Best Cheese Grater: Top Picks for Efficient Grating
Cheese is a staple ingredient in many dishes around the world. Whether you’re making a classic grilled cheese sandwich or a fancy charcuterie board, having freshly grated cheese is essential. That’s where a cheese grater comes in. A cheese grater is a kitchen tool that is used to shred cheese into smaller pieces. It can also be used to grate other foods such as vegetables, chocolate, and nuts.
When it comes to cheese graters, there are several types available on the market. The most common types are box graters, rotary graters, and handheld graters. Box graters typically have four sides with different sized grating holes, while rotary graters have a drum-shaped grater that is turned by a handle. Handheld graters are the most basic type of graters and are typically used for small amounts of cheese.
When choosing the best cheese grater, there are a few things to consider. The first is the type of cheese you’ll be grating. Soft cheeses like mozzarella require a different type of grater than hard cheeses like parmesan. The size of the grater holes is also important. Smaller holes are better for finely grated cheese, while larger holes are better for coarser grating. The material of the grater is another factor to consider. Stainless steel is a popular choice as it is durable and easy to clean.
We spent hours researching and testing ten cheese graters to identify the ones that make grating cheese easy and efficient.
Best Cheese Graters
We all love cheese, and what’s better than having freshly grated cheese on top of your favorite dish? A good cheese grater is an essential tool in any kitchen, but with so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the right one. That’s why we’ve done the research and put together a list of the best cheese graters on the market. Our top picks are based on their performance, durability, ease of use, and customer reviews. So, whether you’re a cheese lover or a professional chef, you’re sure to find the perfect cheese grater for your needs on our list.
1) Cambom Rotary Cheese Grater
If you’re looking for a cheese grater that is easy to use and clean, the Cambom Rotary Cheese Grater is a great option.
PROS
CONS
We found that the Cambom Rotary Cheese Grater made grating cheese a breeze. The suction cup base kept the grater securely in place on our countertop, and we were able to grate a pound of cheese in less than a minute. The three different bucket design made it easy to switch between grating, slicing, and grinding, and we appreciated the added safety features.
While the grater worked well for softer cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella, we did have some difficulty with harder cheeses like Parmesan. Additionally, some users reported difficulty with assembly, although we did not experience any issues ourselves. Finally, while the plastic parts are food-grade and BPA-free, they may not be as durable as metal parts.
Overall, we would recommend the Cambom Rotary Cheese Grater for anyone looking for an efficient and easy-to-use cheese grater.
2) Spring Chef Professional Cheese Grater
If you’re looking for a cheese grater that can handle all types of cheeses and vegetables, the Spring Chef Professional Cheese Grater is a great option.
PROS
CONS
We were impressed with the Spring Chef Professional Cheese Grater’s ability to handle a variety of foods. The extra-wide size of the grater made it easy to shred cheese quickly and effectively, while the 4-sided design allowed us to switch between different grating and slicing options. The removable rubber bottom kept the grater stable while in use, which prevented slipping and made it easier to use.
However, we did find that the grater may be too large for some users to store easily, and the handle may be uncomfortable for some users to grip. Additionally, the grater’s size may make it difficult to clean thoroughly, especially if you have limited space in your kitchen.
Overall, we recommend the Spring Chef Professional Cheese Grater for anyone looking for a versatile and effective grater that can handle a variety of foods.
3) Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater
If you want a cheese grater that is easy to use and clean, the Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater is a great choice.
PROS
CONS
We found that the Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater is a great kitchen gadget that makes food preparation much easier and faster. With its 3 interchangeable blades, it can slice, shred, and grind a variety of ingredients such as cheese, vegetables, nuts, and more. The grater is easy to use and clean, and its powerful suction base keeps it firmly in place during use. However, we noticed that it may not work well with harder cheeses, and it may require some manual effort to pull the cheese out of the middle. Additionally, the transparent barrel may not be very durable.
Overall, we recommend the Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater for those who want a versatile and easy-to-use grater for their kitchen.
4) Zyliss Restaurant Cheese Grater
If you’re looking for a cheese grater that’s efficient and versatile, the Zyliss Restaurant Cheese Grater is a great choice for both everyday cooks and gourmet chefs alike.
