13 Best Trader Joe’s Cheeses for a Budget-Friendly Cheese Platter

Who says you need to spend a lot to have a tasty cheese platter? Trader Joe’s has a great selection of cheeses that won’t empty your wallet, and you can still impress your guests with a spread of variety and flavor. From creamy and mild to bold and tangy, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re a cheese expert or a beginner, you’ll love the options at Trader Joe’s.

Gruyère

Gruyère is a smooth, nutty cheese with a slightly sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with fruits like apples or pears. At Trader Joe’s, it’s a great pick for any cheese board. It’s versatile and goes well with crackers, bread, or even some cold cuts. The texture is firm, making it easy to slice or cube for your platter. Best of all, it offers a premium taste without the high price tag!

Unexpected Cheddar

Trader Joe’s Unexpected Cheddar is a fan favorite because it combines the sharpness of cheddar with a hint of parmesan. It’s the best of both worlds, with a tangy bite and a smooth texture that melts in your mouth. This cheese is perfect for pairing with a variety of fruits, nuts, and jams. It’s a great addition to any cheese platter and definitely stands out with its unique flavor. Plus, it’s one of the most affordable premium cheeses available.

Triple Crème Brie

For those who love creamy cheeses, Triple Crème Brie from Trader Joe’s is a must-try. It’s rich, smooth, and has a delicate, buttery flavor. This soft cheese is perfect for spreading on crackers or baguette slices and can be paired with almost any topping, from honey to fig jam. Despite its luxurious feel, it’s priced lower than most other triple-crème bries. A little goes a long way, making it a budget-friendly option.

Manchego

Manchego is a Spanish cheese that’s rich, firm, and has a slightly tangy flavor. It pairs beautifully with olives and fruits, making it a great choice for a Mediterranean-inspired cheese platter. The texture is firm enough to slice into perfect wedges, and its flavor is bold enough to stand out among other cheeses. Trader Joe’s offers a great deal on Manchego, making it a smart addition to your platter without blowing your budget.

Crumbled Goat Cheese

Crumbled Goat Cheese is a creamy, tangy option that adds a burst of flavor to any cheese platter. It’s perfect for sprinkling over salads, pairing with fresh fruits like figs, or even spreading on crackers. The smooth texture and distinctive taste make it a standout on your cheese board. Trader Joe’s version is affordable and comes pre-crumbled, so you can save time while still enjoying top-quality cheese. Its mild tanginess balances well with other cheeses and adds a nice contrast to sweeter accompaniments like honey or dried fruit.

Smoked Ghost Pepper Cheddar Cheese

Smoked Ghost Pepper Cheddar is for those who enjoy a little heat with their cheese. This bold cheddar combines smoky flavors with a spicy kick from ghost peppers, offering a unique twist on a classic. The heat is strong but balanced, making it great for those who love spicy food without overwhelming the palate. Pair it with some sweet fruits or mild crackers to tame the heat. It’s a perfect cheese to add excitement and bold flavors to your cheese platter.

Everything but the Bagel Cheddar Cheese

Inspired by the popular seasoning blend, Trader Joe’s Everything but the Bagel Cheddar Cheese brings the flavors of garlic, onion, and sesame to a rich, creamy cheddar. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the classic bagel topping in a new form. This cheese has a satisfying crunch and savory depth that complements both sweet and savory items on your platter. Pair it with fresh vegetables, crackers, or even smoked salmon for a fun, flavorful bite. It’s an easy way to add a crowd-pleasing touch to your spread.

Carr Valley Cheese Sweet Vanilla Cardona Cheese

Carr Valley’s Sweet Vanilla Cardona Cheese is a creamy, slightly sweet cheese with a soft, buttery texture. The vanilla flavor is subtle but distinct, making it an unexpected and delightful addition to your cheese platter. It pairs beautifully with fruits like grapes or strawberries and is a great contrast to saltier cheeses. This cheese adds a unique, dessert-like touch to your platter without being overly sweet. It’s a perfect option if you’re looking for something different and luxurious yet affordable.

Blueberry Fields Hard Cheese

Blueberry Fields Hard Cheese is a unique, fruity option that pairs well with both sweet and savory items. Infused with real blueberries, this cheese has a slightly sweet and tangy taste that contrasts nicely with the saltiness of other cheeses. Its firm texture makes it easy to slice or cube for your platter. It’s also a great pairing for a glass of white wine or a crisp cider. This cheese adds a touch of fun and flavor to your cheese board.

Italian Truffle Cheese

Italian Truffle Cheese offers the rich, earthy flavor of truffles combined with the creaminess of a mild Italian cheese. This luxurious cheese has a deep, savory taste that pairs well with fruits, nuts, and a variety of crackers. Its unique, fragrant flavor makes it a standout on any platter, elevating the whole spread. A small amount goes a long way, so it’s perfect for those looking to add a touch of luxury without overspending. It’s a must-have for anyone who loves truffles and wants to impress their guests with something extra special.

Fresh Mozzarella Pearls

Fresh Mozzarella Pearls are small, soft, and creamy cheeses that are perfect for adding a fresh, mild touch to any cheese platter. Their smooth, delicate texture and mild flavor make them ideal for pairing with tomatoes, basil, or balsamic vinegar for a mini Caprese-style snack. These pearls are also perfect for skewer-style platters or serving alongside fruits like melon or berries. The bite-sized pieces make it easy to serve without much prep. Plus, the freshness adds a light, refreshing contrast to other more intense cheeses on your platter.

Cassata Baked Ricotta Cheese

Cassata Baked Ricotta Cheese offers a sweet twist on traditional ricotta, with a slightly firm texture that’s perfect for slicing. Infused with vanilla, cinnamon, and a hint of citrus, this cheese has a subtle sweetness that makes it a standout. It pairs well with fresh fruits like berries or citrus slices and can even be enjoyed with a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness. This cheese brings a bit of dessert-like indulgence to your platter, while still being easy to incorporate with savory items like prosciutto or crackers.

Tête de Moine Rosettes Semisoft Cheese

Tête de Moine Rosettes is a delicious, semisoft cheese from Switzerland that is carefully shaved into delicate rosettes. This cheese has a rich, nutty flavor and a smooth, creamy texture that makes it melt in your mouth. The unique rosette shape allows the cheese to release its full aroma and flavor. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruits, nuts, and even cured meats like salami or prosciutto. Tête de Moine adds an elegant and sophisticated touch to your cheese platter, impressing your guests with both its presentation and taste.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

More From RetailShout

15 Aldi Deals That Keep Your Fridge Stocked and Budget Happy

Stocking up your fridge without breaking the bank doesn’t have to be a challenge. Aldi has a knack for offering affordable, high-quality finds that feel like little treasures. Read More.

13 Hidden Trader Joe’s Gems You Need to Try Right Now

Trader Joe’s has a way of surprising us every time we shop. Beyond the popular favorites that customers rave about, the aisles are packed with hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. Read More.

Aldi‘s 15 Best Frozen Desserts You Need in Your Freezer

Aldi is known for offering a great variety of delicious and affordable foods, and their frozen dessert section is no exception. Whether you’re craving something fruity, chocolatey, or creamy, Aldi has plenty of frozen treats that are perfect to keep stocked in your freezer. Read More.