American Cheese vs Casu marzu Cheese

American Cheese is a semi-soft, processed cow-milk cheese from United States, while Casu marzu Cheese is soft, soft-ripened and made from sheep milk, originating in Italy.

What Is American Cheese?

American cheese is a processed cheese made from cheddar, Colby, or similar cheeses with sodium citrate added so it pasteurizes without separating. It is mild, salty, and medium-firm, and it melts at a low temperature, which is why it lands on burgers and in grilled cheese.

What Is Casu marzu Cheese?

Casu marzu is a Sardinian sheep milk cheese fermented by live cheese fly larvae, which eat through a pecorino wheel and break down its fats until the paste turns very soft. Its sale is banned in Italy and the EU, and Guinness World Records called it the world's most dangerous cheese.

What's the Difference Between American Cheese and Casu marzu Cheese?

• Origin: American Cheese (United States), Casu marzu Cheese (Italy)
• Milk type: American Cheese (Cow's milk), Casu marzu Cheese (Sheep's milk)
• Texture: American Cheese (Semi-soft, processed), Casu marzu Cheese (Soft, soft-ripened)
• Rind: American Cheese (rindless), Casu marzu Cheese (natural)
• Taste: American Cheese (mild, salty), Casu marzu Cheese (intense, spicy)

Side-by-Side Comparison

Taste Comparison: Does American Cheese Taste Like Casu marzu Cheese?

American Cheese reads as mild, salty, while Casu marzu Cheese brings intense, spicy character. More specifically, American Cheese shows neutral and mild, salty, pairs with a range of meats and other ingredients, while Casu marzu Cheese leans toward mediterranean, pastoral and spicy notes, with an aftertaste that lasts for hours.

Can You Substitute American Cheese for Casu marzu Cheese?

American Cheese can stand in for Casu marzu Cheese in many dishes, but the switch will shift the overall character of the recipe. Expect semi-soft, processed bite and body where the recipe calls for soft, soft-ripened. Flavor-wise, American Cheese reads as mild, salty while Casu marzu Cheese brings intense, spicy notes.

Which Is Better, American Cheese or Casu marzu Cheese?

There's no single winner. It depends on your recipe and the profile you want. If you want a semi-soft, processed cheese, go with American Cheese. For a soft, soft-ripened profile, Casu marzu Cheese is the better fit. Flavor-wise, American Cheese suits recipes that want mild, salty notes, while Casu marzu Cheese fits dishes calling for intense, spicy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is American Cheese the same as Casu marzu Cheese?

No, they're distinct cheeses. American Cheese originates in United States, while Casu marzu Cheese comes from Italy. American Cheese is made from cow milk; Casu marzu Cheese uses sheep.

Is American Cheese similar to Casu marzu Cheese?

Not closely. They use different milk bases and have distinct profiles.

Can I substitute American Cheese for Casu marzu Cheese?

You can, but expect a shift in richness and milk character.

Does American Cheese taste like Casu marzu Cheese?

American Cheese reads as mild, salty, while Casu marzu Cheese is intense, spicy.

What is American Cheese made of?

American Cheese is made from cow milk (pastuerized). It originates in United States.

What is Casu marzu Cheese made of?

Casu marzu Cheese is made from sheep milk. It's typically aged 3 months. It originates in Italy.

Which should I choose, American Cheese or Casu marzu Cheese?

It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. American Cheese is semi-soft, processed, while Casu marzu Cheese is soft, soft-ripened.