What's the Best Substitute for White American Cheese?
Whether you're out of White American Cheese or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Processed cheese with smooth, creamy texture and mild flavor, identical to regular American cheese but without orange coloring In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for white American cheese are white cheddar, Colby, Monterey Jack, or Velveeta depending on the dish.
Best Substitutes for White American Cheese
White Cheddar Cheese
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- grilled cheese
- burgers
- mac and cheese
- cooking
Description
Natural white cheese with similar melting properties and mild flavor
Similar melting properties but more complex flavor than processed cheese
Colby Cheese
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- grilled cheese
- burgers
- cooking
- melting
Description
Mild, semi-hard cheese with good melting properties and natural white color
Very similar in taste and melting to American cheese, naturally white
Monterey Jack
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- grilled cheese
- burgers
- cooking
- quesadillas
Description
Mild, semi-soft cheese with excellent melting and natural white color
Similar mild flavor and melting properties, naturally white
Velveeta
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- mac and cheese
- queso dip
- cooking
- melting
Description
Processed cheese product with similar smooth texture and white color
Similar processed texture and melting properties, available in white
Swiss Cheese
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- grilled cheese
- burgers
- cooking
- melting
Description
Mild, nutty cheese with good melting properties and natural white color
Similar melting but slightly different flavor, naturally white
White Gouda
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- grilled cheese
- cooking
- melting
- burgers
Description
Mild, semi-hard cheese with good melting and natural white color
Similar mild flavor and melting properties, naturally white
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for White American Cheese, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
White American cheese melts smoothly without separating, just like regular American cheese
Perfect for grilled cheese sandwiches where you want a clean white appearance
Great for burgers when you want the cheese to blend visually with other white ingredients
Works well in mac and cheese and queso dips for a cleaner, more uniform appearance
Has the same mild, creamy flavor as regular American cheese without the orange coloring
Store wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator, same as regular American cheese
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications