Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
white american cheese

The Comprehensive Guide to White American Cheese


  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 12-16 oz (depending on how thick you slice it) 1x

Description

Want to recreate the creamy, melty goodness of White American cheese at home? This recipe uses real cheese, milk, and a few key ingredients to achieve that classic texture.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups shredded mild white cheddar (or Colby cheese)
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp cream of tartar (or citric acid)
  • 1 tbsp sodium citrate (helps with smooth melting)
  • ½ cup heavy cream (for extra creaminess)

Instructions

 Prepare the Cheese Base

  • Grate the white cheddar cheese or Colby cheese and set it aside.
  • In a saucepan, heat whole milk and butter over low heat, stirring occasionally.

2. Dissolve the Emulsifiers

  • Add sodium citrate and cream of tartar into the warm milk. Stir until fully dissolved. This helps create a smooth and melty cheese texture.

3. Melt the Cheese

  • Slowly add the grated cheese, one handful at a time, stirring continuously.
  • Keep stirring over low heat until the cheese is completely melted and smooth.

4. Adjust the Texture

  • Stir in the heavy cream to get that creamy, stretchy consistency.
  • Add salt to taste. If you want a softer texture, add a little more milk.

5. Pour & Set

  • Transfer the melted cheese mixture into a lined loaf pan or mold.
  • Let it cool at room temperature for 10 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours to firm up.

6. Slice & Enjoy!

  • Once fully set, slice or shred as needed. Use for burgers, grilled cheese, or melt it into dips!

Notes

For extra creaminess, add more heavy cream while melting.
Sodium citrate is the secret ingredient that prevents clumping—don’t skip it!
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Cheese, Homemade
  • Method: Stove-top cooking, Refrigeration
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 ounce
  • Calories: 100
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: homemade white American cheese, creamy cheese, melted cheese