Cheese Alternatives

Top Cheese Alternatives in the US: Best Dairy-Free Picks from Walmart, Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, and More

Why cheese alternatives are flying off shelves

Have you noticed more plant-based cheeses in the grocery aisle lately? You're not imagining it. Whether you're cutting back on dairy, managing lactose intolerance, or exploring more sustainable eating, cheese alternatives have grown from niche to mainstream. They now cover everything from spreadable cashew “brie” to shred-ready slices for pizza. The good news is shoppers don’t need to sacrifice flavor or texture to make the switch — and stores like Walmart carry both value-oriented and specialty options to match nearly every budget and taste.

Where to shop for cheese alternatives in the US

If you’re hunting for the best plant-based cheeses, the range of retailers is huge. Big-box stores like Walmart often stock popular national brands and occasional value multipacks. Whole Foods and Sprouts curate a wider selection of artisanal and organic options. Trader Joe’s is known for crowd-pleasing private-label picks at wallet-friendly price points, while Costco is your go-to for buying in bulk. Don’t forget online marketplaces like Amazon for rare brands and direct-from-maker sites for seasonal releases. Comparison sites can also help you scout prices and availability across these retailers.

Walmart — value, variety, and recognizable items

Walmart is often the first stop for shoppers looking for reliable stock and low prices. You'll find mainstream vegan names alongside some surprising alternatives and even specialty items. For example, Walmart lists products such as Queso Campesino Quesadilla Cheese in a 12 oz, 12-pack and The Big Moo Oh So Original Baked Cheese in a 6 oz, 6-pack. These kinds of offerings show how mainstream retailers mix traditional and alternative options to serve different customer needs — whether you're feeding a family or prepping snacks for a small gathering.

Whole Foods & Sprouts — curated, specialty selections

If you love discovering small-batch or artisanal cheeses made from cashews, almond milk, or cultured coconut, Whole Foods and Sprouts often offer a deeper bench. These stores prioritize organic ingredients and frequently carry brands focused on clean labels and gourmet techniques. Expect more refrigerated and refrigerated-case innovations here — think cultured wheels and soft spreads that behave more like traditional dairy cheeses.

Trader Joe’s & Target — budget-friendly surprises

Trader Joe’s and Target are great when you want something tasty without breaking the bank. Trader Joe’s rotating product lineup means you can stumble on seasonal or private-label vegan hits that are both delicious and affordable. Target carries a strong mix of national brands and value-label items, which makes it simple to experiment without committing to a high price tag or a large quantity.

Kroger, Safeway & regional chains — local convenience

Regional supermarket chains like Kroger, Safeway, and Wegmans have stepped up their dairy-free sections to reflect local demand. These stores usually balance national brands with local producers, and you’ll often find both refrigerated artisan options and shelf-stable snacks. If you prefer supporting nearby businesses, local co-ops and specialty grocers can be a goldmine for unique textures and flavors.

Costco & wholesale retailers — bulk buys for families

Hosting a party or feeding a hungry household? Costco’s bulk model can shave major costs per ounce. You might find large tubs of spreadable alternatives or multipacks suited for cheese boards and pizzas. Buying in bulk makes sense for items you use frequently — especially if you freeze portions or share with friends.

Types of cheese alternatives and what they do best

Not all cheese substitutes are created equal. They vary by base ingredient, processing method, and the culinary role they’re meant to play. Understanding the main categories helps you pick the right product for the job — melting, spreading, slicing, or snacking.

Nut-based cheeses (cashew, almond)

Nut-based cheeses, particularly those made from cashews, are prized for their creamy textures and rich flavor. Cashew “cheeses” are often cultured, giving them tangy, almost-brie-like profiles that work beautifully as spreads or soft cheeses. They’re ideal for crackers, bagels, and decadent dips, and they usually store well in the refrigerator for several days after opening.

Soy & tofu-based cheeses

Soy and tofu-based options tend to be budget-friendly and versatile. They can mimic spreadable or firm dairy textures and often provide a protein boost compared to nut-based varieties. Tofu-based ricotta, for instance, is a handy building block in lasagna and stuffed shells, while soy-based slices can be handy on sandwiches and burgers.

Coconut & plant-oil based cheeses

Coconut oil and other plant fats are common in highly meltable vegan cheeses, especially shreds and slices. These products are formulated to approximate the stretch and melt of dairy mozzarella or cheddar — perfect for pizza, grilled sandwiches, and casseroles. Be mindful of flavor profiles, as coconut-derived fats can have a subtle tropical note that some people detect.

Processed slices, shreds & blocks

Processed vegan slices and shreds are engineered for convenience. They come pre-shredded or in slice form and are often used in fast-casual cooking, like topping nachos or melting on burgers. Blocks are more common in specialty aisles and let you slice or grate as needed for a neater presentation.

How to choose the best cheese alternative for your use

Picking the right alternative is part science, part palate training. Ask yourself what role the cheese needs to play: are you topping a pizza, spreading it on a cracker, or building a fancy board? Once you define the use, you can narrow choices by texture, meltability, and flavor intensity.

