{"id":56521,"date":"2023-10-31T16:42:38","date_gmt":"2023-10-31T16:42:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/?p=56521"},"modified":"2024-01-09T10:14:00","modified_gmt":"2024-01-09T10:14:00","slug":"american-cheese-vs-monterey-jack","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/american-cheese-vs-monterey-jack\/","title":{"rendered":"American Cheese vs. Monterey Jack"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/american-cheese-vs-colby-jack\/\">American cheese<\/a> and Monterey Jack are two of the most popular cheeses in the United States. Both are known for their mild, creamy flavor and excellent melting properties, making them staples for cheesesburgers, grilled <a href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/butter-vs-cheese-vs-ghee\/\">cheese<\/a> sandwiches, quesadillas and other classic American foods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/American-Cheese-vs.-Monterey-Jack.jpeg\" alt=\"American Cheese vs. Monterey Jack\" class=\"wp-image-56541\" srcset=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/American-Cheese-vs.-Monterey-Jack.jpeg 1200w, https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/American-Cheese-vs.-Monterey-Jack-768x403.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>But while they share some key traits, American and Monterey Jack are very different cheeses with distinct origins, ingredients, nutrition profiles and best uses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_63 counter-flat ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #333333;color:#333333\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #333333;color:#333333\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/american-cheese-vs-monterey-jack\/#A_Brief_History_of_American_Cheese\" title=\"A Brief History of American Cheese\">A Brief History of American Cheese<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/american-cheese-vs-monterey-jack\/#A_Brief_History_of_Monterey_Jack\" title=\"A Brief History of Monterey Jack\">A Brief History of Monterey Jack<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/american-cheese-vs-monterey-jack\/#Key_Differences_Between_the_Two_Cheeses\" title=\"Key Differences Between the Two Cheeses\">Key Differences Between the Two Cheeses<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/american-cheese-vs-monterey-jack\/#Ingredients_in_American_Cheese_vs_Monterey_Jack\" title=\"Ingredients in American Cheese vs. Monterey Jack\">Ingredients in American Cheese vs. Monterey Jack<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/american-cheese-vs-monterey-jack\/#Ingredients_in_American_Cheese\" title=\"Ingredients in American Cheese\">Ingredients in American Cheese<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/american-cheese-vs-monterey-jack\/#Ingredients_in_Monterey_Jack\" title=\"Ingredients in Monterey Jack\">Ingredients in Monterey Jack<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/american-cheese-vs-monterey-jack\/#Nutrition_Comparison\" title=\"Nutrition Comparison\">Nutrition Comparison<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/american-cheese-vs-monterey-jack\/#Best_Uses_for_American_Cheese_vs_Monterey_Jack\" title=\"Best Uses for American Cheese vs. Monterey Jack\">Best Uses for American Cheese vs. Monterey Jack<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/american-cheese-vs-monterey-jack\/#Best_uses_for_American_cheese\" title=\"Best uses for American cheese:\">Best uses for American cheese:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/american-cheese-vs-monterey-jack\/#Best_uses_for_Monterey_Jack\" title=\"Best uses for Monterey Jack:\">Best uses for Monterey Jack:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/american-cheese-vs-monterey-jack\/#Flavor_Variations\" title=\"Flavor Variations\">Flavor Variations<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/american-cheese-vs-monterey-jack\/#Which_Should_You_Choose\" title=\"Which Should You Choose?\">Which Should You Choose?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/american-cheese-vs-monterey-jack\/#FAQs\" title=\"FAQs\">FAQs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/american-cheese-vs-monterey-jack\/#Is_American_cheese_real_cheese\" title=\"Is American cheese real cheese?\">Is American cheese real cheese?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/american-cheese-vs-monterey-jack\/#Is_American_or_cheddar_cheese_healthier\" title=\"Is American or cheddar cheese healthier?\">Is American or cheddar cheese healthier?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/american-cheese-vs-monterey-jack\/#Whats_the_difference_between_Monterey_Jack_and_pepper_Jack\" title=\"What\u2019s the difference between Monterey Jack and pepper Jack?\">What\u2019s the difference between Monterey Jack and pepper Jack?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/american-cheese-vs-monterey-jack\/#Can_you_use_Monterey_Jack_instead_of_mozzarella\" title=\"Can you use Monterey Jack instead of mozzarella?\">Can you use Monterey Jack instead of mozzarella?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/american-cheese-vs-monterey-jack\/#Is_Monterey_Jack_cheese_good_for_you\" title=\"Is Monterey Jack cheese good for you?\">Is Monterey Jack cheese good for you?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/american-cheese-vs-monterey-jack\/#Can_you_freeze_Monterey_Jack_cheese\" title=\"Can you freeze Monterey Jack cheese?\">Can you freeze Monterey Jack cheese?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/american-cheese-vs-monterey-jack\/#Whats_the_difference_between_Monterey_Jack_and_queso_blanco\" title=\"What\u2019s the difference between Monterey Jack and queso blanco?\">What\u2019s the difference between Monterey Jack and queso blanco?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/american-cheese-vs-monterey-jack\/#Conclusion\" title=\"Conclusion\">Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"A_Brief_History_of_American_Cheese\"><\/span>A Brief History of American Cheese<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite its name, <strong>American cheese<\/strong> originated in Switzerland as <strong>emmental cheese<\/strong>. Emmental is known for its distinctive holes and nutty, mellow flavor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the early 1900s, American dairymen sought to recreate emmental for the U.S. market. After much experimentation, <strong>James and Norman Kraft<\/strong> patented a method in 1916 to manufacture the first mass-produced <strong>processed cheese<\/strong> (another name for American cheese).