Sliced Cheese Blocks: How Long Do 5 Pounds Last?

A 5-pound block of cheese is a substantial amount of food and can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be sliced, shredded, or melted to add flavor and texture to sandwiches, burgers, casseroles, soups, and more. One popular suggestion is to use the cheese in grilled cheese sandwiches, either by melting it between slices of bread or by breading and frying the entire block as a sandwich filling. Macaroni and cheese is another recommended option, especially the baked kind with breadcrumbs on top, as it can be frozen and reheated for future meals. For those who enjoy spicy food, chili mac, a combination of macaroni and cheese with chili, is a tasty and affordable choice. For those who prefer milder flavors, a classic combination of grilled cheese sandwiches with tomato soup is always a winner. Quesadillas are also an easy and enjoyable way to use up a large quantity of cheese. Simply top a tortilla with shredded cheese and your choice of shredded chicken or refried beans, fold it in half, and fry it in a pan until the cheese melts. Whether sliced, shredded, cubed, or melted, a 5-pound block of cheese offers endless possibilities for creative and comforting dishes.

Freezing a 5lb block of cheese

Hard and semi-hard cheeses, such as cheddar, Swiss, and Monterey Jack, are generally the best types of cheese for freezing. These cheeses have lower moisture and higher fat contents, which make them more resistant to the formation of ice crystals during freezing. However, even these cheeses can become crumbly, mealy, and difficult to slice after being frozen.

Soft cheeses, such as Camembert, Brie, ricotta, and cottage cheese, are not ideal for freezing due to their higher water and fat content. Freezing these cheeses can cause significant changes in texture, making them unsuitable for eating plain.

When freezing a 5lb block of cheese, it is recommended to cut the cheese into smaller portions of 1 pound or less. This is because smaller portions will thaw more quickly and evenly, reducing the risk of uneven thawing and texture changes. It is also important to properly package the cheese to prevent freezer burn and the formation of large ice crystals. Vacuum sealing is the best method for freezing cheese, as it eliminates air contact and can preserve the cheese for up to two months. If a vacuum sealer is not available, wrapping the cheese tightly in parchment paper followed by aluminium foil or using a freezer bag with as much air removed as possible are also options.

Once the cheese is packaged, it should be frozen as quickly as possible to at least -9 °F (-23 °C) to prevent large ice crystals from forming. For best quality, it is recommended to use the frozen cheese within 6 to 9 months, although it can be kept frozen indefinitely.

When thawing frozen cheese, it is best to do so slowly in the refrigerator, allowing 7 to 8 hours per pound of cheese. Thawed cheese is best suited for cooked dishes, such as sauces, pizza, grilled cheese sandwiches, or casseroles, where changes in texture are less noticeable.

In summary, freezing a 5lb block of cheese can be a convenient way to extend its shelf life and reduce waste. However, it is important to consider the type of cheese, package it properly, and use the frozen cheese in cooked dishes to minimise changes in texture and quality.

Recipes that use a lot of cheese

A 5-pound block of cheese can be sliced into around 64 slices. That's a lot of cheese! If you're looking to use up a large block of cheese, here are some recipes that call for a generous helping of cheese:

Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese is a classic dish that can be easily adapted and frozen for later. Try a simple stove-top recipe, or go for a baked version with breadcrumbs on top. You can even add extras like chilli, chicken, or broccoli.

Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Grilled cheese sandwiches are a great way to use up sliced cheese. Try a classic grilled cheese, or experiment with different ingredients like tomato, onion, bell pepper, or jalapenos.

Quesadillas

Quesadillas are similar to grilled cheese sandwiches but with a Mexican twist. Fill a tortilla with shredded cheese and shredded chicken or refried beans, then fry in a pan until the cheese melts.

Potato Dishes

Cheese and potatoes are a match made in heaven. Try a cheesy potato soup, or a potato gratin with cheese and bacon. You could also make loaded sweet potatoes with toppings like sour cream, avocado, and cheese.

Baked Goods

Cheese can be added to many baked goods, like cheese scones, cheese and caramelised onion tarts, or cheese straws. For something more indulgent, try Brie wrapped in brioche and prosciutto.

