15 Best Velveeta Cheese Substitutes To Choose For Recipes

Whether you’re using cheese in a recipe, or you like a slice of cheese and crackers in the evening, cheese plays a huge role in the kitchen.

What Is Velveeta Cheese?

There are thousands of different cheeses, all with different textures and tastes. Velveeta cheese is a type of processed cheese, vaguely similar to traditional American cheese.

Notably, it is the brand name, but most people refer to it as Velveeta cheese, as it’s become a family favorite.

One reason Velveeta cheese is so popular is that it’s easy to melt. It’s often used in sauces, dips, and sometimes for a good old-fashioned grilled cheese It’s also very soft and smooth. It’s the type of cheese that melts perfectly in a microwave and on a stove.

Now, cheesemongers aren’t particularly keen on this cheese, due to the fact it’s highly processed. It’s mostly made out of whey, milk, fat, and some preservatives.

It didn’t start that way, though, it was once made with real cheese. Likewise, it changed mostly due to mass production — because it’s much cheaper to make cheese that way.

Regardless of whether cheesemongers consider Velveeta to be real cheese, it’s still a firm favorite.

Dry Cheese Vs. Soft Cheese

Velveeta cheese is considered to be soft cheese. Soft cheeses generally have a low melting point, which means that they will melt fast, and are easy to cook with. They are usually very smooth, and creamy.

Dry cheese is very different from soft cheese. If you compared a slice of Parmesan cheese to a slice of Velveeta cheese, you’d see some obvious differences.

For instance, dry cheese has a high melting point. This means it takes much longer for dry cheese to melt. Also, dry cheese doesn’t liquify.

If you’ve ever tried to make mac and cheese with a hard slab of cheese, you’ll notice that sometimes it just clumps together, rather than spreading out. Dry cheese also has more of a tangy flavor, while soft cheese is much gentler on the taste buds.

How Can I Replace Velveeta Cheese?

If you’re looking for a substitution for Velveeta cheese, look no further. Whether you just want to try a new glorious cheese, or you couldn’t find your favorite cheese when you popped into the shops, I can help you find a cheese that you will love.

We’re going to be looking at the following replacements for Velveeta cheese. It will be cheddar cheese, Swiss cheese, pepper jack, American cheese, Cheez Whiz, Eden cheese, and extra sharp cheddar cheese.

Quick Table: Velveeta Cheese Substitutions

With that said, let’s look at the 15 best Velveeta cheese substitutions, so you can discover the perfect replacement.

1. Mild Cheddar Cheese

The first substitution for Velveeta Cheese is cheddar cheese.

Okay, so I might not be introducing you to a new, exciting cheese — but I am introducing you to a great substitution for Velveeta cheese.

Cheddar cheese is a highly popular cheese, and it is used in so many recipes. Whether it’s grilled cheese, sandwiches, or even grated onto pasta — it’s versatile. It has a slightly bitter flavor and a certain level of creaminess.

It also tastes great when melted, and for a dry cheese, does not have an overly low melting point.

The good thing about mild cheese is that if it’s for your family, especially with youngsters, it’s going to be closer to the taste of Velveeta. It’s a lot less bitter and is more creamy.

While it won’t have the exact flavor and color of Velveeta, it’ll still be a crowd-pleaser.

How To Substitute

Although mild cheddar cheese is not new, it is an excellent substitute for Velveeta cheese.

It is still popular with a different flavor and color and replaces Velveeta cheese in many recipes. With a creamy taste, mild cheddar cheese has become the first choice of many people.

2. Swiss Cheese

The second substitution for Velveeta Cheese is Swiss cheese. When it comes to Swiss cheese, you have so many options.

I would recommend going for Emmental and Gruyère. That’s because these are very creamy cheeses, and have a mild nutty flavor.

They’re also similar in color to Velveeta, given that they have a yellow tone to them. Unlike Velveeta, these are ‘real’ cheeses, so you’ll be getting a more authentic taste.

It’s also healthier than Velveeta, so if you’re into nutrition, it could be an honest substitute.

