dairy
How Long Does Cheddar Cheese Last?
Cheddar Cheese lasts 3–4 weeks in the fridge (opened block, properly wrapped). Wrap in wax paper or cheese paper first, then loosely in plastic wrap — this lets the cheese breathe without drying out.
Fridge
3–4 weeks
opened block, properly wrapped
Counter
2–4 hours
to serve at room temperature; return to fridge after
Freezer
6–9 months
best for cooking; texture becomes crumbly
Pantry
6–6 months
unopened, vacuum-sealed block
Storage Tips
- Wrap in wax paper or cheese paper first, then loosely in plastic wrap — this lets the cheese breathe without drying out.
- Store cut surface down or pressed tightly against wrap to minimize exposed surface area and prevent drying.
- If mold appears on hard cheddar, cut at least 1 inch around and below it; the remainder is safe because low moisture prevents mold penetration.
How to Tell If Cheddar Cheese Has Gone Bad
Signs to look for
- Pink, red, or black mold (discard; these mold varieties can penetrate deeper than visible surface).
- Very strong ammonia smell beyond normal aged cheese sharpness.
- Slimy or wet surface not caused by condensation — indicates bacterial growth rather than simple surface mold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to eat cheddar cheese with mold on it?
For hard cheddar, yes — cut off at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) around and below the mold spot and use the rest. Hard cheese's low moisture content prevents mold roots from penetrating deeply. For shredded or soft cheese, discard the entire package.
Why does cheddar cheese get oily when melted?
Melting breaks the protein matrix that holds fat globules in suspension. The fat separates and pools on the surface — called "greasing off." Adding a small amount of starch (cornstarch) to shredded cheese before melting helps emulsify and prevent this.
Can you freeze cheddar cheese?
Yes, but the texture becomes crumbly after thawing because ice crystals rupture the protein structure. Frozen cheddar is perfectly fine for cooking (melting, sauces, baked dishes) but not great for slicing. Grate it before freezing for the most convenient use.
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