Cheese (Like Velveeta)
Creamy homemade cheese with a velvety texture and rich flavor, perfect for melting or slicing. Made from simple ingredients like milk, butter, and cream, this cheese offers a nostalgic taste and smooth consistency. Ideal for cheese platters, sandwiches, or cooking applications that call for a mild, homemade cheese.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Let milk sour until thick; when thickened, scald until it is too hot to touch.
- Pour into cheesecloth and let hang to dry overnight or 12 hours.
- Crumble curds to make fine crumbs.
- Mix in soda and let stand 2 hours.
- Place into a large skillet (preferably stainless steel) and add butter.
- Melt butter with curds then add cream and salt.
- Cook and stir until smooth.
- Pour into a buttered container and let stand until completely cooled.
- Slice and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure the milk is sour enough for optimal curd formation; taste for tanginess before scalding. If you want a smoother texture, consider blending the crumbled curds before cooking. For a richer flavor, you can substitute half of the butter with cream cheese. This cheese can be used in many American recipes, including mac and cheese or as a topping for baked potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese is perfect for sandwiches, melted over nachos, or as a dip for vegetables. Consider pairing it with crispy crackers or serving it alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It also complements comfort foods like K-Bars or can be enjoyed as part of a snack platter with fruits and nuts.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, slice the cheese and warm it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until melted. It can also be microwaved in short bursts, but be cautious to avoid overheating, which can change the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese (Like Velveeta) contains roughly 354 calories, with 7g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% of the Daily Value) and protein (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 694mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of milk for this recipe?
Yes, you can use whole or low-fat milk, but avoid skim milk as it may not thicken properly. For a unique flavor, try using buttermilk, which can add a slight tanginess to the cheese.
What should I do if the cheese is too crumbly?
If the cheese turns out too crumbly, you can add a bit more cream or butter while melting to help bind it together. Stir thoroughly until you achieve a smoother consistency.
How can I make this cheese spicier?
To add a kick of spice, incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper when mixing in the cream and salt. This will enhance the flavor and give your cheese a delightful heat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).