SEE ALSO: How other fast food chains compare in their usage of real cheese →

Many fast food chains use a mix of real cheese and processed cheese products to enhance flavour, improve texture, and reduce costs. But how does Taco Bell’s cheese stack up? Let’s take a deep dive into the types of cheese Taco Bell uses, which menu items contain cheese, and whether it’s a healthy choice.

What kind of cheese does Taco Bell use?

Cheese plays a big role in Taco Bell’s menu, appearing in tacos, burritos, quesadillas and nachos. The chain primarily uses three types of cheese:

1. Shredded Cheddar

Taco Bell’s shredded Cheddar is a mild, yellow Cheddar that adds a classic cheesy flavour to many of its menu items. Like most pre-shredded cheese, it contains anti-caking agents such as potato starch and cellulose to prevent clumping. This doesn’t affect taste but helps keep the cheese fresh and easy to sprinkle.

2. Three Cheese Blend

This blend combines Cheddar, Monterey Jack and Mozzarella. The mix gives a balanced flavour with the mildness of Mozzarella, the slight tanginess of Cheddar and the smooth meltability of Monterey Jack. It’s mainly used in Taco Bell’s quesadillas and specialty burritos.

3. Nacho Cheese Sauce

Unlike the shredded cheeses, Taco Bell’s Nacho Cheese Sauce is a processed cheese product. It’s made with real cheese but is blended with emulsifiers, oils and preservatives to create a smooth, creamy consistency. It’s designed to stay pourable and gooey at warm temperatures, making it perfect for drizzling over nachos and fries.

The shredded Cheddar and Three Cheese Blend are real cheese, but the Nacho Cheese Sauce is not 100% natural cheese—it’s a cheese-flavoured processed product.

Which Taco Bell menu items contain cheese?

Cheese appears in many Taco Bell menu items, whether it’s melted inside a burrito, sprinkled on tacos or served as a dipping sauce. Here’s a breakdown of which items use shredded cheese and which ones rely on nacho cheese sauce.

Shredded Cheddar or Three Cheese Blend

• Crunchwrap Supreme – A grilled tortilla wrap with beef, lettuce, tomato, sour cream and shredded Cheddar.
• Cheesy Gordita Crunch – A soft flatbread with a crunchy taco shell inside, beef, lettuce and shredded Cheddar.
• Quesadillas – The Chicken and Steak Quesadillas contain the Three Cheese Blend for extra meltiness.
• Grilled Cheese Burrito – This burrito features melted cheese inside and a crispy, grilled cheese layer on the outside.
• Soft and Crunchy Tacos (with cheese) – The standard tacos at Taco Bell include shredded Cheddar.
• Beefy 5-Layer Burrito – This burrito combines beans, beef, sour cream, nacho cheese sauce and shredded Cheddar.
• Enchirito – A smothered burrito with enchilada sauce and shredded Cheddar.
• Mexican Pizza – Features a crispy tortilla base layered with refried beans, seasoned beef, tomato sauce and melted cheese.

Nacho Cheese Sauce (processed cheese product)

• Nachos BellGrande – Classic nachos with beef, beans, tomatoes and nacho cheese sauce.
• Nacho Fries – Taco Bell’s seasoned fries served with a side of nacho cheese sauce.
• Queso Dipping Sauce (served with quesadillas) – A cheese dip that pairs with Taco Bell’s quesadillas.
• Beefy Melt Burrito – A burrito filled with beef, rice, sour cream and nacho cheese sauce.
• Loaded Nacho Taco – A soft taco filled with beef, tortilla strips, lettuce and nacho cheese sauce.

If you prefer real cheese, stick to menu items that use shredded Cheddar or the Three Cheese Blend rather than those that rely on nacho cheese sauce.

Is Taco Bell’s cheese healthy?

Fast food cheese is often high in fat, sodium, and additives, but how does Taco Bell’s cheese compare? Let’s break down the nutritional value of its shredded cheeses versus its processed nacho cheese sauce.

