Gouda cheese, a semi-hard cheese originating in the Netherlands, is a crowd-pleaser with its nutty and buttery flavor. However, if you're looking to switch things up, there are plenty of synonyms that offer similar taste and texture. One such option would be Edam cheese, also a Dutch cheese with a mild flavor and semi-hard texture. Another option is Fontina cheese from Italy, which has a similar nuttiness to Gouda. If you're looking for a more creamy consistency, try Brie cheese from France. Lastly, if you're looking for a plant-based option, Miyoko's Creamery makes a vegan version of Gouda with a satisfyingly smoky flavor.