Nachos, tacos, rice, and chicken fries go well with Nacho cheese. But before you grab your next plate of chicken with Nacho cheese, you may want to check if the cheese is safe for you. So, is Nacho cheese gluten-free?
Nacho cheese is naturally gluten-free because none of its ingredients contains Gluten. This means it is safe for people with gluten intolerance and celiac disease. However, some brands add wheat to Nacho cheese as a thickener, so you’d have to check the ingredients if you’re buying packaged Nacho cheese.
Except you grow your food, it’s very important to check the labels before adding anything to your meals, especially if you’re Gluten intolerant. So let’s learn more about this popular cheese and if it’s healthy for you.
Is Nacho Cheese Completely Free Of Gluten?
Not all Nacho Cheese is gluten-free. Some Nacho cheese sauces contain gluten ingredients, such as wheat flour or modified food starch. It’s important to check the label or contact the manufacturer for information on specific brands. To be sure, look for Nacho cheese sauces that are labelled gluten-free.
Gluten is a protein in grains like wheat, rye, and barley. It causes digestive problems for people with celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or wheat allergies. Many foods contain Gluten, including bread, pasta, and baked goods.
Nacho cheese is made with processed cheese; in most cases, this cheese is not completely gluten-free. The amounts of gluten in processed cheese will vary depending on its processing. The safest way to know if your Nacho cheese is gluten-free is by checking its ingredients list before consumption or by making your Nacho cheese yourself.
What Are The Ingredients In Nacho Cheese?
The ingredients in Nacho cheese vary depending on the brand and the recipe, but it is a blend of cheddar, Colby, or Monterey Jack cheese, milk, spices, and often jalapeño peppers. The exact ingredients in Nacho cheese can vary depending on the brand, the recipe, and the intended use.
1. Cheese
Usually, these cheeses are all melted together to create a cheesy dip or topping. Many people prefer their cheese flavoured with their unique spices. For most, chilli powder does its best, giving the cheese a spicy feel.
Cheese is the most important ingredient in making Nacho cheese. Several types of cheese are used in making Nacho cheese, allowing you to choose different flavours. They include cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Mozzarella.
2. Tomato Sauce
This is also another important ingredient in making Nacho cheese. The primary use of tomato sauce in cheese is to give it flavour and thickness. To get tomato sauce, you have to get tomatoes and make the sauce from them.
Thankfully, tomatoes have high health benefits. They are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making them good disease repellents. In addition, tomatoes are rich in potassium and dietary fibre with varied health benefits.
3. Milk
To make the cheese sauce smooth and creamy, milk is added to the melted cheese.
4. Stabilizers And Thickeners
To prevent the cheese sauce from separating, ingredients such as cornstarch, flour, or modified food starch are added.
5. Spices
Spices such as chilli powder, garlic powder, and paprika are commonly added to nacho cheese to add flavour.
Nacho cheese without spice might taste a little boring to many people. Chilli pepper is used as a spice to add flavour to Nacho cheese and make it worth the fun. Some say chilli pepper brings heat to the cheese, making it perfect for snacking. Aside from adding flavours, chilli pepper is rich in vitamins and potassium, helping prevent diseases and bringing stability.
Onions bring a savoury flavour complimenting the cheese and other ingredients. Onions bring balance and homogeneity to all the ingredients in the dish.
Nacho Cheese Gluten-Free Recipe
If you’re gluten-free, you may have found it difficult to enjoy this classic snack due to many store-bought brands containing gluten. However, fear not! Making nacho cheese from scratch is easier than you might think, and this gluten-free recipe will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 2 tbsp of cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp of garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp of onion powder
- 1/4 tsp of cumin
- 1/4 tsp of paprika
- 1/4 tsp of chilli powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat the milk over medium heat in a medium saucepan until it steams.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tbsp of cold water until dissolved.
- Add the cornstarch mixture to the heated milk and stir for 1-2 minutes until it thickens.
- Add the shredded cheese to the saucepan and stir until it is fully melted and combined with the milk mixture.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, paprika, chilli powder, salt, and pepper to the saucepan and stir until fully combined.
- Continue to heat the nacho cheese over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it is fully heated and smooth.
- Serve immediately with your favourite gluten-free tortilla chips, nachos, or other Mexican dishes.
What are the Brands of Nacho Cheese That Are Gluten-Free?
It can be challenging to navigate the endless options of cheese brands and determine which ones are safe to consume. Fortunately, several brands of nacho cheese are gluten-free and suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
1. Tostitos
Tostitos is a well-known brand of tortilla chips and dips that are popular among consumers. The company offers a variety of dips, including nacho cheese, that are gluten-free.
Their nacho cheese dip ingredients include water, vegetable oil, modified food starch, cheese culture, salt, and jalapeño peppers.
