a fat source is still debated.

6. Does Gouda cheese melt well?

Gouda cheese with higher moisture content, like young Gouda or Mozzarella, melts well. However, drier cheeses like aged Gouda and Parmigiano Reggiano do not melt as easily unless there is added moisture. Higher fat cheeses, such as Havarti, generally melt better than non-fat cheeses like mozzarella.

7. What can you eat Gouda cheese with?

Gouda cheese can be paired with various foods to enhance its flavor. Some popular options include apples, red wine, dark chocolate, honey, roasted almonds, dried fruits, grapes, and whole grain bread. These combinations provide a balance of contrasting or complementary tastes that complement the creamy and sweet Gouda cheese.

Editor's Notes

During our gouda cheese research, we found 16 gouda cheese products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 1,423 customer reviews through our big data system to write the gouda cheese list. We found that most customers choose gouda cheese with an average price of $67.95.

The gouda cheese are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of gouda cheese, including Gayo Azul, ARTIKAAS, Van Kaas, The Chef and his Wife Foods. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 173 consumers with an average rating of 4.4.

Written by
Ashley Abels Avatar

Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!