Swiss cheese is a popular cheese known for its distinctive holes and nutty, rich flavor. It’s commonly used in grilled cheese sandwiches, burgers, fondues, and as part of a cheese plate. But is Swiss cheese also good on eggs? Let’s take a closer look at the qualities of Swiss cheese and how it pairs with eggs to find out.
Qualities of Swiss Cheese
Swiss cheese is a firm, pale yellow cheese made from cow’s milk. It gets its signature holes and flavor from bubbles of carbon dioxide gas that form during the cheesemaking process. Swiss cheese has a creamy, smooth texture with a salty, nutty taste. The larger holes impart a milder flavor while the cheese around the holes is more robustly flavored.
The specific characteristics of Swiss cheese include:
- Buttery, sweet flavor
- Firm, smooth texture
- Distinctive holes from gas bubbles
- Pale yellow color
- Made from cow’s milk
- Aged 1-3 months
The mild, mellow flavor profile of Swiss cheese makes it a versatile choice for cooking. Let’s look at how these qualities translate when Swiss cheese is paired with eggs.
Pairing Swiss Cheese with Eggs
Eggs are a breakfast staple prized for their versatility. When cooked properly, eggs have a creamy texture and rich, savory flavor. Swiss cheese shares some similar qualities which make it a natural complement. The buttery, nutty notes of Swiss cheese pair nicely with the creamy egg base.
Some key reasons why Swiss cheese pairs well with eggs:
- The mild flavor doesn’t overpower the eggs
- The buttery, sweet notes complement the rich egg taste
- The firm, creamy texture matches nicely with cooked eggs
- Melting quality makes it perfect for egg dishes like omelets
- Salty characteristics balance out the rich yolk
Swiss cheese is mild enough not to dominate the flavor of the egg but brings its own complexity. The salty, nutty accents enhance the creamy egg base to provide a more interesting taste and texture. Next, let’s look at some of the most popular ways to enjoy Swiss cheese with eggs.
Ways to Enjoy Swiss Cheese on Eggs
There are many creative ways to incorporate Swiss cheese into egg dishes for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Here are some of the tastiest ways to enjoy Swiss cheese with eggs:
Cheesy Eggs
For basic cheesy eggs, simply scramble eggs or make an omelet and add shredded or diced Swiss cheese in while cooking. The cheese will melt beautifully into the eggs thanks to its creamy texture. Feel free to add other mix-ins like ham, spinach, or mushrooms for a heartier meal.
Egg Sandwiches
Slabs of Swiss cheese are perfect for topping egg sandwiches made with fried eggs, hard boiled eggs, or folded egg patties. The cheese melts over the hot egg to form the ideal bite. Add the cheese to biscuits, English muffins, bagels, croissants or sourdough bread for endless breakfast sandwich possibilities.
Quiche
Quiche is a baked egg tart made with eggs, cream or milk, cheese, and mix-in ingredients. Swiss cheese is right at home in a quiche and will melt beautifully into the creamy egg filling. Spinach and Swiss or ham and Swiss are classic quiche flavor combinations.
Frittatas
A frittata is an Italian-style baked omelet filled with cheese, veggies, and meat. Thin slices or shredded Swiss cheese complement the fluffy egg base and other mix-ins like mushrooms, broccoli, and sausage.
Cheese Sauce
Making a creamy cheese sauce with Swiss cheese is an easy way to dress up eggs. Pour the cheese sauce over scrambled eggs, fried eggs, poached eggs or an omelet for an extra luxurious breakfast or dinner.
Soufflés
For an elegant presentation, make individual Swiss cheese soufflés served in ramekins. The airy egg white base perfectly balances the rich, savory Swiss cheese for a decadent dish.
Strata
An overnight egg and bread casserole, strata makes a handy breakfast dish. Cubed Swiss cheese melts into layers of egg and bread for a satisfying meal. Customize your strata with meats and veggies.
Fondue
What could be better than dipping chunks of bread into melted Swiss cheese? Make an easy Swiss cheese fondue by melting cheese, wine, and seasonings together. Dip bites of bread, ham, apples, broccoli, potatoes and more.
Benefits of Swiss Cheese on Eggs
Beyond the great taste, there are some nutritious benefits to enjoy when pairing Swiss cheese with eggs:
High Protein
Both eggs and Swiss cheese are high in protein, which will help you feel full and satisfied. One large egg contains about 6 grams of protein while a 1 ounce slice of Swiss cheese provides 7-8 grams. Combining the two gives you a protein boost to start your day off right.
Important Nutrients
Swiss cheese contains calcium for strong bones, vitamin B12 for energy, phosphorus, and zinc. Eggs provide vitamin A, selenium, riboflavin, folate, and choline. Together, they make up a nutrient powerhouse.
