Can You Freeze Fresh Mozzarella?

How to Freeze Fresh Mozzarella

1. Drain mozzarella from brine completely.
2. Pat dry with paper towels.
3. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag.
4. For shredded: grate fresh mozzarella, toss with a pinch of cornstarch, and freeze in a bag.
5. Squeeze out all air before sealing.

Texture Changes After Freezing

Fresh mozzarella loses its signature soft, milky texture after freezing. It becomes firmer, drier, and slightly crumbly. The moisture that gives fresh mozzarella its delicate quality is disrupted by ice crystal formation. Flavor is preserved but the eating experience is different.

How to Thaw Fresh Mozzarella

Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Use within 2 days of thawing. Best used in applications where it will be melted.

Can You Refreeze Fresh Mozzarella?

Refreezing is not recommended. Quality and texture degrade significantly with repeated freezing and thawing.

Best Uses After Freezing

After freezing and thawing, fresh mozzarella works best in: pizza, baked pasta, calzones, grilled cheese, bruschetta (melted), caprese that will be broiled.

The Bottom Line

Fresh Mozzarella can be frozen for 1–2 months when packaged properly. The key is removing as much air as possible and using freezer-safe containers or bags. While texture may change slightly after thawing, frozen fresh mozzarella works well in cooked dishes and recipes.