The mild nutty flavor that belongs to Emmental and Gruyère is vital because it adds an aspect of sharpness to the cheese. This comes with aging (see, things do get better with age).

When it comes to their melting point, they melt moderately. It will not melt as fast as Velveeta, nor will it liquefy the same.

However, depending on what you’re making, e.g. mac and cheese, if you add a bit of milk, it should help even out that cheese flavor. Swiss cheese is a great alternative to Velveeta and is definitely worth a try.

How To Substitute

If you are looking to make a cheesy dish and are short of Velveeta cheese, then to fulfill the shortage is to use Velveeta cheese.

It has a creamy and nutty flavor and comes in a similar color to Velveeta cheese. The best thing about swiss cheese is that it melts a bit slower than Velveeta.

3. Sharp Cheddar Cheese

The third substitution for Velveeta Cheese is sharp cheddar cheese.

You really didn’t think I would bring up cheddar cheese only once, did you? Cheddar cheese is more complex than a lot of people think.

You have white mild, mild, sharp cheddar cheese, extra sharp cheddar… you see where I’m going with this.

Sharp cheddar cheese is ideal for those with a strong palette. It mostly works if you plan on melting the cheese because once it’s melted, it’ll taste creamy and salty.

You will have to be patient when melting, though, as it does have a low melting point. Anyway, sharp cheddar cheese is a great alternative to Velveeta cheese.

If you want to try even more variations of cheddar cheese, keep in mind that they all taste different, no cheddar cheese should be under the same label.

How To Substitute

Sharp cheddar cheese is typically hard but somewhat crumbly. When used in a recipe, it gives a specific type of flavor and texture that you can’t get with other cheeses.

For example, in many recipes, the sharp cheddar cheese can easily substitute for Velveeta cheese, giving a cheese flavor and texture that you can’t get with the Velveeta.

4. Pepper Jack

The fourth substitution for Velveeta Cheese is pepper jack cheese

So, this is where I introduce you to a new kind of cheese. Chances are you’ve had pepper jack before, but how often do you really use it?

Pepper jack cheese is a semisoft cheese, meaning that it can melt and liquefy reasonably well. It also has a smooth consistency, similar to Velveeta.

So, the obvious difference between Velveeta cheese and pepper jack cheese, is that pepper jack cheese is kinda spicy. It’s made with sweet peppers, chilies, and rosemary.

The thing is, if you plan on adding some spice to your dish already, then you may as well have pepper jack cheese. If you want a grilled cheese with a kick, try the pepper jack. It’s even great grated.

It’s a great cheese to have, which is why I’m putting it as a great Velveeta substitution. Although the taste is different, they have a similar texture, and it works well melted.

How To Substitute

With a smooth consistency, pepper jack cheese is an excellent choice if you run short of Velveeta cheese.

However, they don’t have similar flavors, but it melts and liquefies well, making them an excellent alternative to the grating.

5. Cheez Whiz

The fifth substitution for Velveeta Cheese is Cheez Whiz.

I know that some of you out there are just begging me to recommend you a decent, highly processed cheese. Well, this is for you. Cheez Whiz is very processed, it’s made out of wheat, oil, and preservatives.

Cheez Whiz has the closest color to Velveeta, given that they’re both processed. It also has a very similar consistency, as it’s a soft cheese.

The good aspect of Cheez Whiz is that it should last for a couple of months in the refrigerator, so if you need a cheese that can last longer, Cheez Whiz is for you.

It generally works best with sandwiches, BBQ, and crackers. It is a very good substitute for Velveeta.

How To Substitute

The cheez whiz is a great alternative that is highly processed. The Cheez Whiz cheese spread is made from cheddar and processed cheese.

Still, it has the same consistency as velvet cheese, and you can easily replace it in sandwiches, BBQ, etc.

RELATED: The Best 6 Manchego Cheese Substitutes

6. Eden Cheese

The sixth substitution for Velveeta Cheese is Eden cheese.

This is another processed cheese, which is why it works as a great substitute for Velveeta cheese. It’s incredibly soft – arguably softer than Velveeta cheese.

