In the rolling fields of Western Wisconsin, there's a town where cheese curds are a way life. Ellsworth, with a population of just over 3,000, proudly claims the title of Cheese Curd Capital of Wisconsin. The designation was made official in 1983 by former Governor Anthony Earl. This vibrant village in Pierce County draws visitors from across the country, thanks to a cooperative creamery that transformed a humble dairy product into a regional icon.

The Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery began in 1910, when local dairy farmers banded together to process their milk with purpose and precision. More than a century later, 200 farms supply the creamery with milk, which is converted into over 160,000 pounds of curds daily. Considering the surprising amount of milk it takes to make cheese (10 pounds of milk per pound of cheese), that's an impressive yield of rich, comforting goodness. The golden bites — mild, squeaky, and lightly salted — are best savored when their signature bounce is at its peak. The distinctive squeak comes from elastic proteins that briefly resist the bite, a sign of impeccable freshness.

Each curd is a marvel of Midwestern agriculture. The milk travels only a short distance from farm to vat, where it's swiftly shaped into its final form. From production to packaging, the process moves quickly to ensure every curd retains its signature quality. Devoted fans often eat them straight from the bag — slightly chilled, subtly salty, and full of charm.

Ellsworth, Wisconsin, knows cheese curds well

Fried cheese curds and sauce on blue checked paper

Ray Tan/Getty Images

Every June, Ellsworth celebrates its most famous export at the Cheese Curd Festival. Held downtown, the event features live music, games, food trucks, and pairings of wine and craft beer with creatively seasoned curds. Traditionalists go for the classic deep-fried cheddar, while adventurous turophiles (people who can't get enough cheese) lean toward flavors like dill, Cajun, spicy ghost pepper, and hot honey. There are even dessert curds dusted with cinnamon sugar.

Visitors can stock up on favorites at the creamery's retail stores in Ellsworth and nearby Menomonie, where shelves are lined with artisan cheeses, dairy-inspired gifts, and of course, squeaky curds. For those who can't make the trip to the Badger State, online orders are carefully packed and shipped nationwide.

In Ellsworth, cheese curds are more than a snack. They're a point of pride. They bring generations together at roadside stands, kitchen tables, and hometown festivals. They're a symbol of agricultural resilience, local heritage, and a community that knows how to turn simple ingredients into something truly special.