Best Parmesan Cheese of 2026

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 22, 2026

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Parmesan cheese, also known as Parmigiano-Reggiano, is a hard, granular cheese with a nutty and slightly sweet flavor. It is made from cow's milk and aged for at least 12 months, giving it a distinct taste and texture. Parmesan cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, such as pasta, salads, and soups. It is also commonly grated and used as a topping for pizza and other Italian dishes. High in protein and calcium, Parmesan cheese is a tasty and nutritious addition to any meal.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

BelGioioso Parmesan Wedge 8 oz Cover #TOP 1
BelGioioso Parmesan Wedge 8 oz
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese 8 oz Cover #TOP 2
Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese 8 oz
ftb score rating icon 9.7
BelGioioso Shaved Parmesan Cup 5oz Cover #TOP 3
BelGioioso Shaved Parmesan Cup 5oz
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Parmesan Cheese

#TOP 1

BelGioioso Parmesan Wedge 8 oz

11231
8 Ounce
BelGioioso Parmesan Wedge 8 oz Cover
BelGioioso, Parmesan, Wedge, 8 oz

The BelGioioso Parmesan Cheese offers a rich, natural flavor that enhances your meals with its full and nutty taste. Since it’s gluten-free, this cheese is a safe and delicious option if you need to avoid gluten in your diet. It’s also made without rBST, so you can enjoy it knowing it’s crafted without artificial growth hormones. Plus, this award-winning cheese has been aged for over 10 months in Wisconsin, giving it a depth of flavor that makes your cooking and snacking more satisfying.

What We Like
Rich, nutty flavor
Freshness and longevity
Easy to grate and melt
Affordable price
Versatile for recipes
What We Don't Like
Not authentic Italian import

Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese 8 oz

00021000766635
Grated Parmesan
8 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese 8 oz Cover
Kraft 100% Grated Parmesan Cheese Shaker (8 oz Bottle)

Kraft Parmesan Cheese comes in an 8 oz shaker, making it easy for you to sprinkle just the right amount of cheese onto your meals. Made from high-quality milk, this cheese brings a sharp and tangy flavor that enhances your favorite dishes. Whether you're adding it to pasta, pizza, seafood, or salads, its grated form ensures convenience in every use. Plus, the shaker bottle is designed for easy storage and use, allowing you to enjoy this tasty cheese whenever you want. Just remember to refrigerate it after opening to keep it fresh!

What We Like
Rich, complex flavor blend
Versatile for various dishes
Great price and value
Original American taste
Consistent quality
What We Don't Like
Some flavors unavailable at times
#TOP 3

BelGioioso Shaved Parmesan Cup 5oz

mburring
Pack of 1
BelGioioso Shaved Parmesan Cup 5oz Cover
Bel Gioioso, Shaved Parmesan Cup, 5 oz

The BelGioioso Parmesan Cup is a convenient 5-ounce container of finely shaved Parmesan cheese. This product is made with all-natural ingredients, so you can trust its quality and freshness in your meals. The shaved texture makes it easy to sprinkle over salads, pasta, or soups, saving you time during meal prep. Since refrigeration is needed, you can keep it fresh for longer, ensuring you always have tasty cheese on hand whenever you want to add a savory touch to your dishes.

What We Like
Fresh flavor
Melts quickly
Rich taste
Great for pasta dishes
Good packaging
What We Don't Like
Occasional freshness issue
#TOP 4

Organic Valley Shredded Parmesan Cheese Tub 4oz Pack of 12

30105173
Other Shredded
4 Ounce
Organic Valley Shredded Parmesan Cheese Tub 4oz Pack of 12 Cover
Organic Valley Parmesan Cheese in Tub, Shredded from the Block, Cow's Milk, Zero Trans Fat, Non GMO, 4 Ounces (Pack of 12)

The Organic Valley Parmesan Cheese is a convenient choice for anyone who loves authentic Parmesan flavor. This cheese is shredded directly from the block, giving you a fresh and rich taste every time. Made from cow's milk, it offers a natural dairy experience that you can trust. Plus, it contains zero trans fat, which supports a healthier diet without sacrificing flavor. With the Non-GMO label, you can feel confident that you’re choosing a product made without genetically modified ingredients. This 4-ounce tub, sold in a pack of 12, is perfect for easy storage and use in your favorite recipes.

What We Like
Fresh and mild flavor
No moldy aftertaste
Ethically sourced
Great for parmesan crisps
No floury texture
What We Don't Like
Check ingredients for comparison
#TOP 5

Latteria Soresina Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese

2 Pound Cut
Latteria Soresina Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese Cover
Parmesan Cheese Block 2 lb (approx.), Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese Top Grade-Italian Cheese DOP, Latteria Soresina, Imported from Italy

Latteria Soresina Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese is a special Italian cheese known as 'The King of Cheese.' Made from unpasteurized cow's milk, it has a distinctive flavor that becomes more intense as it ages. The cheese is strictly monitored for quality, making it durable and fresh for up to 24 months. The manufacturer takes pride in using pure and quality materials to ensure that customers receive fresh and tasty cheese.