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Krafts dubbed their product <strong>American cheese<\/strong> as a patriotic marketing tactic during World War I. Their creation could be made cheaply, stored easily and shipped nationwide. Thanks to these qualities, American cheese soon became a lunchbox staple and vital food ration during both world wars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Today, brands like Kraft continue churning out American cheese in factories across the country. Traditional American cheese is made by blending <strong>cheddar<\/strong> or <strong>colby<\/strong> with <strong>emulsifiers<\/strong>, then heating everything into a homogeneous final product.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"A_Brief_History_of_Monterey_Jack\"><\/span>A Brief History of Monterey Jack<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Monterey Jack<\/strong> traces its origins to Mexican Franciscan friars in Alta California during the late 18th century. The monks crafted a creamy, semi-soft <a href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/bulgarian-white-cheese-vs-feta\/\">white cheese<\/a> from cow\u2019s milk, which they called <strong>queso del pais<\/strong> (\u201ccountry cheese\u201d).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Around the 1850s, an entrepreneur named <strong>David Jacks<\/strong> began selling the monks' cheese. He bestowed it with the name \u201c<strong>Jacks cheese<\/strong>,\u201d later respelled as <strong>Monterey Jack<\/strong>. Unlike emmental-inspired American cheese, Monterey Jack is an original California creation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Differences_Between_the_Two_Cheeses\"><\/span>Key Differences Between the Two Cheeses<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Though both are known for melting well, American and Monterey Jack have several key differences:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Ingredients:<\/strong>&nbsp;American cheese is a processed blend of cheese, emulsifiers and other ingredients. Monterey Jack is a simpler, minimally <a href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/american-cheese-vs-velveeta\/\">processed cheese<\/a> usually made from just cow\u2019s milk, cultures, enzymes and salt.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Texture:<\/strong>&nbsp;Due to its emulsifiers, American cheese has a smooth, uniform plastic-like texture. Monterey Jack is classified as semi-soft, with a springier, more \u201cnatural\u201d body.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Flavor:<\/strong>&nbsp;American cheese is prized for its very mild taste. Monterey Jack has a subtly tangy, buttery flavor with hints of nuttiness.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Melting:<\/strong>&nbsp;American melts evenly into a cohesive gooey liquid. Monterey Jack becomes stringy when melted.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Nutrition:<\/strong>&nbsp;American cheese is higher in sodium but lower in calories than Monterey Jack. Both offer calcium, protein and vitamins A and B12.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cost:<\/strong>&nbsp;Pre-sliced and packaged American cheese is considerably cheaper than refrigerated blocks of Monterey Jack.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Uses:<\/strong>&nbsp;American cheese works best in cooked applications like grilled cheese. Monterey Jack is preferred for uncooked uses like snacking.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ingredients_in_American_Cheese_vs_Monterey_Jack\"><\/span>Ingredients in American Cheese vs. Monterey Jack<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Understanding what goes into each cheese gives insight into their differing textures, flavors and nutrition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ingredients_in_American_Cheese\"><\/span>Ingredients in American Cheese<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Traditional American cheese contains just five or six ingredients:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Milk:<\/strong>&nbsp;Themilk protein casein gives American cheese its characteristic stretchiness.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cheddar\/colby cheese:<\/strong>&nbsp;Blended with the milk proteins to contribute flavor.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Emulsifiers:<\/strong>&nbsp;Ingredients like&nbsp;<strong>sodium citrate<\/strong>&nbsp;bind ingredients together and create a smooth texture.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Salt:<\/strong>&nbsp;For flavor.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Annatto:<\/strong>&nbsp;A natural plant extract that gives American cheese its yellow orange hue.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Preservatives:<\/strong>&nbsp;Help prevent spoilage.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Due to its <strong>highly processed<\/strong> nature, the FDA prohibits American cheese from being legally sold as \u201ccheese\u201d, hence labels dubbing it a \u201ccheese product.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ingredients_in_Monterey_Jack\"><\/span>Ingredients in Monterey Jack<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As a classic <strong>artisanal cheese<\/strong>, Monterey Jack is crafted from just four ingredients:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Cow\u2019s milk:<\/strong>&nbsp;The sole ingredient that makes up Monterey Jack. Whole milk varieties boast a richer flavor.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Rennet:<\/strong>&nbsp;An enzyme that helps coagulate the milk into curds, the base of cheese.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cultures:<\/strong>&nbsp;Bacteria that ferment the milk and produce Monterey Jack\u2019s signature tang.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Salt:<\/strong>&nbsp;For flavor and preservation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>With its simple, time-tested <strong>farmhouse methods<\/strong> of production, Monterey Jack meets legal standards to be labeled as an actual \u201ccheese.