Q&A for How to Defrost Cheese

If it is well-wrapped, cheese will keep just fine in the freezer. Wrap the cheese up in plastic wrap and put it in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn, and let the cheese defrost overnight in the fridge for best results.

Yes! You can totally defrost frozen cheese. The simplest and most effective way to do it is to use your refrigerator. Take your cheese out of the freezer. Be sure to look at the packaging carefully to ensure that it’s still airtight. If the cheese wasn’t frozen in an airtight container and was exposed to the air in your freezer, it won’t be edible and it's not worth the risk. Place the cheese on a plate and keep it sealed in the package. Place the cheese on a shelf in your refrigerator and leave it for 24-48 hours based on how thick the cheese is. Packages of deli slices can be left for 24 hours, while large bricks of cheese will require 48 hours to fully thaw.

Yes, as long as it's well-sealed and you properly defrost it. In fact, you won't notice any difference at all if you do it right! Start by removing your cheese from the freezer and looking at the zipper or seal on your bag or container to ensure that it’s still closed. If the air in your freezer got into the packaging, the cheese is ruined and inedible. Leave the cheese in its packaging and place it on a plate or tray. Place it on your counter and leave your cheese alone to defrost. It will take somewhere between 2.5-3 hours for the cheese to totally thaw. The time required depends on the density of the cheese. Softer cheeses will thaw in 2.5 hours, while harder cheeses may take a little more than 3 hours. Once it's fully thawed, try to use it as soon as you can. If it sits out on your counter for too long, it can start to go bad and will taste sour, smell unpleasant, and may even change colors.

While the best way to defrost cheese is to use your refrigerator, if you need it defrosted quickly, you can use your microwave. First, take your cheese out of the freezer. Unwrap the aluminum foil or take it out of the container or plastic bag that you were storing it in. Place it in the center of a microwave-safe plate, bowl, or pan. Place your plate in the center of the microwave. Adjust the power setting on your microwave to the lowest available level. Heat your cheese for 30-45 seconds before taking it out to check it. If it's not thawed, nuke it for another 30 seconds. Your mozz should be good to go, but if it isn't, try another 10-15 seconds in the microwave. Use it as soon as it's thawed so it doesn't go bad.