Freezing Cheese Sticks: How Long Is Too Long?

Whether you're making homemade mozzarella sticks or freezing store-bought cheese sticks, it's important to know how long to freeze them for the best results. Freezing cheese sticks helps retain their flavour and texture, and prevents them from dissolving or exploding when fried. So, how long should you freeze cheese sticks?

How to freeze cheese sticks

Freezing cheese sticks is a great way to preserve their freshness and prevent food waste. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to freeze cheese sticks:

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Sticks

If you are freezing store-bought cheese sticks, check if they are individually wrapped. If not, you will need to wrap them yourself. You can use wax or parchment paper for wrapping, and it is recommended to avoid using aluminium foil as it can react with the cheese.

Step 2: Place in an Airtight Container or Bag

Place the wrapped cheese sticks in an airtight container or a ziplock bag. If using a bag, try to remove as much air as possible before sealing. Freezer bags are space-efficient and a good option if you are short on freezer space.

Step 3: Label and Date

Label the container or bag with the contents and date. This will help you keep track of how long the cheese sticks have been frozen and ensure you consume them within the recommended timeframe.

Step 4: Freeze Promptly

Place the cheese sticks in the freezer as soon as possible after wrapping and labelling to avoid contamination or loss of flavour due to thawing.

Step 5: Maintain Optimal Freezer Temperature

For best results, freeze the cheese sticks at 0 degrees Celsius or lower. This will help maintain their quality and freshness.

Storage Time

Properly stored cheese sticks can last for up to two to three months in the freezer. It is recommended to consume them within two months as the flavour and texture may start to deteriorate.

Defrosting and Reheating

When you are ready to enjoy your cheese sticks, defrost them overnight in the refrigerator. Do not refreeze thawed cheese sticks as it can affect their taste and texture. You can reheat the thawed cheese sticks in the oven or air fryer to enjoy them warm and crispy.

How long cheese sticks can be frozen for

Cheese sticks can be frozen for up to two months, but they will still be edible for longer. Freezing them for two hours before frying will ensure the cheese is cold enough to prevent it from melting too quickly and leaking out of the coating.

If you are freezing store-bought cheese sticks, you can simply place the packet into the freezer. However, for extra protection from freezer burn, it is recommended to place the packet inside a freezer bag. If you are freezing loose cheese sticks, wrap each one in wax or parchment paper and then place them in an airtight container or ziplock bag.

When you are ready to eat your frozen cheese sticks, it is best to defrost them slowly in the fridge. This will take around four to five hours. If you are in a hurry, you can defrost them in lukewarm water, which will take around two to three hours, or on the counter at room temperature, which will take around an hour.

Once defrosted, cheese sticks can be reheated in the oven or air fryer, or even toasted until crispy. They can also be melted and used as a topping for rice or pasta, or added to a salad.

How to defrost frozen cheese sticks

To defrost frozen cheese sticks, it's best to let them thaw slowly in the refrigerator. This will help the cheese retain its moisture, resulting in a better texture and flavour. Leave the cheese sticks in their original packaging and place them on a plate or tray in the fridge for 24-48 hours. The exact time will depend on the thickness of the cheese sticks.

If you're in a hurry, there are a few faster methods you can try. One option is to submerge the sealed cheese sticks in a bowl of lukewarm or cool water. This will defrost the cheese in around 2 to 3 hours. You can also place the cheese sticks on the counter to defrost for 2.5 to 3 hours, but this may result in a firmer texture.

If you need the cheese sticks to defrost even more quickly, you can use the microwave. However, this method is not recommended as it can affect the texture of the cheese. If you choose to microwave your cheese sticks, use the lowest power setting and defrost in short bursts of 30 to 45 seconds, checking the cheese sticks after each burst.

Once your cheese sticks are defrosted, it's important to use them as soon as possible. Cheese can start to spoil if left at room temperature for too long. Soft cheeses should be discarded after 4 hours at room temperature, while hard cheeses can be kept for up to 6 hours.

What to do with frozen cheese sticks

Frozen cheese sticks can be reheated in the oven, deep-fried, or air-fried. Here are some options for what to do with your frozen cheese sticks:

Reheating in the Oven

Place your frozen cheese sticks in the oven and heat them until they are hot and crispy. For refrigerated cheese sticks, an oven temperature of 350°F for about 5 minutes should be sufficient. Frozen cheese sticks may need a higher temperature of 450°F and a longer cooking time of 10-15 minutes.

Deep-Frying

Deep-frying is a popular method for cooking cheese sticks, resulting in a golden and crispy exterior with melted gooey cheese inside. Heat oil to 365°F in a heavy saucepan and coat each cheese stick in a flour mixture, followed by an egg mixture, and finally, bread crumbs. Carefully place 3 to 4 cheese sticks into the hot oil and fry for about 30 seconds or until golden brown. Drain the excess oil on paper towels and serve hot.

Air-Frying

For a healthier alternative to deep-frying, you can air-fry your frozen cheese sticks. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F and arrange the cheese sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air-fry for about 6-7 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of crispiness.

Dipping Sauces

Cheese sticks are often served with a dipping sauce on the side. Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but you can also get creative with other options such as Sriracha Aioli, Southwest Dipping Sauce, BBQ Sauce, Comeback Sauce, or Garlic Aioli.

Make-Ahead Instructions

If you want to prepare cheese sticks in advance, you can freeze them for later. Bread the cheese sticks as mentioned above and freeze them on a tray in a single layer for at least two hours. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply follow the reheating or cooking instructions mentioned above.

How to tell if frozen cheese sticks have gone bad

Cheese sticks can be frozen for up to 8 months, but there are some things to look out for to tell if they've gone bad.

Firstly, trust your instincts. If you think they've gone bad, they probably have. The cheese will have a strong, sour odour, and its consistency will be crumbly and unappetising. If you see any spots of mould, discard them immediately.

If you're unsure, give them a taste. If the quality is not what it should be, it's best to throw them out.

If you're defrosting cheese sticks, it's best to do so slowly in the fridge. This will help to retain the quality. If you're in a hurry, you can submerge the sticks in lukewarm water, which will defrost them in 15-20 minutes.

Frequently asked questions