Dips

Cheese is a key ingredient in many dips, like a three-cheese onion dip, or a hot pimento cheese dip. You could also make a simple cheese sauce to use as a dip, or to pour over nachos.

Pasta

Pasta and cheese is a winning combination. Try a classic macaroni and cheese, or get creative with a cheddar and pale ale pasta dish. You could also make arancini (rice balls) with tomato and mozzarella.

Other Ideas

There are endless ways to use up cheese. You could make cheese crackers, a cheese fondue, a cheese ball, or even cookies with cheese! Cheese can be added to omelettes, burgers, or sandwiches, or used as a topping for chilli or broccoli.

How to slice a block of cheese

Slicing a block of cheese can seem daunting, especially with the variety of cheeses available. However, with the right tools and techniques, you can achieve the perfect cheese slice for any occasion. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to slice a block of cheese:

Choose the Right Tools:

The type of cheese you are slicing will determine the tools you need. Softer cheeses are best cut with a wire cutter or a thin-bladed knife, while harder cheeses require a sharp knife or cheese plane. For crumbly cheeses, a flat cheese knife is ideal. If you want thin, even slices, consider using a cheese slicer or a mandolin.

Prepare the Cheese:

For softer cheeses, it is best to chill them before slicing to maintain their shape. Harder cheeses, on the other hand, can be brought to room temperature to make slicing easier. If your cheese has a rind, remove it before slicing.

Slicing Techniques:

When slicing a block of cheese, always hold it securely with one hand. For thin slices, use a gentle sawing motion with your wire cutter or knife. Apply light pressure and slowly cut through the cheese. If you are using a cheese plane, place the block on its shorter side and drag the plane firmly and slowly across the top.

Cutting Different Shapes:

The technique for slicing a block of cheese will depend on its shape. For rectangular blocks, cut the cheese in half lengthwise, then slice each half into rectangular pieces. You can then cut these pieces diagonally to create triangles. For circular blocks, cut the wheel in half, then into quarters. Place the quarter on its tip and slice downward to create wedges.

Storing Sliced Cheese:

Once you have sliced your cheese, store it properly to maintain freshness. Place the slices in an airtight container or wrap them securely in wax paper or plastic wrap. Store the cheese in the refrigerator, where it will last for about a week.

Remember, the key to successful cheese slicing is having the right tools and knowing the appropriate techniques for different types of cheese. With practice, you'll be able to create the perfect slices for your next charcuterie board, sandwich, or recipe!

How long does a 5lb block of cheese last?

A 5-pound block of cheese can be sliced, shredded, or frozen to be used at a later date. If you're looking for ways to use up a 5-pound block of cheese, there are several recipes you can try.

One popular suggestion is to make mac and cheese, especially the baked kind with breadcrumbs on top. You can make several trays and freeze them to enjoy later. You can also try making grilled cheese sandwiches, quesadillas, or adding cheese to your burgers. If you're feeling creative, you can try making chili mac, potato cheese soup, or queso dip.

For freezing, it is recommended to slice or shred the cheese first and then spread it out on a tray to freeze before transferring it to a freezer container. This will help the cheese retain its texture and make it easier to use in recipes later on.

A 5-pound block of cheese can provide a versatile ingredient for a variety of dishes, and with proper storage and freezing techniques, it can last for several months.

Different types of cheese

Cheese is a milk-based food that comes in a wide range of flavours, textures, and forms. There are eight main varieties of cheese: blue, hard, pasta filata, processed, semi-hard, semi-soft, soft and fresh, and soft-ripened. However, there are estimated to be over 2,000 varieties of cheese in the world.

American Cheese

American cheese is a blend of natural cheeses, including cheddar and Colby, as well as milk byproducts, which make it melt easily. It is available in slices, small pre-sliced blocks, and large blocks.

Asiago

Asiago is a nutty-flavoured cheese that comes in two forms: fresh and mature. Fresh asiago is off-white, smooth, and mild, while mature asiago is yellowish and crumbly. Depending on its age, asiago can be grated, melted, or sliced.

