29 kcal P 1.44g C 6.74g F 0.19g
🥚 Dairy and Egg Products
Calories in Cheese, monterey jack, solid
California's original melting cheese was popularized by a shrewd businessman who stamped his name on it.
391 kcal
What makes cheese so powerful?
Monterey Jack traces its origins to the Franciscan friars who established missions in 18th-century California, crafting a semi-soft cow's milk cheese. In the 1880s, entrepreneur David Jacks began commercially producing this local cheese in Monterey County, eventually lending his name to the product. Beyond its history, the cheese's celebrated meltability is a matter of food chemistry. Monterey Jack is typically aged for only one to six months, retaining a relatively high moisture content. This water acts as a plasticizer within the cheese matrix. Additionally, the cheese is produced to reach a pH near the isoelectric point of casein proteins, roughly 5.2 to 5.4. At this pH, the protein structure is sufficiently weakened to allow the fat and protein to flow smoothly and evenly when heated. Unlike aged, lower-moisture cheeses that separate into a greasy pool and rubbery solids when melted, Monterey Jack's specific moisture and pH profile ensures a cohesive, creamy melt. This is why it remains a foundational cheese in Mexican-American cuisine, particularly in quesadillas and nachos.
California mission origins
The recipe was originally brought to California by Franciscan friars in the 1700s before being commercialized by David Jacks.
Engineered for perfect melting
Its high moisture content and specific pH level weaken the protein matrix, allowing for a smooth, cohesive melt.
Brief aging window
Unlike sharp cheddars, Monterey Jack is typically aged for just one to six months to preserve its mild flavor and moisture.
💡 When & how to use it
Because of its high moisture and fat content, Monterey Jack melts seamlessly, making it ideal for grilled cheese, quesadillas, or baked casseroles. To balance its rich, high-fat profile, pair it with acidic or high-fiber foods like fresh tomatoes or jalapeños, which cut through the richness and aid digestion. Store it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator to prevent moisture loss and mold, and grate it cold for the most even melting distribution over hot dishes.
Calories by Serving Size
100g
391 kcal
P 22.6g C 1.9g F 32.6g
1 RACC (30g)
117 kcal
P 6.8g C 0.6g F 9.8g
200g
782 kcal
P 45.2g C 3.8g F 65.2g
50g
196 kcal
P 11.3g C 1g F 16.3g
Full Nutrition Facts
Per 100g — daily values based on a 2,000 calorie diet
Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 100g
Calories 391
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 32.6g 42%
Saturated Fat 19.2g 96%
Cholesterol 99.8mg 33%
Sodium 662mg 29%
Total Carbohydrate 1.9g 1%
Protein 22.6g 45%
Calcium 715mg 55%
Iron 0mg 0%
Potassium 82.9mg 2%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
How does Cheese fit your daily goals?
78 min
Walking to burn 391 kcal
20%
of 2,000 kcal daily goal
22.6g
protein (45% of daily 50g)
5
servings until 2,000 kcal
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in Cheese, monterey jack, solid?
Cheese, monterey jack, solid contains 391 calories per 100g. A standard serving of 1 RACC (30g) provides 117 calories. It is relatively calorie-dense, so portion control is important.
How much protein does Cheese, monterey jack, solid have?
Cheese, monterey jack, solid provides 22.6g of protein per 100g, which is 45% of the 50g daily recommended value. It is an excellent source of protein.
How many carbs are in Cheese, monterey jack, solid?
Cheese, monterey jack, solid contains 1.9g of carbohydrates per 100g .
Is Cheese, monterey jack, solid good for weight loss?
Cheese, monterey jack, solid has 391 kcal per 100g, so portions need to be monitored on a weight-loss diet. Use CalRay to track your intake accurately. Its high protein content (22.6g/100g) helps with satiety.
How do I track Cheese, monterey jack, solid calories accurately?
The easiest way to track cheese is with CalRay. Simply snap a photo of your meal and the AI will automatically identify the food and calculate calories and macros based on the estimated portion size — no manual lookup required. You can also search by name and adjust gram weight manually.
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