2 min readThis article is part of a larger delicious package all about the health and glory of real cheese. Check out more here.
IN ALL THE conversation around cheese and nutrition, the fact that it’s loaded with protein is often lost. Because cheese is often high in fat. Because it's all too easy to eat half a block of havarti (and the calories that go with it). Because cheese has never really had the health vibe of kale or almonds.
But cheese, in moderation, can be a strong source of protein. The key is finding a variety that, unlike a tub of shelf-stable queso dip, you only need a little of to feel satisfied. We assembled six such varieties to build the ultimate high-protein cheese board. All six hit high in the muscle-building nutrient and in pure deliciousness.
1. Jasper Hill Farm's Bayley Hazen Blue
Ultra-creamy and kinda-funky, this blue begs for wheat crackers or to be crumbled over buffalo chicken wings. Even if you’re not a blue cheese guy, this might make you one. Per 2 oz: 14g protein, 220 calories
2. Cabot Creamery Seriously Sharp Cheddar
It’s tangy and nutty because Cabot ages the cheddar for a whole 18 months, which concentrates its flavors. You’re going to want to try it on a grilled cheese. Like, now. Per 2 oz: 14 g protein, 220 calories
3. Le Gruyère
Described as the Swiss equivalent of cheddar, and Gruyère has loads of nutty flavor and melts beautifully. It’s great served with any kind of tart fresh fruit: pears, apples, grapes. Per 2 oz: 16g protein, 220 calories
4. Jasper Hill Farm's Alpha Tolman
This cave-aged cheese is funky like a farmhouse ale or roasted Brussels sprouts. There are nutty notes, but also buttery and oniony ones. It’s complex, but in a really good way. Per 2 oz: 14g protein, 240 calories
5. Hofkäserei Kraus Alp Blossom
Yes, it’s covered in flower blossoms. Edible dried flower blossoms, which obviously give the cheese floral flavors, but you’ll also taste some umami notes too. Per 2 oz: 14g protein, 220 calories
6. Parmigiano Reggiano, aged 36 months
At 36 months, the cheese has tang and pepper, but isn’t overwhelming. Crumbly. Sharp. All you need is hunk or two. Per 2 oz: 20g protein, 240 calories
Paul Kita is a Deputy Editor at Men's Health, where he has covered food, cooking, nutrition, supplements, grooming, tech, travel, and fatherhood at the brand for more than 15 years. He is also the author of two Men's Health cookbooks, Guy Gourmet and A Man, A Pan, A Plan, and the winner of a James Beard Award.
