Freezing cheese??

[linder]

Anyone know if you can freeze blocks of cheese?
For how long and how do you thaw it if you want to use it?
I never get to use up a whole block of cheese before it gets moldy! =(

[BlueMoose]

I've had good luck freezing cheese. I just thaw it in the refrigerator. I don't know about all of the different varieties of cheese, though.

[brendat4]

I freeze cheese all the time but I usually shred it first. I've found that when I freeze the whole block (say mozzarella) when I thaw it out the texture has changed a bit. Not sure how you're planning to use the cheese if shredding it would be an option. I've mostly done this with cheese like cheddar and mozzarella. Am anxious to try it with harder cheeses like Romano & Parmesan as they have GREAT prices at Sam's Club on their cheese. I've also frozen cream cheese with no ill effects. Good luck!

[Rose Ann]

I freeze mozzarella all the time.
What I do is cut 5 lb blocks into 1 to 2 inch slices and freeze. That way I can take out a slice and it will thaw quickly. I have also frozen cream cheese with success.:p

[Lynn B]

This is just what I have found out from my informal experiences!

Soft cheeses (mozzarella, provolone, jack, muenster, etc.) all seem to freeze better for me when I shred them before freezing. Then when I need it, (for pizza, enchiladas, or whatever) I just use it right from the freezer. It is almost impossible for me to notice that the cheese had been frozen at all.

Hard cheeses (parmesan, etc) seem to freeze better in chunks/lumps. Then I thaw and grate before using. I notice a small difference in flavor and texture... but IMHO, it is still quite acceptable.

I am very interested in this subject and will be eagerly watching this thread for other's opinions and recommendations!

Lynn