Can You Freeze Block Cheese? Tips, Pros and Cons, and Creative Ideas For Use
Block cheese is a staple in many households, used for everything from snacking to cooking. But what happens when you have more cheese than you can use before it expires? Can you freeze block cheese? The short answer is yes, but there are some important things to keep in mind to ensure the cheese maintains its taste and texture. In this article, we’ll explore the best practices for freezing block cheese, the pros and cons of doing so, and some creative ways to use frozen cheese.
How to Freeze Block Cheese: Tips, Tricks, and Best Practices
Freezing block cheese is a great way to extend its shelf life and prevent waste. To properly freeze block cheese, you should first wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place the wrapped cheese in an airtight freezer bag or container. Be sure to label the container with the type of cheese and the date it was frozen.
To prevent freezer burn, it’s important to ensure that the cheese is completely wrapped and the container is airtight. Freezer burn occurs when moisture is removed from the cheese, leaving it dry and brittle. To maintain the quality of frozen cheese, it’s a good idea to use it within six months of freezing.
When you’re ready to use the frozen cheese, it’s best to let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid thawing cheese by heating it or leaving it on the counter at room temperature, as this can cause it to become mushy or develop an unpleasant texture.
The Pros and Cons of Freezing Block Cheese: What You Need to Know
Freezing block cheese has both advantages and disadvantages. One of the biggest benefits is that it extends the shelf life of the cheese, making it possible to enjoy it long after the expiration date. This can be especially helpful if you regularly buy cheese in bulk or find yourself with leftover cheese that you can’t use right away.
However, there are also some drawbacks to freezing block cheese. For one, the texture of the cheese can change after freezing. Soft cheeses like brie or feta may become crumbly or grainy, while hard cheeses like cheddar or gouda may become brittle. Additionally, the flavor of the cheese may be altered, sometimes losing some of its intensity.
Whether or not to freeze cheese depends on a variety of factors, including the type of cheese, intended use, and personal preferences. Some people prefer to only freeze hard cheeses like cheddar or parmesan, while others are comfortable freezing any type of cheese. It’s always a good idea to try freezing a small portion of the cheese first to see how it holds up before freezing a larger amount.
Can You Freeze That? A Guide to Freezing Different Types of Cheese
While you can technically freeze any type of cheese, some types fare better in the freezer than others. Soft cheeses like brie or camembert may become grainy or crumbly after freezing, while hard cheeses like cheddar or gouda may become brittle. Here’s an overview of some common types of cheese and their freezeability:
- Soft Cheese (e.g. Brie, Camembert) – Freezing may alter the texture and flavor of soft cheeses. However, if you’re planning to use them in cooked dishes like casseroles or quiches, they may hold up better than if eaten alone.
- Hard Cheese (e.g. Cheddar, Parmesan) – Hard cheeses generally freeze well and can be grated or shredded without any issue.
- Blue Cheese (e.g. Roquefort, Gorgonzola) – Blue cheeses may become crumbly or dry after freezing, but can still be used in cooked dishes.
- Aged Cheese (e.g. Gouda, Asiago) – Aged cheeses can generally be frozen without any issue. Be sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
When you’re ready to use the frozen cheese, it’s best to let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. To avoid any unpleasant texture changes, try to use the cheese within a few days of thawing.
From Grating to Slicing: Creative Ways to Use Frozen Block Cheese
Thawed frozen cheese can be used in a variety of ways in the kitchen. Here are some ideas for dishes that can be made with frozen cheese:
- Grated cheese can be used in casseroles, pizza, or pasta dishes.
- Shredded cheese is perfect for making cheese crisps or adding to soups and stews.
- Sliced cheese can be used for sandwiches or melted on top of burgers or grilled cheese.
Additionally, there are plenty of recipes that incorporate frozen cheese. Here are a few to try:
- Mac and Cheese Casserole – This classic dish is the ultimate comfort food, and using frozen cheese makes it even easier to make.
- Broccoli Cheddar Soup – Frozen cheese is the perfect addition to this creamy and delicious soup.
- Three-Cheese Quiche – Use frozen cheese to make this easy and flavorful quiche.
Thawed frozen cheese can also be used in innovative ways. Try making cheese crisps by baking grated cheese until it becomes crispy and then breaking it apart. Or, host a cheese fondue night with guests. The possibilities are endless!
A Foolproof Guide to Storing Cheese: Including Freezing Block Cheese
Aside from freezing block cheese, there are some best practices for storing cheese in general. Soft cheeses should be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers or wrapped in plastic wrap. Hard cheeses can be stored in the refrigerator wrapped in cheese paper or in a plastic bag with small holes to allow for air flow.
When it comes to freezing cheese, it’s important to store it properly in the freezer. Be sure to wrap the cheese tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in an airtight container or bag. This will help prevent freezer burn and maintain the quality of the cheese. It’s also a good idea to label the container with the type of cheese and the date it was frozen, to prevent any confusion later on.
Overall, proper cheese storage and organization can help extend the life of your cheese and prevent waste.
The Ultimate Cheese Lover’s Guide to Freezing and Storing Cheese
To summarize, freezing block cheese is a great way to extend the life of your cheese and prevent wasted food. However, there are some important things to keep in mind to ensure that the cheese maintains its taste and texture. By following best practices for freezing, thawing, and using frozen cheese, you can enjoy your favorite cheeses for months to come.
Additionally, there are plenty of ways to use thawed frozen cheese in the kitchen, from grating to slicing to making innovative dishes like cheese crisps and fondue. With proper storage and organization, you can keep all of your cheeses fresh and flavorful.