Shredded Cheddar and Three Cheese Blend (Real Cheese)

Since Taco Bell’s shredded cheese is real cheese, it contains protein and calcium but is also high in saturated fat and sodium. A typical serving of shredded Cheddar (about 1 oz or 28 g) contains:

• Calories: ~110
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 9g (6g saturated)
• Sodium: ~180mg

While real cheese offers nutritional benefits, consuming too much can contribute to high sodium and fat intake.

Nacho Cheese Sauce (Processed Cheese Product)

The nacho cheese sauce is not purely real cheese. It contains additives such as maltodextrin, modified food starch, and vegetable oil to maintain its texture and shelf life. A typical serving (about 1 oz or 28 g) contains:

• Calories: ~60
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 4g (2g saturated)
• Sodium: ~270mg

The processed cheese sauce is lower in protein and higher in sodium compared to shredded cheese. It’s designed for texture and shelf stability rather than nutritional value.

How does Taco Bell’s cheese compare to homemade cheese?

Real cheese made at home or bought from a quality cheesemonger will have fewer additives and a simpler ingredient list. Taco Bell’s shredded cheese is close to real cheese but still contains anti-caking agents, while the nacho cheese sauce is a processed product designed for fast food convenience.

Final verdict: real cheese or processed cheese?

Taco Bell uses a mix of real cheese and processed cheese products. If you want a more natural cheese experience, go for menu items that contain shredded Cheddar or the Three Cheese Blend. If you’re okay with a processed cheese product that prioritises texture and meltability, then the Nacho Cheese Sauce can still be a tasty option.

Pros of Taco Bell’s real shredded cheese

• Contains protein and calcium
• Made from real cheese with minimal processing
• Provides a more authentic cheese flavour

Cons of Taco Bell’s nacho cheese sauce

• Contains emulsifiers and preservatives
• Higher in sodium
• Lower in protein compared to real cheese

If you’re looking for a healthier option at Taco Bell, try customising your order to include only shredded cheese instead of nacho cheese sauce.

Conclusion

For cheese lovers, knowing whether fast food cheese is real or processed matters. Taco Bell’s shredded cheese is real, but its nacho cheese sauce is a processed cheese product with added ingredients to improve texture and shelf life.

If you’re a fan of real cheese, opt for items with shredded Cheddar or the Three Cheese Blend. If you enjoy the creamy, artificial cheesiness of nacho cheese sauce, go ahead and indulge—but be aware that it’s not the same as real cheese.

Want to learn more about cheese in fast food? Check out our other deep dives into McDonald’s, Chick-fil-A, and Domino’s cheese choices! Let us know in the comments—do you prefer real shredded cheese or the classic fast food nacho cheese sauce?

Jonah Kincaid

Cheese lover. Scientist. Created a website and a Youtube channel about cheese science because he could not find answers to his questions online. 

cheesescientist.com

The post Does Taco Bell Use Real Cheese or Processed Cheese? appeared first on Cheese Scientist.

SEE ALSO: Which fast food giants use real cheese and which ones use processed cheese products →

Who are Chipotle? 

Before we dive into the cheesy details, let’s briefly introduce Chipotle Mexican Grill.  

Founded in 1993 in Denver, Colorado, Chipotle is known for its commitment to serving food with integrity. They prioritise responsibly sourced, high-quality ingredients and offer customers the freedom to customise their meals.  

From burritos and bowls to tacos and salads, Chipotle has become a go-to spot for fast-casual Mexican-inspired cuisine. 

What menu items do they use cheese In? 

Chipotle incorporates cheese into several of its menu items, enhancing the flavour and texture of these dishes. Here are some of the main menu items where you’ll find cheese: 

1. Burritos: Chipotle’s signature burritos often feature cheese as a topping or filling. 
2. Tacos: Whether you opt for hard-shell or soft-shell tacos, cheese is a popular choice as a taco topping. It complements the other ingredients and adds a savoury element to your meal. 
3. Burrito Bowls: If you’re watching your carb intake or simply prefer a bowl over a tortilla-wrapped burrito, you can still enjoy cheese as a topping in your burrito bowl. 
4. Quesadillas: Some Chipotle locations offer quesadillas on their menu. These grilled creations prominently feature cheese as a primary ingredient, delivering that classic gooey goodness. 
5. Nachos: In certain Chipotle locations, you’ll find nachos on the menu, and cheese is a key component here. The melted cheese brings the nacho experience to life. 

