American Cheese vs Fontina Cheese

In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about American Cheese and Fontina Cheese, including:

• "What is the difference between American Cheese and Fontina Cheese?"
• "Is American Cheese and Fontina Cheese the same?"
• "How does American Cheese compare to Fontina Cheese cheese?"
• "How does the taste of American Cheese compare to Fontina Cheese?"
• "Is American Cheese or Fontina Cheese better?"

American Cheese Overview

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.

Fontina Cheese Overview

Fontina is a classic Italian cheese from the Aosta Valley, with a dense, smooth texture and a nutty, earthy flavor. It is made from cow's milk and has a slightly elastic feel. Fontina is excellent for melting and is often used in dishes like risotto, fonduta, and as a table cheese.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

American Cheese comes from United States. Fontina Cheese originated from Italy.

Certification

Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. American is not a protected cheese. Fontina Cheese has a PDO (1996).

Milk Type and Treatment

American Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized. Fontina Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically raw or pasteurized.

Composition and Texture

American's texture can be described as "semi-soft, processed". Fontina Cheese has a fat content of ~30-45% and a moisture content of none. Fontina's texture can be described as "semi-soft".

Taste and Aroma

American's aroma can be described as "mild". Fontina Cheese has a mild, buttery, nutty taste. Fontina's aroma can be described as "mild to pungent (earthier in aged versions)".

Appearance and Aging

American Cheese's appearance is colored yellow . Fontina Cheese has a color of pale yellow to golden , comes in wheel, block, sliced, shredded and has an aging period of typically 2-3 months (can be aged longer for stronger flavor) .

Rind and Rennet Type

American Cheese's rind is described as rindless . Fontina Cheese's rind is described as natural, often washed , with traditional (animal) or microbial (varies by producer) rennet.

Ranking

American is ranked #101 out of 996 types based on community views. Fontina is ranked #65 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the American and Fontina pages.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a semi-soft, processed cheese, go for American. But if you enjoy a semi-soft consistency, Fontina might be the better pick.

Compare American Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Fontina Cheese to Other Cheeses