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Nutrition_Comparison\"><\/span>Nutrition Comparison<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Given their differing ingredients and production methods, American and Monterey Jack unsurprisingly deliver different nutrition profiles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Per 1 ounce serving:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><thead><tr><th>Nutrient<\/th><th>American<\/th><th>Monterey Jack<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Calories<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>93<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>101<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Total Fat<\/td><td>7g<\/td><td>8g<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Saturated Fat<\/td><td>4.5g<\/td><td>5g<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cholesterol<\/td><td>23mg<\/td><td>25mg<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Sodium<\/td><td><strong>467mg<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>176mg<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Total Carbs<\/td><td>1g<\/td><td>&lt;1g<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Protein<\/td><td>6g<\/td><td>7g<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Calcium<\/td><td>176mg<\/td><td>212mg<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Vitamin A<\/td><td>150 IU<\/td><td>198 IU<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Vitamin B12<\/td><td>0.4mcg<\/td><td>0.2mcg<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>As shown above, American cheese is significantly <strong>higher in sodium<\/strong>, packing nearly 500mg per ounce. This gives it a tangier, saltier taste. Monterey Jack has far less sodium per serving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Monterey Jack has a slight edge in nutrition thanks to being <strong>lower in bad fats<\/strong> and <strong>higher in protein<\/strong> and calcium. But both cheeses deliver ample amounts of bone-building calcium and vitamin B12.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Given its lower fat and calorie counts, Monterey Jack can be considered the <strong>healthier<\/strong> choice. However, those watching sodium intake should limit their American cheese portions or seek out reduced-sodium varieties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Best_Uses_for_American_Cheese_vs_Monterey_Jack\"><\/span>Best Uses for American Cheese vs. Monterey Jack<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Their differing textures and flavors mean American and Monterey Jack excel in different applications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Best_uses_for_American_cheese\"><\/span>Best uses for American cheese:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Grilled cheese sandwiches<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cheeseburgers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Quesadillas<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Macaroni and cheese<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pizza<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cheese sauces and dips<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Thanks to its <strong>uniform melting<\/strong>, <a href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/basket-cheese-vs-ricotta\/\">mild flavor<\/a> and salty tang, American cheese isoptimized for cooking. It smooths out and blends into cheese sauces or <a href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/blend-cheese-vs-mozzarella-cheese\/\">pizza toppings<\/a> seamlessly. The emulsifiers prevent oil separation, keeping cooked American cheese stable and silky.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Best_uses_for_Monterey_Jack\"><\/span>Best uses for Monterey Jack:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Snacking<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Salads<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Omelets<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tacos<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Quesadillas<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sandwiches<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Monterey Jack is best enjoyed <strong>uncooked<\/strong> to preserve its delicate flavor and springy texture. Its subtle tang and hints of buttery sweetness shine when cubed for salads or snacking. Monterey Jack\u2019s pliable nature also makes it perfect for cold sandwiches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Melting mutes Monterey Jack\u2019s nuanced tastes. Its stringy melted consistency doesn\u2019t work as well for pizza as smooth American cheese. But Monterey Jack can still be cooked into omelets, quesadillas or tacos in a pinch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Flavor_Variations\"><\/span>Flavor Variations<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Both American and Monterey Jack come in a range of <strong>flavor variations<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Pepper Jack:<\/strong>&nbsp;Monterey Jack or American cheese blended with spicy jalape\u00f1o and bell peppers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Habanero Jack:<\/strong>&nbsp;Monterey Jack infused with tangy, fiery habanero chilis.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Garlic Jack:<\/strong>&nbsp;Monterey Jack with pungent roasted garlic notes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Colby Jack:<\/strong>&nbsp;A mixture of Monterey Jack and Colby cheeses. Milder than plain Monterey Jack.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cheddar Jack:<\/strong>&nbsp;Monterey Jack blended with sharp cheddar for a bold, complex flavor.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Swiss cheese:<\/strong>&nbsp;A low-sodium processed American cheese flavored with nutty Swiss emmental.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The possibilities are nearly endless for creative flavor infusions of both types of cheese. Cheesemakers are continually innovating new varieties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Which_Should_You_Choose\"><\/span>Which Should You Choose?