Ever found yourself wondering, “What cheese does Chipotle use?” You’re not alone — it’s a question that pops up the moment you take that first cheesy bite. Let me break it down for you.
Chipotle uses a zesty blend of Monterey Jack cheese and white cheddar, creating a creamy, flavorful mix that melts beautifully. This perfect combo isn’t just for show — it enhances everything from burritos and tacos to salads and pretty much everything else on the Chipotle menu.
What’s even better? The cheese is made from pasteurized milk, is completely gluten-free, and fits into most diets without a hitch. Honestly, it’s one of those small extras that feels totally worth the add-on — especially when you’re craving that warm, melty, cheesy finish to your meal.

Chipotle Cheese PricePrice and Calories
Price
At Chipotle, shredded cheese is included in meals at no extra cost, but extra cheese on the side typically costs $0.50 to $1.00 depending on location.
Calories
A standard 1 oz serving of Chipotle’s shredded cheese contains approximately 100 calories
Chipotle Cheese Ingredients
Chipotle uses a blend of Monterey Jack and white cheddar cheeses. It’s real cheese—not processed slices or American cheese, and it’s fully pasteurized. These are made from:
- Pasteurized milk
- Cheese cultures
- Salt
- Enzymes (vegetarian-based rennet)
- Anti-caking agents (like potato starch or cellulose) to prevent clumping
Chipotle CheeseNutrition
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 100 kcal |
Total Fat | 8g |
Saturated Fat | 5g |
Cholesterol | 25mg |
Sodium | 180mg |
Protein | 6g |
Carbohydrates | 0g |
Sugar | 0g |
Fiber | 0g |
Chipotle Cheese Recipe
Want to recreate that creamy cheese blend at home?
Ingredients:
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar
- ½ tsp cornstarch (optional, to prevent clumping)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Mix both cheeses evenly and store in an airtight container. Use it fresh for tacos, burritos, or nachos—or melt it for a homemade cheesy topping that tastes just like Chipotle’s!
Chipotle Cheese vs Queso Blanco
Feature | Shredded Cheese | Queso Blanco |
---|---|---|
Type | Monterey Jack & white cheddar blend | Creamy white cheese sauce |
Texture | Grated, cool, and slightly stretchy | Smooth, melted, and pourable |
Flavor | Mild and familiar cheese flavor | Rich, buttery, slightly tangy with heat |
Calories (1 oz) | ~100 kcal | ~120 kcal per 2 oz |
Best Use | Tacos, bowls, salads | Chips, burritos, or dipping |
Vegan-Friendly | ❌ Not vegan | ❌ Not vegan |
Faqs
Please note: For accurate nutritional values, consult the Chipotle website or the company’s customer support. Furthermore, Chipotle’s nutrition relies on calories, while its prices may slightly differ due to your location; therefore, it is always recommended to check the right prices for delivery based on the Chipotle app or the official website