Italian-Style Cheese vs Pecorino Cheese

Q: Is Italian-Style Cheese the same as Pecorino Cheese?

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

Q: Can I substitute Italian-Style Cheese for Pecorino Cheese?

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

Q: Does Italian-Style Cheese taste like Pecorino Cheese?

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

Q: Which should I choose, Italian-Style Cheese or Pecorino 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.

Italian-Style Cheese is a cheese, while Pecorino Cheese is hard and made from sheep milk, originating in Italy.

What Is Italian-Style Cheese?

Italian-Style cheese is a broad category that typically mimics the flavors and textures of traditional Italian cheeses. These cheeses are often semi-hard and range in flavor from mild and creamy to sharp and tangy. They may be made from cow's, goat's, or sheep's milk, and are commonly used in cooking due to their melting properties. Italian-Style cheeses are versatile, making them suitable for grating over pasta, topping pizzas, or incorporating into baked dishes. While they may not be authentically Italian, they aim to capture the essence of Italy's renowned cheese-making traditions. The taste can vary but generally offers a savory and rich profile. Depending on the specific type, these cheeses might feature subtle hints of nuttiness or a buttery finish.

What Is Pecorino Cheese?

Pecorino is an Italian hard cheese made from sheep's milk, and its name comes from pecora, the Italian word for sheep. Six main varieties carry PDO status, with Pecorino Romano the best known outside Italy.

What's the Difference Between Italian-Style Cheese and Pecorino Cheese?

Side-by-Side Comparison

	Italian-Style Cheese	Pecorino Cheese
Country of Origin	—	Italy
Specific Origin	—	Italy
Milk Type	—	Sheep's milk
Texture	—	Hard
Aging	—	Fresco, semi-stagionato or stagionato

Taste Comparison: Does Italian-Style Cheese Taste Like Pecorino Cheese?

Their flavor profiles are distinct.

Can You Substitute Italian-Style Cheese for Pecorino Cheese?

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

Which Is Better, Italian-Style Cheese or Pecorino 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 Italian-Style Cheese the same as Pecorino Cheese?

No, they're distinct cheeses.

Is Italian-Style Cheese similar to Pecorino Cheese?

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

Can I substitute Italian-Style Cheese for Pecorino Cheese?

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

Does Italian-Style Cheese taste like Pecorino Cheese?

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

What is Italian-Style Cheese made of?

Italian-Style Cheese is made from milk.

What is Pecorino Cheese made of?

Pecorino Cheese is made from sheep milk. It's typically aged fresco, semi-stagionato or stagionato. It originates in Italy.

Which should I choose, Italian-Style Cheese or Pecorino Cheese?

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