What Is the cheese that they use? 

Now that we’ve got the introductions out of the way, let’s get down to business!  

Chipotle uses a shredded cheese blend in their menu items. This blend typically consists of two types of cheese. And as you will find out, they are very much real cheese! 

Monterey Jack

One of the key components of Chipotle’s cheese blend is Monterey Jack cheese. This cheese variety plays a pivotal role in enhancing the flavour and texture of Chipotle’s menu items.  

Let’s dive deeper into what makes Monterey Jack cheese a star player at Chipotle. 

Creamy and mild flavour 

Monterey Jack cheese is renowned for its mild and creamy taste. It’s a cheese that doesn’t overwhelm the palate but rather complements the other ingredients in Chipotle’s dishes. This gentle creaminess spreads throughout your meal, creating a harmonious blend of flavours. 

Exceptional melting properties 

One of the reasons Monterey Jack cheese is favoured in the culinary world is its exceptional melting properties. When exposed to heat, it transforms into a smooth, velvety texture, creating that coveted melt-in-your-mouth experience.  

This quality makes it perfect for topping burritos, tacos, and quesadillas, where the cheese’s meltability adds an irresistible element. 

Versatile and adaptable 

Monterey Jack cheese’s versatility makes it an ideal choice for a variety of Chipotle menu items. Its mild profile means it can complement both the savoury and spicy components of Mexican-inspired cuisine without overpowering them.  

Whether you’re a fan of traditional flavours or enjoy experimenting with different toppings, Monterey Jack cheese can adapt to your preferences.  

A wholesome addition 

Beyond its taste and melting abilities, Monterey Jack cheese contributes essential nutrients to your Chipotle meal. It’s a source of calcium and protein, adding to the nutritional value of your dish. 

White Cheddar

White Cheddar cheese is the second half of Chipotle’s cheese blend, working in harmony with Monterey Jack to create a delicious and memorable dining experience. In America, White Cheddar is a name given to Cheddar cheese that has been made without the addition of colouring. 

Here’s a closer look at why White Cheddar cheese is a noteworthy ingredient at Chipotle. 

Robust and tangy flavour 

White Cheddar cheese offers a contrast to the mildness of Monterey Jack. It brings a robust, tangy flavour to the mix, contributing depth and complexity to Chipotle’s dishes.   

Creamy texture 

While White Cheddar may have a more pronounced taste, it still maintains a creamy texture that complements the melt-in-your-mouth quality of Monterey Jack. This creaminess adds a luscious and velvety dimension to the cheese blend, ensuring every bite is indulgent. 

Boldness that complements ingredients 

Chipotle’s menu is known for its bold and diverse flavours, from spicy salsas to smoky meats. White Cheddar cheese’s boldness aligns perfectly with these flavours, offering a rich and savoury contrast that doesn’t get lost in the mix.  

Nutritional value 

White Cheddar cheese brings nutritional value to your Chipotle meal. Just like Monterey Jack, it’s a source of protein and calcium, contributing to the overall nutritional profile of the dish. 

Versatile pairing 

White Cheddar cheese’s versatility extends beyond its role in Chipotle’s cheese blend. It pairs well with a wide range of ingredients, making it a suitable companion for various menu items, from burritos to quesadillas. 

Conclusion 

In conclusion, Chipotle Mexican Grill does use real cheese in their menu items. Their commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients extends to their cheese offerings, which include a blend of Monterey Jack and White Cheddar. And this is a far-cry from what America’s leading fast food chain, McDonald’s, uses in their burgers.

Whether you’re enjoying a burrito, tacos, a burrito bowl or quesadillas, you can savour the goodness of real cheese as part of your Chipotle dining experience.  