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>American and Monterey Jack each have their merits. Keep these key differences in mind when deciding which to use:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>For a quick and convenient&nbsp;<strong>melty cheese<\/strong>&nbsp;to stock in your pantry for cooking, choose good old&nbsp;<strong>American cheese<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>When you desire a minimally processed&nbsp;<strong>artisanal cheese<\/strong>&nbsp;with more complexity, go for&nbsp;<strong>Monterey Jack<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If limiting&nbsp;<strong>sodium<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>fat<\/strong>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<strong>calories<\/strong>, opt for mild Monterey Jack.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you&nbsp;<strong>dislike additives<\/strong>&nbsp;in your foods, natural Monterey Jack fits the bill.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For the&nbsp;<strong>best value<\/strong>&nbsp;and a cheese to freely melt without reservation, American cheese wins out.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you prefer to buy&nbsp;<strong>pre-sliced<\/strong>&nbsp;or pre-shredded cheese, American cheese is widely available in those handy formats.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>At the end of the day, their shared melty, mild nature means both American and Monterey Jack work interchangeably in many recipes. So don\u2019t be afraid to substitute one for the other depending on what you have on hand. With good techniques, you can achieve cheesy perfection with either of these classic cheeses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs\"><\/span>FAQs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_American_cheese_real_cheese\"><\/span>Is American cheese real cheese?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Due to containing extra ingredients like emulsifiers, American cheese legally can't be labeled as \"cheese\" and is dubbed a \"pasteurized prepared <a href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/american-cheese-vs-real-cheese\/\">cheese product<\/a>.\" But it does contain real <a href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/american-cheese-vs-pepper-jack\/\">cheese ingredients<\/a> like milk and cheddar or <a href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/colby-cheese-vs-mozzarella-cheese\/\">colby cheese<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_American_or_cheddar_cheese_healthier\"><\/span>Is American or cheddar cheese healthier?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Monterey Jack is healthier than either, being lower in sodium and fat than American cheese and <a href=\"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/blue-cheese-vs-cheddar\/\">cheddar cheese<\/a>. But cheddar cheese is lower in sodium than American cheese.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Whats_the_difference_between_Monterey_Jack_and_pepper_Jack\"><\/span>What\u2019s the difference between Monterey Jack and pepper Jack?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Pepper Jack is Monterey Jack cheese that's had spicy jalape\u00f1o and bell peppers mixed in. It offers a fiery kick while retaining Monterey Jack's creamy, pliable texture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_you_use_Monterey_Jack_instead_of_mozzarella\"><\/span>Can you use Monterey Jack instead of mozzarella?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You can substitute Monterey Jack for mozzarella in dishes like pizza or lasagna in a pinch, but mozzarella will give better melt, stretch and browning due to its higher moisture content.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_Monterey_Jack_cheese_good_for_you\"><\/span>Is Monterey Jack cheese good for you?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, Monterey Jack contains ample calcium and protein. Compared to other cheeses, it\u2019s lower in sodium and fat, especially saturated fat. In moderation, it can be part of a healthy diet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_you_freeze_Monterey_Jack_cheese\"><\/span>Can you freeze Monterey Jack cheese?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You can freeze Monterey Jack cheese to extend its shelf life. Thaw it slowly in the fridge before using to prevent texture changes. Grated Monterey Jack freezes especially well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Whats_the_difference_between_Monterey_Jack_and_queso_blanco\"><\/span>What\u2019s the difference between Monterey Jack and queso blanco?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Authentic queso blanco is the original Mexican \"white cheese\" that later became known as Monterey Jack when produced by American settlers in California. So they share very similar origins and traits like a creamy, mild flavor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>American and Monterey Jack are used in countless cheesy American classics thanks to their meltability and mild taste.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By understanding what sets these two cheeses apart, from their backgrounds and ingredients to nutrition and best uses, you can effortlessly incorporate either into your cooking and eating.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>American cheese and Monterey Jack are two of the most popular cheeses in the United States. Both are known for their mild, creamy flavor and excellent melting properties, making them staples for cheesesburgers, grilled cheese sandwiches, quesadillas and other classic American foods. But while they share some key traits, American and Monterey Jack are very [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":56541,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"wprm-recipe-roundup-name":"","wprm-recipe-roundup-description":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[284,309],"tags":[],"blocksy_meta":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/56521"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=56521"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/56521\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":58175,"href":"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/56521\/revisions\/58175"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/56541"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=56521"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=56521"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/aglassandahalffullproductions.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=56521"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}