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What to eat in Italy? Top 58 Italian Soft Cheeses

Last update: Sat Mar 22 2025
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Best Italian Soft Cheese Types

01

Cheese

APULIA, Italy
4.6
Burrata
Burrata infographic
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Burrata, literary meaning buttered, is an artisan cheese from the Puglia region of Southern Italy, especially the provinces of Bari and Barletta-Andria-Trani. The cheese is made by hand with cow's milk, rennet, and cream. It is believed that the cheese was created by Lorenzo Bianchino Chieppa, a cheesemaker who had an idea to form a shell of stretched mozzarella strings and fill it with luscious, rich cream and smaller, leftover pieces of mozzarella.


The result was a true delicacy with the creamiest interior and a rich flavor of fresh milk, which very quickly became extremely popular. Burrata should be eaten as fresh as possible - ideally within 24 hours of being made. It can be served alone, seasoned only with some salt, pepper, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, but it is also delicious when accompanied by fresh tomatoes and prosciutto crudo, or when used as a topping for pizzas or bruschettas.

VARIATIONS OF Burrata
THE BEST Burrata Cheeses
1 Burrata
Caseificio Artigiana
Burrata

5.0

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Italian Cheese Awards - ICA 2023, 2019, 2018

2
Delizia
Deliziosa

4.8

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World Championship Cheese Contest - Best of Class 2024

02
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Though there are many buffalo mozzarella cheeses made with a combination of buffalo and cow's milk, to be labeled as such, the genuine mozzarella di bufala campana must be made from 100% domestic water buffalo milk and produced either in Campania or the neighboring Lazio, Apulia and Molise regions.


Buffalo milk is known to be higher in calcium and protein while lower in cholesterol, which makes this mozzarella cheese particularly prized and sought after. Buffalo mozzarella always comes packaged in brine; it has a mild yet slightly sour taste, and goes well with various Italian antipasti dishes, especially with classics like the Caprese salad.

THE BEST Mozzarella di Bufala Campana Cheeses
1 Mozzarella Di Bufala Campana PDO
Nuova Castelli
Mozzarella Di Bufala Campana PDO

5.0

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Global Cheese Awards - Gold 2024, 2023

03
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Mozzarella is a fresh, soft, stretched curd cheese, made with whole cow's milk. Due to the fact that it has a fragrant aroma of fresh milk and a delicate creamy flavor, mozzarella is traditionally paired with light white wines. This Italian classic originates from the region of Campania, but nowadays it is produced all across the country.


The cheese is made with water buffalo's milk or cow's milk, when it's often referred to as mozzarella fior di latte (in order to distinguish it from water buffalo milk mozzarella). The ancient tradition of making mozzarella cheese dates back to the 4th century BCE, however, the first official reference to its name was found in a 1570 cookery book by Bartolomeo Scappi, a famous Renaissance chef. 
THE BEST Mozzarella Cheeses
1 Organic Smoked Mozzarella
Rumiano Cheese Company
Organic Smoked Mozzarella

5.0

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American Cheese Society Judging & Competition Awards - 1st Place 2018, 2016

2 Mozzarella Cheese
Nuova Castelli
Mozzarella Cheese

5.0

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Global Cheese Awards - Gold 2024, 2023

3 Soft Style Shredded Mozzarella
Anchor Dairy
Soft Style Shredded Mozzarella

5.0

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International Cheese Awards - Gold 2023

4 Extra Stretch Mozzarella Cheese
Anchor Dairy
Extra Stretch Mozzarella Cheese

5.0

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International Cheese Awards - Gold 2022

5 Mozzarella
New Zealand Milk Products
Mozzarella

5.0

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International Cheese Awards - Gold 2022

04

Cheese

MOLISE, Italy
4.5
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Stracciata is an artisan Italian cheese produced in Molise. It is made from cow's milk. The curd is cut or torn, and it is then stretched into ribbons that can be folded or braided. Although stracciata is usually snow-white, in spring and summer it develops a yellowish hue.


On the outside, it is buttery, mild, sweet, fresh, and slightly salty, while the inside is milky and piquant. The cheese melts in the mouth easily, leaving notes of warm melted butter on the palate. The name stracciata is derived from the verb stracciare, meaning to tear
Pair with
THE BEST Stracciata Cheeses
1 Stracciata Molisana
Caseificio Antonio Di Nucci
Stracciata Molisana

5.0

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Italian Cheese Awards - ICA 2017

05
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Stracchino di crescenza is an Italian cheese that is typically made with cow's milk, but it can also be made with water buffalo's milk. The texture of stracchino is creamy and buttery, so it's often used as a spread. The flavors are mild, fruity, creamy, and sweet.


