Blue cheese is the umbrella term for any cheese made with the addition of cultures of edible mould (Penicillium). Fear not, unlike other types of mould, Penicillium does not produce toxins and is therefore safe to consume. In fact, the mould gives a unique texture and delicious flavour which you don’t get from other cheeses.

Distinguishable by their blue veins and robust, tangy flavour, blue cheeses range from creamy and rich, to crumbly and sharp. The most well-known blue cheeses include the iconic trio, Stilton, Roquefort and Gorgonzola.

Blue cheese isn't just for cheese aficionados; it's a versatile ingredient that can elevate a variety of everyday dishes. Some like to crumble blue cheese over salads to add a contrasting flavour to the crispness of the salad leaves, while others melt into cheese sauces or pastas for a gourmet touch in the comfort of your own home.

If you’re looking to add a blue cheese to your cheese board and wow your guests, take a look at our cheese board ideas to discover exactly which other cheeses and ingredients complement blue cheese perfectly.

Blue Cheese Sauce Recipe

Many of our steak dishes come with blue cheese sauce. This is because the sharp and tangy flavour of the blue cheese complements the rich, savoury notes of the steak. However, blue cheese sauce is not limited to only pairing with steak. Blue cheese sauce is also the perfect accompaniment for many recipes, including roasted vegetables, grilled chicken dishes, and even as a drizzle for fresh, crunchy salads.

If you’re wanting to add this delicacy to your meal plans tonight, simply follow these instructions to make the perfect blue cheese sauce:

Add 75ml of creme fraiche into a small saucepan and warm over a low heat.
Season with pepper to taste, and then stir in 30g of crumbled blue cheese.
Keep stirring until the blue cheese has melted and the sauce is nice and smooth.
Remove from the heat.

You can reheat your blue cheese sauce later, when you are ready to serve.

Blue Cheese Recipe FAQs

Can you freeze blue cheese?

Yes, you can freeze blue cheese. In fact, it’s a great way to cut down on your food waste. To freeze, simply seal your blue cheese in a freezer bag and pop in your freezer until you’re ready to thaw and use it. Bear in mind that after freezing, your blue cheese may become drier and more crumbly, but the delicious flavour won’t be impacted.

Is blue cheese mould?

Blue cheese is made with the addition of cultures of edible mould. This mould does not produce toxins and is therefore safe (and delicious!) to consume, in salads, pastas, mac ‘n’ cheeses, blue cheese sauces and more.

Is Gorgonzola blue cheese?

Yes, Gorgonzola is one variety of blue cheese. Other varieties include Roquefort, Stilton and Cabrales.

What does blue cheese taste like?

There’s no mistaking the taste of blue cheese! It’s sharp and tangy at first, then softens as you eat it, giving a creamy and earthy flavour.

What pairs well with blue cheese?

Meats such as chicken and steak pair well with blue cheese, as well as roasted vegetables and salads. Additionally, the creamy texture of blue cheese enhances the sharp and sweet flavours in fruits such as pears and apples, and a variety of nuts and honey too.