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6 Substitutes for Catupiry Cheese That Work Like Magic

We all know the struggle. You’re halfway through a recipe that calls for Catupiry cheese, and… well, we’re fresh out. Not everyone keeps a tub of that creamy goodness hanging out in their fridge. The good news? There are some solid substitutes that can pull through in a pinch.

We’ve tried a handful of options, experimenting to see what works and what doesn’t. It’s got to be creamy. It’s got to spread like a dream. And, most importantly, it has to bring the flavor.

These six swaps hit the mark and saved us more than a few times. Whether you’re making a Brazilian dish or just need something smooth and cheesy, these ideas will do the trick every single time.

6 Easy Substitutes for Catupiry Cheese

Here are some excellent tried-and-true substitutes for Catupiry cheese. From smooth and creamy to slightly tangy, these options are sure to satisfy your savory cravings.

1 – Cream Cheese

Did you know you can swap cream cheese for Catupiry cheese? It’s smooth, creamy, and spreads easily. The texture is nearly spot-on, making it a solid choice for recipes.

Use the same amount of cream cheese as Catupiry. It works best in dips, spreads, or baked dishes. The flavor is a bit tangier, but it blends well.

Keep in mind the salt content might differ slightly. Taste as you go to keep your dish balanced. For more ideas, check out other cream cheese substitutes.

2 – Mascarpone

It all started when I ran out of Catupiry cheese and grabbed mascarpone instead. Mascarpone is rich, creamy, and slightly sweet. Its buttery texture makes it an easy mix-in for recipes. The flavor leans mild, so it won’t overpower other ingredients.

Use mascarpone in a 1:1 ratio to replace Catupiry. It’s perfect for savory pies or cheese sauces. Keep in mind, it’s softer than Catupiry, so the consistency may turn out a little thinner. Adjust accordingly if you’re after a thicker result.

Mascarpone shines in both baked and no-cook recipes. Pair it with tangier ingredients for balance. For more substitution ideas, check out this guide on mascarpone cheese substitutes.

3 – Ricotta Cream

For a lighter, tangier take on Catupiry cheese, turn to ricotta cream. Whip it with a mixer until smooth and silky before using it as a dip or spread. Its texture is perfect for layering in lasagnas or mixing into dips.

Ricotta cream has a mild savory flavor that works well in recipes calling for Catupiry. It’s slightly tangy but less intense than cream cheese. You can also use plain ricotta in place of ricotta cream if needed.

Use equal parts of either option as you would Catupiry. Keep an eye on the salt levels and add as needed.

4 – Boursin Cheese

What if I told you that Boursin cheese is a creamy lifesaver for swapping Catupiry? It’s soft, herby, and super flavorful. We like it because it spreads easily and brings garlic and fines herbes flavor to the party.

You’ll want to use it in savory dishes. It’s great for pasta sauces, as a spread, or melted over veggies. The texture is dense but still creamy, making it versatile. Use equal amounts when substituting Catupiry.

Keep in mind, it’s more seasoned than Catupiry. You might want to tweak the spices in your recipe to balance things out. For more substitutes, check out this guide on boursin cheese substitutes.

5 – Brie (Softened and Blended)

You’ll never believe how easy it is to make Brie work as a Catupiry substitute. Softened and blended Brie gives you a velvety texture that spreads beautifully. It brings a mild, buttery flavor with just a hint of tang, making it a close match.

Use it in creamy sauces, on bread, or anywhere you want richness. Blend well to avoid chunks and get that smooth consistency. Stick to a 1:1 ratio when substituting.

Brie is milder than Catupiry. Add a pinch of salt or herbs if you need extra flavor. It works best in dishes with subtle, creamy notes. If you’re curious about more substitutes for Brie, check out this detailed guide on Brie cheese substitutes.

6 – Queso Fresco (Melted and Mixed with Cream)

Last but not least, we have a quick hack for using queso fresco in place of Catupiry. It’s mild, crumbly, and slightly tangy – perfect for those milder recipes.

Use this substitute by melting the queso fresco over low heat with some cream until you get a smooth sauce or dip consistency. It’s great for adding to soups or mixing into creamy dishes.

Keep in mind that queso fresco has more salt than Catupiry cheese, so be mindful when seasoning your dish. Use equal amounts as you would Catupiry and adjust from there. For more substitutes featuring queso fresco, check out this guide on queso fresco substitutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use cream cheese instead of Catupiry cheese in Brazilian dishes?

Yes, cream cheese offers a similar creamy texture, though it lacks the tangy flavor of Catupiry cheese.

Is mascarpone a good replacement for Catupiry cheese?

Mascarpone can be a good substitute with its rich and creamy texture, though it is slightly sweeter than Catupiry.

How does ricotta cream compare to Catupiry cheese?

Ricotta cream is slightly drier but works well as a substitute for Catupiry in both texture and mild flavor when blended with a little cream.

Can Boursin cheese replace Catupiry cheese in savory dishes?

Yes, Boursin cheese adds a garlicky and herb-infused flavor, making it a great substitute in savory dishes that require Catupiry.

Can I use Brie cheese instead of Catupiry cheese?

Brie is a softer cheese and will work well when softened and blended, though it has a distinct flavor compared to Catupiry.

Is queso fresco a good alternative for Catupiry cheese in Latin American recipes?

Yes, melted queso fresco mixed with cream can provide a similar texture and mild flavor to Catupiry cheese.

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