Although it is nowadays associated with the regions of Lombardy, Piedmont, Liguria, and Veneto, it was first produced in Lombardy's Po valley. It's recommended to serve stracchino with fresh fruit or cold cuts and pair it with a glass of fruity white wine. 
THE BEST Stracchino di Crescenza Cheeses
1 Stracchino
Arrigoni Battista
Stracchino

4.9

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World Cheese Awards - Gold 2022

06

Cheese

GORGONZOLA, Italy
4.4
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Gorgonzola dolce is a traditional variety of Gorgonzola cheese. The cheese is made from pasteurized cow's milk and it's left to age for at least 45 days before consumption. Underneath its natural moldy rind, the texture is creamy, with blue veins running throughout the paste.


The aromas are mild and milky, while the flavors are creamy, mild, sweet, and buttery, unlike the Gorgonzola piccante cheese. It's recommended to pair Gorgonzola dolce with Vin Santo or Champagne.

THE BEST Gorgonzola dolce Cheeses
1 Gorgonzola DOP Dolce
Caseificio Brusati
Gorgonzola DOP Dolce

4.9

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World Cheese Awards - Super Gold 2021

2
Igor Gorgonzola
Gran Riserva Creaminess By Spoon

4.9

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International Cheese Awards - Gold 2024

07
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Made from cow's milk, in particular, mozzarella and cream, Burrata di Andria is popularly known as 'the queen of cheeses'. It originates from Apulia, namely the town of Andria, and although Burrata has been produced only since 1950s, it has already become an Italian classic, despite its relatively short history.


The outer shell of this fresh cheese is solid mozzarella, while the inside contains both mozzarella and cream, giving this masterfully created delicacy an unusual, soft texture. Burrata has a delicate yet rich flavor of fresh milk and it is most often served seasoned with just salt, pepper and drizzled with extra virgin olive oil but it also pairs beautifully with bruschettas topped with prosciutto, figs, tomatoes and various fresh vegetables.

08
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Ricotta di Bufala Campana is a product obtained through the processing of the 'first whey' (sweet) obtained in the cheese-making process which uses milk from the Mediterranea Italiana buffalo breed. The production area is within the provinces of Benevento, Caserta, Naples and Salerno in Campania; the provinces of Frosinone, Latina and Rome in the Lazio region; the Province of Foggia in the Apulia region and Isernia in the Molise region.


Since the arrival of buffalo in Southern Italy in the XVI century, the production of Ricotta di Bufala Campana and Mozzarella di Bufala Campana has been very closely linked. Ricotta di Bufala Campana is different from other ricotta cheeses due to its creamy consistency, softness, color and sweet milky aromas, characteristics which are given to the fact that buffalo whey is richer in fats and free from lipase, an enzyme that can influence the sensory properties of fat. 
09
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Caprino is a goat’s milk cheese made throughout Italy - the name derives from the Italian word capra, meaning goat. There are two main varieties of caprino: fresco (fresh) and stagionato (aged). A fresh version is aged for two to four days, it has a nice, soft, creamy texture and round or cylindrical shape.


Aged version is left to mature up to 6 months and during that period the cheese develops much saltier, tangier flavor and turns the color from white to yellow, sometimes even reddish. Caprino can be enjoyed on its own, served with fruit, or as an ingredient in first courses or salads. 
THE BEST Caprino Cheeses
1
Caseificio Morandi
Caprino

4.9

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World Cheese Awards - Gold 2021

2 Caprino Fresco
Casale Roccolo
Caprino Fresco

4.9

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World Cheese Awards - Gold 2023

10

Cheese

CAMPANIA, Italy
4.3
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Provola is an Italian cheese that's essentially the smaller version of Provolone. The cheese is made from cow's milk and originates from Campania. This pasta filata cheese is typically immersed in brine, and some of the cheeses are smoked (known as Provola affumicata) before being hung to dry for at least 4 months.


