American Cheese vs Swiss Cheese

American Cheese

Swiss Cheese

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

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

Swiss Cheese Overview

Swiss cheese in the United States refers to a group of cheeses that resemble the Emmental cheese from Switzerland, known for their medium-hard texture and distinctive holes or "eyes." American Swiss cheese is mild, nutty, and sweet, with a smooth, creamy texture, making it popular for sandwiches and burgers.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

American Cheese comes from United States. Swiss Cheese originated from United States.

Milk Type and Treatment

American Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized. Swiss Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically pasteurized.

Composition and Texture

American's texture can be described as "semi-soft, processed". Swiss Cheese has a fat content of ~28-32% and a moisture content of none. Swiss's texture can be described as "semi-firm".

Taste and Aroma

American's aroma can be described as "mild". Swiss Cheese has a mild, nutty, slightly sweet taste. Swiss's aroma can be described as "mild, slightly nutty".

Appearance and Aging

American Cheese's appearance is colored yellow . Swiss Cheese has a color of pale yellow , comes in block, sliced, shredded and has an aging period of typically 1-3 months .

Rind and Rennet Type

American Cheese's rind is described as rindless . Swiss Cheese's rind is described as none , with microbial or vegetarian rennet.

Ranking

American is ranked #101 out of 996 types based on community views. Swiss is ranked #74 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

American Swiss
Best Pairings Grilled Cheese Chardonnay, Dijon Mustard, Ham, Pastrami, Tuna, Turkey
Other Good Pairings No additional pairings listed. Cabernet Franc, Chicken, Clam Chowder, Gamay, IPA, Kolsch, Pinot Grigio, Pinot Gris, Roast Beef, Salami, Sauvignon Blanc, Steak

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

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

American Cheese Swiss Cheese
Country of Origin United States United States
Specific Origin Not Specified Not Specified
Milk Type Cow's milk Cow
Milk Treatment Pastuerized Pasteurized
Fat Content Not Specified ~28-32%
Moisture Content Not Specified ~37-41%
Rind Rindless None
Texture Semi-soft, processed Semi-Firm
Taste Not Specified Mild, Nutty, Slightly Sweet
Aroma Mild Mild, Slightly Nutty
Colors Yellow Pale Yellow
Forms Not Specified Block, Sliced, Shredded
Age Not Specified Typically 1-3 months
Rennet Type Not Specified Microbial or Vegetarian

Which One Should You Choose?

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

Compare American Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Swiss Cheese to Other Cheeses

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