What We Like
Excellent authentic flavor
Secure, cold packaging
Great value for price
Fresh and high quality
Fast delivery
What We Don't Like
Large rind size
Ice packs may thaw in transit
#TOP 6

Aplenty Parmesan Cheese 5 Oz

7 Ounce
Aplenty Parmesan Cheese 5 Oz Cover
Aplenty Parmesan Cheese, 5 Oz

The Aplenty Parmesan Cheese offers a rich, nutty taste that enhances your meals with a classic artisan flavor. Aged for over 10 months, this cheese delivers a deep, mature taste that can elevate your cooking or snacking experience. It’s made without any artificial flavors, synthetic colors, or high fructose corn syrup, ensuring a more natural and wholesome product for you to enjoy. Since it contains milk, it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a genuine dairy cheese. As an Amazon brand, you can expect consistent quality and value with this Parmesan cheese.

What We Like
Great taste
Affordable price
Perfect texture
Long shelf life
Good for salads and pasta
What We Don't Like
Mild flavor
#TOP 7

Locatelli Italy Pecorino Romano Cheese 2-lb Block

Locatelli italy
2 lbs
Locatelli Italy Pecorino Romano Cheese 2-lb Block Cover
Locatelli italy Pecorino Romano Cheese Fresh Block 2-lbs approx Imported from Italy

The Locatelli Pecorino Romano Cheese is a fresh cut block of authentic Italian cheese, weighing around 2 pounds. This cheese is perfect for those who enjoy rich, tangy flavors in their dishes. As a fresh cut block, it allows you to slice or grate the cheese to your preferred size, giving you control over your servings. Being imported from Italy, you can trust the quality and traditional taste that Locatelli offers. This cheese is a great addition to salads, pastas, and many recipes where you want to add a sharp, salty flavor.

What We Like
Excellent flavor profile
Fast, reliable delivery
Vacuum-sealed freshness
Well-packaged for shipping
Outstanding customer service
What We Don't Like
Occasional shipping delays
Limited retail availability
#TOP 8

Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese 16 Oz

00021000010868
Grated Parmesan
1 Pound (Pack of 1)
Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese 16 Oz Cover
Kraft Grated Cheese & Parmesan, 16 Oz

The Kraft Grated Parmesan is a convenient 16-ounce shaker bottle filled with high-quality Parmesan cheese made from premium milk. This cheese adds a sharp and tangy taste that enhances the flavor of your favorite dishes. Because it’s already grated, you save time and effort when cooking or garnishing meals. The shaker bottle design makes it easy to sprinkle just the right amount, helping you quickly add a delicious Italian touch to pastas, pizzas, salads, and more.

What We Like
fresh flavor
versatile usage
convenient large size
good texture
easy to blend and melt
What We Don't Like
slightly salty taste
contains cellulose
#TOP 9

Generic Grated Parmesan Cheese 24oz

Generic
24 Ounce (1 Pack)
Generic Grated Parmesan Cheese 24oz Cover
Grated Parmesan Cheese, 24 Ounce (1 Pack)

The Generic Parmesan Cheese 24oz is a great addition to your kitchen, offering a rich, authentic taste that enhances pasta, salads, and many other dishes. With its large 24-ounce size, you get plenty of cheese to use for family meals or when hosting guests. The versatile cheese works well sprinkled on pizzas, mixed into sauces, or added to your favorite recipes for a flavor boost. Plus, the resealable container keeps the cheese fresh and makes storage easy, preventing any messy spills. This product is designed to bring convenience and deliciousness to your cooking.

What We Like
Rich authentic flavor
Large 24-ounce size
Versatile culinary use
Resealable freshness container
#TOP 10

4C Grated Parmesan Cheese 6 oz

4C
00041387331264
6 ounces
4C Grated Parmesan Cheese 6 oz Cover
4C Grated Parmesan Cheese, 6 oz

4C Parmesan Cheese offers a natural, wholesome option for your meals. Without any additives, you can enjoy pure cheese flavor without unnecessary extras. The absence of preservatives means you get a fresher product that’s better for your health. With zero carbohydrates per serving, this cheese fits well into low-carb or keto diets, helping you maintain your nutrition goals. Being made from 100% natural ingredients, it’s a simple and clean choice that lets you enjoy authentic Parmesan without compromise. This cheese is a great addition to your kitchen for cooking and snacking with peace of mind.

What We Like
100% real cheese
No fillers or cellulose
Delicious flavor
Authentic parmesan taste
Popular among frequent buyers
What We Don't Like
Occasional clumping
Packing issues for some
Buying Guide Image

Tips for Choosing the Parmesan Cheese

How to Choose Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan cheese, also known as parmigiano-reggiano, is a hard, granular cheese with a complex and nutty flavor. It is often grated over dishes like pasta and salads, but it can also be enjoyed on its own. When choosing Parmesan cheese, there are a few key factors to consider.

Look for the Real Thing

First and foremost, make sure you are getting the real deal. Parmesan cheese is protected by a protected designation of origin (PDO), which means that only cheese produced in certain regions of Italy using specific methods can be labeled as such. If a cheese is labeled "Parmesan" but is not from one of these regions, it is not the real thing. Look for the words "parmigiano-reggiano" on the label to ensure you are getting the authentic cheese.

