Can you freeze cheese?
Hard and semi-hard cheeses freeze well for up to 6 months. Soft cheeses turn crumbly and are best used in cooking.
How to store cheese (fridge, pantry & shelf life)How to freeze cheese
- Grate or cut cheese into blocks no larger than about 1/2 lb (225g) so it freezes and thaws evenly.
- Wrap tightly in freezer paper or plastic, then seal in a freezer bag with the air pressed out.
- For grated cheese, freeze it loose on a tray first, then bag it so it doesn't clump.
How to thaw & reheat
Thaw in the fridge overnight. Frozen grated cheese can often be added straight to cooking from frozen.
Best used for
Frozen-then-thawed cheese becomes more crumbly, so it's ideal for cooking — pizzas, bakes, sauces and toasties — rather than a cheese board.
What to avoid
Soft cheeses (brie, cottage cheese, ricotta) tend to separate and go watery; freeze them only for use in cooked dishes.
Frequently asked questions
Which cheeses freeze best?+
Hard and semi-hard cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, gouda and parmesan freeze best. Soft, high-moisture cheeses don't freeze as well and are best used in cooking after thawing.
Does freezing cheese change the texture?+
Yes, freezing makes most cheese more crumbly and can affect how it melts. That's fine for cooking, but frozen cheese isn't ideal for eating fresh on a board.
How long does cheese last in the freezer?+
Hard cheese keeps its quality for up to 6 months. Grated cheese can be used straight from frozen in cooked dishes.
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