Best Provolone Cheese of 2026

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Feb 2, 2026

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Provolone cheese is a semi-hard cheese that originated in southern Italy. It is made from cow's milk and has a pale yellow color with a mild flavor. Provolone cheese is often used in sandwiches, pizzas, and as a topping for pasta dishes. It can be found in both a mild or sharp variety, with the sharp version having a more pungent flavor. This cheese is also great for melting and is commonly used in grilled cheese sandwiches and cheeseburgers. Provolone cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes to add a touch of creamy goodness.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Cultures for Health Thermophilic Cheese Starter Cover #TOP 1
Cultures for Health Thermophilic Cheese Starter
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Frank and Sal Imported Provolone Cover #TOP 2
Frank and Sal Imported Provolone
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Auricchio Stravecchio Provolone Cheese Cover #TOP 3
Auricchio Stravecchio Provolone Cheese
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Provolone Cheese

#TOP 1

Cultures for Health Thermophilic Cheese Starter

0.056438272 ounces
Cultures for Health Thermophilic Cheese Starter Cover
Cultures for Health Thermophilic Cheese Starter Culture | 4 Gluten-Free Direct-Set Packets + 2 Vegetable Rennet Tablets | DIY Hard Cheese–Parmesan, Mozzarella, Asiago & Swiss

Cultures for Health Cheese Starter is a versatile DIY cheese making kit that includes 4 packets of powdered Streptococcus thermophilus starter culture and 2 rennet tablets. With this kit, you can make a variety of hard and semi-hard cheeses like provolone, Asiago, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Romano. The rennet tablets can be used in small quantities for each recipe. Depending on the type of cheese you're making, you can yield different amounts. This cheese starter is perfect for sharing with friends during charcuterie nights or as a unique gift. It's also safe to use as each batch is pathogen tested by a trusted third-party laboratory, ensuring high quality and healthy cheese making at home.

What We Like
Versatile
Easy-to-use
Safe
#TOP 2

Frank and Sal Imported Provolone

1 Pound (Pack of 1)
Frank and Sal Imported Provolone Cover
Provolone Cheese Premium (Sharp) One Pound. Frank and Sal Imported Cut Fresh and Vacuum Sealed Daily To Order

Frank and Sal Provolone is a premium imported Italian cheese that has been meticulously aged to achieve a smooth and creamy texture. Every bite of this provolone cheese is a moment of pure culinary bliss. Whether enjoyed on its own, melted over pasta, or added to your favorite recipes, Frank and Sal Provolone adds a delightful touch to any dish. Its versatility makes it a perfect choice for various cooking styles. The aged-to-perfection feature ensures a rich flavor profile, while the smooth and creamy texture enhances the overall dining experience. With Frank and Sal Provolone, you can elevate your culinary creations to a whole new level.

What We Like
Imported
Meticulously aged
Smooth and creamy texture
#TOP 3

Auricchio Stravecchio Provolone Cheese

1/2 lb
Auricchio Stravecchio Provolone Cheese Cover
Auricchio Stravecchio Provolone- From Italy

Auricchio Stravecchio Provolone Cheese is a delicious cheese imported from Italy and aged for 18 months. It is considered one of the best cheeses made by Auricchio, a well-known brand. Perfect for pairing with crackers.

What We Like
Imported from Italy
Aged for 18 months
Considered one of the best cheeses made by Auricchio
#TOP 4

Strong Provolone Valpadana DOP - EMILIA FOOD LOVE

Strong Provolone Valpadana DOP - EMILIA FOOD LOVE Cover
Strong Provolone Valpadana DOP 2.2 lbs (1kg) - EMILIA FOOD LOVE Selected with love in Italy (Strong, Slice 2.2 lbs (1 KG))

The Strong Provolone - EMILIA FOOD LOVE offers a robust flavor that enhances any meal. Aged between three months to over a year, this cheese is perfect for enjoying on its own or paired with durum wheat bread. You can also elevate your dining experience by serving it with compotes and chutneys. For a delightful twist, try grilling it or serving it with honey and a glass of sweet wine, like Moscato. This cheese not only satisfies your taste buds but also adds a gourmet touch to your gatherings.

What We Like
Rich, robust flavor
Versatile pairing options
Excellent for grilling
Gourmet dining experience
#TOP 5

HRVST CHEF'S MARKET Mitica Caciocavallo Silano Cheese 4 lb

Cheese, Caciocavallo Silano, 4 Lbs
1/4.00 Pound
HRVST CHEF'S MARKET Mitica Caciocavallo Silano Cheese 4 lb Cover
Mitica Italian Caciocavallo Silano Cheese, 4 lb Pear-Shaped Wheel, Aged Raw Cow’s Milk, Mild to Piquant Flavor, DOP Certified Artisan Cheese, Perfect for Gourmet Cooking and Authentic Italian Dishes

The HRVST Mitica Caciocavallo Cheese is a traditional Italian cheese made in Southern Italy, offering you an authentic taste experience backed by its DOP certification. This cheese starts with a mild, creamy flavor that gradually develops into a stronger, piquant taste, perfect for those who enjoy a dynamic flavor profile. Its firm and smooth texture, along with the natural rind, reflects the careful aging process, giving you quality you can trust. Whether you want to melt it over your favorite dishes, grate it on pasta, or use it in gourmet cooking, this 4-pound wheel provides versatility and authentic Italian flavor for your kitchen.

