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

Sandwiches North American For 1 Or 2 Dietary

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Anasazi Enchiladas

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Course Occasion Appetizers Savory

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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American Poultry North American Seasonal

Angry Chicken

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Rice Course Mexican Main Ingredient

Arroz Con Chile Verde Green Chile Rice

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Californian Main Ingredient Seasonal 60 Minutes Or Less

Artichoke Breakfast Burritos

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Mexican Dietary Time To Make North American

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Easy Easy Dinner Party Time To Make

Awesome Taco Dip

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Low In Something Eggs Dairy Taste Mood Thanksgiving

Badazz Sour Cream Potatoes

Experience a flavor explosion with our Badazz Sour Cream Potatoes! This creamy, cheesy potato casserole is unbelievably easy to make and delivers incredible comfort food satisfaction. Perfectly seasoned and baked to golden perfection, it's the ultimate side dish for any occasion – from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. Prepare to be amazed by the unbelievably creamy texture and irresistible taste!

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60 Minutes Or Less Dietary 60 Minutes Or Less Pasta

Baked Macaroni With Three Cheeses

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Easy Potatoes Cuisine Low Carb

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Pasta Southern United States Preparation Pasta Rice And Grains

Baked Spaghetti By Paula Deen

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Low In Something Mexican Main Ingredient Main Dish

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Main Ingredient Dietary Mexican 30 Minutes Or Less

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Easy Number Of Servings Dietary Main Dish

Beef Fiesta Casserole

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Ground Beef To Go Southwestern United States Preparation

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