Kefalotyri cheese is a hard, aged Greek and Cypriot cheese known for its salty, sharp, and slightly tangy flavor.
Made from sheep’s or goat’s milk, it has a firm texture that makes it perfect for grating over pasta, baking into dishes, or pan-frying into the famous saganaki. Its bold taste and dry texture give dishes a rich depth that few cheeses can match.
If you can’t find Kefalotyri, choosing the right substitute depends on how you plan to use it. Some cheeses offer the same salty, crumbly texture, while others provide a milder but still tangy bite.
We tested different cheeses in grated applications, baked recipes, and frying tests to find the best replacements for Kefalotyri. Whether you need a sharp aged cheese, a milder Greek alternative, or even a plant-based option, these seven choices will work in your dish.
7 Substitutes for Kefalotyri Cheese
Each of these substitutes offers something different. Some match Kefalotyri’s salty intensity, while others provide a smoother, creamier balance for milder dishes.
1. Pecorino Romano Cheese
Pecorino Romano is the best substitute for Kefalotyri, offering a similar hard, crumbly texture with a salty, tangy bite.
Why it works: Made from sheep’s milk, Pecorino Romano has a sharp, intense flavor that works perfectly for grating over pasta, soups, and salads—just like Kefalotyri.
Best for: Grated toppings, baked dishes, and Greek recipes.
How to use: Replace Kefalotyri with Pecorino Romano in equal amounts. If it’s too salty, balance it with a milder cheese like Parmesan.
If Pecorino Romano isn’t available, check out these other useful Pecorino Romano substitutes.
2. Graviera
Graviera is one of the best Greek substitutes for Kefalotyri, offering a firm texture with a nutty, slightly sweet flavor.
Why it works: While it’s less salty than Kefalotyri, Graviera melts beautifully and still provides a rich depth of flavor.
Best for: Saganaki, cheese platters, and baked dishes.
How to use: Use Graviera in equal portions as a Kefalotyri substitute. If you need more saltiness, sprinkle in a bit of Pecorino.
3. Parmesan Cheese
If you need a substitute for grating over pasta or adding umami depth to a dish, Parmesan is a solid choice.
Why it works: Parmesan has a similar hard, crumbly texture, making it a great option for pasta, risottos, and baked dishes where Kefalotyri would typically be used.
Best for: Grating over pasta, soups, and salads.
How to use: Replace Kefalotyri with Parmesan in equal portions. If you need a slightly stronger bite, blend it with Pecorino Romano.
For more aged cheese alternatives, check out these Parmesan cheese substitutes.
4. Halloumi – The Best Option for Frying
If you’re making saganaki or other pan-fried dishes, Halloumi is the best Kefalotyri substitute.
Why it works: Halloumi is a firm, brined cheese with a high melting point, meaning it holds its shape when fried while still developing a golden, crispy crust.
Best for: Saganaki, grilling, and pan-frying.
How to use: Replace Kefalotyri with Halloumi in equal amounts. If you need more salt, add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt before serving.
For more grilling-friendly cheeses, check out these Halloumi cheese substitutes.
5. Romano Cheese
Romano cheese is a stronger alternative for aged Kefalotyri, bringing a bold, salty flavor that works well in grated applications.
Why it works: Romano is firm, crumbly, and intensely salty, making it a perfect swap for grating over pasta, soups, and salads.
Best for: Sprinkling over Greek dishes, pasta, and grilled vegetables.
How to use: Use Romano in equal portions as a Kefalotyri substitute. If the flavor is too strong, mix it with a milder cheese like Graviera.
For more salty cheese options, check out these Romano cheese substitutes.
6. Manchego Cheese
If you need a slightly softer cheese that still offers a mild sharpness, Manchego is a great choice.
Why it works: Manchego has a nutty, slightly tangy taste, making it ideal for grating or slicing in Mediterranean-style dishes.
Best for: Cheese boards, pasta dishes, and sandwiches.
How to use: Replace Kefalotyri with Manchego in equal portions. If you need more saltiness, combine it with Pecorino Romano.
For more salty cheese options, check out these Manchego cheese substitutes.
7. Dry Jack
If you’re looking for a cheese that grates well and brings a slightly nutty taste, Dry Jack is a fantastic substitute for Kefalotyri.
Why it works: Dry Jack has a firm, crumbly texture and a mild saltiness, making it perfect for grating over pasta or blending into baked dishes.
Best for: Pasta, salads, and grating over vegetables.
How to use: Replace Kefalotyri with Dry Jack in equal portions. If you need a sharper bite, mix it with Romano.
