How to Freeze Cheese for Long-Term Storage: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated at: 25/02/2025

Cheese, a culinary delight enjoyed worldwide, boasts a diverse range of flavors and textures. However, its relatively short shelf life often means we're forced to discard perfectly good cheese before we can finish it. But what if we could extend the lifespan of our favorite cheeses, preserving their deliciousness for months to come? Freezing offers a practical solution to this common problem, allowing you to enjoy your cheese long after its "best by" date has passed. Proper freezing techniques are key, though, to preventing undesirable changes in texture and taste.

This article will equip you with the knowledge and skills to successfully freeze various types of cheese, ensuring they retain their quality for extended periods. Ready to learn how to preserve your cheese collection for months? Let's dive into our comprehensive step-by-step guide on freezing cheese for long-term storage.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Cutting board
  • Bowl
  • Sandwich bags
  • Measuring cup
  • Vacuum sealer (optional)
  • Freezer
Safety Guidelines
  • Freeze cheese in airtight packaging to prevent freezer burn and maintain quality. Use freezer bags, vacuum sealers, or tightly wrapped plastic wrap and foil.
  • Hard cheeses freeze best; soft cheeses may become crumbly or change texture upon thawing. Consider the cheese type before freezing.
  • Thaw cheese in the refrigerator slowly to minimize moisture loss and maintain the best texture. Avoid thawing at room temperature.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Workspace

    • Prepare your workspace. Have a cutting board, bowl, and sandwich bags ready.
    Prepare your workspace. Have a cutting board, bowl, and sandwich bags ready.
    Prepare Workspace

  2. Portion Cheese

    • Portion the cheese. Use a measuring cup (1 cup portions are suggested, but adjust to your needs).

  3. Bag Cheese Portions

    • Place portions into sandwich bags. Prepare several bags beforehand for efficiency.
    Place portions into sandwich bags. Prepare several bags beforehand for efficiency.
    Bag Cheese Portions

  4. Remove Air from Bags

    • Remove as much air as possible from each bag. You can use a straw to help with this.
    • Stack the filled bags on a plate to catch any cheese that spills while removing them from the larger bag.
    Optional: Stack the filled bags on a plate to catch any cheese that spills while removing them from the larger bag.Optional: Stack the filled bags on a plate to catch any cheese that spills while removing them from the larger bag.
    Remove Air from Bags

  5. Transfer to Larger Bag

    • Transfer portions into a larger, freezer-safe bag (the original bag is a good option).
    Transfer portions into a larger, freezer-safe bag (the original bag is a good option).
    Transfer to Larger Bag

  6. Vacuum Seal (Optional)

    • Use a vacuum sealer to remove the remaining air from the larger bag before freezing to further extend shelf life.
    Optional: Use a vacuum sealer to remove the remaining air from the larger bag before freezing to further extend shelf life.
    Vacuum Seal (Optional)

  7. Freeze and Label

    • Freeze the cheese. Store in a freezer and label with the date.
    Freeze the cheese. Store in a freezer and label with the date.
    Freeze and Label

Read more: Double Seal Vacuum Sealing Technique for Liquids

Tips

  • Portioning cheese into smaller bags makes it easier to thaw only what you need, reducing waste.
  • Removing air from bags helps to prevent freezer burn and maintain the cheese's quality.
  • Using a plate under the cheese while transferring helps to avoid losing any cheese.
  • Vacuum sealing is highly recommended for maximizing the lifespan of frozen cheese, but it's optional
  • Consider a double seal with your vacuum sealer to guarantee no holes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Freezing Cheese Without Proper Wrapping

Reason: Exposure to air causes freezer burn, resulting in a dry, unpleasant texture and loss of flavor.
Solution: Wrap cheese tightly in airtight freezer bags or plastic wrap, then place it in a second layer of protection for added security.

2. Freezing the Wrong Types of Cheese

Reason: Soft, high-moisture cheeses like ricotta and cream cheese often separate or become grainy when frozen.
Solution: Stick to hard or semi-hard cheeses like cheddar, parmesan, and mozzarella for best results.

3. Freezing Cheese for Too Long

Reason: Even with proper wrapping, prolonged freezing can impact the quality and taste of the cheese.
Solution: Aim to use frozen cheese within 2-3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I freeze all types of cheese?
While many cheeses freeze well, some softer cheeses like cream cheese or feta tend to become grainy or separate after freezing. Hard cheeses like cheddar, parmesan, and provolone generally freeze best.
How long can I keep frozen cheese?
Frozen cheese is best used within 2-3 months for optimal quality. While it may remain safe to eat beyond that time, the texture and flavor might degrade.