So, the next time you’re customising your meal at Chipotle, rest assured that you’re indulging in real, flavourful cheese that complements the integrity and taste of their dishes. 

Jonah Kincaid

Cheese lover. Scientist. Created a website and a Youtube channel about cheese science because he could not find answers to his questions online. 

cheesescientist.com

The post Does Chipotle Use Real Cheese? (Burritos & Other Menu Items)  appeared first on Cheese Scientist.

SEE ALSO: Discover our list of the most iconic cheese dishes from around the world →

History of nachos

Before nachos became a worldwide favourite, they had humble beginnings in Piedras Negras. This small town lies near the border between Mexico and Texas and was the home of a local chef called Ignacio Anaya.

As the story goes, Anaya was working at the Victory Club, a popular restaurant in Piedras Negras, when a group of US military wives came in looking for a snack.

Anaya had to think fast and, using what he had on hand, he created a dish that would become legendary.

Effectively, he took some tortilla chips, added grated cheese, and heated them up until the cheese melted. Then, he topped the chips with sliced jalapeños and served the dish to the customers. When asked what the dish was called, Anaya simply replied, “Nacho’s Especiales”, after his own nickname (Nacho is short for Ignacio).

Unsurprisingly, the dish became an instant hit and soon spread across the border to the United States, where it gained popularity in Texas and eventually throughout the country.

Today, nachos can be found in many variations and with a wide range of toppings, but they all owe their origins to Ignacio Anaya’s simple and delicious creation.

What are the best toppings for nachos?

Of course, the most important topping is cheese, but we’ll get back to that a little bit later. So, in addition to cheese, there are countless topping options for nachos. And we’ve rounded up some of our favourites below:

• Jalapeños – For a spicy kick, add fresh slices for crunch or pickled ones for tangy heat.
• Salsa – A tangy, fresh addition. Choose classic red, smoky chipotle, or vibrant verde for a zesty burst of flavour.
• Guacamole – Creamy avocado goodness that adds a smooth, buttery contrast to the bold nacho flavours.
• Sour cream – Cool and refreshing, it balances the heat from spicy toppings and adds a rich, creamy texture.
• Black beans – Protein-packed and earthy, black beans add heartiness and a satisfying texture to your nachos.
• Pico de Gallo – A fresh mix of tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice that adds vibrant colour and a zesty crunch.
• Shredded lettuce – Crisp and refreshing, lettuce provides a light, crunchy balance to the heavier, cheesy toppings.
• Ground beef or shredded chicken – Add a savoury, meaty layer with seasoned ground beef or tender shredded chicken for a hearty twist.
• Diced onions – Raw onions bring sharpness and crunch, while sautéed ones offer a sweeter, mellow flavour.
• Cilantro (coriander) – A sprinkle of cilantro adds bright, citrusy notes that tie all the flavours together.

Now that we’ve got that out of the way, let’s talk cheese.

How to choose your cheese

Choosing the right cheese for nachos can be a matter of personal preference, but there are definitely a few factors to consider when making your decision.

Flavour

Firstly, consider the flavour profile you’re going for. Do you want a mild, creamy flavour or something with a little more bite?

If you’re looking for a milder cheese, then a young Cheddar, Colby or Monterey Jack might be a good choice.On the other hand, for a little bit more heat or spice, go for Pepper Jack or Gorgonzola.

Texture

Next, consider the texture of the cheese. Unsurprisingly, you want a cheese that melts well and is easy to distribute evenly over the chips. Soft, creamy cheeses like Queso Blanco and Asadero are good choices, as are firmer, grated cheeses like Cotija and Gouda.

Other ingredients

Finally, consider the other ingredients in your nachos. If you’re using a lot of spicy toppings like jalapeños or chilli powder, then you might want to choose a milder cheese to balance out the heat.

Similarly, if you’re using ingredients with strong flavours like bacon or salsa, then you might want to choose a cheese with a more subtle flavour.