Taste and texture: match the dish

For melting, look for coconut oil or starch-based formulations labeled “melts well” or “pizza.” For tangy spreads, cultured cashew or almond cheeses mimic cream cheese or brie. Slicing? Choose firmer nut or soy-based blocks. Think of it like choosing the right tool for a job — a rubber spatula won’t grate cheese, and a block of firm nut cheese won’t spread like a whipped cashew.

Nutritional considerations: what to check

Scan the nutrition facts: calories, fat, protein, and sodium vary widely. Nut-based cheeses tend to be higher in healthy fats and sometimes calories, while soy-based items often offer more protein per ounce. If you’re watching sodium or saturated fat, compare brands; small differences per ounce add up when you’re eating multiple servings.

Ingredients to watch for

Label literacy matters. Look for recognizable ingredients and minimal fillers if you prefer whole-food approaches. If melting and stretch are priorities, expect ingredients like coconut oil, tapioca starch, or modified cellulose — they’re not bad, but they’re signs the product is engineered for function rather than simplicity.

Top brands and standout products to try

There’s a wide lineup of brands with devoted followings. Miyoko’s and Violife lead in artisanal and culinary-quality offerings, while Daiya and Follow Your Heart are known for accessible shreds and slices. Treeline and Kite Hill offer cultured nut and almond-based options with great spreadability. And then there are niche makers and surprising finds: The Big Moo appears on some retailer shelves as a baked cheese option, and certain quesillo-style cheeses like Queso Campesino show how traditional formats are being reinterpreted in alternative categories.

Cooking and serving tips for best results

Want your plant-based cheese to shine? Small technique tweaks make a big difference. Let refrigerated cheeses sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving — this softens texture and enhances flavor. For melting applications, use lower, slower heat to avoid separation. If a store-bought option doesn’t melt like dairy, try adding a splash of plant milk or a pinch of baking soda to promote stretch in home recipes.

Melting and grilling tips

When making pizza or grilled cheese, preheat your pan or oven so the surface is hot and melting happens quickly. For slices, lay them directly on the hot surface and cover briefly with a lid to trap heat and encourage even melt. If you’re using shreds, a light brush of oil on the surface can help achieve a golden finish without overcooking the cheese substitute.

Snack boards & pairing ideas

Cheese boards with alternatives are not a compromise — they’re creative. Pair a tangy cashew wedge with fresh fruit, drizzle a little honey or agave, and add salty components like olives or roasted nuts. For a classic crowd-pleaser, place a couple of spreadable cheeses in small ramekins and surround them with crackers, sliced baguette, and pickles for contrast.

Baking and sauce adjustments

For sauces and baked dishes, blend spreadable alternatives with warm plant milk and season generously to compensate for milder flavors. Stir in nutritional yeast for that cheesy umami note and a smoother finish. When adding to casseroles, mix cheese substitutes evenly into the dish rather than just sprinkling on top to prevent uneven melting.

Sustainability and ethical angles to consider

Many shoppers choose cheese alternatives for environmental or ethical reasons. Plant-based cheeses generally have a smaller carbon footprint and require less land and water than dairy production. If sustainability is a priority, look for brands that publish sourcing details, use organic ingredients, or prioritize regenerative agriculture. Supporting smaller producers or regional makers can also benefit local supply chains and reduce transport miles.

Saving money when switching to alternatives

Cost can be a hurdle, but there are smart ways to save. Buy multipacks or larger tubs when you find a brand you love, and freeze portions in airtight containers to extend shelf life. Watch for promotions at big-box stores like Walmart and bulk discounts at places like Costco. Subscribing to online delivery for staples can lower per-unit costs, and experimenting with homemade cashew cheeses gives great results at a fraction of premium prices per ounce.

Final picks: best alternatives for common uses

If you want a quick guide: for pizza and casseroles, choose coconut-oil-based shreds labeled “melts”; for bagels and crackers, pick cultured cashew spreads or almond-based cream cheeses; for slicing or grating, firmer nut or soy blocks work best; and for adventurous tasting menus, explore cultured artisanal wheels from specialty grocers. Don’t be afraid to mix styles — a softer spread alongside a meltable shred can cover all bases at a party.

Buying cheese alternatives is less about sacrificing taste and more about discovering new textures and flavors. With retailers from Walmart to Whole Foods and Costco offering competitive options, it’s easier than ever to find products that match your cook style, budget, and values. Try a few different bases — cashew, soy, coconut — and you’ll quickly figure out what you enjoy most.

In short, the plant-based cheese aisle has come a long way. Whether you’re looking to reduce dairy, manage dietary needs, or simply explore new foods, the U.S. market offers something for everyone. Shop smart, experiment often, and treat the journey the way you would wine tasting — a little sampling goes a long way.

Conclusion: Embracing cheese alternatives is both a culinary adventure and a practical choice. From affordable finds at Walmart to unique discoveries at specialty grocers, there’s an option for every plate and every palate. Taste, texture, and intended use should guide your selection — and remember, part of the fun is experimenting until you find your personal favorites.