It’s also incredibly creamy. Given that it’s a soft cheese, it melts very easily and liquifies well.

When it comes to flavor, Eden cheese tastes very mild. It will not overpower your dish, so it’s not ideal for a dish that relies on cheese, like mac and cheese.

However, it’s a great substitute for Velveeta cheese if you’re making sandwiches, or adding it to a dish as a means to compliment.

How To Substitute

Eden cheese is incredibly soft, creamy, and a great alternative to Velveeta cheese. Since it’s a mild taste, there are better choices to replace dishes that solely depend on cheese.

However, it would be a fantastic choice for seasoning or garnishing your salad or sandwich.

RELATED: Want A Substitute For Ricotta Cheese? We Have 5 Options!

7. American Cheese

The seventh substitution for Velveeta Cheese is American cheese.

We couldn’t do an article on cheese replacements, without mentioning good old fashion American Cheese.

It’s one of the closest substitutions to Velveeta cheese, due to its soft and creamy texture. It’s also super smooth, like Velveeta cheese.

American cheese has a good level of saltiness, so be careful not to add too much extra salt to your dish. American cheese melts very easily, which is useful when replacing Velveeta, except for one thing. It also burns real easily.

That isn’t much of a problem, though, just be wary of it while cooking. American cheese is perfect for mac and cheese, and any pasta dish.

How To Substitute

American cheese is an excellent substitute for Velveeta in many recipes. You can use it in place of cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream.

It works well with hot sauce to make a dip. The creamy texture and smooth texture make it an excellent replacement for Velveeta.

8. Gouda Cheese

The best thing about cheeses is that they can be substituted for each other in various recipes to make them more delightful.

The Gouda is a sharp, dry, white cheese with a mild, nutty flavor. The cheese is produced in the Netherlands and Belgium. This cheese is typically used in dishes such as lasagna, soups, and cheesecakes.

How To Substitute

You may use it in 1 ratio of 1:1 but remember that there are better replacements for savory dishes as it has a sweeter taste.

9. Mozzarella Cheese

Velveeta is one of the most popular cheese products in the United States. It is a white, soft, melting cheese made from cow’s milk.

This product is most often used in macaroni and cheese recipes. One way to substitute this cheese is to use Mozzarella Cheese.

It is a more complex white cheese made from cow’s milk. It has a mild flavor and is best used in Italian dishes.

How To Substitute

Due to its creamy texture, mozzarella is not the best substitute for every dish, but if you love real cheese go for a substitution of 1:1.

10. Cream Of Chicken Soup

There are many ways to use Cream of Chicken Soup in place of Velveeta. It is the perfect substitute for Velveeta, as the taste and texture are identical.

Cream of Chicken Soup is an excellent alternative to Velveeta cheese because it is made from chicken broth and cream, so it is an excellent source of protein.

It also has a delicious flavor and creamy texture that you can use to make all types of dishes.

How To Substitute

You may use cream of chicken soup to replace Velveeta in the substitution ratio of 1:1.

11. Queso Panela

The most popular Velveeta cheese substitute is Queso Panela, a Mexican cheese you can substitute for.

Queso Panela is made from milk, which is processed traditionally and allowed to age for up to a year. The result is a slightly salty and sharp cheese that can be crumbled into a sauce, melted on top of a pizza, or stirred into chili.

How To Substitute

You may substitute Velveeta cheese with queso panela in a ratio of 1:1.

12. Queso Blanco

Queso Blanco is a Mexican white cheese made from cow’s milk. This cheese has a mild, creamy taste and a crumbly texture, similar to cottage cheese. It is often used in Tex-Mex dishes.

It is an easy substitute for Velveeta cheese. It can be used in various recipes and is perfect for topping nachos or even as a pizza topping.

How To Substitute

You may substitute Velveeta cheese with queso Blanco in a 1:1 ratio. However, you may increase or decrease its quantity depending on your recipe.

13. Queso Para Freir

Queso para Freir is a type of cheese you can substitute Velveeta cheese in recipes. It is a melting cheese similar to queso fresco and a milder cheese you can use for quesadillas, enchiladas, and queso dip.

