What is Jack Cheese?

Jack cheese is an American cheese that is often referred to as Monterey Jack. Featuring a creamy texture and a mild flavor that is sometimes accentuated with herbs, this cheese is a versatile option for many different types of dishes.

First developed in the city of Monterey, California, jack cheese is available in several varieties. Some types of this cheese are aged, while others are not. Aged versions tend to take on a deeper yellow shade and develop a sharper taste. Versions that are not aged tend to be pale in color and retain a lighter taste. In many cases, unaged versions will be blended with a selection of herbs and spices. This helps to set jack cheese apart from other American cheeses. Many of these blends are available in supermarkets and upscale food shops. A few of common blended jack cheeses include Colby Jack, Pepper Jack, Salsa Jack, and Horseradish Jack.

Owing to the creamy texture and the smooth melting qualities of jack cheese, many tasty recipes specify the inclusion of one or more variations of the cheese. For instance, baked macaroni and cheese that makes use of Pepper Jack as a binder, coupled with a top crust of grated Horseradish Jack, can breathe new life into an old favorite. For hors d’oeuvres, melted jack cheese as part of the ingredients for finger foods is a great option. For cookouts, this cheese is an excellent alternative to cheddar as a topping for grilled hamburgers. A sprinkling of grated jack cheese or even the inclusion of tiny cubes of the cheese can enhance salads. Spicy versions of this cheese can be combined with a mixture of fresh cut fruits to create a dessert option that is healthy, attractive, and tasty.

Moderately priced and widely available, jack cheese is a great way to add an unexpected dash of flavor to old favorites. Easy to work with and visually appealing in a number of situations, it is an excellent addition to any kitchen. From simple grilled cheese sandwiches to complicate casseroles, jack cheese will take any recipe to a new level, and help the ordinary take on an extraordinary dimension.