Can You Freeze Shredded Cheese?
Pre-shredded or freshly grated cheese of any variety.
The Short Answer
Yes, you can freeze shredded cheese. Yes. Shredded cheese freezes excellently and can be used straight from the freezer without thawing.
Freezer Time at a Glance
Source: USDA FoodKeeper | Last verified: March 26, 2026
How to Freeze Shredded Cheese
- If shredding yourself, grate the cheese and toss with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch or flour per cup to prevent clumping.
- Place in freezer bags in recipe-sized portions.
- Squeeze out as much air as possible.
- For store-bought bags, freeze in the original packaging or transfer to a freezer bag.
Texture Changes After Freezing
Shredded cheese holds up very well in the freezer. It may clump slightly but breaks apart easily. Melting quality is preserved. No noticeable difference when used in cooking.
Cornstarch is the secret to perfectly non-clumpy frozen shredded cheese. One tablespoon per cup. This is actually why store-bought shredded cheese already contains anti-caking agents. Do the same at home.
How to Thaw Shredded Cheese
Use directly from the freezer in hot dishes, on pizza, in quesadillas, or in casseroles. No thawing necessary. For cold applications, thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours.
Can You Refreeze Shredded Cheese?
Refreezing is not recommended. Quality and texture degrade significantly with repeated freezing and thawing.
Best Uses After Freezing
After freezing and thawing, shredded cheese works best in: pizza, quesadillas, casseroles, mac and cheese, tacos, omelets, grilled cheese.
The Bottom Line
Shredded Cheese can be frozen for 6–8 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 shredded cheese works well in cooked dishes and recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Moisture on the cheese surface creates ice that bonds the shreds together. Tossing with cornstarch or flour before freezing coats each shred and prevents this. Breaking the bag apart with your hands also helps.