Pepper Jack Cheese — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 6, 2024
Pepper jack cheese nutrients
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 330 kcal
Nutrients per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
---|---|---|
Carbs | 1 g | 0.36% |
Fiber | 0 g | - |
Sugars | 0 g | - |
Glycemic Index | 30 | - |
Protein | 21 g | 42% |
Sodium | 604 mg | 26.26% |
Total Fat | 26 | 33.33% |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
21 g
💪 High Protein Content
30
🟢 Low Glycemic Index
Pepper jack cheese facts & tips
Health benefits
- High in protein, essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function.
- Rich in calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth.
- Contains healthy fats, which provide energy and support cell function.
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, Vitamin B12, and phosphorus, supporting overall health and well-being.
- Enhances flavor in dishes, making foods more enjoyable and palatable with its spicy kick.
Health risks
- High fat content particularly in full-fat pepper jack cheese, which can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease when consumed frequently.
- High sodium content which can contribute to hypertension and increased cardiovascular risks when consumed frequently.
- High calorie content which can contribute to weight gain if consumed frequently or in large portions, particularly as a snack or in calorie-dense dishes.
- Potential for lactose intolerance symptoms such as bloating, gas, or diarrhea in individuals sensitive to dairy products.
- Potential for digestive discomfort due to the spicy content in pepper jack cheese, which may cause heartburn or stomach irritation in sensitive individuals.
How to choose pepper jack cheese
Pepper Jack cheese should have a creamy texture with visible flecks of pepper, suggesting a good distribution of spices. The cheese should be moist but not overly soft, indicating it has been stored at an appropriate temperature.
Avoid Pepper Jack cheese that has hard edges or dry spots, as these are signs of over-aging or improper storage. Packages that are bloated or have tears should also be avoided, as the cheese inside may be compromised.
How to store pepper jack cheese
Pepper Jack cheese should be stored in the refrigerator, ideally in its original packaging or an airtight container. Refrigeration maintains its spicy flavor and creamy texture for up to a month.
Air exposure can cause cheese to dry out and spoil. Avoid leaving it uncovered, and always reseal tightly. Proper storage keeps it fresh and flavorful for snacking or cooking. Using wax paper before plastic wrap can help preserve its quality.
✅ Extra Tip
How long does it last?
Pepper jack cheese can last for 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator once opened. Unopened, it can last for 1-2 months. For longer storage, pepper jack cheese can be frozen for up to 6 months, though its texture may change upon thawing. Proper storage helps maintain its flavor and quality.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover pepper jack cheese can be used in a variety of savory and spicy dishes. Slice it and add to sandwiches, wraps, or burgers for a kick of heat, or grate it and mix into a macaroni and cheese for added flavor. Pepper jack cheese is also great when used as a topping for pizzas, nachos, or baked potatoes.
Use pepper jack cheese in a grilled cheese sandwich by layering it with other cheeses and toasting until melty, or mix it into a quesadilla or taco filling with meat, beans, and vegetables. If you have a lot of pepper jack cheese, consider making a batch of cheese-stuffed jalapeños by filling the peppers with cheese and baking until bubbly. Pepper jack cheese can also be mixed into a casserole or baked dish with rice, beans, and vegetables, or used as a filling for enchiladas or stuffed peppers. For a quick snack, enjoy pepper jack cheese with crackers, or pair it with fresh fruit for a light and satisfying treat.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
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Listonic Team
Fact-checked
Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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