Kamil Perry
There are many varieties of cheese, and not all of them melt in the same way. The melting ability of a cheese depends on factors such as moisture, fat, and age. A cheese with higher moisture content will have more loosely packed milk proteins, which separate more easily when heated. This is why a drier cheese like Parmesan becomes oily when melted, while a moister cheese like Brie melts as soon as it is warmed. Similarly, high-fat cheeses melt better than low-fat or non-fat cheeses. Finally, younger cheeses tend to melt more easily than older ones. For example, a young cheddar will melt better than an aged one. Some examples of white cheeses that melt well include Monterey Jack, Muenster, and Extra Melt White American Cheese.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese type | American Cheese |
| Cheese color | White |
| Texture | Creamy |
| Flavor | Rich, creamy, and dairy-forward |
| Moisture | High |
| Fat | High |
| Age | Younger |
| Melting ability | Melts evenly and consistently |
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What You'll Learn
White cheese melting tips
White cheese can be melted, and there are a few tips to ensure you get the best results. Firstly, it is important to choose the right type of cheese. While low-fat and low-moisture cheeses like Romano and Parmesan will melt into strands, they are not ideal for creating a smooth, creamy cheese sauce. Instead, opt for cheeses with more moisture and a lower melting point, such as cheddar, Swiss, or Gruyère. For a robust flavour, you can also try Smoked Gouda.
Once you have selected the right cheese, the next step is to decide on a melting method. The stovetop approach is recommended as it provides more control over the melting process and allows you to customise your cheese sauce. Using a non-stick saucepan or skillet, such as ceramic or porcelain-enameled, will prevent the cheese from sticking to the sides and burning. Start by melting butter over medium heat, then gradually add flour to create a roux, which will thicken your sauce and enhance its flavour and texture. Once you have a smooth mixture, slowly add milk and continue stirring until it is well combined. Finally, add your shredded cheese and turn the heat to the lowest setting to ensure your cheese melts slowly and evenly.
It is worth noting that melting cheese in the microwave is possible, but it may not produce the desired results. The microwave method can lead to overheating or burning, resulting in an unappealing texture. Therefore, it is best to opt for the stovetop approach to achieve a perfectly melted, creamy cheese sauce.
Additionally, if you are looking for a cheese that melts evenly and consistently, Extra Melt White American Cheese is a great option. This cheese can be easily shredded, sliced, or cubed, making it versatile for various dishes.
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Recipes with melted white cheese
White cheese, such as American cheese, melts very well and is perfect for a variety of dishes. Here are some mouth-watering recipes that use melted white cheese:
Queso Blanco
This is a delicious white cheese dip that is rich, creamy, and perfect for any occasion. To make it, start by melting butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until they are softened and slightly caramelized. Then, add garlic and cook for a further 30 seconds. In a separate saucepan, heat milk over medium heat until small bubbles form, then reduce the heat to low and slowly add in the cheese cubes, whisking continuously until melted. Combine the two mixtures, adding in the cooked onions and garlic, diced green chiles, salt, and black pepper to taste. For a runnier consistency, add more milk or stir in some salsa. This dip is perfect for snacking with tortilla chips or as an appetizer.
Gooey Baked Camembert
This simple dish is a classic for a reason. Bake a Camembert until melted and gooey, then stuff it with homemade bramble jam. The salty, truffled cheese pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy jam. Serve it with some crackers or bread for dipping and enjoy the contrast of flavours and textures.
Cheese Toastie
A good old-fashioned sandwich never goes out of style. Try a combination of mozzarella, gruyère, and cheddar sandwiched between thick slices of buttered white bread. Press the sandwich until the cheese melts and the bread is toasted to crispy perfection. For an extra indulgent touch, spread some butter on the outside of the bread before toasting.
Fondue
Fondue is a classic Swiss dish that is perfect for sharing. For a unique twist, try a combination of Lincolnshire poacher, ogleshield, and gubbeen cheeses, with a splash of whisky. Melt the cheeses together, creating a complex and flavourful pot of fondue. Serve with a variety of dipping options such as bread cubes, vegetables, or meats, and enjoy the social and interactive nature of this dish.
Truffade
A magical combination of hash browns and fresh tome cheese, truffade is a traditional dish from Auvergne, France. It is often served with potatoes and bacon, creating a hearty and indulgent meal. For an extra touch of luxury, top it with a soft layer of Reblochon or Cantal cheese, and serve it with a green salad and pickles on the side.
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Types of white cheese that melt well
There are several types of white cheese that melt well and are ideal for a variety of dishes. Here are some of them:
Extra Melt White American Cheese
This cheese has a rich, creamy texture and flavour and melts evenly and consistently. It can be easily shredded, sliced, or cubed, making it a versatile option for gourmet preparations. It is available in 5-pound loaves from the Wisconsin Cheese Company and Land O'Lakes.
