The Brie-lliant Trends that are Reinventing Cheese

Nothing satisfies like the creamy, comforting goodness of cheese. Beloved in many parts of the world already and emerging in new markets every day, cheese is enticing in all forms. We’re all pretty familiar with cheese, so what makes it a trend now?

Whether it’s being used as a topping on a biscuit, or as the vehicle for avocado & eggs by your favorite keto-friendly Instagrammer, cheese has worn a lot of hats over the past year — and continues to find inventive ways to get put to use. In queso you’re looking for some new ideas, check out these really gouda ideas and popular cheese trends we’re seeing on social media.

A Perfect Pair: Pimento Cheese and Fried Chicken

Many QSRs have thrown their hat in the ring in the infamous, ongoing chicken sandwich wars. We’ve seen one of the original contenders, Chick-fil-A, spice up their original fan favorite with pimento cheese and honey. Consumers are also trying homemade versions of this new sandwich on biscuits.

Nashville hot chicken sliders on homemade flaky biscuits with pimento cheese and dill pickles.
Nashville hot chicken sliders on homemade flaky biscuits with pimento cheese and dill pickles. It’s like Chick-fil-A got a delicious, dirty upgrade. @saucedchef
A tray of fried chicken biscuits topped with melty pimento cheese
We’re having a little fun with hot LITTLE fried chicken biscuits by the dozen! …complete with a dozen fried chicken biscuits, pimento cheese, and a gallon of tea. @carriebaileymorey

Want the Ultimate Taco Topping? Look No Further

Cheese isn’t just elevating chicken sandwiches, it’s also taking tacos to the next level. We know birria tacos are having a moment in the spotlight — and we didn’t think they could get any better. But here’s a trend to try next Taco Tuesday: place cheese directly on the grill to achieve a perfectly crunchy, yet melty texture.

A plate of Quesa tacos from Super Birria restaurant in California.
They are one of my favorite Mexican restaurants to visit when I’m craving birria, tacos or just consomé! @paulsfoodhaul
Quesadilla con Barbacoa y Chivo.
HOW DO YOU DRESS YOUR TACOS & QUESADILLAS ⁉️ I’m all about the whole package: onions, cilantro, squeeze of lime, and red hot sauce. @theirregularlens

Making Sandwiches Keto-friendly, Gluten-free

So we’ve talked about sandwiches and tacos — but what if you’re gluten-intolerant, or trying to watch carbs? No worries, cheesy goodness doesn’t just come between two pieces of bread. Healthy alternatives like cheese wraps and “chaffles” (cheese waffles) provide a low-carb keto-friendly option for those who have dietary restrictions, or those who are just looking to experiment with new ways to enjoy cheese.

Turkey club sandwich on a waffle made from cheese and eggs for a low-carb sandwich.
Turkey club on #chaffles for lunch. @low_carb_kelly
Chicken salad sandwich on a waffle made from cheese and eggs for a low-carb sandwich,
I made a chicken salad chaffle sandwich. This is one meal I used to eat all the time before keto breads were available for purchase. It’s so quick and so easy. @ketodiet_fit_life

Pass the Cheese, Hold the Dairy

Innovative vegan alternatives are exploding on the scene as chefs and manufacturers look to reach a new customer base, with surprisingly tasty spreads and slices made from soy, nuts, or vegetable oils. Consumers are also trying their hand at making vegan queso and vegan mac and cheese at home, and finding this endeavor to be surprisingly easy and delicious. Popular QSR White Castle even added a vegan cheddar option to its menu.

Inspiration for Your Next Cheesy, Culinary Creation

Our insights, culinary, and food science teams are constantly collaborating on solutions that can take your menu or product line to the next level. Get inspired by these elevated, healthful cheese dishes and offerings.

Goat cheese rolled in trendy seasonings and topicals.

Flavored Goat Cheeses

Roll soft goat cheese in these trendy seasonings and topicals to elevate your next cheese board.

Featured Griffith Foods Solutions:
  • Herb De Provence
  • Sweet Asian Chilies
  • Golden Margarita
  • Spicy Romesco
  • Herbed Pickled Beets
Spicy vegan queso made from raw cashews and Griffith Foods' spicy simulated cheese seasoning adjunct.

Spicy Vegan Queso

Made simply from raw cashews, water, and our spicy simulated cheese seasoning adjunct.

Featured Griffith Foods Solution:
  • Vegan Queso Adjunct Seasoning

Let’s Create Better Together

We’re here to help inspire creations that keep your product portfolio on trend. Contact your Griffith Foods representative or reach out to our sales team to learn more about our ongoing research and innovative offerings.