PROS
CONS
We’ve used the Zyliss Restaurant Cheese Grater for a while now, and we love how easy it is to use. The crank design requires little pressure, so we can use it for extended periods without getting tired. Plus, it’s versatile and can be used for hard cheeses, chocolate, and nuts, making it a great addition to any kitchen.
The non-slip knob and easy disassembly make it ideal for left and right-handed use, and we appreciate that it’s NSF Restaurant Certified, so we know it meets standards to protect public health.
However, there are a few downsides to this cheese grater. It only has one setting, so the cheese is grated coarsely, which may not be ideal for some dishes. It’s also difficult to pull apart and clean, which can be frustrating. Finally, it occasionally jams up at the closed end, which can slow down the grating process.
Overall, we think the Zyliss Restaurant Cheese Grater is a great choice for anyone looking for an efficient and versatile cheese grater. Just be aware of its limitations, and you’ll be able to make the most of this handy kitchen tool.
5) OXO Good Grips Rotary Grater, White
If you’re looking for a cheese grater that also doubles as a storage container, the OXO Good Grips Rotary Grater is a great option.
PROS
CONS
We found the OXO Good Grips Rotary Grater to be a reliable and efficient cheese grater. The compartment for storing un-grated cheese is a handy feature that keeps the cheese fresh and prevents it from drying out. The silicone seal is a nice touch that ensures the cheese stays fresh when stored in the refrigerator.
The grater is easy to use, and the soft, non-slip handle is comfortable for repetitive use. The stainless steel blades can also shred chocolate and nuts, making it a versatile kitchen tool.
Overall, we recommend the OXO Good Grips Rotary Grater for anyone looking for a reliable cheese grater with a storage compartment. It’s a great option for grating hard cheeses, chocolate, nuts, and more.
6) KitchenAid Gourmet Box Grater
If you want a versatile cheese grater that can also slice herbs and veggies, the KitchenAid Gourmet Box Grater is a great choice. It comes with a detachable container that catches the grated or sliced ingredients and has markings for precise measurements. The container also has a lid for easy storage. The grater is made of high-quality stainless steel and has a soft-grip handle for comfort and control.
PROS
CONS
We’ve been using the KitchenAid Gourmet Box Grater for a few weeks now, and it has quickly become one of our go-to kitchen tools. We love how easy it is to switch between the coarse, medium, and fine grating surfaces, as well as the slicing blade. The detachable container is a great feature that makes it easy to measure and store ingredients, and the lid ensures that everything stays fresh.
One thing to keep in mind is that some grated ingredients may fall outside the container, especially if you’re grating something soft like cheese. We also found that the grater is relatively large and may not fit in smaller kitchen drawers. Finally, while the grating surfaces are very sharp, we found that the slicing blade was not as sharp and struggled with some tougher veggies like carrots.
Overall, we highly recommend the KitchenAid Gourmet Box Grater for anyone looking for a versatile and durable cheese grater that can also handle slicing tasks.
7) Amazon Basics Cheese Grater
If you’re in the market for a durable and efficient cheese grater, the Amazon Basics Cheese Grater may be a great option for you.
PROS
CONS
We recently tried out the Amazon Basics Cheese Grater and were impressed with its overall performance. The stainless-steel construction felt sturdy and durable, and the four-sided design made it easy to grate cheese and other foods quickly and efficiently.
One of our favorite features was the non-slip base, which kept the grater securely in place on our countertop while we grated cheese. This made the process much safer and easier, as we didn’t have to worry about the grater slipping around while we were using it.
While we appreciated the larger shredding holes for grating cheese, we did find that the cheese came out relatively coarse. This may be a downside for some dishes that require finer grated cheese.
Overall, we would recommend the Amazon Basics Cheese Grater for anyone in need of a durable and efficient grater for their kitchen. Its non-slip base and four-sided design make it a great option for grating a variety of foods, and its stainless-steel construction ensures that it will last for years to come.
8) OXO Good Grips Etched Coarse Grater, Orange
If you’re looking for a reliable cheese grater, the OXO Good Grips Etched Coarse Grater is a great choice.
PROS
CONS
We found that the OXO Good Grips Etched Coarse Grater was easy to use and provided consistent results. The sharp, etched stainless steel grating surface made quick work of semi-soft cheeses, potatoes, zucchini, onions, cabbage, butter, and apples. The non-slip foot provided added control during use, which was especially helpful when grating harder cheeses.
