Blue cheese is a type of cheese that has been fermented with the help of blue mold. It is often served as a condiment for steak, burgers, and other types of meat.
The flavor of blue cheese is sharp, salty, and tangy. The texture can vary from crumbly to creamy.
Blue cheese is made by adding the Penicillium roqueforti mold to milk during the aging process. This creates an environment where bacteria can grow and produce lactic acid which in turn creates the sour flavor in the cheese.
Blue cheese tends to not last very long. For that reason, you may wonder if you can freeze it to extend its shelf life.
The answer is yes, you can freeze blue cheese. Blue cheese will stay fresh for around 3 months when frozen. It is recommended to store it in an airtight container or wrap it in wax paper to prevent freezer burn.
Does Blue Cheese Freeze Well?
Yes, blue cheese freezes well. The texture of the cheese may change slightly, but it will still taste great.
This is because the texture of blue cheese changes when it freezes and thaws. The texture becomes more crumbly and dry, which some people do not like. But the flavor of the blue cheese remains unchanged so it is still good for cooking dishes like macaroni and cheese or lasagna.
How To Freeze Blue Cheese
When it comes to freezing blue cheese, the process is simple and doesn’t require a lot of time to prepare it.
Below are the steps to freezing blue cheese:
Step 1: Preparation
Determine how much blue cheese you will use. You can freeze it whole or cut them into small pieces. It’s much better to freeze them in small pieces as it will prevent having any leftovers.
Step 2: Wrapping
Blue cheese should be wrapped in plastic wrap or wax paper before it is put in the freezer to avoid freezer burn and to keep the blue cheese from sticking together.
Step 3: Place In Container
After the cheese is wrapped, it should also be placed in an airtight container so that it does not take up too much space in the freezer and so that it does not get crushed by other food items.
Step 4: Label and Freeze
Write the date of freezing on the container and place it into the freezer.
How Long Can You Freeze Blue Cheese?
The shelf life of blue cheese can vary depending on how it was stored. The general rule is that blue cheese will last for about 1-2 weeks after being opened.
However, if it is stored properly, it can last for up to 3 months.
The cheese should not be frozen for longer than 3 months, as this will cause the texture to change and the taste to deteriorate.
How Do You Defrost Blue Cheese?
The best way to defrost blue cheese is by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or for about 8 hours.
If you need to use it much sooner, you can defrost blue cheese by placing it on a plate at room temperature for about 30 minutes or until it becomes soft enough for use. Make sure to keep the cheese covered to prevent insects from landing on it.
Can You Refreeze Blue Cheese?
Yes, you can refreeze blue cheese. However, it is not recommended because the texture of the cheese will be altered.
Blue cheese can be frozen and then thawed, but it cannot be refrozen.
Other Questions about Blue Cheese
Can you freeze creamy blue cheese?
This type of cheese is made from a mixture of milk and cream, which gives it a smooth texture and a mild flavor. It has been aged for at least six months in order to develop its flavor. Generally, the longer the cheese has been aged, the more expensive it will be.
The process of freezing creamy blue cheese can affect its taste and texture.
If the cheese is still in its original packaging, place it in a freezer bag and seal it tightly. If the cheese is already cut into pieces, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then again with aluminum foil. Keep the wrapped package of cheese flat to avoid crushing or pressing out any of the air before freezing it.
Can you freeze blue cheese dressing?
Yes, but it’s not recommended. Freezing can cause the dressing to separate and become watery. If you want to store the dressing for a long period of time, it’s best to keep it in the refrigerator.