Dairy, Cheese | Vegetarian

Monterey Jack Cheese

Bos taurus Allergens: Milk, Lactose
monterey jack cheese

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family N/A (Animal product)
  • Primary Cuisine American, Mexican
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Cow's milk

The Forktionary Angle

"The quintessential American melting cheese, prized for its versatility and smooth finish in dishes."

Definition

A semi-hard American cheese with a mild, buttery flavor and excellent melting properties, often used in Mexican cuisine.

Sensory Profile

TasteMild, Buttery, Creamy
TextureSemi-hard, Smooth, Very Melty
AromaMilky, Mildly Nutty
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Key Nutrient

Calcium, Protein

Melting Point

~150-160°F (65-71°C)

Shelf Life (Opened)

3-4 weeks (refrigerated)

Nutrition Facts

Per 28g (1 slice)
Calories373 kcal
Total Fat30.5g
Saturated Fat19.3g
Trans Fat1.4g
Cholesterol91mg
Protein24.3g
Total Carbohydrate1.8g
Dietary Fiber0g
Total Sugars0.5g
Calcium742mg
Iron0.2mg
Potassium70mg

Chef’s Secret

For smooth, even melting, allow Monterey Jack to come to room temperature before grating or adding to hot dishes.

Substitutions

Best Match

Colby Jack

1:1

Very similar mild flavor and excellent melting characteristics.

Mild Cheddar

1:1

Good melting, slightly tangier flavor.

Queso Oaxaca

1:1

Excellent stringy melt, very mild flavor, traditional for Mexican dishes.

Provolone Cheese

1:1

Good melt, slightly more pronounced flavor.

Buying Guide

Look for firm, uniform blocks or pre-shredded bags without excess moisture.

Flavor Pairings

Tacos Quesadillas Burgers Nachos Sandwiches

Recipes Using Monterey Jack Cheese

Occasion North American Preparation Soups Stews

Bacon Cheeseburger And Fries Soup

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food: Bacon Cheeseburger & Fries Soup! This decadent recipe transforms the classic cheeseburger and fries into a rich, layered soup, where every bite is a flavor explosion. Imagine juicy bacon, melty cheese, crispy fries, and savory burger all swimming in a creamy broth. Celery cleverly stands in for crisp lettuce, completing this unforgettable culinary masterpiece. This isn't your average soup; it's a taste of pure bliss – even better than the real thing! Perfect for a chilly night or anytime you crave a seriously satisfying meal.

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Equipment Eggs Dairy Easy Equipment

Alice Chicken

Discover the secret to unbelievably juicy and flavorful chicken with this recipe! Inspired by the legendary Alice (whoever she is!), this versatile dish features perfectly broiled chicken breasts topped with crispy bacon, savory mushrooms, and melted cheese. Customize it with your favorite salad dressings for endless flavor combinations. Get ready for a delicious and easy weeknight meal that's sure to impress!

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Oven Equipment Copycat Easy

Amarillo Cheese Fries And Dip Like The Lone Star Copycat

Experience the mouthwatering magic of Amarillo Cheese Fries, inspired by a family birthday feast! This copycat recipe recreates the incredible Lone Star-style flavor explosion you'll crave. Crispy fries piled high with melted cheese and smoky bacon, served with a zesty ranch and taco seasoning dip. Perfect as a game-day snack, appetizer, or a satisfying main course – get ready for a flavor adventure!

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Savory Time To Make Dietary Cuisine

Angie's Shrimp Canapes

These elegant shrimp canapés are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even for picky eaters! Perfect for parties, holidays, or any special occasion, this recipe features tender shrimp, creamy cheese, and perfectly toasted bread. A delightful twist on a classic appetizer that's both easy to make and incredibly delicious. Get ready to impress your guests (and kids!) with this simple yet sophisticated recipe.

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Savory Pies Occasion Time To Make Eggs Dairy

Artichoke And Sun Dried Tomato Quiche

This delightful Artichoke and Sun-Dried Tomato Quiche is a flavor explosion! A creamy, cheesy filling bursting with artichoke hearts, juicy sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all baked in a flaky crust. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Easy to follow instructions and stunning results!

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Time To Make Main Ingredient Brunch Preparation

Artichoke Breakfast Burritos

This award-winning Artichoke Breakfast Burrito recipe, a champion from the Castroville, California fresh artichoke contest, was created by Julia Perez Magana. Imagine a burst of fresh artichoke flavor combined with savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese all wrapped in a warm tortilla. This recipe is a delicious and satisfying way to start your day – or any meal! Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make, yet remarkably flavorful breakfast creation.

