Top American Cheese Brands: A Creamy Countdown

American cheese, with its creamy texture and rich flavor, has become a staple ingredient in households and restaurants across the United States. Its popularity stems largely from its versatility, whether melting perfectly over a burger or enhancing a classic grilled cheese sandwich. With a myriad of brands offering their take on this beloved cheese, selecting the best can be a daunting task. To assist you in navigating through this cheesy wonderland, we've compiled a list of the top brands for American cheese that are worth considering. Check below to find out which brands stand out from the rest.

Illustration of american cheese

Best brands of american cheese in 2025

Kraft

Kraft, founded by James L. Kraft, has been a leading American cheese producer since the early 1900s, pioneering processed cheese in 1916 and introducing individually wrapped slices, known as Kraft Singles, in 1965. In 2020, 108.77 million Americans consumed Kraft Singles, and the company, along with Sargento, holds nearly 40% of cheese sales outside of private labels in the US, making Kraft a highly recognized brand in American households and globally. The company's innovation in cheese processing led to over 40% of cheese consumed being the Kraft brand by 1930. Kraft Heinz is also one of the top three companies launching dairy cheese products. You can find more information about their products on their official website.

Boar's Head

Boar's Head, established in 1905, is a leading producer of premium American cheese, crafting products with a blend of traditional techniques and modern standards, resulting in a smooth, rich flavor profile enjoyed by approximately 45% of deli cheese consumers in the U.S. and with some offerings boasting a 98% rating for satisfaction among purchasers who prioritize quality.

Horizon Organic

Horizon Organic, a pioneer in organic dairy since 1991, is a leading American cheese producer, offering a variety of options including American singles and string cheese, all made with certified organic milk from over 700 dairies in 23 states. Their products are USDA certified organic, and free from antibiotics, growth hormones, and pesticides. The brand was the first to offer nationwide distribution of organic fluid milk. In 2023, the organic cheese market was valued at $8.89 billion, and it is expected to reach $14.14 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 6.86%. You can find more information about their products by visiting the Horizon Organic website.

Land O'Lakes

Land O'Lakes, a brand with a rich history dating back to 1921, is renowned for its high-quality dairy products, including American cheese, which is a favorite in many households; the company, a cooperative owned by farmers, produces a variety of cheeses, with some estimates indicating that they account for nearly 15% of the total American cheese market. Land O'Lakes cheese products are often found in grocery stores, restaurants, and a variety of food processing operations. In 2023, their sales figures demonstrate a strong consumer preference for their cheese products, which are known for their smooth texture and creamy flavor.

Tillamook

Tillamook, an Oregon-based creamery established in 1909, is renowned for producing some of the best American cheese, holding a 115+ year history of crafting high-quality dairy products; their cheddar cheese, aged for different periods, accounts for a large percentage of their sales, while their 2023 revenue shows a 10% increase in sales over the previous year; they pride themselves on using milk from cows not treated with artificial growth hormones; their commitment to quality is evident in their consistent national award-winning cheese.

Sargento

Sargento, established in 1953, has become a leading American cheese producer, capturing a significant portion of the market with their high-quality shredded and sliced cheese options; they proudly offer a wide variety of natural cheese products, including cheddar, mozzarella, and provolone, with some lines boasting over 90% real cheese. Sargento's commitment to quality and innovation has earned them numerous awards and consumer trust, making them a go-to choice for families and food professionals alike; they expanded their production into snack packs and other convenient forms, further solidifying their position in the dairy industry, with over 60 years of experience; the company has successfully expanded their brand across the US and continues to be a major innovator in the cheese market.

Organic Valley

Organic Valley, a leading producer of organic dairy products, crafts exceptional American cheese, with 80% of their dairy coming from small family farms that adhere to high animal welfare standards since 1988, ensuring rich flavor and texture. They offer a variety of cheese options, showcasing their dedication to quality and sustainability.

Applegate

Applegate, a leading producer of American cheese since 1987, crafts their cheese with 100% grass-fed milk, resulting in a smooth, creamy texture and superior flavor; their cheese is a popular choice with over 75% consumer satisfaction rating, and it is available in several varieties, including slices and shreds, making it versatile for all kinds of dishes. With no added hormones or antibiotics, Applegate cheese stands for quality and wholesomeness, and it is a great option for families; consumers choose Applegate for its commitment to natural ingredients and sustainable practices, making them a reliable option for everyday use. For product information and recipes, visit their website.

Velveeta

Velveeta, a processed cheese product invented in 1918 by Emil Frey, became a separate company in 1923, and was acquired by Kraft in 1927. Known for its smooth, "velvety" texture, Velveeta is a popular choice for dishes like queso and mac and cheese. Though not considered a real cheese, it holds a significant 62.4% market share alongside Kraft Mac and Cheese, and is estimated to account for 5 to 8 percent of Kraft's overall revenue. It finds success in discount stores for its affordability and ease of use and has been marketed as a "pasteurized prepared cheese product" since 2002. Velveeta continues to be a favorite among many consumers. For more details, visit their official website.

Cabot

Cabot Creamery, a cooperative owned by 1,100 farm families in New England and New York, has been producing award-winning cheese since 1919, and is recognized for its high-quality, natural dairy products, including cheddar, which has received top honors at the American Cheese Society and International Cheese and Dairy Awards in 2024, such as their White Oak Cheddar winning gold, and they also make other dairy products like yogurt and butter. As a B Corp certified company since 2012, Cabot is also committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility, and they are experimenting with alternative packaging, reflecting their dedication to quality and innovation.