Smoked Gouda
Gouda is a well-known type of white cheese that melts well. Smoked gouda, in particular, has a robust flavour and a smooth, supple texture that melts beautifully.
Muenster
Muenster is a soft, savoury cheese with a rich, underlying tang. It is known to melt well and is often used in grilled cheese sandwiches.
Swiss Cheese
Swiss cheese, known for its distinctive holes, has a soft texture and nutty flavour. It melts well and can be used in a variety of dishes.
Monterey Jack and Other Jack Cheeses
Monterey Jack and other types of Jack cheeses are firm, creamy, and fresh-tasting. They melt well and are commonly used in dishes like quesadillas and dips.
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White cheese that doesn't melt well
While most cheeses melt, some melt better than others. The melting ability of a cheese is influenced by factors such as its age, pH, calcium content, and texture. Younger, fresher, softer, and more supple cheeses tend to melt better. Semi-soft and semi-hard cheeses are ideal, and if a cheese can be bent by hand, it will likely melt well. Cheeses with higher moisture content and moderate acid development also tend to melt better.
Some white cheeses, such as white cheddar, can melt very well, especially when shredded. However, older cheddars tend to have less moisture and may not melt as well as younger cheddars. White American cheese is another variety that is known to melt well and is often sold as a melting cheese.
Some other white cheeses that do not melt as well include:
- Mozzarella: While mozzarella is known for its stretchy, supple quality when melted, it can be more challenging to melt evenly and may require blending with other cheeses or shredding to achieve the desired meltability.
- Gouda: Smoked gouda has a robust flavor and remains smooth and supple enough to melt, but its melting ability may vary depending on its age and texture. Younger gouda tends to melt better.
- Gruyere: This firm Swiss cheese can be aged for six months or longer, resulting in a stronger flavor and a firmer texture that may not melt as easily as younger, softer cheeses.
- Fontina: Fontina is a smooth, mild, and savory cheese that melts reasonably well but may not be as meltable as other varieties.
It is important to note that the melting ability of a cheese can be influenced by various factors, including the specific cheese variety, aging time, and individual recipe or preparation techniques.
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White cheese melting problems and solutions
White cheese can melt, but it is prone to becoming greasy, lumpy, and stringy. This is due to the dairy fat and water in the cheese, which separates when heated. To avoid this, it is recommended to grate the cheese before melting it, as this will allow it to melt more evenly and thoroughly.
Problem: Greasy, lumpy, and stringy cheese
When melted, white cheese can often become greasy, lumpy, and stringy. This is a common issue that occurs when the cheese separates into a pool of oil and clumps of protein.
Solution: Grate the cheese
To avoid the melted cheese becoming greasy and lumpy, it is recommended to grate the cheese before melting it. Grating the cheese increases the surface area, allowing the heat to be distributed more evenly and resulting in a smoother melt.
Problem: Dry and crumbly cheese
Another issue that can occur when melting white cheese is that it becomes dry and crumbly, resulting in a lot of waste.
Solution: Add milk or cream
To combat the dryness, milk or cream can be added while melting the cheese. This helps to create a thicker, smoother sauce and prevents the cheese from drying out. It is important to cook on low heat to avoid burning the milk or cream.
Problem: Allergic reactions
Some people have reported experiencing allergic reactions specifically to melted white cheese, such as stomach cramps, nausea, and diarrhoea.
Solution: Choose alternative cheeses or ingredients
If you are prone to allergic reactions when consuming melted white cheese, it is advisable to opt for alternative cheeses or ingredients that agree with your digestive system. Experiment with different types of cheese, such as softer cheeses or those with lower fat content, to find options that suit your individual tolerance.
Best melting cheeses
Some cheeses are known to melt particularly well, such as American cheese, which is specifically designed to be meltable and is often used in queso recipes. Other good melting cheeses include Jack, Gruyère, Jarlsberg, low-moisture mozzarella, Colby, Swiss, and Muenster.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, white cheese melts. However, not all cheeses melt the same way. A cheese's ability to melt depends on its moisture content, fat content, and age. Cheeses with higher moisture content tend to melt more easily, while drier, harder cheeses like Parmesan become oily or greasy when melted. Cheeses with higher fat content also melt better, and younger cheeses tend to melt more easily than aged ones.
Some types of white cheese that melt well include Extra Melt White American Cheese, Land O Lakes® Extra Melt® American Cheese Loaf, White Cheddar, and Monterey Jack.
Melted white cheese can be used in a variety of recipes, such as grilled cheese sandwiches, quesadillas, macaroni and cheese, casseroles, fondue, burgers, and dips.