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Course Breads Dinner Party Time To Make

Artichoke Garlic Bread

Elevate your dinner party with this irresistible Artichoke Garlic Bread! A gourmet twist on a classic, this recipe uses crusty baguette shells filled with a creamy artichoke, garlic, and three-cheese blend. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Easily adaptable – use two smaller baguettes if needed.

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15 Minutes Or Less Main Ingredient Breads Time To Make

Asparagus Rolls

These elegant Asparagus Rolls are the perfect side dish for your Easter brunch! Simple to make, yet incredibly impressive, these savory rolls combine tender asparagus with flaky crescent dough and your favorite toppings. Serve alongside ham and eggs for a complete and delicious meal. Ready in under 30 minutes!

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Course Cheese Preparation Course

Avocado Quesadillas

Craveable Central Market-Style Avocado Quesadillas! This recipe elevates the classic quesadilla with a vibrant avocado mixture and a creamy cilantro-lime sour cream. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun appetizer.

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Time To Make Beginner Cook Dinner Party Easy

Awesome Taco Dip

This legendary taco dip recipe has been a party favorite since 1990! Easy to make, yet incredibly delicious, this crowd-pleasing dip is perfect for game day, potlucks, or any gathering. Get ready for rave reviews! (Can sizes are approximate)

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Omelets And Frittatas Preparation Eggs Dairy Breakfast

Baked Eggs With Green Chilies

Spice up your breakfast, lunch, or dinner with this incredibly easy and customizable Baked Eggs with Green Chilies recipe! This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a delightful weekend brunch. Imagine tender eggs baked to perfection, infused with the savory heat of green chilies, and melted cheese. Easily doubled for a crowd, you can experiment with different cheeses, veggies, and spices to create your own signature dish. Try adding spinach, sundried tomatoes, and cheddar with a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick! Get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite!

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60 Minutes Or Less Eggs Dairy 60 Minutes Or Less Elbow Macaroni

Baked Macaroni With Three Cheeses

Indulge in this creamy, dreamy Baked Macaroni with Three Cheeses! This isn't your average mac and cheese; we're taking it to the next level with a perfectly crisp topping and a luxuriously smooth, cheesy sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. The secret? Cooking the pasta just past al dente to maximize absorption and create that unforgettable cheesy goodness. This recipe, originally clipped from a newspaper, is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a special occasion. Get ready for cheesy perfection!

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Time To Make 4 Hours Or Less Cheese Equipment

Baked Potato Slices With Two Cheeses

Crispy, cheesy, and incredibly easy! This recipe for baked potato slices keeps the skins on for extra flavor and texture. No peeling required! Ready in under 80 minutes, this side dish (or hearty meal) is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together. Get ready to be amazed by how simple and delicious this recipe is!

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Main Ingredient Breakfast Equipment Eggs Dairy

Baked Sicilian Frittata

Start your day the Sicilian way with this hearty and delicious frittata! Prep most of it the night before for a quick and easy weekday breakfast. This recipe is perfect for busy mornings – simply bake while you shower and get ready for work. Serves 8 (easily halved for 4). Enjoy this flavorful blend of potatoes, peppers, broccoli, and cheese for a satisfying and unforgettable breakfast experience, especially perfect for holiday brunches!

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Occasion Main Dish Low In Something Taste Mood

Barbara's Salsa Chicken

Juicy, flavorful salsa chicken, perfect for tacos, burritos, or a quick weeknight dinner! This recipe uses your favorite salsa (homemade or store-bought) for a customizable dish bursting with fresh tastes. Tender chicken breasts are breaded and pan-fried before being baked to perfection with melted Monterey Jack cheese and a generous topping of zesty salsa. Get ready for a fiesta in your mouth!

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Easy Easy Mexican Black Beans

Beef Fajita Soup

Warm up with this sizzling Beef Fajita Soup! A hearty and flavorful recipe that's perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering. This recipe features tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and zesty spices, all simmered to perfection in a rich broth. Get ready for a taste explosion that will leave everyone wanting more!

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American Main Ingredient Inexpensive One Dish Meal

Beefy Tortilla Casserole

This hearty Beefy Tortilla Casserole is a family-friendly favorite, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. Inspired by a classic recipe but with a delicious twist, this casserole features layers of seasoned ground beef, crunchy tortillas, creamy soup mixtures, and melty cheese. Even picky eaters will love this cheesy, satisfying dish! Get ready for rave reviews!

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Preparation Potatoes Dietary Low Calorie

Best Ever Potatoes

Creamy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible! These Best Ever Cheesy Potatoes are a crowd-pleaser guaranteed to be a hit at your next potluck, BBQ, or family dinner. Two kinds of melty cheese and tangy sour cream create a dreamy potato casserole that's easy to make and even easier to devour. Get ready for rave reviews!

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