Can you mozzarella freeze cheese? If you’ve got extra shredded or block cheese on hand, here’s what to do!
Got extra cheese you’re not sure what to do with? If you’re eying the freezer, it could be a good bet! Freezing cheese can preserve it for months. However, there are certain types of cheese that work better than others. Here’s what to know about the process: and how to save that shredded mozzarella for your next pizza!
You don’t need to freeze cheese for long before shredding it—in fact, doing so could compromise the flavor and texture. According to our Editorial Director of Food Sarah Carey, 30 minutes is enough time to slightly harden the cheese. Once it’s firm, use a box grater and shred the cheese like you normally would.
How long to freeze
The fresher the cheese is before it’s frozen, the better! You can technically freeze mozzarella cheese for up to 6 months or longer, the texture does start to suffer. We recommend using frozen mozzarella cheese within 1 to 3 months. It’s best at the 1 month mark.
Important: Keep in mind that the longer the cheese is frozen, the harder it is to melt. So the fresher the frozen cheese, the better! Per Healthline, mozzarella cheese that was frozen 4 weeks doesn’t melt as well as mozzarella cheese frozen 1 week.
To defrost mozzarella cheese in a block or slices, place it in the refrigerator for 12 hours until soft. Use the thawed cheese within 3 to 4 days. Do not re-freeze frozen cheese.
However, shredded mozzarella cheese does not have to be thawed if you’re using it in a cooked recipe! Place it right on your pizza or grilled cheese. (See below for recipe ideas!)
Can you freeze mozzarella cheese?
You can freeze mozzarella cheese that’s in a block or shredded. Block mozzarella can become crumbly after thawing, so it’s best to cut it into slices before freezing.
Avoid freezing fresh mozzarella cheese as it looses its smooth texture and becomes a very dry and crumbly after defrosting. Fresh mozzarella has more water content, which causes crystals to develop in the freezer.
Shredded mozzarella cheese is ideal for freezing: the advantage is that it can be used directly from the freezer since it will be heated immediately! Throw it right from the freezer onto your quesadilla or pizza. This is a great way to extend the life of an economy-sized bag of shredded mozzarella cheese (we know from experience!).
Shredding Cheese For the Freezer And A Tip to Make It Clump Free
FAQ
Should I freeze mozzarella before shredding?
Is it better to shred cheese before freezing?
Will frozen mozzarella still melt?
Can you freeze shredded mozzarella cheese?
Yes, you can freeze your shredded mozzarella cheese. When frozen properly, shredded mozzarella cheese stays good in the freezer for up to 9 months. It must be stored in an airtight container. In this guide, we will share with you everything you need to know about freezing shredded mozzarella cheese.
How long do you keep shredded mozzarella in the freezer?
Placing your mozzarella in the freezer for about 30 minutes or until it is nice and firm before tackling the task. This method makes so much sense, and I plan on ditching the cheap bags of shredded mozzarella from here on out. Anything I can do to make me feel like an authentic Italian chef, sign me up.
Can shredded cheese be frozen?
It will be best to use shredded cheese for cooked dishes once frozen and thawed. Mozzarella blocks freeze well, with the only change being a slightly more crumbly product after thawing.
How long does fresh mozzarella cheese last in the freezer?
Frozen shredded and fresh mozzarella will keep for three to four months in the freezer if properly packaged and kept at a consistent temperature. Block mozzarella will last for up to six months in the freezer. Can you freeze fresh mozzarella cheese in brine?