2. Ricos
Ricos is a popular brand of cheese sauces and dips that are commonly used in movie theatres, sports stadiums, and other venues. The company offers a variety of gluten-free nacho cheese products, including their Nacho Cheese Sauce and Gourmet Nacho Cheese Sauce. Both products are made with natural cheese and are free of gluten and trans fats.
3. Fritos
Fritos is a brand of corn chips that are a popular snack food in the United States. The company also offers a variety of dips and sauces, including their Chili Cheese Dip, which is gluten-free.
Their Chili Cheese Dip ingredients include water, cheddar cheese, modified corn starch, jalapeño peppers, and spices.
4. Que Bueno
Que Bueno is a brand of Mexican-style sauces and dips commonly used in restaurants and homes. The company offers a variety of gluten-free nacho cheese products, including their Nacho Cheese Sauce and Jalapeño Nacho Cheese Sauce.
Both products are made with natural cheese and are free of gluten, preservatives, and trans fats.
5. La Preferida
La Preferida is a brand of Mexican-style foods that is popular among consumers. The company offers a variety of gluten-free nacho cheese products, including their Nacho Cheese Sauce and Queso Blanco Dip.
Both products are made with natural cheese and are free of gluten, MSG, and trans fats.
6. Mission
The mission is a brand of tortilla chips and dips that are popular among consumers. The company offers a variety of gluten-free nacho cheese products, including their Nacho Cheese Dip and Jalapeño Cheese Dip. Both products are made with natural cheese and are free of gluten, artificial colours, and flavours.
7. Frontera
Frontera is a brand of Mexican-style foods that is popular among consumers. The company offers a variety of gluten-free nacho cheese products, including their Jalapeño White Cheddar Cheese Sauce and Double Roasted Tomato Cheese Sauce.
Both products are made with natural cheese and are free of gluten, preservatives, and artificial colours and flavours.
Alternatives to Nacho Cheese for People on a Gluten-Free Diet
Plenty of alternatives to traditional nacho cheese are both gluten-free and delicious. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a tasty snack, these nacho cheese alternatives are sure to please.
1. Vegan Nacho Cheese
One of the easiest alternatives to traditional nacho cheese is vegan. This is a plant-based cheese made from nuts, nutritional yeast, and spices, and it’s a great option for those looking for a healthier alternative to cheese.
Not only is it gluten-free, but it’s also dairy-free and doesn’t contain any cholesterol.
2. Cashew Cheese
Another option for those on a gluten-free diet is cashew cheese. This cheese is made from cashews, which are soaked and blended with other ingredients to create a smooth, creamy texture. It’s a great option for those looking for a nut-based cheese that’s easy to make and tastes great.
3. Hummus
If you’re looking for a quick and easy alternative to nacho cheese, hummus is a great option. It’s made from chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and spices, and it’s gluten-free and dairy-free. You can add ingredients like roasted red pepper or garlic to give it a unique flavour.
4. Salsa
Salsa is another great option for those on a gluten-free diet. It’s made from tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices and is low in calories and fat. Adding other ingredients like corn or black beans gives it a more filling and nutritious option.
5. Guacamole
Guacamole is a great alternative to nacho cheese for those looking for something creamy and delicious. It’s made from avocado, lime juice, and spices, and it’s gluten-free and dairy-free. Adding other ingredients like tomato or cilantro gives it a unique flavour.
6. Nutritional Yeast
Nutritional yeast is a great option for those looking for a cheesy flavour without dairy or gluten. It’s a deactivated yeast high in protein and B vitamins and has a cheesy, nutty flavour. You can sprinkle it on top of popcorn, vegetables, or any other snack you want to add flavour.
7. Coconut Milk
Coconut milk is another great alternative to nacho cheese for those looking for a creamy and delicious option. It’s made from coconut meat and water, and it’s gluten-free and dairy-free. You can use it in various recipes, from curries to smoothies, to give them a creamy and rich flavour.
Nacho Cheese Gluten-Free Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 2 tbsp of cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp of garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp of onion powder
- 1/4 tsp of cumin
- 1/4 tsp of paprika
- 1/4 tsp of chilli powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the milk over medium heat in a medium saucepan until it steams.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tbsp of cold water until dissolved.
- Add the cornstarch mixture to the heated milk and stir for 1-2 minutes until it thickens.
- Add the shredded cheese to the saucepan and stir until it is fully melted and combined with the milk mixture.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, paprika, chilli powder, salt, and pepper to the saucepan and stir until fully combined.
- Continue to heat the nacho cheese over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it is fully heated and smooth.
- Serve immediately with your favourite gluten-free tortilla chips, nachos, or other Mexican dishes.
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Conclusion
Some Nacho cheese sold outside is gluten-free, and some are not. However, check the ingredients list and confirm this yourself is safe before opening the pack. I believe it is even safer if you make your Nacho cheese yourself using the simple guide in this article.
