Pepper jack cheese is a uniquely American creation, celebrated for its smooth texture and spicy kick. Born from the classic monterey jack, this bold variation infuses chili peppers and herbs to bring heat and flavor to an already beloved cheese. Whether melted over a burger, paired with smoky barbecue, or enjoyed straight from the wedge, pepper jack is as versatile as it is flavorful. Read on to learn more and discover the infinite range of award-winning pepper jack cheese varieties from Wisconsin!
What Is Pepper Jack Cheese?
Pepper jack is a semi-soft, meltable cheese infused with spicy chili peppers and herbs. It delivers a creamy, base with a zesty, slightly fiery finish, making it a favorite for those who love a bit of heat in their cheese.
A Brief History of Pepper Jack Cheese
Pepper jack is a modern twist on monterey jack, an American original that was likely first created by Spanish missionaries in California and heavily marketed by Scottish immigrant, David Jacks, in the 1880s. While monterey jack has remained a mild, velvety cheese, cheesemakers saw an opportunity to experiment—introducing chili peppers to the mix for an extra kick.
While California may claim the original jack cheese, Wisconsin has perfected pepper jack. Wisconsin cheesemakers took this spicy innovation and elevated it, using high-quality dairy and time-honored cheesemaking techniques to create a more refined, flavorful version. Today, Wisconsin pepper jack stands out as some of the best in the country, blending the state’s rich cheesemaking traditions with bold, contemporary flavors.
Flavor and Texture of Pepper Jack
Pepper jack’s magic lies in the balance between its mild, buttery cheese base and the spicy, vegetal heat from chili peppers. The result? A cheese that is supple, meltable, and just the right level of spicy—not overpowering, but enough to wake up your taste buds. It’s an excellent melting cheese, making it ideal for both snacking and cooking
How to Use Pepper Jack Cheese
Cooking
If you’ve never melted pepper jack over a burger or snuck an extra handful into your mac and cheese, are you even living? This cheese was made for comfort food with an attitude.
- Grilled cheese sandwiches – Take your grilled cheese up a notch with the spicy warmth of pepper jack.
- Quesadillas and Tacos – A perfect match for Mexican-inspired dishes, adding just the right heat to every bite.
- Mac and Cheese and Nachos – Melts beautifully for a rich, spicy twist on comfort food classics.
- Burgers and Casseroles – Brings a punch of flavor to hearty, savory dishes.
Snacking
Pepper jack’s balance of smooth and spicy makes it a great addition to any snack spread:
- Cheese Boards – Pair it with crackers, nuts, and fresh fruit.
- Wraps and Sandwiches – Thinly sliced, it adds just enough kick without overwhelming the dish.
- Dips – Melt into a warm, creamy dip for pretzels, tortilla chips, or bread.
Entertaining
Pepper jack shines in appetizers and party spreads:
- Pair it with bold flavors like smoky BBQ, spicy chutneys, or pickled jalapeños.
- Slice into cubes for skewers with grapes, charcuterie, or olives.
- Serve with crusty bread and honey for a perfect balance of heat and sweetness.
Exploring Wisconsin Pepper Jack Cheese
Pepper jack has become a specialty among Wisconsin cheesemakers, who take pride in blending high-quality dairy with bold, innovative flavors.
Notable Wisconsin Cheesemakers
- Burnett Dairy Cooperative – Known for their high-quality flavored cheeses, including a rich, pepper-laced pepper jack.
- Meister Cheese – Makers of Muscoda Mayhem, a pepper jack-style cheese built on a Colby-Jack base, offering a mellow yet fiery flavor.
- Roth Cheese – Expert cheesemakers crafting small-batch pepper jack with Wisconsin milk for exceptional taste and quality.
Pairing Ideas for Wisconsin Pepper Jack
- Local Sausages – Try it with Wisconsin summer sausage or spicy chorizo.
- Craft Beers – Pale ales and lagers balance out the spice, while an IPA can enhance the heat.
- Farm-fresh Apples – The sweetness of crisp Wisconsin apples contrasts beautifully with the cheese’s spicy kick.