What We Like
Authentic Italian craftsmanship
Flavor evolves from mild to piquant
Firm, smooth texture with natural rind
Great for melting and grating
Large 4 lb wheel for versatility
#TOP 6

Generic Auricchio Provolone Cheese 2 LB

Generic
32 ounces
Generic Auricchio Provolone Cheese 2 LB Cover
Generic Auricchio Provolone Imported Cheese from Italy 2 LB

The Generic Auricchio Provolone is a classic Italian cheese that brings rich flavor to your meals. This provolone cheese is perfect for adding a savory touch to sandwiches, pizzas, or cheese platters. Since it’s imported from Italy, you get an authentic taste that enhances your cooking. The 2-pound size offers plenty of cheese, making it convenient for families or gatherings where you want to serve delicious, high-quality cheese. With Generic Auricchio Provolone, you can easily elevate everyday dishes with a genuine Italian ingredient.

What We Like
Authentic Italian flavor
Generous 2-pound size
Versatile for many dishes
#TOP 7

Generic Kashkaval Sheep's Milk Cheese 1lb

Generic

The Generic Kashkaval Cheese is made from pasteurized sheep's milk, which offers a rich and creamy texture that's perfect for cheese lovers who enjoy a smooth taste. Its natural enzymes and rennet help create a tangy and nutty flavor, giving you a unique and enjoyable eating experience. The cheese is carefully salted to enhance its taste without overpowering it. Plus, it arrives fresh to your door via Priority Mail, packed with gel packs to keep it cool during shipping. This means you get high-quality cheese that’s ready to enjoy or cook with as soon as it arrives.

What We Like
Pasteurized sheep's milk
Rich tangy, nutty flavor
Carefully salted
Priority Mail with gel packs
#TOP 8

Generic Provolone Cheese Slices

Generic
Generic Provolone Cheese Slices Cover
slice provolone cheese

The Generic Provolone Slices offer a smooth and mild flavor that makes them a great addition to many dishes. Since these slices are non-smoked, they provide a clean and simple taste that can easily complement sandwiches, salads, or snacks without overpowering other ingredients. The convenient sliced form saves you time in preparation, making it easier to enjoy provolone cheese anytime you want. Whether you're packing lunch or adding cheese to a recipe, these slices are a practical choice for a quick and tasty option.

What We Like
Smooth, mild flavor
Non-smoked taste
Convenient pre-sliced
#TOP 9

Generic Sharp Provolone Cheese, 5oz, 3-Pack

Generic
3 Pack
Generic Sharp Provolone Cheese, 5oz, 3-Pack Cover
Provolone Sharp, 5oz (Pack of 3)

The Generic Sharp Provolone 3-Pack offers a flavorful cheese experience that’s perfect for your meals. Made from cultured milk with added salt and enzymes, this cheese delivers a rich taste while ensuring quality ingredients. It arrives safely at your door via Priority Mail with gel packs to keep it fresh and cool during shipping. Naturally aged, this provolone boasts a firm texture and a tangy, sharp flavor that adds depth to sandwiches, salads, or cheese boards. This convenient 3-pack provides plenty of cheese for your cooking or snacking needs.

What We Like
Quality ingredients
Priority Mail shipping
Gel pack freshness
Firm texture
Complex tangy flavor
#TOP 10

MARKY'S Provolone Piccante Aged Italian Cheese 1 lb

1 lb / 454 g
MARKY'S Provolone Piccante Aged Italian Cheese 1 lb Cover
Provolone Piccante Semi-Firm Aged Cow's Milk Italian Cheese from Italy - 1 lb / 454 g - GUARANTEED OVERNIGHT

MARKY'S Provolone Piccante is a semi-firm Italian cheese made from whole cow's milk and aged for 10 months. This longer aging process gives it a sharper, saltier, and more robust flavor compared to younger varieties, making it perfect for those who enjoy bold tastes. Its grainy texture and smooth skin come from the Po River Valley regions, known for quality cheese production. This cheese works wonderfully in cooking, adding depth to your dishes, and pairs nicely with charcuterie, olives, and full-bodied red wines, enhancing your meals and entertaining experiences.

What We Like
10-month aging for strong flavor
Semi-firm, grainy texture
Made from whole cow's milk
Ideal for cooking and pairing
Authentic Italian origin
Buying Guide Image

Best Provolone Cheese to Fullfill Your Needs

Introduction

Provolone is a popular Italian cheese known for its sharp, tangy flavor and smooth, elastic texture. It is commonly used as a topping for sandwiches, pizzas, and salads, but can also be enjoyed on its own as a snack or appetizer. With so many different types of provolone to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know which one is the best for your needs. In this article, we will explore the various types of provolone and provide some tips on how to choose the perfect cheese for your next meal.

