The Best Substitutes For White American Cheese

When it comes to cheese, white American cheese is a staple in many American households. It's a processed cheese product that was first introduced in the early 20th century and quickly became popular due to its smooth and creamy texture. It is commonly used in cheese sandwiches, melted on burgers, and in a variety of dishes such as mac and cheese.

However, some people may be looking for alternative options for white American cheese due to health reasons or simply wanting to try something new. Luckily, there are many great substitutes available in grocery stores that can provide a similar taste and texture to white American cheese. In this blog post, we will explore the best substitutes for white American cheese and how they can be used in different dishes.

Real Cheese vs. Processed Cheese

Before we dive into the best substitutes for white American cheese, it's important to understand the difference between real cheese and processed cheese. Real cheese is made from natural ingredients such as milk, salt, and enzymes. It goes through a natural aging process and does not contain any added preservatives or artificial ingredients.

On the other hand, processed cheese, including white American cheese, is made from a combination of real cheese and other ingredients such as whey proteins, milk fats, and sodium citrate. It also goes through a manufacturing process that involves heating, emulsifying, and blending. This results in a cheese product that has a longer shelf life and a smoother, creamier texture. However, it may lack the unique flavors and tanginess of real cheese.

The best substitutes for white American cheese.

Now that we understand the difference between real cheese and processed cheese, let's explore the best substitutes for white American cheese.

1. Swiss Cheese

Swiss cheese is an excellent choice for those looking for a good substitute for white American cheese. It is a semi-hard cheese that is made from cow's milk and has a mild flavor. Swiss cheese has a smooth texture and melts well, making it a great substitute for white American cheese in dishes such as cheese sauces and grilled cheese sandwiches.

2. White Cheddar Cheese

White cheddar cheese is another popular choice for a substitute for white American cheese. It is a natural cheese that is made from cow's milk and has a milder flavor compared to its yellow counterpart. White cheddar cheese melts well and has a tangy flavor, making it a good option for dishes such as mac and cheese and cheese dips.

3. Mexican Cheese

Mexican cheese, such as Oaxaca cheese, is another great substitute for white American cheese. It is a soft, white cheese that is made from cow's milk and has a creamy texture. Mexican cheese has a mild taste and is commonly used in dishes such as quesadillas and enchiladas. It can also be used as a substitute for white American cheese in cheese sauces and creamy pasta dishes.

4. Colby Cheese

Colby cheese is a semi-hard cheese that is similar to cheddar cheese. It is made from cow's milk and has a smooth texture and mild flavor. Colby cheese melts well and can be used as a substitute for white American cheese in dishes such as grilled cheese sandwiches and cheese dips.

5. Velveeta Cheese

Velveeta cheese is a processed cheese product that is often used as a substitute for white American cheese. It has a smooth and creamy texture and is made from a combination of real cheese and other ingredients such as whey proteins and milk fats. Velveeta cheese is a popular choice for making cheese sauces and dips, as well as grilled cheese sandwiches.

6. Cheez Whiz

Cheez Whiz is another processed cheese product that is commonly used as a substitute for white American cheese. It has a smooth and creamy texture, similar to Velveeta cheese, and is made from a combination of real cheese and other ingredients. Cheez Whiz is often used in dishes such as mac and cheese and as a topping for burgers.

7. Muenster Cheese

Muenster cheese is a great substitute for white American cheese, especially for those looking for a nutty flavor. It is a semi-soft cheese that is made from cow's milk and has a smooth texture. Muenster cheese melts well and can be used in dishes such as grilled cheese sandwiches, cheese dips, and even on a cheese board.

8. Mozzarella Cheese

Mozzarella cheese is another excellent substitute for white American cheese. It is a soft cheese that is made from buffalo or cow's milk and has a mild flavor. Mozzarella cheese is commonly used in dishes such as pizza, pasta, and as a topping for salads. It can also be used as a substitute for white American cheese in cheese sauces and dips.

9. Provolone Cheese

Provolone cheese is a mild cheese that is similar to Swiss cheese. It is made from cow's milk and has a smooth texture and buttery flavor. Provolone cheese melts well and is commonly used in dishes such as grilled cheese sandwiches and as a topping for pasta dishes.

10. Monterey Jack Cheese

Monterey Jack cheese is a mild cheese that is made from cow's milk and has a soft texture. It has a milder flavor compared to cheddar cheese and is commonly used in dishes such as quesadillas, cheese sauces, and as a topping for tacos. It can also be used as a substitute for white American cheese in recipes that call for a mild cheese.

11. Cream Cheese

Cream cheese is a soft cheese that is made from cow's milk and has a mild flavor. It is a great substitute for white American cheese in dishes that require a smooth and creamy texture, such as cheese dips and sauces. It can also be used in place of white American cheese in grilled cheese sandwiches, as it melts well.

12. Fontina Cheese

Fontina cheese is a semi-soft cheese that is made from cow's milk. It has a nutty flavor and a smooth texture, making it a good substitute for white American cheese in dishes such as grilled cheese sandwiches and cheese sauces. Fontina cheese also pairs well with pasta dishes and can be used on a cheese board.

13. Feta Cheese

Feta cheese is a type of cheese that is commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine. It is made from sheep or goat's milk and has a tangy and salty flavor. Feta cheese can be crumbled and used as a substitute for white American cheese in salads and pasta dishes. It can also be used in cheese dips and as a topping for grilled meats.

14. Havarti Cheese

Havarti cheese is a semi-soft cheese that is made from cow's milk. It has a buttery flavor and melts well, making it a great substitute for white American cheese in dishes such as grilled cheese sandwiches and cheese dips. Havarti cheese also pairs well with fruits and can be used on a cheese board.

15. Queso Blanco

For those looking for a homemade substitute for white American cheese, queso blanco is an excellent choice. It is a type of Mexican cheese that is made from cow's milk and has a low melting point. Queso blanco has a sweet flavor and can be used in dishes such as cheese sauces, dips, and even on top of grilled meats.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many great substitutes for white American cheese available in grocery stores. From natural cheeses such as Swiss, cheddar, and provolone to processed cheese products such as Velveeta and Cheez Whiz, there is a wide variety of options to choose from. It's important to keep in mind that each type of cheese will have its own unique flavor and texture, so it's always a good idea to experiment and find what works best for you and your taste preferences. Whether you're looking for a healthier option or simply want to try something new, these substitutes for white American cheese are sure to satisfy your cheesy cravings in a variety of dishes.