Substitutions for Pepper Jack Cheese
While pepper jack is unique in its crowd-pleasing texture and spicy kick, there are several great alternatives if you need a different cheese. The best substitute depends on whether you're looking for the same meltability, a similar mild base, or an alternative source of spice. Here are some top options depending on your needs:
Cheese Similar to Pepper Jack
- Monterey jack – The mild, creamy base without the spice.
- Colby jack – An easy alternative with a similar texture but no heat.
- Spicy cheddar – A firmer, sharper option that brings bold flavor.
How to Choose
Selecting a substitute depends on the level of heat and texture you need:
- For melting, go with monterey jack.
- For sandwiches or cheese boards, colby jack is a solid alternative.
- For a sharper, bolder flavor, spicy cheddar delivers extra punch.
Pairing Pepper Jack Cheese
Pepper jack’s bold yet approachable flavor profile makes it a versatile choice for pairing with a wide range of flavors. Whether you're looking to balance its spice with something sweet, enhance its richness with a smoky element, or find the perfect drink to complement its zesty notes, there are plenty of great options. Here’s how to make the most of its dynamic flavor in cheese pairings:
Beverage Pairings
- Beers – Pale ales and lagers mellow out the heat, while IPAs amplify it.
- Wines – A fruity Zinfandel or off-dry Riesling pairs well with pepper jack.
- Non-Alcoholic – Sparkling water or limeade provides a refreshing contrast.
Food Pairings
- Fruits – Fresh grapes, melon, or pineapple complement the spice.
- Meats – Cured meats like salami or smoked turkey enhance pepper jack’s bold flavors.
- Spreads – Serve with spicy chutneys or honey for a sweet-heat contrast.
FAQs About Pepper Jack Cheese
Is pepper jack cheese hot or spicy?
Pepper jack has a noticeable kick, but it’s usually not overwhelmingly spicy. The level of heat depends on the type and amount of chili peppers used, but overall, it’s more of a gentle, zesty burn rather than a full-on fiery blast. It adds warmth to dishes without overpowering the other flavors.
How do colby jack and pepper jack differ?
Colby jack is a blend of colby and monterey jack, giving it a mild, creamy, and slightly tangy flavor without any heat. Pepper jack, on the other hand, is monterey jack infused with chili peppers and herbs, making it spicier and more robust in flavor. While colby jack is a great melting cheese, pepper jack adds an extra layer of spice to dishes.
What kind of cheese is in pepper jack cheese?
Pepper jack starts as monterey jack, a mild, semi-soft cheese known for its silky texture and great melting ability. The key difference is the addition of spicy chili peppers and herbs, which give pepper jack its signature heat and bold character.
What pairings are best for pepper jack cheese?
Pepper jack pairs well with a mix of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors:
- Fruits: Grapes, apples, pineapple, or melon balance the spice.
- Meats: Cured meats like salami, chorizo, or smoked turkey enhance its boldness.
- Beverages: Fruity wines (like Zinfandel or Riesling), craft beers (pale ales, lagers, or IPAs), and even refreshing non-alcoholic drinks like limeade complement the spice.
What is pepper jack cheese similar to?
If you’re looking for a substitute with similar qualities, try:
- Monterey jack (same texture, but no spice)
- Colby jack (mild, soft, no heat)
- Spicy cheddar (firmer, sharper, but with a kick of heat)
- Havarti with peppers (creamy and mild, but with added spice)
Is pepper jack a good melting cheese?
Absolutely! Pepper jack melts beautifully, making it perfect for grilled cheese, nachos, mac and cheese, burgers, and dips. Its smooth, buttery texture ensures even melting, while the spicy peppers infuse every bite with extra flavor.
How do you store pepper jack cheese?
To keep pepper jack fresh, wrap it in wax or parchment paper and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Avoid plastic wrap, as it can trap moisture and affect texture. If properly stored, it stays fresh for about 2-3 weeks.
What pairs well with pepper jack?
- Bold BBQ flavors – The spice in pepper jack complements smoky, grilled meats.
- Tropical fruits – Mango, pineapple, or melon provide a sweet contrast.
- Spicy chutneys and honey – Sweet heat enhances the cheese’s zesty profile.
- Craft beers and cocktails – IPAs highlight the heat, while margaritas and citrusy drinks provide a refreshing balance.
