Dairy | Vegetarian Gluten Free

Jack Cheese

Bos taurus (Cow) Allergens: Milk
Jack Cheese

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Not Applicable
  • Primary Cuisine Mexican-American
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Cow's Milk

What Is Jack Cheese?

A mild, semi-hard cow's milk cheese, known for its good melting properties and versatility.

What Does Jack Cheese Taste Like?

Jack Cheese has a mild, creamy, nutty taste with milky, buttery aromas.

Taste
Mild, Creamy, Nutty
Texture
Smooth, Melty, Semi-firm
Aroma
Milky, Buttery
Acidity
Low

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 28g (1 oz)
Calories371 kcal
Total Fat30g
Saturated Fat19g
Trans Fat1g
Cholesterol90mg
Protein25g
Total Carbohydrate1g
Dietary Fiber0g
Total Sugars0g
Calcium700mg
Iron0.1mg
Potassium90mg

Chef’s Secret

For the best melt, shred or grate Jack cheese from a block rather than buying pre-shredded, which often contains anti-caking agents.

Jack Cheese Substitutes & Ratios

The best substitute for Jack Cheese is Mozzarella, used at a 1:1 ratio. Similar mild flavor and excellent melting qualities.

Substitutes for Jack Cheese with ratios
Substitute Ratio Best for
Mozzarella Best 1:1 Similar mild flavor and excellent melting qualities.
Cheddar (Mild) 1:1 Slightly sharper flavor, but similar texture and melt.
Colby 1:1 Very similar taste and texture profile to Jack cheese.
Vegan Shreds (e.g., Daiya) 1:1 Dairy-free alternative, designed for melting.

How to Choose & Store Jack Cheese

  1. Look for smooth, uniform texture without cracks.
  2. Aged Jack cheese (Pepper Jack, Dry Jack) offers more flavor.

What Pairs Well With Jack Cheese?

  • Tacos
  • Enchiladas
  • Quesadillas
  • Burgers
  • Sandwiches
  • Soups
  • Casseroles

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Jack Cheese taste like?

Mild|Creamy|Nutty Milky|Buttery

What is a good substitute for Jack Cheese?

The best substitute is Mozzarella (1:1). Similar mild flavor and excellent melting qualities.

How do you choose and store Jack Cheese?

Look for smooth, uniform texture without cracks. Aged Jack cheese (Pepper Jack, Dry Jack) offers more flavor.

Recipes Using Jack Cheese

Vegan Superbowl Vegan Appetizers

Baked Vegetarian Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Crispy, spicy, and unbelievably delicious! These Baked Vegetarian Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are a game-changer for cauliflower skeptics. This recipe delivers the satisfying crunch and bold buffalo flavor of classic wings, but with a healthy vegetarian twist. Easily customizable with gluten-free flour and soy milk, you can tailor it to your dietary needs. We've dialed back the hot sauce for a more manageable spice level, but feel free to add more for extra heat! Plus, we've included a tip for adding cheesy goodness. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will have you reaching for seconds!

See Complete Recipe

Related Dairy Ingredients

Need a substitute for Jack Cheese right now, or a recipe that uses it? Ask Sous, your AI sous-chef.