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Nerdy Science in the Kitchen

What are the Best Tools for Cutting Hard Cheese

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When it comes to cutting cheese, the main challenge is finding a slicer that keeps your parmesan or pecorino from turning into a mushy mess. I’ve put together a list of the best cheese slicers and graters that can tackle any cheese, no matter how long it’s been aged.

Runner-Up: Fox Run Marble Cheese Slicer

This slicer lacks many of the bells and whistles of our champion. However, Fox Run’s Marble Cheese Slicer is a fine lookin’ tool. The black marble base helps to keep the cheese cool. It also features a marble handle for the stainless steel cutter. This model’s large enough for your typical block of cheese, but not for huge portions.

Fox Run 3832 Marble Cheese Slicer, Black

See the Fox Run Marble Cheese Slicer at Amazon

I challenge anyone to look at this beauty and not want to have it on your counter. It makes a great choice for those times when party guests will be slicing their own cheese. They’ll love the sleek design so much, they’ll beg for one of their own! Consider picking up one of these for any newlywed friends looking to fill out their counter space.

Keep your cheeses fresher for longer with these tips on how to store cheese in the fridge.

Cheese is delicious, but only if you can slice it!
Cheese is delicious, but only if you can slice it!

Best Slicer: Westmark Cheese Slicer with Stainless Steel Blade and Board

Let’s face it, slicing those hard cheeses is tough. The Westmark Cheese Slicer with Stainless Steel Blade and Board is your best bet. This model is made in Germany and cuts cheese quickly and easily into equal slices. Though it won’t win any aesthetic design awards, it has several features that put it ahead of the competition.

Westmark Germany Multipurpose Stainless Steel Cheese and Food Slicer with Board and Adjustable Thickness Dial (White) -

See the Westmark German Multipurpose Stainless Steel Cheese and Food Slicer at Amazon

The slicer comes with a high-end stainless steel blade and attached cutting board that makes short work of cheese. It can even handle cured meats and vegetables! The built-in dial helps you choose the perfect thickness for whatever you’re cutting. What’s better than a kitchen tool that does multiple jobs well?

Plus, with a 5 year manufacturer’s warranty, there’s no worry about breaking this slicer and losing your investment.

Slice, dice, and chop! Learn all about which cutting boards are best for your kitchen.

Cheese plates, sandwiches, or toppings. What will you create with your cheese slicer?
Cheese plates, sandwiches, or toppings. What will you create with your cheese slicer?

Making a sandwich? Here’s the best meat slicers for home use.

Best Hand Slicer: Westmark Heavy Duty Cheese Slicer

Sometimes, you need to slice a larger slab of cheese. The Westmark handheld slicer features stainless steel wire that acts as the blade. This is a sturdy top-seller made from coated aluminum. It’s manufactured in Germany, so you know the quality will be on point!

Westmark Germany Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Wire Cheese Slicer Angle Adjustable (Grey),7" x 3.9" x 0.2" -

See the Westmark German Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Wire Cheese Slicer at Amazon

The taut stainless-steel wire cutter glides cleanly through your favorite semi-hard cheeses. A strong handle helps you control the slicer when using it on hard or plane cheese. You can adjust the angle of your wrist to control the thickness of each slice. Additionally, the built-in tension wheel makes it simple to tighten or replace the wire.

Also included: a convenient hanging hole that’s perfect for creative storage solutions. Just like our other slicer, this model comes with a 5-year warranty.

Best Grater: Zyliss Classic Rotary Cheese Grater

On occasion, you need something a bit more robust to make sure you are getting the most out of your cheese. The Zyliss Classic Rotary Cheese Grater grater is made of stainless steel, and is ideal for grating hard Parmesan. (It works for a variety of other items as well!) This rotary cheese grater works quickly to grate more cheese in less time with less effort. What more could you ask for?

ZYLISS Classic Rotary Cheese Grater

See the Zyliss Classic Rotary Cheese Grater at Amazon

A beautiful stainless-steel drum accommodates hard cheese, chocolate, and nuts. It has a sturdy plastic housing and an ergonomic grip. No need to worry about accidentally grating your fingers with small-sized items.

What I love is how this model stores compactly in a cupboard or drawer. This is a must have for the crowded kitchen. This grater can go directly into the dishwasher, so cleanup is a cinch. No cheese buildup for this grater!

The Zyliss, like the Westmark, also includes a 5-year warranty.

Got some wine to go with that cheese?

With so many choices out there, it can be hard to decide. Stick with any of these, and you’ll be slicing that hard cheddar or swiss like a pro. Spend less time prepping for your lunch, dinner, or party, and more time enjoying the company of your friends and family.

Now, who’s bringing the wine?

For more great recommendations on all things cheese, check out my post on the best cookie press for cheese straws! If you’re interested in making probiotic-infused kefir cheese, see my review of the best strainer for kefir grains. Or, bake up a tasty cheesecake in one of these springform pans.

Do you have a party in the works? Check out these recommendations for super delish appetizers that go perfectly with Champagne.