Versatility
With their complementary flavors and textures, eggs and Swiss cheese are endlessly versatile ingredients. You can enjoy the duo for breakfast, lunch or dinner in simple or gourmet preparations.
Satisfying Combo
The rich, indulgent flavors of Swiss cheese and eggs make them extra satisfying. Research shows that protein and fat can improve satiety and control appetite compared to carbohydrates or sugars.
Easy Prep
Dishes featuring Swiss cheese and eggs don’t require advanced cooking skills. Even basic cheese omelets and scrambled eggs can be on the table in minutes with little effort.
Nutrition Information
Here is a nutritional comparison of eggs and Swiss cheese:
One large egg (50g)
| Calories | 72 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 0.6g |
| Protein | 6g |
1 oz Swiss cheese (28g)
| Calories | 108 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 9g |
| Carbohydrates | 0g |
| Protein | 8g |
As you can see, both offer protein and fat to help provide energy and satisfaction. The fat content is moderate and healthy unsaturated fats when consumed in reasonable portions. Combining eggs and Swiss cheese can give you a nutritious, balanced meal.
Reasons to Avoid Swiss Cheese on Eggs
While Swiss cheese pairs beautifully with eggs in many cases, there are a few drawbacks to consider:
High in Calories
Both Swiss cheese and eggs are high in calories and fat compared to many other foods. An egg has about 70 calories while 1 ounce of Swiss cheese provides around 110 calories. Together, this can make up a high calorie meal. Those watching their waistlines will want to enjoy eggs with Swiss cheese in moderation.
High in Cholesterol
Egg yolks and cheese are high in cholesterol, which some people need to limit for heart health. One large egg contains 186mg cholesterol and 28g Swiss cheese has about 60mg.
Allergies/Intolerances
Those with dairy allergies or intolerances will want to avoid Swiss cheese. Eggs are one of the most common food allergens, especially in children. People with egg allergies should not consume dishes containing eggs.
Sodium Content
Swiss cheese tends to be higher in sodium than other cheeses. A 1 ounce portion provides around 130mg sodium, which is 5% of the recommended daily value. Those restricting sodium need to keep this in mind.
Not Vegetarian/Vegan
Obviously, dishes containing Swiss cheese and eggs would not be suitable for vegetarians or vegans. The cheese contains dairy while the eggs come from poultry.
Substitutions
For those wanting a lower calorie, lower cholesterol option, there are several possible substitutions:
Cheese
Instead of full-fat Swiss cheese, use reduced-fat Swiss, low-fat mozzarella, or part-skim ricotta cheese in egg dishes. Neufchâtel cheese is a lower calorie cream cheese option.
Eggs
Substitute one whole egg for two egg whites to cut cholesterol and fat. Or use a quarter cup of egg substitute in place of a whole egg.
Dairy-Free Cheese
For dairy-free options, use soy cheese, almond cheese, or coconut cheese in place of Swiss cheese. Just check labels since some brands contain casein.
Vegan Eggs
Products like Just Egg, made from mung beans, can be scrambled or cooked like regular eggs for a cholesterol-free choice.
Tofu
Blended silken tofu makes a great vegan egg substitute when cooking frittatas, quiches and scrambles. Add turmeric for color.
With some simple substitutions, those with dietary restrictions can still enjoy Swiss cheese and egg flavors.
Cost Comparison
Here is a cost comparison of Swiss cheese versus other cheese options to use on eggs:
| Cheese | Cost |
|---|---|
| Swiss Cheese | $4.99 per lb |
| Cheddar Cheese | $3.99 per lb |
| Mozzarella Cheese | $4.49 per lb |
| Monterey Jack Cheese | $3.99 per lb |
| Provolone Cheese | $4.99 per lb |
Swiss cheese falls in the middle price-wise and is comparable to most other popular cheeses. Cheddar and Monterey Jack are the most budget friendly options. However, the unique flavor of Swiss cheese may be worth splurging for when making egg dishes.
To save money, buy Swiss cheese from the deli section sliced to order instead of pre-packaged. Watch for sales and coupons for deals on Swiss cheese blocks or shreds. Generic Swiss cheese is also less expensive than name brand.
Conclusion
Swiss cheese is an excellent choice to pair with eggs thanks to its mild, nutty flavor and creamy melting texture. Popular dishes like omelets, egg sandwiches, quiche, and frittatas all benefit from the addition of Swiss cheese. It provides complementary flavor notes as well as protein, calcium, vitamin B12 and other nutrients.
However, Swiss cheese and eggs can be high in calories, cholesterol, and sodium so they’re best enjoyed in moderation, especially by those with certain dietary restrictions. Whether you’re cooking up a simple cheese omelet or an elegant Soufflé, Swiss cheese ups the flavor and satisfaction factor of any egg dish. While pricier than cheddar or jack, a little goes a long way towards adding that signature Swiss flavor.