Affordable Cheeses for a Fall Charcuterie Board Under $20
One of the best ways to greet fall is to make a charcuterie board. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to do it correctly. Choosing cheeses that taste well, feel good, and look good on a budget is important whether you’re having guests over, having a quiet snack, or getting ready for a party. These eight cheeses are perfect for a charcuterie board, and you can usually find each one for less than $20. This way, you can mix and match different flavors without going overboard.
1. Sharp Cheddar
A sharp cheddar is always a hit on a cheese board since it has a clear flavor and a strong texture. Choose a block over a pre-sliced one to keep the quality up. You don’t have to pay a lot of money to have good cheddar, according to experts. Even brand-blocks that are quite cheap can taste great with just a few basic additions. Pick a cheddar that has been aged long enough to get some crystalline texture and acidity. This makes it a great contrast to sweeter fall foods like apples or fig jam.
2. Semi‐Hard Gouda or Smoked Gouda
Gouda, especially smoked gouda, adds a little more personality by making everything smoother and sweeter. Because it is semi-hard, it slices well or can be served in cubes. The sweet caramel flavors go well with crunchy nuts or dried fruit. Budget-cheese guidelines say that block cheeses that cost less than $20 can still taste wonderful if you choose based on texture and label instead of price alone. Pick one that has a rind you can clip off or a wax you can peel off for a polished board appearance.
3. Brie or Camembert
A soft cheese like brie or camembert is perfect for fall since it contrasts with the harder blocks. These cheeses are creamy and approachable, and you can typically get small wheels affordably under $20. Mixing soft, semi-soft, and hard cheeses is always a good idea for both texture and looks, according to budget-friendly cheese board suggestions. To get the most flavor out of it, serve it at room temperature. You could also add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkling of toasted pecans to make it feel like fall.
4. Goat Cheese Log
A fresh goat cheese log adds brightness and tang to any board, especially when served with seasonal fruits like grapes or pears. Aged cheeses are usually more expensive, however many goat cheese logs in the grocery store are still relatively affordable and cost less than $20. Experts say to check the ingredient list and choose cheeses that have simple dairy constituents instead of chemicals. For more texture and color, roll it in nuts or herbs. It’s also a lighter choice for those who want something less strong.
5. Blue Cheese Crumbles or Wedge
Blue cheese has a strong taste and blue-green veining that make it look and taste dramatic. A modest amount of a fall board goes a long way, so you can get a good wedge without going over budget. Experts suggest that if you want to stay within your budget while balancing a board, you should choose a variety of good quality cheeses instead of spending too much on one fancy item. Add dried figs, honeycomb, or roasted pumpkin seeds to the blue cheese to make it less strong and more in line with the season.
6. Havarti or Muenster
Havarti or muenster are good choices for a mild, creamy cheese with a medium texture that many people, especially kids and less adventurous eaters, would like. These cheeses are cheaper than a lot of specialist aged ones, but they still melt smoothly and go well with other foods. If you look beyond the glitzy packaging and focus on taste and texture, affordable-cheese guides say that there are cheeses that are great value. Cut into thin squares or cubes and put them next to the more daring cheeses so your guests can try them out slowly.
7. Flavored Cheese (e.g., pepper-crusted, herb-infused)
A flavored cheese, such a pepper-crusted cheddar, a herb-infused goat cheese, or a smoked cheese, can be a good way to mix things up and give them a seasonal touch. These are usually around the same price as regular blocks, but they look and taste better. Blogs about budget charcuterie boards say that you may make a well-rounded board on a budget by utilizing one or two value blocks and one piece that is a little more ornamental. Put this cheese in the middle of the board or near a decorative feature like miniature gourds or fall leaves to make it the main attraction.
8. Budget Imported Cheese Block
Imported cheeses are frequently thought to be more valuable, but you can still find simple imported blocks (like Italian asiago or Spanish manchego-style) for less than $20 if you hunt for smaller sizes or store brands. You may show off a “international” vibe without paying too much by buying smaller amounts. Lists of cheap but good cheeses show that you can get the same taste from store-brand or lesser-known brands as you can from high-end brands. Put this cheese on the other side of your board to keep the choices steady and give your visitors something new.
