Frederic Melton
The cheeseburger is a classic American dish, with the first cheeseburger appearing on the menu at Kaelin's restaurant in Louisville, Kentucky, in 1934. They topped a patty with American cheese, hoping to add a new tang to the hamburger. Since then, the cheeseburger has become a staple in diners and backyards across the US, with many variations of the original. While some prefer the classic American cheese, others opt for more adventurous options like blue cheese, brie, or cheddar. This article will explore the different types of cheese available and the factors that make them great for cheeseburgers, such as meltability, flavour, and texture. We will also discuss the history and culture surrounding this beloved American dish.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Classic | American cheese is the classic choice for cheeseburgers |
| Taste | American cheese has a mild, salty flavour |
| Texture | Creamy and smooth |
| Melting | Melts well and gets gooey and creamy |
| Nutrition | Similar calories, protein, calcium and phosphorus as cheddar. Higher sodium content than cheddar. |
| Cost | Similar cost to cheddar |
| Processed | American cheese is processed |
| Alternatives | Cheddar, Swiss, blue cheese, brie, gouda, jack, muenster, gruyere, havarti, pepperjack, smoked gouda |
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What You'll Learn
American cheese's gooey texture
American cheese is a processed cheese that is generally made with cheddar. It has a lower melting point and a gooey, creamy texture when melted. Its mild flavour and smooth, creamy texture make it a popular choice for cheeseburgers.
The term "American Cheese" was popularised by James L. Kraft in 1916, when he patented a method for manufacturing processed cheese. Kraft Deli Deluxe slices, for example, are made up of at least 51% actual cheese. However, cheese products that resemble American cheese may contain a higher percentage of milk proteins and emulsifiers, which help them stay softer and melt at a lower temperature.
However, some people may prefer other types of cheese on their cheeseburgers, such as cheddar, which has a stronger, sharper, and tangier flavour. Ultimately, the choice of cheese depends on personal preference and the specific ingredients of the burger.
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The cheeseburger classic
The cheeseburger is a classic American meal. It is a hearty, savoury, and filling dish that can be dressed up with toppings. The cheeseburger first appeared on the menu at Kaelin's restaurant in Louisville, Kentucky, in 1934. They topped a patty with American cheese to add a "new tang to the hamburger", and this classic staple soon appeared everywhere from diners to backyards across the US.
American cheese is a processed cheese that is generally made with cheddar. It has a lower melting point and a gooey, creamy texture when melted. Its mild flavour and smooth, creamy texture make it a good pairing with burgers that have other bold flavours or unique toppings. It also has a high salt content, with 1,660 milligrams of sodium per 100 grams.
Cheddar cheese is another popular choice for cheeseburgers. It has a stronger, sharper, and tangier flavour than American cheese, and a crumbly texture when cold. It can be greasy when melted if it releases a lot of cheese fat. However, it is a better option for those watching their salt intake, as it has less than half the sodium content of American cheese.
Other types of cheese can also be used on cheeseburgers, such as blue cheese, brie, Swiss, mozzarella, provolone, gouda, jack, muenster, and pepper jack. These cheeses can add a decadent, creamy, or tangy twist to the classic cheeseburger.
Ultimately, the choice of cheese for a cheeseburger comes down to personal preference. American cheese is the classic choice, but cheddar and other cheeses can also be delicious and elevate the comfort food burger into something more interesting.
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Taste and meltability
American cheese is a processed cheese that is generally made with cheddar. It has a lower melting point and a gooey, creamy texture when melted. Its mild flavour and smooth, creamy texture make it a good pairing with burgers that have other bold flavours or unique toppings. Its saltiness also accentuates the flavour of the burger.
Cheddar cheese, on the other hand, has a stronger, sharper and tangier flavour. It is also creamy when melted but can be crumbly when cold. If you want the cheese on your burger to stand out, cheddar is a good option. For the best of both worlds, you can use a combination of American and cheddar cheese.
If you are looking for other cheese options for your cheeseburger, there are several alternatives. Blue cheese is a pungent and creamy cheese that is often used in upscale steak restaurants. Brie, a soft cow's milk cheese, is another option that can make a cheeseburger exceptional. A traditional Dutch cheese, Gouda is creamy and mild and is one of the most popular cheeses in the world. It is also a good choice for cheeseburgers. Jack cheese is also one of the best cheeses for melting, making it perfect for a gooey cheeseburger.
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Salt content
The saltiness of American cheese contributes to its "milky, salty flavor that accentuates, but doesn't compete with a burger". Its high salt content, along with its mild flavour, makes it a good choice for burgers with other bold flavours or unique toppings, as the cheese adds some flavour without being overpowering.
However, if you are watching your salt intake, you may want to opt for cheddar cheese, which has a significantly lower salt content. Choosing mild cheddar will also reduce the sharpness of its flavour, making it even less likely to overpower other flavours in your cheeseburger.
If you are looking for a cheese with a lower salt content than American or cheddar cheese, you may want to consider a soft goat's milk cheese, such as Montrachet, which adds a "delightfully creamy tang" to complement the beef.
Ultimately, the choice of cheese for your cheeseburger depends on your personal preference and the other ingredients in your burger.
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Alternatives to American cheese
While American cheese is a classic choice for cheeseburgers, there are several alternative options that can elevate this American staple.
Cheddar is a popular alternative to American cheese. It has a similar texture and flavour profile, especially if you opt for a milder variety of cheddar. Cheddar is a good choice if you're watching your salt intake, as it has significantly less sodium than American cheese.
Swiss cheese is another alternative, with a nutty flavour and slightly sweet notes. It's a healthier option than American cheese and can be found in most grocery stores.
If you're looking for something creamy and mild, Provolone is a great choice. It has a subtle, buttery flavour and is a good option if you want your cheeseburger to have a more subtle cheese flavour.
For a truly decadent cheeseburger, blue cheese is a popular choice in upscale steak restaurants. It has a pleasantly pungent and creamy flavour, and a little goes a long way, so adjust the amount to your taste preference.
Other alternatives to American cheese on cheeseburgers include Brie, Gouda, Jack, Muenster, and goat's milk cheese. These cheeses offer a range of flavours and textures that can complement the other ingredients in your burger.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on your taste preferences and dietary requirements. American cheese is a classic choice for cheeseburgers and has a gooey, melty texture with a mild, salty flavour. However, it is highly processed and high in sodium.
Some popular alternatives to American cheese include cheddar, Swiss, blue cheese, brie, mozzarella, provolone, gouda, and plant-based cheese.
American cheese has a lower melting point than other cheeses, resulting in a gooey and creamy texture when melted. Its mild flavour also pairs well with other bold flavours and unique toppings on a cheeseburger.
American cheese is highly processed and has a high sodium content. It may not be suitable for those watching their salt intake or avoiding processed foods. Additionally, some may prefer cheeses with a stronger flavour profile for their cheeseburgers.
