Will Parmesan Cheese Melt? Explained (Updated)

Last Updated on September 13, 2024 by Shari Mason

One of my favorite activities is cooking at home, and using Parmesan cheese as an ingredient always brings me joy.

Parmesan cheese is a type of cheese that is aged for long periods and often grated or shaved into dishes for added flavor. 

But does Parmesan cheese melt? Read on to find out.

Does Parmesan Cheese Melt?

Whether Parmesan cheese melts or not depends on the type of Parmesan cheese, you have. 

Grated Parmesan cheese is made with a lower moisture content than shredded cheese, so it does not melt as easily. 

Shredded Parmesan cheese melts better than grated Parmesan because of its higher moisture content. It can be melted over dishes like pizza, pasta, and soups. 

To melt shredded Parmesan [1] cheese, sprinkle it over the dish and heat it in the oven or stovetop. The cheese should melt and turn into a creamy sauce. 

Keep in mind that it will not become as stringy and gooey as other types of cheese, but it will still add flavor and texture to the dish.

Read:

• How Long Does A Block Of Parmesan Last?
• How Long Does A Parmesan Wheel Last?
• Costco Eggplant Parmesan Cooking Instructions

Does Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese Melt?

Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese does not melt in the traditional sense of melting when exposed to heat. 

However, when exposed to high enough temperatures, the cheese will begin to soften, allowing it to be spreadable. 

This makes it a great choice for topping dishes with a melted cheese texture.

Read: Does Grated Parmesan Cheese Need To Be Refrigerated?

What Does Parmesan Cheese Taste Like?

Parmesan cheese has a distinct, sharp, and nutty flavor. It is slightly salty and has a hard, granular texture. The flavor of Parmesan cheese is strong, nutty, and slightly sweet. It has a rich, creamy flavor that is slightly salty and crunchy. 

Parmesan cheese is best when it is freshly grated, as it can lose some flavor if it is pre-grated and stored in a container. When it is freshly grated, Parmesan cheese has a bold and complex flavor that complements many dishes. 

Read: Is Kraft Parmesan Cheese Gluten Free?

“I eat whatever I want. I like bread and cheese and wine, which makes my life fun and enjoyable.”

– Gwyneth Paltrow, Actress

It is perfect for adding a layer of flavor to salads, pasta, and risotto [2]. It can also be used to make sauces, soups, and pizzas. 

Parmesan cheese is also a great topping for bread and crackers and can be used to make a delicious cheese dip or spread. It is a great way to add a flavorful and salty touch to any dish.

How To Melt Grated Parmesan Cheese

To melt grated Parmesan cheese, start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, spread the grated Parmesan cheese onto a parchment-lined baking sheet in an even layer. 

Bake the Parmesan cheese in the preheated oven for 4-6 minutes or until the cheese has melted and is golden brown in spots. Once the cheese is done, use a spatula to remove it from the baking sheet and enjoy.

How To Melt Parmesan Cheese Into Sauce

To melt Parmesan cheese into sauce, begin by grating the cheese into small pieces. Heat the sauce over low to medium heat and add the grated cheese gradually. 

Stir the sauce until the cheese has melted completely and is fully incorporated into the sauce. Simmer the sauce for a few minutes, occasionally stirring, until the desired texture is reached. 

The melted Parmesan cheese should give the sauce a creamy, cheesy flavor and texture.

Does Parmesan Cheese Melt In The Microwave?

Parmesan cheese can be melted in the microwave. However, it takes some finesse to get it just right. When melted in the microwave, it can become rubbery and stringy instead of creamy and smooth. 

“Cooking is like a delightful symphony, and Parmesan cheese is the harmonious note that brings all the flavors together.”

Eat Pallet Restaurant & Food Advice

To avoid this, it’s best to use short bursts of time and stir the cheese often to ensure it melts evenly. Low power settings are also recommended to prevent it from burning.

FAQs

In Conclusion 

Parmesan cheese does not melt like other types of cheese. 

This is due to its low moisture and high-fat content, making it very difficult for the cheese to break into a liquid form. However, this does not mean that Parmesan cheese cannot be melted. 

If the cheese is heated slowly and over low heat, it can be melted and used in sauces, pasta, and other dishes. Parmesan cheese can also be added to dishes in the form of shavings or grated for a flavorful finish.

References:

1. https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/glossary/parmesan-glossary
2. https://www.thespruceeats.com/risotto-recipe-for-beginners-996008