Ultimately, the best cheese for your nachos will depend on your personal taste and the other ingredients you’re using. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try different cheeses until you find the perfect one for your nacho recipe!

Our top 10 cheeses to melt on top of your nachos

Our selection will cover a range of flavours and textures. While you can certainly focus on only one cheese, we recommend mixing two or more cheeses. By doing this, you will elevate your nachos with more complex flavours, melt and crunch!

1. Queso Blanco

Unsurprisingly, we start our list with a Mexican cheese. Queso Blanco, which translates to “white cheese” in Spanish, is a fresh cheese that originated in Spain and is commonly found in many Central and South American countries, including Mexico and Puerto Rico. Around the world, it is also known as Queso Fresco (fresh cheese).

Queso Blanco is typically mild and slightly tangy in flavour, with a slightly savoury taste. It has a slightly grainy texture that is similar to Feta, but it is softer and less crumbly. As you’ve probably guessed, this cheese is often used as a topping for salads, tacos, nachos and other dishes.

2. Cheddar

Originally from Somerset, England, Cheddar has grown in popularity worldwide to become the world’s most popular cheese. Unsurprisingly, the flavour and texture of Cheddar varies depending on its age, rind and maturation environment. 

Young cheeses are very mild, creamy and smooth. Also, their texture is slightly buttery, moist and very meltable. Because of this, they tend to be the best choice for your nachos.

3. Oaxaca

Our second popular Mexican cheese on the list is Oaxaca. Also known as Quesillo (little cheese), this pasta filata cheese originates from the Oaxaca region of Mexico. This cheese is made from cow’s milk and has a distinct, stretchy texture that makes it a popular choice for use in a variety of Mexican dishes.

Oaxaca cheese has a mild and slightly tangy flavour, with a creamy, buttery taste that is similar to Mozzarella. Furthermore, its texture is unique and distinctive, with long, thin strands of cheese that separate when pulled apart.

This cheese is often used in dishes such as quesadillas, nachos, and tacos, and it is also a popular ingredient in traditional Mexican soups and stews.

4. Asadero

Asadero cheese is a semi-soft, Mexican cheese that is made from cow’s milk. It is a popular cheese in Mexican cuisine and is often used in dishes such as quesadillas, chiles rellenos and nachos. Also known as Azadero, this cheese’s name translates to “grilling cheese”.

Overall, Queso Asadero has a mild, buttery flavour with a slightly tangy taste. Moreover, its texture is soft and smooth and melts to produce a creamy and gooey consistency. Because of this, Mexicans like to slice, crumble or grate Asadero on top of a number of local dishes.

5. Cotija

Our final Mexican cheese on this list might just be the most spectacular one! Cotija is a hard, crumbly cow’s milk cheese that is similar in texture and flavour to Parmesan cheese. Actually, the cheese gets its name from the town of Cotija in the state of Michoacán, Mexico where it originated. 

Cotija cheese is commonly used in Mexican cuisine, particularly as a topping for dishes such as tacos, tostadas, and nachos. There are two types of Cotija cheese available: Cotija Fresco, which is a younger cheese with a milder flavour and crumbly texture. And Cotija Añejo, which is aged longer and has a stronger flavour and firmer texture.

Depending on the flavour you’re aiming for, you can choose either version for your nachos.

6. Mozzarella

Next we have America’s favourite cheese and there’s lots to love about Mozzarella. This traditional Italian pasta filata cheese is readily available from almost anywhere in the world. Both Buffalo Mozzarella and Fior di Latte (the cow’s milk version) have got a subtle milky flavour. 

But where they truly excel is in the texture department. Indeed, apply a bit of heat and Mozzarella becomes a dreamy, stretchy mess that will give you the perfect topping!

7. Monterey Jack

Another American favourite is Monterey Jack. While there are many versions of this cheese, including Pepper Jack and Dry Jack, a young Monterey Jack will be most suited for nachos.

The reason for this is the combination of subtle flavours and a high moisture level. Indeed, the extra moisture means that the young cheese melts more spectacularly and will achieve a cheese pull comparable to Mozzarella. 