Consider the Age

Parmesan cheese is aged for a minimum of 12 months, but it can be aged for up to 36 months or more. The longer the cheese is aged, the sharper and more complex the flavor will be. If you want a more subtle, mild flavor, look for Parmesan that is aged for 12-18 months. For a sharper, more intense flavor, opt for a cheese that is aged for 24 months or longer.

Check the Texture

Parmesan cheese should be hard and granular, with a crystalline texture. If the cheese is too soft or crumbly, it may not be fresh or of high quality. To check the texture, try breaking off a small piece of the cheese. It should be firm and break cleanly, with a slightly gritty texture.

Trust Your Nose

Parmesan cheese should have a distinct, nutty aroma. If it doesn't smell like anything, or if it has a strong or off-putting smell, it may not be fresh or of good quality. To check the aroma, take a small piece of the cheese and sniff it. It should have a rich, nutty scent.

Conclusion

When choosing Parmesan cheese, look for the real deal, consider the age, check the texture, and trust your nose. With these tips in mind, you can find a high-quality Parmesan cheese that will add depth and flavor to your dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Parmesan cheese good or bad for you?

Parmesan cheese has health benefits but is high in calories. Consuming it in large quantities can lead to weight gain, increasing the risk of diseases like heart attack and stroke. It is best to enjoy Parmesan cheese in moderation.

2. What is so special about Parmesan cheese?

Parmesan cheese, specifically Parmigiano Reggiano, is made with simple and natural ingredients and undergoes a unique aging process. It is an excellent source of nutrients like calcium, amino acids, protein, and vitamins. A single ounce of Parmigiano Reggiano contains more protein than beef and nearly ten times more calcium than milk.

3. What's the difference between Asiago and Parmesan?

Asiago cheese is slightly more buttery, creamy, and nutty compared to Parmesan. Asiago can have a noticeable bitterness, especially aged Asiago Stravecchio. Parmesan, on the other hand, is sharper, more robust, and has fruity, savory, and earthy notes.

4. What are the three types of Parmesan cheese?

The three types of Parmesan cheese are Parmigiano Reggiano, Pecorino Romano, and Grana Padano. Each has its own unique profile and can be used in different ways. It's important to understand their differences to showcase them effectively in recipes.

5. Is parmesan cheese OK for weight loss?

Parmesan cheese, along with other cheese variants like Feta, low-fat cottage cheese, cheddar, and swiss, can be excellent choices for weight loss. These cheeses are nutrient-dense and come in low-calorie servings, making them suitable for weight management, including reducing belly fat.

6. Is parmesan cheese healthier than regular cheese?

Parmesan cheese is highly nutritious and can be a good choice for those with lactose intolerance or seeking easily digestible proteins. It is aged, has a strong flavor, and a crumbly texture. Parmesan cheese may also support bone health.

7. Is it OK to eat parmesan cheese by itself?

Yes, it is perfectly fine to enjoy Parmesan cheese by itself. Its versatility makes it delicious on its own or when added to various dishes, such as pasta.

8. Which is milder Parmesan or Romano?

Parmesan cheese has a milder taste compared to Romano. This is because Parmesan is made with unpasteurized cow's milk, whereas Romano is made with more assertive-tasting sheep's milk.

9. Is Asiago or Romano more like Parmesan?

Asiago cheese, like Parmesan, is made from unpasteurized cow's milk. It has a sharper, nuttier flavor compared to Parmesan or Romano. Asiago is often softer than Romano and is commonly enjoyed on its own or as part of a cheeseboard.

10. Which Parmesan is stronger?

Parmigiano-Reggiano is stronger in taste compared to Grana Padano. Parmigiano-Reggiano is aged for a minimum of 12 months, resulting in a more complex, nuttier, and saltier flavor. Grana Padano is often used in cooking, while Parmigiano-Reggiano is commonly grated on top of dishes.

Editor's Notes

During our parmesan cheese research, we found 24 parmesan cheese products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 114,498 customer reviews through our big data system to write the parmesan cheese list. We found that most customers choose parmesan cheese with an average price of $20.19.

The parmesan cheese are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of parmesan cheese, including BelGioioso, Kraft, Organic Valley, Latteria Soresina, Aplenty. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

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!

Parmesan Cheese Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand BelGioioso Kraft BelGioioso Organic Valley Latteria Soresina Aplenty Locatelli italy Kraft Generic 4C
Units 8.0 Ounce 1 Count 5.0 Ounce 4.0 Ounce 32.0 Ounce 7.0 Ounce 32.0 Ounce 16.0 Ounce - 6 Fluid Ounces
Unit Count 8.0 Ounce 1 Count 5.0 Ounce 4.0 Ounce - 7.0 Ounce 32.0 Ounce 16.0 Ounce - 6 Fluid Ounces
Variety Parmesan Parmesan Parmesan Parmesan - Parmesan Romano Parmesan - Parmesan
Item Form Cheese Shred - Shred - Cheese - Shred - Cheese
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
Where to Buy