, then select "Add to Home Screen" to get instant access.
Log In
Explore
Cheeses
Cheesemakers
Types
Pairings
Cheese Map
Free Tools
American Cheese vs Mozzarella Cheese
American Cheese
Mozzarella Cheese
In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about American Cheese and Mozzarella Cheese, including:
- "What is the difference between American Cheese and Mozzarella Cheese?"
- "Is American Cheese and Mozzarella Cheese the same?"
- "How does American Cheese compare to Mozzarella Cheese cheese?"
- "How does the taste of American Cheese compare to Mozzarella Cheese?"
- "Is American Cheese or Mozzarella 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.
Mozzarella Cheese Overview
Mozzarella is a soft, white cheese originally from Southern Italy. Traditionally made from water buffalo milk (mozzarella di bufala), it's also commonly produced from cow's milk (fior di latte). Mozzarella is famous for its mild, milky flavor and stretchy texture, making it ideal for pizzas and caprese salads.
Comparing the Two Cheeses
Country of Origin
American Cheese comes from United States. Mozzarella Cheese originated from Italy.
Milk Type and Treatment
American Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized. Mozzarella Cheese is made with cow, goat, sheep, or buffalo milk that is typically pasteurized.
Composition and Texture
American's texture can be described as "semi-soft, processed". Mozzarella Cheese has a fat content of varies and a moisture content of none. Mozzarella's texture can be described as "soft, creamy".
Taste and Aroma
American's aroma can be described as "mild". Mozzarella Cheese has a mild, milky taste. Mozzarella's aroma can be described as "mild".
Appearance and Aging
American Cheese's appearance is colored yellow . Mozzarella Cheese has a color of white , comes in balls, blocks, shredded and has an aging period of eaten fresh .
Rind and Rennet Type
American Cheese's rind is described as rindless . Mozzarella Cheese's rind is described as none , with calf's or microbial rennet.
Ranking
American is ranked #90 out of 996 types based on community views. Mozzarella is ranked #43 out of 996 types based on community views.
Pairing Comparison
| American | Mozzarella | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Pairings | Grilled Cheese | Avocado, Chicken, Green Tea, Olives, Pesto, Pinot Grigio, Pinot Gris, Prosciutto, Sauvignon Blanc, Shrimp, Tomatoes, Tuna |
| Other Good Pairings | No additional pairings listed. | Albariño, Asparagus, Asti Spumante, Bresaola, Clam Chowder, Cod, Ham, Kolsch, Macaroni and Cheese, Pastrami, Prosecco, Pulled Pork, Roasted Vegetables, Salami, Sangiovese, Seaweed, Turkey |
For more details, check the full pairing guides on the American and Mozzarella pages.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| American Cheese | Mozzarella Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | United States | Italy |
| Specific Origin | Not Specified | Not Specified |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's, goat's, sheep's or water buffalo's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Pastuerized | Pasteurized |
| Fat Content | Not Specified | Varies |
| Moisture Content | Not Specified | High |
| Rind | Rindless | None |
| Texture | Semi-soft, processed | Soft, creamy |
| Taste | Not Specified | Mild, milky |
| Aroma | Mild | Mild |
| Colors | Yellow | White |
| Forms | Not Specified | Balls, blocks, shredded |
| Age | Not Specified | Eaten fresh |
| Rennet Type | Not Specified | Calf's or microbial rennet |
Which One Should You Choose?
If you prefer a semi-soft, processed cheese, go for American. But if you enjoy a soft, creamy consistency, Mozzarella might be the better pick.
