American Cheese vs Cheddar Cheese
American Cheese
Cheddar Cheese
American Cheese is a semi-soft, processed cow-milk cheese from United States, while Cheddar Cheese is varies (rubbery to friable and crystalline) and made from cow milk, originating in England.
What Is American Cheese?
A staple in American cuisine, this processed cheese is known for its excellent melting properties and smooth texture. American cheese is typically mild and creamy, designed to be versatile in dishes like burgers and grilled sandwiches. It's available in various colors and flavors, tailored to suit different tastes and recipes.
What Is Cheddar Cheese?
Cheddar cheese, perhaps the most famous cheese from England, originated in the village of Cheddar in Somerset. It ranges from mild to extra sharp, with aging times that can extend several years. Cheddar has a firm texture and a deep, nutty flavor that becomes increasingly complex as it matures.
What's the Difference Between American Cheese and Cheddar Cheese?
- Origin: American Cheese (United States), Cheddar Cheese (England)
- Milk treatment: American Cheese (pastuerized), Cheddar Cheese (Raw, Thermized, Pasteurized)
- Texture: American Cheese (semi-soft, processed), Cheddar Cheese (Varies (rubbery to friable and crystalline))
- Rind: American Cheese (rindless), Cheddar Cheese (Varies (natural, cloth, wax, plastic))
Side-by-Side Comparison
| American Cheese | Cheddar Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | United States | England |
| Specific Origin | — | Southwest (Somerset, Gloucester) |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Pastuerized | Raw, Thermized, Pasteurized |
| Texture | Semi-soft, processed | Varies (rubbery to friable and crystalline) |
| Rind | Rindless | Varies (natural, cloth, wax, plastic) |
| Aging | — | A few months to several years |
| Taste | — | Mild to sharp, buttery to brothy and savory |
Pairing Comparison
What works with each cheese — wines, foods, breads, and more.
| American Cheese | Cheddar Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Pairings | Grilled Cheese | Chicken, Ham, Macaroni and Cheese, Merlot, Tuna, Turkey |
| Other Good Pairings | — | Kombucha, Tomatoes |
Which would you pick?
One click, anonymous — see what others chose.
Where to buy American Cheese and Cheddar Cheese
American Cheese
Cheddar Cheese
Taste Comparison: Does American Cheese Taste Like Cheddar Cheese?
Their flavor profiles are distinct.
Can You Substitute American Cheese for Cheddar Cheese?
In most recipes, American Cheese and Cheddar Cheese can be swapped with reasonable results. Both are cow-milk cheeses, so the base character carries over. Expect semi-soft, processed bite and body where the recipe calls for varies (rubbery to friable and crystalline).
Which Is Better, American Cheese or Cheddar 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 varies (rubbery to friable and crystalline) profile, Cheddar Cheese is the better fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is American Cheese the same as Cheddar Cheese?
No, they're distinct cheeses. American Cheese originates in United States, while Cheddar Cheese comes from England.
Is American Cheese similar to Cheddar Cheese?
Somewhat. They share a cow-milk base but diverge in texture and flavor.
Can I substitute American Cheese for Cheddar Cheese?
You can, but expect a shift in bite and mouthfeel.
Does American Cheese taste like Cheddar Cheese?
They have distinct flavor profiles. The taste row in the table above is the best direct comparison.
What is American Cheese made of?
American Cheese is made from cow milk (pastuerized). It originates in United States.
What is Cheddar Cheese made of?
Cheddar Cheese is made from cow milk (raw, thermized, pasteurized). It's typically aged a few months to several years. It originates in England.
Which should I choose, American Cheese or Cheddar Cheese?
It depends on the dish. The texture difference is the biggest practical tell. American Cheese is semi-soft, processed, while Cheddar Cheese is varies (rubbery to friable and crystalline).
See full profiles: American Cheese and Cheddar Cheese.