Queso para Freir is a delicious, authentic Mexican cheese sauce. This sauce is a must-have for Mexican cuisine and can be used as a dip for chips, a topping for enchiladas, or a garnish for tacos.

How To Substitute

For best results, substitute Velveeta cheese with queso para freir in an equal ratio.

14. Monterey Jack Cheese

If you are looking for alternatives to Velveeta cheese, try Monterey jack cheese for a delicious flavor.

The Monterey Jack Cheese is a mild, creamy cheese with a smooth, crumbly texture. It is aged for a minimum of 60 days and has a distinctive, mild flavor. In terms of nutrition, it is low in saturated fat and cholesterol.

How To Substitute

If you are using Monterey jack cheese for Velveeta cheese, you should try adding a small amount to your recipe, and then you may increase it as per your requirement.

15. Colby Cheese

Cheeses are essential to any meal, and finding the best cheese for your needs can be challenging. Velveeta cheese is a processed cheese product known for its flavor and melting ability.

Colby is a milder, nuttier, and less tangy cheddar cheese. Colby is so soft that it’s usually not grated but crumbled. It is an excellent alternative to Velveeta cheese.

How To Substitute

You may try Colby cheese for Velveeta cheese and start by adding a little amount to your recipe. Then, you can slowly add more quantity as per the needs.

Summary

Well, that brings us to an end of the best 15 substitutions for Velveeta cheese. We’ve covered 15 wonderful kinds of cheese, that we hope that you will enjoy.

Feel free to comment and share your favorite cheeses, I’d love to know what you think is best.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Processed Cheese, Or Regular Cheese, Better At Melting?

Generally speaking, processed cheese will be better at melting, compared to regular cheese. If you remember that the harder the cheese, the longer it will take to melt, then it makes it easier to vague the melting point of cheese.

So, given that processed cheese is very soft and smooth, it makes sense that it would have a low melting point. Take Parmesan, for example, it is a much harder cheese.

Likewise, it has a high melting point because it takes more heat to melt it.

What Is Processed Cheese?

Processed cheese is not 100% cheese. In many cases, it might not even contain any traces of cheese, in other cases, it will contain around 50% of real cheese.

It is cut with salt, preservatives, dairy, and many other ingredients, to make it long-lasting and easy to melt.

Is Processed Cheese Healthy?

Processed cheese is not particularly healthy, as in some cases, it only contains 50% of real cheese. With that said, it’s all about moderation. It isn’t healthy to eat loads of regular cheese, either.

If you’re only having a small bit here and there, it’s not overly bad for you, but it’s still not as healthy as ‘real’ cheese. That said, if you have any worries about nutrition, you should seek a nutritionist, as I am not qualified to give you advice.

The 15 Best Velveeta Cheese Substitutes

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Total time

50

minutes

Whether you’re using cheese in a recipe, or you like a slice of cheese and crackers in the evening, cheese plays a huge role in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Mild Cheddar Cheese

• Swiss Cheese

• Sharp Cheddar Cheese

• Pepper Jack

• Cheez Whiz

• Eden Cheese

• American Cheese

• Gouda Cheese

• Mozzarella Cheese

• Cream Of Chicken Soup

• Queso Panela

• Queso Blanco

• Queso Para Freir

• Monterey Jack Cheese

• Colby Cheese

Directions

• Choose your favorite substitute from the list given above
• Follow the directions given in the recipe after having substituted the ingredient in the correct ratio

Recipe Video

• Author
• Recent Posts

Jess Smith

Hi, my name is Jess Smith, and I love cooking in my spare time. Around three years ago, I decided to give up my day job as a teacher to pursue my passion for food. While I have enjoyed sharing tips and tricks on Social Media, I have decided to expand my horizons through this blog.

Through this blog I hope to help others learn the basics and more intricate details of cooking. I know from personal experience how frustrating it can be to cook a meal, only to realize you are missing one ingredient from your list. This is why I love to write articles chatting readers through some great substitutes that can be used in an emergency.

I hope you will find this blog useful, and that it will help you to develop your culinary skills, to help you cook up a storm!

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