Having said that, if you want a little bit of a kick on your nachos, you can also choose a young Pepper Jack.

8. Colby

Colby cheese is a semi-hard, cow’s milk cheese that originated in Colby, Wisconsin in the United States. It was first produced in 1885 by Joseph Steinwand who blended the techniques used to make Cheddar and Swiss cheeses. 

Overall, Colby has a smooth and creamy texture that is similar to Cheddar but is softer and less crumbly. Moreover, its mild and slightly sweet flavour, with a tangy aftertaste, make it a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes.

9. Aged Gouda

This pressed uncooked cheese is easily the Netherlands’ most famous export. Gouda comes from the area surrounding the town of Gouda, Southwest of Amsterdam. 

Our pick as a nachos topping is a 24-month matured cheese such as the pictured L’Amuse Signature Gouda. Even though this aged cheese has a low moisture content, it still melts in your mouth.

Moreover, its flavour is incredibly complex and includes notes of salted caramel and roasted hazelnuts. Combine this Gouda with a savoury Cheddar or Monterey Jack for a more balanced topping.

10. Gorgonzola Piccante

To wrap up our list of the best cheeses for nachos, we have one of Italy’s best. Gorgonzola is a blue cheese that finds its roots in the small Italian town of Gorgonzola. Gorgonzola is available as a young sweet version (Dolce) and an aged spicy cheese called Piccante.

Our pick for nachos is the slightly more mature and spicy Gorgonzola Piccante. And our advice here is to crumble the blue cheese on top of your nachos. Without a doubt, this spectacular Italian blue will add a little spiciness to your dish and playfully contrast a milder cheese like Mozzarella or Oaxaca with a more savoury and complex flavour palette.

Nachos FAQs

Let’s finish up our guide to cheese and nachos with some of your most frequently asked questions.

Can I use more than one cheese to top my nachos?

Actually, this is more than okay, it is recommended. You can get the perfect balance of flavour and texture by combining up to three different types of cheeses.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese for nachos?

Pre-shredded cheese can be convenient, but it may not melt as well as freshly grated cheese. To get the best results, it’s recommended to shred your own cheese or buy a block of cheese and grate it yourself.

Can I use plant-based cheese for nachos?

Yes, there are several types of vegan cheese available that can be used in nachos, including almond-based, soy-based, and cashew-based cheeses.

However, it’s important to note that vegan cheese may not melt in the same way as dairy-based cheese, so you may need to experiment with different brands to find the best option.

How much cheese should I use for nachos?

The amount of cheese you should use for nachos depends on the size of the dish you’re making and how cheesy you want your nachos to be. As a general rule of thumb, you’ll need about 180 g (6 ounces) of cheese per 360 g (12 ounces) of tortilla chips.

How do I prevent the cheese from getting hard and rubbery on top of the nachos?

To prevent the cheese from getting hard and rubbery on top of the nachos, it’s important to make sure the cheese is evenly distributed and not piled too thickly on top of the chips. Also, you can try adding a small amount of milk or cream to the cheese to help it melt more smoothly. 

Additionally, it’s a good idea to bake the nachos in the oven at a lower temperature for a longer time to ensure the cheese melts evenly.

Conclusion: choose the right cheese

Thank you for reading our post on cheese for nachos. As you can see, choosing the right cheese for nachos can make all the difference in the taste and texture of your dish. Whether you prefer a mild, creamy cheese or something with a bit more heat, there are plenty of options to choose from. 

Some of the most popular choices include Cheddar, Monterey Jack and Oaxaca, while other cheeses like Gouda and Gorgonzola can add a unique twist to your recipe. Now tell me, what’s your favourite cheese to use when making nachos? Leave a comment below.

Jonah Kincaid

Cheese lover. Scientist. Created a website and a Youtube channel about cheese science because he could not find answers to his questions online. 

cheesescientist.com

The post 10 Best Cheeses For Nachos (Mexican & American Cheeses) appeared first on Cheese Scientist.