
When it comes to grocery store cheeses, Trader Joe's offers some of the finest options. And they're budget-friendly, making it easy to stock up for a holiday charcuterie board (or any occasion, even a casual Tuesday dinner with friends) without breaking the bank.
After sampling countless varieties, here are some of our all-time favorites that we keep coming back to. We've also included pairing ideas for creating more sophisticated appetizers.
1. Manchego

Priced at $13.99 per pound, though usually sold in smaller half-pound portions, Trader Joe's Manchego is a top choice for several of our editors, including senior fact-checker and researcher Maya Kukes. 'TJ's Manchego strikes the perfect balance of sharp, salty, and nutty flavors, and it’s consistently more affordable than anywhere else I shop,' she says.
Senior food editor Sam Leffler shares the same sentiment. 'Manchego is one of my all-time favorite cheeses, and the Trader Joe's version doesn’t let me down,' she explains. 'Its rich nutty and buttery taste isn’t overpowering, making it a go-to on my cheeseboard. I love pairing it with cured meats. If you’re a cheese snacker like me, this is one you’ll want in your fridge at all times.'
2. Italian Truffle Cheese

Leffler couldn't settle on just one favorite, so this Italian cheese also earned a spot on her list. "I love adding a wedge of the Italian Truffle Cheese to my charcuterie boards. It delivers the perfect balance of truffle flavor and goes wonderfully with crackers and a touch of honey," she shares.
If you find yourself with leftover cheese, Leffler suggests incorporating it into scrambled eggs before it expires.
3. Baked Lemon Ricotta

"I absolutely adore the baked lemon ricotta—I can finish the entire container in one go. It has a cheesecake-like taste, especially when paired with graham crackers! Adding fresh berries on top is my favorite. Some days, I just scoop it with a spoon," shares features editor Melissa Matthews.
4. Cheddar Cheese with Caramelized Onions is a must-try.

It's no secret that the Cheddar Cheese with Caramelized Onions is my absolute favorite cheese from Trader Joe's. It's perfect for many recipes beyond charcuterie. While it's fantastic on a grilled cheese sandwich, as shown, I’ve also melted it onto puff pastry and used it to top a burger. Since it’s available year-round, it’s my go-to picnic food during the warmer months. Over the years, many of my friends have asked about this cheese so they could grab some for themselves.
5. Chevre with Honey is a delightful option.

If you enjoy goat cheese, Trader Joe's has plenty of irresistible choices. "As a former Trader Joe’s employee, I can tell you this cheese is a favorite among customers," says editorial apprentice Benjamin DeMarais. "The combination of tangy goat cheese and sweet honey is simply perfect. It works wonderfully as a creamy spread or as the star of your charcuterie boards."
6. Cranberry Chèvre Goat Cheese is a fantastic option.

When talking about goat cheese, senior social media editor Sam Saunion is a big fan of the Cranberry Chèvre Goat Cheese, enjoying it paired with Ritz crackers for a delicious salty-sweet contrast. This cheese also has the perfect texture and flavor for making a holiday cheese ball.
As spring approaches, creative director Phoebe Flynn Rich suggests trying another fruity goat cheese option: the seasonal Blueberry Vanilla Chèvre.
7. Double Cream Brie is a must-try cheese.

This cult favorite Brie is everything you could dream of—rich, smooth, and irresistibly creamy. DeMarais suggests melting it over your favorite sandwich or omelet for an easy, delicious upgrade. His preferred way to enjoy it? Wrap it in Trader Joe’s Puff Pastry, bake it until golden, and then add a layer of your favorite jam or preserves for the ultimate sweet and savory treat.
8. Creamy Toscano Cheese Soaked in Syrah is a must-try.

Editorial director Jennifer Davidson is a big fan of this unique cheese. "I’m so hooked on TJ’s Creamy Toscano Cheese Soaked in Syrah that I always keep a wedge in my fridge. It’s a creamy, nutty blend of Parmesan and aged cheddar that’s perfect for a cheese or charcuterie board, or even grated over pasta," she says.