Brie-Style Cheese vs Romano Cheese

Q: Is Brie-Style Cheese the same as Romano Cheese?

No. Brie-Style Cheese and Romano Cheese are distinct cheeses. See the side-by-side table for the specific differences in milk type, texture, and aging.

Q: Can I substitute Brie-Style Cheese for Romano Cheese?

In most recipes you can swap Brie-Style Cheese for Romano Cheese, though the result will shift in flavor and finish.

Q: Does Brie-Style Cheese taste like Romano Cheese?

They have distinct flavor profiles. See the side-by-side table above for details.

Q: Which should I choose, Brie-Style Cheese or Romano Cheese?

It depends on the dish. The texture and flavor rows in the table above are the best guide. Pick the one whose profile fits your recipe or board.

Brie-Style Cheese

Romano Cheese

Brie-Style Cheese is a cheese, while Romano Cheese is hard and made from cow, goat, or sheep milk, originating in Italy.

What Is Brie-Style Cheese?

Brie-style cheese is a soft cheese with a creamy, pale interior and a white, edible rind. It has a mild, buttery flavor with a hint of earthiness, making it a popular choice for cheese boards and appetizers. The texture is smooth and spreadable, which makes it easy to pair with crusty bread or crackers. As it ripens, the cheese develops a slightly stronger flavor and softer consistency. Brie-style cheese is made from cow's milk and originates from French cheesemaking traditions. It's often enjoyed at room temperature to fully appreciate its creamy taste. This cheese pairs well with fruits, such as apples and grapes, as well as nuts and light wines.

What Is Romano Cheese?

Romano is the North American name for a class of hard, salty cheese made mainly for grating, from cow, goat and/or sheep's milk. It imitates Italian pecorino romano and must hold at least 38% milkfat and under 34% water.

What's the Difference Between Brie-Style Cheese and Romano Cheese?

Side-by-Side Comparison

	Brie-Style Cheese	Romano Cheese
Country of Origin	—	Italy
Specific Origin	—	The U.S. And Canada
Milk Type	—	Cow's, goat's or sheep's milk
Milk Treatment	—	Pasteurized or unpasteurized
Texture	—	Hard
Rind	—	Natural
Taste	—	Mild, sharp, tangy

Taste Comparison: Does Brie-Style Cheese Taste Like Romano Cheese?

Their flavor profiles are distinct.

Can You Substitute Brie-Style Cheese for Romano Cheese?

Brie-Style Cheese can stand in for Romano Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe.

Which Is Better, Brie-Style Cheese or Romano Cheese?

There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want.

Which is your favorite?

One click, anonymous. See what others chose.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Brie-Style Cheese the same as Romano Cheese?

No, they're distinct cheeses.

Is Brie-Style Cheese similar to Romano Cheese?

Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.

Can I substitute Brie-Style Cheese for Romano Cheese?

You can, but expect a shift in flavor and finish.

Does Brie-Style Cheese taste like Romano Cheese?

They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.

What is Brie-Style Cheese made of?

Brie-Style Cheese is made from milk.

What is Romano Cheese made of?

Romano Cheese is made from cow, goat, or sheep milk (pasteurized or unpasteurized), using rennet not required; any suitable milk-clotting enzym rennet. It originates in Italy.

Which should I choose, Brie-Style Cheese or Romano Cheese?

It depends on the dish. The table above is the fastest way to decide based on your recipe.