Is Freezing Mozzarella Cheese Possible? Absolutely, But It Requires Proper Preparation

Mozzarella cheese is a cornerstone of Italian cuisine, and unless you follow a vegan diet or have lactose intolerance, it’s likely a regular part of your meals. (Americans eat around 12 pounds per person annually.)

So, if you find a fantastic deal on mozzarella at the grocery store, is it a smart move to buy in bulk and freeze the extras you won’t use right away? Keep reading to learn the best practices for freezing mozzarella cheese while preserving its taste, texture, and fresh quality.

How Long Does Frozen Mozzarella Cheese Stay Good?

Mozzarella cheese can be frozen and remains good for over six months in the freezer. However, it’s best to use it within the first three months to maintain its texture and flavor and reduce the risk of freezer burn.

If you have a particularly fresh (and extra creamy) mozzarella or buffalo mozzarella, you might want to rethink freezing it. The extra moisture could cause the cheese to develop an undesirable texture when frozen and thawed.

How to Properly Freeze Mozzarella Cheese

To keep your mozzarella cheese in top condition for months, you need to freeze it properly. Since air can ruin frozen mozzarella, it’s crucial to wrap it in a way that prevents air exposure. Here’s how to prepare it for freezing.

1. Gently blot any excess moisture from fresh mozzarella using a paper towel.
2. Wrap the cheese as tightly as possible using freezer-safe wrapping.
3. For extra protection, consider adding a layer of foil over the initial wrap for the best results.
4. Store the wrapped cheese in a freezer bag and mark it with the date and type of cheese to keep track.

How to Thaw Mozzarella Cheese

The ideal way to thaw mozzarella cheese is to transfer it to the refrigerator. Let it thaw for several hours or overnight. For larger portions, leave it in the fridge overnight for a slow thaw, which helps reduce condensation.

Avoid leaving mozzarella at room temperature, as moisture may form on the surface and alter the texture. If the cheese becomes soggy due to excess moisture, gently blot it with paper towels to remove the beads of moisture.

Never microwave mozzarella cheese to defrost it. This cheese is particularly prone to uneven thawing, which can cause the outer portions to melt away while leaving a firm core inside. Shredded mozzarella may turn into a melted puddle if exposed to too much heat. Shredded mozzarella doesn't require thawing time—just remove it and add it directly to your dish.

Dishes That Feature Mozzarella Cheese

Freezing mozzarella can slightly alter its texture. Moisture trapped inside or on the surface of the cheese (like condensation) might expand and contract during freezing and thawing, leading to a crumbly texture. Whether you have blocks, sticks, or shredded mozzarella in the freezer, these dishes can still benefit from it.

Homemade Pizza

Pizza is a perfect dish for utilizing frozen mozzarella, and this timeless classic recipe is incredibly tasty.

Caprese Mac and Cheese

While cheddar cheese is typically the go-to choice for mac and cheese, this Caprese variation with mozzarella might just change your perspective.

Roasted Veggie Calzones

Mozzarella is just one of the deliciously melty cheeses in these fantastic (and easy-to-make) calzones. Keep some pizza dough and mozzarella in your freezer so you can whip these up anytime you need a quick dinner.

Zucchini and Mozzarella Frittata

Mozzarella for breakfast? This simple frittata is great for brunch (or even dinner!). Garlic, fresh herbs, and a dash of red pepper flakes give it an added kick of flavor.

Microwave Lasagna

This comforting lasagna brings together all the iconic Italian cheeses. Ricotta, parmesan, and mozzarella come together to create a truly memorable dish.

Carbonara Pizza

If you have shredded mozzarella stored in your freezer, this recipe is an ideal way to make use of it. This rich and savory pizza mirrors the classic Italian pasta dish and can be ready in just half an hour.