Blue Cheese

Blue cheese is made with Penicillium cultures, which create blue spots or veins. It has a distinct smell and a strong flavour. Blue cheese can be eaten crumbed or melted.

Bocconcini

Bocconcini, meaning "little bites" in Italian, are egg-sized balls of mozzarella cheese. They are white, rindless, unripened, and elastic in texture, with a sweet and buttery taste. Bocconcini can be eaten as they are or melted.

Brie

Brie is a soft, white cheese that often comes in a wheel or a small wooden box. It is best enjoyed at room temperature and is considered a great dessert cheese.

Burrata

Burrata is a fresh cheese with a thin layer of cheese on the outside and a mixture of stringy curd and fresh cream on the inside. It has a rich flavour and is often used in salads, with crusty bread, or in Italian dishes.

Camembert

Fresh camembert is hard and crumbly, but it becomes smoother with a runny interior as it ages. It has a rich, buttery flavour and a rind that is meant to be eaten.

Cheddar

Cheddar cheese ranges in flavour from creamy to sharp and in colour from white to orange. As it ages, cheddar becomes drier and more crumbly.

Cheese Curds

Cheese curds have a springy or rubbery texture and vary in flavour. They are often eaten as a snack or used in recipes like poutine.

Colby

Colby cheese has a softer texture and a less tangy taste than cheddar. It is sometimes blended with Monterey Jack to make Colby Jack.

Cold Pack Cheese

Cold pack cheese is a combination of two or more types of fresh and aged natural cheeses, such as Swiss and cheddar. It is usually soft, creamy, and spreadable.

Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is made by separating curds from whey and not pressing them, resulting in a creamy and lumpy texture. It can be eaten on its own or with fruit, toast, and more.

Cream Cheese

Cream cheese is made by adding cream to milk. It has a light and slightly tangy flavour and comes in blocks that can be spread smoothly.

Emmental

When people refer to "Swiss cheese," they are often talking about emmental, which is characterised by its holes and light or pale yellow colour. It is sweet and tangy and melts well.

Farmer's Cheese

Farmer's cheese is made by removing extra moisture from cottage cheese. It is then sometimes rolled in herbs or smoked meats. Its style varies depending on its maker.

Feta

Feta is a tangy and crumbly cheese traditionally made with sheep's or goat's milk, although cow's milk can also be used.

Fresh Mozzarella

Fresh mozzarella is made by stretching cheese curds before rolling them into balls. They are then packed in water to keep them fresh. Mozzarella has a milky flavour and a gooey texture.

Gorgonzola

Gorgonzola is one of the oldest types of blue cheese. It has a crumbly and soft texture, and its taste can range from creamy to sharp.

Gouda

Gouda is a semi-hard to hard cheese that comes in several types depending on its age. It can be grated, sliced, cubed, or melted.

Gruyère

Gruyère is a firm cow's milk cheese named after the town of Gruyères in Switzerland. It is known for its melting properties and is commonly used in fondue, French onion soup, and croque monsieur.

Halloumi

Halloumi has a high melting point, so it is often fried or grilled. It is made from goat or sheep milk, although cow's milk can also be used. It has a strong and salty taste that becomes less salty and creamier when cooked.

Havarti

Havarti is a semi-soft cheese with a buttery aroma and taste. It can be sliced, grilled, or melted.

Jarlsberg

Jarlsberg is a mild, semi-soft cheese similar to emmental due to its open and irregular holes. It melts well and works well in hot dishes and sandwiches.

Limburger

Limburger is a semi-soft cheese with a mild flavour and a strong aroma. It softens with age and is often served with dark rye bread and onion.

Mascarpone

Mascarpone is a thick, soft, and high-fat cheese with a smooth, creamy, or buttery texture and flavour. It can be used in both sweet and savoury dishes.

Monterey Jack

Monterey Jack is a mild and buttery cheese with a tang. It melts well and is commonly used on burgers.

Mozzarella

Mozzarella is pulled and kneaded into strands, which makes it stretchy. It melts well and is frequently used on pizza.

Frequently asked questions