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

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3 Cheese Crab Quesadillas

Elevate your weeknight dinner with these incredible 3 Cheese Crab Quesadillas! A flavorful twist on a classic, this recipe is quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress even the pickiest eaters. Juicy crab meat blends perfectly with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, and cheddar cheeses, all brought together with a zesty cocktail sauce. Get ready for a cheesy, crabby explosion in your mouth! Perfect for a family dinner or a fun appetizer.

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7 Layer Fiesta Party Dip

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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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Aunt Bev's Hominy

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Creamy Avocado Cashew Enchiladas from Mollie Katzen's Enchanted Broccoli Forest! These rich and delicious enchiladas are bursting with healthy fats and protein. A vibrant, satisfying vegetarian meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to be amazed!

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Avocado Tomato And Jack Cheese Salsa

This vibrant Avocado Tomato & Jack Cheese Salsa is a fiesta for your taste buds! A ridiculously yummy dip for tortilla chips, perfect for parties or a quick weeknight snack. Make it several days ahead for even more intense flavor. Creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and sharp Jack cheese create a flavor explosion that will have you coming back for more. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy-to-make recipe!

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Awesome And Easy Chicken Enchiladas Reduced Fat

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Number Of Servings 3 Steps Or Less 60 Minutes Or Less Number Of Servings

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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Bacon Lattice Tomato Muffins Rsc

Ready, set, bake! These show-stopping Bacon Lattice Tomato Muffins are a flavor explosion! Flaky biscuits are filled with a juicy mixture of fresh tomatoes and onions, seasoned with a creamy, tangy blend of cream cheese and mayonnaise. The crispy bacon lattice topping adds a salty, smoky crunch that elevates this recipe to contest-winning status. Perfect for brunch, a party appetizer, or a unique weeknight dinner.

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30 Minutes Or Less Main Dish Preparation 3 Steps Or Less

Baked Chicken Taquitos

Craving crispy taquitos without the guilt? This baked version is a healthier, less messy alternative to deep-fried, delivering all the flavor and satisfying crunch you love! Made with juicy chicken, vibrant spices, and melty cheese, these taquitos are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun party appetizer. Use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal prep! Serve with your favorite salsa, sour cream, and guacamole for the ultimate flavor explosion.

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Casseroles Time To Make Preparation Side Dishes

Baked Corn And Rice Casserole

This festive corn and rice casserole is a delicious and hearty alternative to mashed potatoes or plain rice. Packed with cheesy goodness and vibrant veggies, it's incredibly filling and perfect for potlucks, holidays, or a comforting weeknight dinner. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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60 Minutes Or Less Cuisine Time To Make Course

Baked Jalapeno Stuffed Wraps

Spice up your weeknight dinner with these irresistible Baked Jalapeno Stuffed Wraps! A family-friendly recipe with a kick, these flavorful wraps are incredibly easy to make and are even better when lightly breaded. Get ready for a taste sensation that will have everyone asking for seconds – even the pickiest eaters! This recipe takes inspiration from a friend, with a few inventive twists added for extra deliciousness.

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Barbara's Salsa Chicken

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Barbecue Chicken Quesadillas

Transform leftover chicken into a flavor explosion with these easy Barbecue Chicken Quesadillas! This crowd-pleasing recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun game-day snack. Customize it with your favorite BBQ sauce and cheese – the possibilities are endless! Get ready for crispy tortillas filled with juicy chicken, sweet peppers, and melted cheese in just 30 minutes.

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Appetizers Time To Make Course 30 Minutes Or Less

Bean And Cheese Dip

This irresistible warm bean and cheese dip is the perfect appetizer for game day, parties, or a cozy night in! Made ahead and baked to bubbly perfection, this recipe features a creamy blend of beans, cheeses, and zesty spices. Serve with your favorite corn or tortilla chips for an unforgettable flavor explosion.

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Simply Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas

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