Is there REALLY such a thing as too much cheese? Even the fondest of cheese lovers will have overestimated their appetite at one point or another. If you’ve grated too much cheese for your favorite meal, you’ll want to preserve your leftovers…
Although most people store them in the refrigerator, why not go one step further? Keeping your shredded cheese in the freezer is a surefire way to keep it fresher for longer.
Before you run straight to your freezer, stick with us to learn more about the art of freezing cheese. You’ll never go hungry again…
Can You Freeze Cheese?
Yes, you can definitely freeze cheese, but its quality when thawed will depend on the type.
Most cheese can be frozen for up to two months before it starts to lose its quality, which means it’ll last much longer in your freezer than in the fridge!
Although it’ll start to lose its quality after two months, frozen cheese can be stored safely in the freezer for up to six months.
Although you technically can freeze cheese, there’s no simple yes or no answer to this question.
The texture of your cheese is everything, and unfortunately, any cheese that’s frozen will lose a bit of its traditional texture.
So, your melty mozzarella may be not-so-melty, and those crumbly, fluffy chunks of feta may be a little less decadent when thawed.
Some cheeses fare better than others in the freezer but don’t let this put you off. Frozen cheese still tastes great when thawed, and it’s one of the best ways to preserve the life of your cheese!
The Best (And Worst) Cheeses To Freeze
Your standard block of mild or mature cheddar will probably fare well in the freezer.
Almost any cheese that’s semi-hard with a low amount of moisture can be frozen, but here are some of the most popular:
- Edam
- Cheddar
- Muenster
- Mozzarella
- Gouda
- Monterrey Jack
- Swiss
- Romano
- Provolone
- Parmesan
However, there are some cheeses that will completely lose their texture (and sometimes even the quality of their flavor), in the freezer.
Cheeses such as cottage cheese, camembert, brie, and ricotta should not be frozen. These cheeses are known for their unique textures, and unfortunately, these are destined to change when stored below freezing.
Can You Freeze Shredded Cheese?
If you want to freeze your favorite cheese, you don’t have to throw in the whole block. Shredded cheese will store just as well as whole cheese, and it will last between 3-6 months when stored correctly.
If you’re freezing shredded cheese, remember to place it in an airtight container or bag. If you’re freezing packaged shredded cheese, release all of the excess air before freezing, and seal it firmly.
How To Freeze Cheese Safely
If your cheese can be frozen, follow these simple steps to ensure you avoid oxidation and bacteria growth.
- If your cheese is still unopened in its original packaging, you can place it directly in the freezer.
- If your cheese has been opened, wrap it up (either as a whole, in small chunks, or shredded), in foil or cheese paper. If you’re freezing slices of cheese, you can separate each slice with parchment paper.
- Then, place your wrapped-up cheese into a freezer bag or a plastic container. If you want to give your cheese some extra protection against freezer burn, you can even use a vacuum sealer to stick your bag together.
- Label your bag or container so you can take note of the date you froze it.
- Freeze your cheese as soon as possible to preserve its quality. Freezing your cheese quickly will also prevent the formation of ice crystals, which can make your cheese taste and feel drier when thawed.
How To Defrost Frozen Cheese
To preserve the taste and texture of your cheese, you won’t just need to store it properly – you’ll also need to defrost it the right way.
There are a few ways you can defrost your cheese (whether it’s shredded or whole), and we’ve listed some of the most popular and efficient ways below:
Defrost In The Refrigerator
Remove your cheese from the freezer, and ensure the packaging is still airtight. If any air has entered the packaging, your cheese will become oxidized, and it’ll no longer be edible.
If your cheese looks good to go, simply place it on a shelf in the refrigerator and leave it between 24-48 hours to defrost.
The time will depend on the thickness of your cheese. Blocks often take closer to 48 hours, while shredded cheese or smaller slices require around 24.
Leave It On The Counter
Remove your cheese from the freezer, and place it on a plate or tray. Leave it to defrost on the counter at room temperature for between 2-3 hours.
Don’t expose your cheese to direct sunlight when defrosting, as this may cause it to spoil while it’s thawing.
Microwave It
If you want to speed up the thawing process, you can also microwave your cheese! Simply remove it from the freezer, unwrap it, and place it on a microwave-safe plate.
Microwave your cheese in 30-second bursts. If it’s not thawed after the first 30 seconds, give it another 30 seconds, and repeat until it’s thawed.
The Bottom Line
Mmmmm, cheese. We love cheese just as much as you. That’s why you’re here, and it’s why we’ve created this article, so you can learn how to freeze and thaw your cheese safely!
Although most cheeses can be frozen, those with unique tastes and textures (like camembert) are best kept in the refrigerator.
If you’re ready to freeze your cheese, you can freeze it as either a whole block, slices, or shredded.
Just ensure it’s frozen in an airtight container or bag to prevent oxidation, and thaw it correctly so it’s safe to eat.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this article, and we can’t wait for you to start freezing your favorite cheeses. Trust us – once you start, you’ll never go back!