Types of Provolone

Provolone is a type of pasta filata cheese, which means that it is made by stretching and kneading the curds to create a smooth, pliable texture. The two main types of provolone are dolce and piccante, which refer to the level of sharpness and piquancy. Dolce provolone is mild and creamy, while piccante provolone is sharper and more robust in flavor.

In addition to dolce and piccante, there are also several other varieties of provolone that are distinguished by their shape and aging process. Some of the most common types of provolone include:

  • Provolone Valpadana: This is the most popular type of provolone in Italy, and is recognized by its distinctive pear shape. It is aged for at least four months, and has a smooth, buttery flavor.

  • Provolone Dolce: This is a mild, creamy variety of provolone that is aged for only a few weeks. It is often used as a table cheese or for grating over dishes like pasta or salad.

  • Provolone Piccante: This is a sharper, more robust variety of provolone that is aged for several months. It is often used as a topping for sandwiches or pizzas, or as a snack on its own.

  • Caciocavallo: This is a type of provolone that is shaped like a pear and is aged for several months. It has a slightly sweet, nutty flavor and is often used as a table cheese or for grating over dishes.

How to Choose the Right Provolone

When choosing a provolone cheese, there are several factors to consider, including the type, age, and flavor. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect provolone for your needs:

  • Consider the type of dish you will be using the cheese in. If you are making a sandwich or pizza, a sharp, tangy provolone piccante may be the best choice. For a more mild, creamy flavor, dolce provolone may be a better option.

  • Think about the age of the cheese. As provolone ages, it develops a sharper, more robust flavor. If you prefer a milder cheese, look for a younger provolone that has been aged for only a few weeks. If you like a bolder flavor, opt for an older provolone that has been aged for several months.

  • Consider the texture of the cheese. Provolone has a smooth, elastic texture that is great for slicing or grating over dishes. If you prefer a firmer, more crumbly cheese, you may want to try a different type of pasta filata cheese, such as mozzarella or caciocavallo.

  • Taste the cheese before you buy it. Most specialty cheese shops and gourmet markets will have samples of provolone available for you to try. Take the time to taste a few different varieties and choose the one that you like best.

Conclusion

Provolone is a versatile and delicious cheese that can add a unique flavor and texture to a variety of dishes. By considering the type, age, and flavor of the cheese, you can easily choose the perfect provolone for your needs. Whether you prefer a mild, creamy dolce provolone or a sharp, tangy piccante, there is a variety of provolone that will suit your tastes and enhance your meals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is provolone just mozzarella?

No, provolone and mozzarella are different types of cheese. Provolone has a more complex flavor profile and a sharper taste compared to mozzarella. It is also semi-hard, while mozzarella is semi-soft. These differences in flavor and texture make provolone suitable for different uses in cooking.

2. What cheese is provolone similar to?

Mozzarella is a close relative of provolone and has a fresh and mild flavor. It shares some similarities with young provolone and can be used in similar ways, such as in salads or warm dishes.

3. Which cheese is better for you, Swiss or provolone?

Swiss cheese has higher levels of vitamins A, E, and B12 compared to provolone. It also contains more calcium, phosphorus, and zinc. However, provolone has higher levels of carbohydrates and sodium and is a source of potassium. The choice between the two depends on individual dietary needs and preferences.

4. What is provolone cheese best used for?

Provolone cheese is versatile and can be used in various ways. It melts well, making it suitable for grilled sandwiches, baked pasta dishes, and casseroles. It can also be grated and sprinkled over salads or used as a flavorful addition to desserts. Provolone can even be enjoyed on pizza, either as a substitute for mozzarella or as an additional topping.

5. Is provolone a healthy cheese?

Provolone cheese offers health benefits due to its calcium content. Consuming moderate amounts of provolone provides vital nutrients for bone health, eyesight, and the production of red blood cells. However, it is important to consume all types of cheese in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

6. Does provolone cheese melt?

Yes, provolone cheese melts well, making it suitable for various dishes. When melted, it becomes creamy and adds a rich flavor to the food it is used in.

7. What do you use provolone cheese for?

Provolone cheese is versatile and can be used in various ways. It can be grated and sprinkled over salads, used in cooking for dishes like grilled sandwiches, baked pasta dishes, and casseroles. It also melts well, making it a great choice for pizza, either as a substitute for mozzarella or as an additional topping.

Editor's Notes

During our provolone cheese research, we found 24 provolone cheese products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 4,142 customer reviews through our big data system to write the provolone cheese list. We found that most customers choose provolone cheese with an average price of $31.07.

The provolone cheese are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of provolone cheese, including Cultures For Health, Frank and Sal Italian Market, Auricchio, EMILIA FOOD LOVE, HRVST CHEF'S MARKET. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 276 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!