The flavors can vary from mild and sweet to very sharp, depending on the aging period and the region. Apart from being available in plain and smoked varieties, Provola can also be found in various elongated shapes. The name of the cheese is derived from pruvula or pruvatura, an ancient tradition in which the priests who had assembled at the convent of San Lorenzo in Capua were offered cheese on a piece of bread as a proof of its good qualities. 
11
Cheese
APULIA, Italy
4.3
12
13
14
Cheese
PIEDMONT, Italy
4.2
15
16
17
Cheese
PROVINCE OF ASTI, Italy
4.1
18
19
Cheese
LOMBARDY, Italy
4.0
20
Cheese
LOMBARDY, Italy
4.0
21
Cheese
PROVINCE OF TREVISO, Italy  and  2 more regions
4.0
22
23
24
Cheese
APULIA, Italy
3.9
25
26
27
Cheese
APULIA, Italy
3.9
28
29
Cheese
SOUTH TYROL, Italy  and  one more region
3.2
30
Cheese
SARDINIA, Italy
2.5
31
Cheese
PROVINCE OF CUNEO, Italy
n/a
32
Cheese
FRIULI-VENEZIA GIULIA, Italy
n/a
33
34
Cheese
BASILICATA, Italy
n/a
35
36
Cheese
TRENTINO, Italy
n/a
37
38
Cheese
PROVINCE OF BERGAMO, Italy
n/a
39
Cheese
PROVINCE OF CUNEO, Italy
n/a
40
Cheese
SARDINIA, Italy
n/a
41
Cheese
PROVINCE OF TREVISO, Italy
n/a
42
Cheese
PROVINCE OF LODI, Italy
n/a
43
44
Cheese
VENETO, Italy
n/a
45
46
Cheese
APULIA, Italy
n/a
47
Cheese
CASTIGLION FIORENTINO, Italy
n/a
48
Cheese
GRAVINA IN PUGLIA, Italy
n/a
49
Cheese
PROVINCE OF TREVISO, Italy
n/a
50
51
Cheese
LOMBARDY, Italy
n/a
52
Cheese
VENETO, Italy
n/a
53
Cheese
PIEDMONT, Italy
n/a
54
Cheese
AOSTA VALLEY, Italy
n/a
55
Cheese
PIEDMONT, Italy
n/a
56
Cheese
PROVINCE OF BIELLA, Italy
n/a
57
Cheese
VENETO, Italy
n/a
58
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Best Italian Soft Cheese Producers

01
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Latteria Moro Di Moro Sergio is a cheese producer located in Italy. They specialize in producing traditional Italian cheeses.
AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Gold

2024, 2023

World Cheese Awards - Super Gold

2024, 2023

BEST Latteria Moro Di Moro Sergio Cheeses
02

Cheese

REGGIO EMILIA1, Italy
4.7
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Nuova Castelli, based in Reggio Emilia, Italy, specializes in the production and distribution of Italian cheeses, including PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) products such as Parmigiano Reggiano and Gorgonzola. The company was established in 1892 and has expanded its operations internationally, exporting Italian cheeses to various markets around the world.


Nuova Castelli supports traditional cheese-making techniques while also implementing modern technologies to ensure quality and sustainability.
AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Super Gold

2023

World Cheese Awards - Gold

2021

Concours International de Lyon - Gold

2025

BEST Nuova Castelli Cheeses
03

Cheese

SAVIGLIANO, Italy
4.7
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The company "Perla" was founded in Nichelino around the mid-20th century. For generations, it specialized in producing, ripening, and refining traditional Italian dairy products, with a focus on maintaining a family-like atmosphere. Perla’s products are rooted in the fertile pastures of Piedmont, where ideal conditions for raising sheep, goats, and cows contribute to high-quality milk.


The company emphasizes that its success lies in its meticulous cheese production process, which follows the highest standards of excellence and a slow, 100% natural maturation process. This dedication to tradition and quality ensures the authenticity of their cheeses.
AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Super Gold

2023, 2022

World Cheese Awards - Gold

2023, 2022

BEST Perla Cheeses
04

Cheese

ROCCALBEGNA, Italy
4.7
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Caseificio Il Fiorino, established in 1957, is known for producing traditional Italian cheeses. This family-run business specializes in the production of pecorino cheese, leveraging sheep's milk sourced locally. Their cheese-making process combines traditional methods with modern technology to enhance both the quality and variety of their cheeses.
AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Super Gold

2022

Great Taste Awards - 3 stars

2024, 2023, 2022, 2021

Great Taste Awards - 2 stars

2024, 2023, 2022, 2021

BEST Caseificio Il Fiorino Cheeses
05

Cheese

BINAGO, Italy
4.6
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Casale Roccolo is an agricultural company in Italy focused on organic farming. It produces a variety of cheeses using traditional methods that adhere to organic standards.
AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Super Gold