One potential downside of this grater is its small size. While it’s perfect for small-scale grating tasks, it may not be suitable for larger jobs. Additionally, some users may prefer a different handle grip, as the soft, non-slip grip may not be comfortable for everyone. Finally, while we found the grater to be durable and reliable, it may not be as long-lasting as some other graters on the market.
Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile and reliable cheese grater, the OXO Good Grips Etched Coarse Grater is a great choice.
9) X Home Rotary Cheese Grater, Manual Cheese Shredder with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Mandoline Vegetables Slicer with Strong Suction Base, Mother’s Day Gift, Easy to Use and Clean, Blue 6X18 Blue
If you’re in need of a versatile and easy-to-use cheese grater, the X Home Rotary Cheese Grater is a great option to consider.
PROS
CONS
We’ve had the opportunity to use this grater in our own kitchen and have found it to be a great addition to our cooking tools. The multiple blades make it easy to switch between grating and slicing different ingredients, and the rotary design allows for quick and efficient use. We appreciate how easy it is to clean, with the detachable and washable drum blades.
However, we have noticed that the suction feet may not work as well on certain surfaces, causing the grater to slip or move while in use. Additionally, while the grater is made from durable materials, it may not be as long-lasting as some other options on the market. Finally, with frequent use, the blades may become dull over time, requiring replacement.
Overall, we would recommend the X Home Rotary Cheese Grater for those in need of a versatile and easy-to-use grater. It’s a great option for those looking to save time and effort in the kitchen while achieving perfect cuts every time.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best cheese grater, there are a few key features to consider. We’ve outlined them below to help you make an informed decision.
Types of Cheese Graters
There are several types of cheese graters available on the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are the most common types:
- Box Graters: These are the most traditional type of cheese grater and are great for grating large amounts of cheese quickly. They usually have four sides with different sized grating holes.
- Rotary Graters: These are operated by turning a handle and are great for grating hard cheeses like Parmesan. They can also be used for grating nuts and chocolate.
- Microplane Graters: These have very fine grating holes and are great for zesting citrus fruits and grating hard cheeses.
Material
Cheese graters can be made from a variety of materials, including stainless steel, plastic, and wood. Stainless steel is the most durable and easy to clean, while plastic and wood can be more affordable but may not last as long.
Size
Consider the size of the cheese grater you need based on how much cheese you typically grate at once. A larger grater may be more efficient for grating large amounts of cheese, but may also take up more storage space.
Ease of Use
Look for a cheese grater that is easy to use and comfortable to hold. Some graters come with a non-slip base or handle for added stability, while others may have a detachable handle for easy cleaning.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Make sure to choose a cheese grater that is easy to clean and maintain. Some graters are dishwasher safe, while others may require hand washing. Consider how easy it is to disassemble and reassemble the grater for cleaning.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best cheese grater for your needs and enjoy perfectly grated cheese every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated cheese graters used by professional chefs?
Professional chefs often prefer box graters with multiple grating options, such as fine, medium, and coarse. Some popular options include the Microplane Box Grater, OXO Good Grips Box Grater, and Cuisipro Surface Glide Technology Box Grater.
How do electric cheese graters compare to manual ones?
Electric cheese graters are generally faster and more efficient than manual ones. However, they can be more expensive and may not be as versatile as manual graters. Manual graters can be used for a variety of tasks, while electric graters are typically designed for specific types of cheese.
What features make for an efficient rotary cheese grater?
Efficient rotary cheese graters should have sharp blades, a comfortable handle, and a stable base. Look for graters with multiple blades or interchangeable blades for different grating options.
Which cheese grater is best for soft cheeses like mozzarella?
For soft cheeses like mozzarella, a handheld grater with smaller holes is typically the best option. This allows for a finer grate without the cheese getting stuck in the grater.
What are the advantages of using a handheld cheese grater over other types?
Handheld cheese graters are typically more affordable and easier to store than other types of graters. They are also versatile and can be used for a variety of tasks, including grating cheese, vegetables, and chocolate.
How do cheese graters differ from cheese shredders in terms of functionality?
Cheese graters typically have smaller holes and are used for finer grating, while cheese shredders have larger holes and are used for shredding cheese into larger pieces. Shredders are often used for melting cheese, while graters are used for garnishing or adding texture to dishes.