8 Trader Joe’s Cheeses Our Editors Buy Again and Again

Manchego

At $13.99 per pound (though typically sold in smaller half-pound blocks), the Trader Joe’s Manchego is several of our editors’ favorite, including senior fact-checker and researcher Maya Kukes. “TJ’s Manchego is that perfect blend of sharp/salty/nutty, and it’s consistently less expensive at TJ’s than anywhere else I shop.”

Senior food editor Sam Leffler agrees. “Manchego is one of my favorite cheeses, and the Trader Joe’s version doesn’t disappoint,” she says. “It’s got a wonderfully nutty and buttery flavor that isn’t too intense, making it one of my cheeseboard favorites. I especially love to pair it with cured meats. If you have a habit of snacking on cheese, as I do, this is one you should always have in the fridge.”

Italian Truffle Cheese

Leffler couldn’t pick just one favorite, so this Italian cheese also made the list. “I love to elevate my charcuterie boards with a wedge of the Italian Truffle Cheese. It packs just the right amount of truffle flavor, and pairs perfectly with crackers and a drizzle of honey,” she says.

Baked Lemon Ricotta

“I LOVE the baked lemon ricotta—I eat the entire thing in one sitting. It tastes like cheesecake, especially when you scoop it onto graham crackers! I like to add fresh berries on top. Sometimes I just eat it by the spoonful,” says features editor Melissa Matthews.

Cheddar Cheese with Caramelized Onions

It’s no secret that the Cheddar Cheese with Caramelized Onions is my personal favorite Trader Joe’s cheese, which can be used for so many other recipes besides just charcuterie. It’s amazing on a grilled cheese sandwich, as pictured, but I’ve also melted it on puff pastry and topped a burger with it. It’s available year-round, so it’s also my go-to picnic food in the warmer months. Over the years, I’ve had more than a few friends ask what cheese I was serving so they could go buy some of their own.

Chevre With Honey

If you’re a fan of goat cheese, TJ’s has no shortage of tasty options. “As a former Trader Joe’s crew member, I can confirm this cheese is a true customer favorite,” says editorial apprentice Benjamin DeMarais. “The balance of tangy goat cheese and sweet honey makes for the perfect combo. It works beautifully as a smooth spread or as a standout addition to your charcuterie boards.”

Cranberry Chèvre Goat Cheese

Speaking of goat cheese, senior social media editor Sam Saunion loves the Cranberry Chèvre Goat Cheese, saying she pairs it with Ritz crackers for a salty and sweet combination. This cheese also has the perfect consistency and flavor to incorporate in a holiday cheese ball.

And come springtime, creative director Phoebe Flynn Rich recommends another fruity goat cheese variety: the seasonal Blueberry Vanilla Chèvre.

Double Cream Brie

This cult favorite is everything you could ever want in a Brie—rich, smooth, and ultra creamy. DeMarais recommends melting this cheese onto your favorite sandwich or omelet for a quick and delicious upgrade. His favorite way to enjoy? Wrap it in Trader Joe’s Puff Pastry, bake it to a golden crisp, and add a layer of your favorite jam or preserves for the ultimate sweet and savory treat.

Creamy Toscano Cheese Soaked in Syrah

This unique cheese is a favorite of editorial director Jennifer Davidson. “I love TJ’s Creamy Toscano Cheese Soaked in Syrah so much, I keep a wedge in my fridge at all times. It’s a creamy, nutty blend of Parmesan and aged cheddar that makes a great addition to a cheese or charcuterie board, or even grated over pasta,” she says.