2022

World Cheese Awards - Gold

2024, 2023, 2022

BEST Casale Roccolo Cheeses
06

Cheese

PAGAZZANO, Italy
4.6
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Arrigoni Battista is an Italian company specializing in the production of dairy products, including a variety of cheeses. It is located in the Lombardy region, known for its rich dairy-farming heritage. The company produces both traditional Italian cheeses and innovative dairy products to meet diverse market needs.
AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Super Gold

2021

World Cheese Awards - Gold

2024, 2022, 2021

Italian Cheese Awards - Nominee

2020

BEST Arrigoni Battista Cheeses
07

Cheese

MONTALCINO, Italy
4.6
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AWARDS

Concours International de Lyon - Gold

2025

World Cheese Awards - Gold

2024

International Cheese Awards - Gold

2024

BEST Caseificio dei Barbi Cheeses
08

Cheese

FORNOVO SAN GIOVANNI, Italy
4.6
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AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Gold

2024

BEST Caseificio Taddei Cheeses
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Best Italian Soft Cheeses

01
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Tatie Vermouth cheese is a soft cheese, made from cow's milk and has a creamy texture with a slightly tangy flavor. The cheese is typically wrapped in a natural rind, which may develop a light bloom. Tatie cheese is often enjoyed on its own, spread on bread or crackers, or paired with fruits and nuts.


It’s a great addition to cheese boards and can also be used in various culinary dishes.
AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Super Gold

2024, 2023

02
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Fiocco di Capra by Marenchino is an Italian goat cheese. Known for its soft texture and mild, delicate taste, it is crafted from goat's milk and offers a light, creamy experience. The name "Fiocco di Capra" translates to "Goat Flake," hinting at its light, fluffy consistency.


It is ideal for those who enjoy gourmet goat cheeses.
AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Super Gold

2023

03

REGGIO EMILIA1, Italy
5.0
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Mozzarella Cheese made by Castelli is known for its high quality and authentic taste, often a result of traditional Italian cheese-making techniques. This mozzarella is typically crafted to offer a creamy texture and a delicate, milky flavor, making it an ideal choice for a variety of dishes such as pizza, salads, and pasta.


Castelli takes pride in sourcing premium ingredients to ensure a consistently superior product.
AWARDS

Global Cheese Awards - Gold

2024, 2023

04
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The cheese is known for its artisanal quality and rustic charm, often aged in a way that allows it to develop a unique flavor profile and texture.
AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Gold

2024, 2022

05
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These cheese are placed in barrels and covered with a ruby sweet wine native to the Veneto region and left for about 30 days. Once removed they are covered with blueberries, blackberries, currants (also called 'red gold' for its colour and rarity) and left standing for maturing.


In this way the fruits in contact with the wet rind release all their fragrance and blend with the taste and smell of the sweet wine. The cheese has an intense flavor with a hint of the wine pleasantrly sour and with colourful streaks of bright red tending to purple.
AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Gold

2024, 2023

06
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Stracchino by Arrigoni Battista is a soft, creamy cheese made from cow's milk, originating from the Lombardy region of Italy. Known for its delicate flavor and smooth texture, this cheese has a mild and slightly tangy taste, making it a versatile addition to various dishes.


Stracchino is typically enjoyed fresh, often paired with bread, salads, or used in cooking to enhance pasta and risotto.
AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Gold

2022

07
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Caprino Fresco is a fresh cheese made from goat's milk, as the word "Caprino" in Italian refers to goat-derived products (from "capra," meaning goat). This type of cheese is known for its soft, creamy texture and mild, tangy flavor. Being a fresh cheese, it is not aged for long, usually consumed within days or weeks of production, making it moist and delicate in taste.
AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Gold

2023

08
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AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Gold

2024

09

Cheese

FORNOVO SAN GIOVANNI, Italy
4.9
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AWARDS

World Cheese Awards - Gold

2024

10
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AWARDS

International Cheese Awards - Gold

2024

11

TasteAtlas food rankings are based on the ratings of the TasteAtlas audience, with a series of mechanisms that recognize real users and that ignore bot, nationalist or local patriotic ratings, and give additional value to the ratings of users that the system recognizes as knowledgeable. For the “Top 58 Italian Soft Cheeses” list until March 22, 2025, 5,509 ratings were recorded, of which 4,220 were recognized by the system as legitimate. TasteAtlas Rankings should not be seen as the final global conclusion about food. Their purpose is to promote excellent local foods, instill pride in traditional dishes, and arouse curiosity about dishes you haven’t tried.

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Italian Soft Cheeses