Raclette is one of Switzerland’s great comfort foods: warm, melted cheese scraped over potatoes, vegetables and charcuterie. At Alpine Express, we offer authentic raclette cheeses and deliver them Australia-wide — packed with cold-chain care so they arrive ready for the table.
Whether you’re hosting friends, planning a winter dinner, or discovering raclette for the first time, this guide will help you choose the right cheese and serve it with confidence.
What raclette is
Raclette is both a cheese and a meal. Traditionally, a wheel of raclette cheese is warmed and the melted surface is scraped over potatoes, pickles and cured meats.
- Name: from the French word racler — to scrape.
- Origin: Alpine regions of Switzerland.
- Flavour: savoury, creamy, gently nutty with excellent melting character.
New to Swiss cheeses? Start here: Swiss Cheese Online — delivered Australia-wide.
Choosing the right raclette cheese
Authentic raclette melts smoothly and evenly, creating a creamy layer rather than a stringy stretch. The best choice depends on whether you prefer traditional alpine flavour or something with a twist.
Classic Raclette
The traditional choice — creamy, savoury and gently nutty. Classic raclette delivers the balanced alpine flavour that makes this dish so comforting and satisfying.
- smooth, even melting
- crowd-pleasing flavour
- perfect for first-time raclette hosts
Flavoured Raclette
For something a little different, flavoured raclette cheeses add extra character while still melting beautifully.
- peppercorn raclette
- smoked raclette
- herb & spice variations
These varieties are ideal for entertaining and adding variety to the table.
Looking for deeper alpine character? Explore Raw Milk Swiss Cheese.
How much raclette cheese per person?
- Main meal: 200–250g per person
- Light meal: 150–180g per person
- Large appetites: 250–300g per person
Raclette is wonderfully satisfying — and guests usually eat more than expected.
How to serve raclette at home
Raclette is relaxed and sociable — perfect for slow evenings with friends.
Classic accompaniments
- boiled baby potatoes
- cornichons & pickled onions
- charcuterie
- crusty bread
- steamed vegetables
Wine pairings
- dry white wines
- Swiss Fendant-style wines
- light reds (optional)
Equipment options
- Raclette grill: the most popular home solution.
- Half-wheel raclette machine: authentic and impressive for entertaining.
- Pan method: melt slices under a grill or in a hot pan for a simple approach.
However you melt it, the key is gentle heat and patience.
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Raclette knife
$59.00 Add to cart -
Ambiance – Raclette machine for 1/2 wheels
$629.00 Add to cart -
Resty – Raclette Accessory
$71.50 Add to cart -
Super – Raclette Machine for two 1/2 wheels
$959.00 Add to cart -
Swiss Raclette Starter Pack
$49.90 Read more -
PF-2 Combi Cheese Holder – Raclette Grill Spare Part
$198.00 Add to cart -
Convivial – Raclette Grill for blocks
$399.00 Add to cart -
Ambiance – Raclette machine for 1/2 wheels – Ex Rental
Sale! Original price was: $629.00.$449.00Current price is: $449.00. Read more -
Brio Plus – Raclette Machine for two 1/2 wheels (gas operated)
$1,511.00 Add to cart -
Easy Gas – Raclette Machine for 1/2 wheels (gas operated)
$890.00 Read more -
8 Person Indoor & Outdoor Raclette Grill
$227.00 Add to cart -
PF-1 Single Cheese Holder – Raclette Grill Spare Part
$141.00 Add to cart
Common raclette mistakes to avoid
- Overheating the cheese (causes oil separation)
- Using cheese that doesn’t melt properly
- Serving too little cheese
- Rushing the melting process
Shop raclette cheese
Browse authentic raclette cheeses selected for melting performance and flavour. Delivered Australia-wide with cold-chain care.
FAQs
What cheese is best for raclette?
Authentic raclette cheese melts smoothly and delivers creamy, savoury flavour without separating.
Can I use raclette cheese without a machine?
Yes. Melt slices under a grill or in a hot pan and pour over potatoes or vegetables.
How much raclette cheese do I need?
Plan for 200–250g per person for a main meal.
What do you serve with raclette?
Boiled potatoes, pickles, charcuterie, bread and vegetables are traditional accompaniments.
Do you deliver raclette cheese Australia-wide?
Yes. We ship nationwide using insulated, cold-chain packing.