Storing Cheese Properly: How to Keep It Fresh and Flavorful

Being from Wisconsin, I’ve always been a big fan of cheese. In many of the recipes I post, cheese is a key ingredient. But keeping cheese fresh can sometimes be a little tricky.

That’s why I’ve decided to share some tips I use to store cheese in this article.

I’ll talk about the best materials to wrap your cheese in, what temperature you should store it at, and what to avoid when storing your cheese.

Plus, I’ll introduce an exciting alternative storage option. Get ready to keep your cheese fresh, flavorful, and ready to enjoy whenever your cravings strike.

So let’s get started, shall we?

Table of Contents

General Tips for Storing Cheese

When you bring home cheese from the grocery store remove any tight plastic wrap used, especially if it’s cut and wrapped from the deli. This is because the plastic wrap keeps in too much moisture, which makes your cheese go bad more quickly.

A better way to store cheese for a long time is to use cheese paper or bags made especially for storing cheese. These special materials help the cheese to “breathe,” while keeping it safe from too much moisture and air.

I use the cheese paper and storage bags from Formaticum, which I buy on Amazon. If you get your cheese from a cheese shop like I do (Carr Valley Cheese Company is my go-to cheese store), it’s okay to keep it in the paper it came in for the first few days to help keep it fresh.

Properly Wrapping Soft Cheese

To extend its shelf life, I wrap soft cheese in cheese paper to allow it to breathe and prevent it from becoming too moist.

Soft cheeses like Brie and Camembert have a higher moisture content, and wrapping them in plastic wrap can trap moisture, leading to a slimy texture and off-flavors.

Wax paper and parchment paper also provide a breathable barrier that helps regulate moisture levels and prevents the cheese from drying out. When wrapping soft or fresh cheeses, wrap them loosely to allow for air circulation.

Additionally, if you have a cheese dome or bell jar, you can use it to cover the soft cheese in the refrigerator, providing a controlled environment while still allowing the cheese to breathe.

Properly Wrapping Hard Cheese

When it comes to storing hard cheeses, like aged cheddar, asiago, and parmesan, I opt for using cheese paper, waxed/parchment paper, or plastic wrap to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out too much in the refrigerator.

Here are some tips for properly wrapping hard cheese:

Cut a piece of cheese paper, waxed/parchment paper, or plastic wrap that’s large enough to wrap the cheese fully.

Place the cheese in the center of the paper or wrap and fold the edges over the cheese.

For cheese paper or waxed/parchment paper, secure the edges with tape to create a tight seal.

If using plastic wrap, wrap it tightly around the cheese and seal it well.

I also do this for semi-hard cheeses I keep like Colby, Monterrey Jack, and blue cheese.

Ideal Storage Temperature for Cheese

Cheese prefers temperatures between 40 and 53 degrees Fahrenheit. However, most home refrigerators are colder than this range.

Some refrigerators have a separate cheese drawer, but mine doesn’t. So to create a slightly warmer environment, I store my cheese in the produce drawer.

It’s important to avoid leaving cheese on the counter due to temperature fluctuations. Instead, cover the cheese with a cloth or use a cheese box to prevent excessive exposure to air, which shortens shelf life.

Alternative Storage Option – Cheese Grottos

Die-hard cheese fans should be familiar with cheese grottos. They are a new, improved way to keep your cheese from spoiling too quickly. Unlike a regular fridge, a cheese grotto keeps your cheese in a moist environment, at about 75% humidity, which is perfect for your cheese.

What’s neat about the cheese grotto is that it has a system where you can adjust the airflow. This means you can change the conditions in the grotto depending on what kind of cheese you’re storing. You can keep your cheese grotto on the kitchen counter or even in the fridge.

Storing your cheese in a cheese grotto doesn’t just keep it fresh, it also helps maintain its flavor for a longer time. You can find more information about cheese grottos, and the different sizes and designs available at cheesegrotto.com.

So, if you’re tired of your cheese not lasting as long as you’d like, try storing it in a cheese grotto. It’s a game-changer for cheese lovers.

Questions I’m Often Asked

Can I Store Different Types of Cheese Together in the Same Container?

Yes, you can store different types of cheese together in the same container. Keep them separated with individual cheese papers or storage bags to maintain the quality of each cheese.

How Long Can I Store Cheese in the Refrigerator?

You can store cheese in the refrigerator for about 1-4 weeks, depending on the type. Hard cheeses usually last longer than soft cheeses, but not always. It’s important to wrap them properly to maintain freshness.

Can I Freeze Cheese for Long-Term Storage?

No, freezing cheese for long-term storage is not recommended. Freezing can affect the texture and flavor of the cheese. It’s best to store cheese in the refrigerator using proper wrapping and storage techniques.

Is It Necessary to Remove the Cheese From the Packaging It Came in Before Storing?

No, it’s not necessary. However, I recommend removing tightly wrapped plastic wrap and using cheese paper or storage bags for long-term storage.

How Often Should I Check on My Stored Cheese to Ensure It Is Still Fresh?

I check my stored cheese regularly to ensure it’s still fresh. It’s important to keep an eye on it, especially if it’s been stored for a while. Checking every few days is a good practice.

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s soft or hard, proper wrapping materials, correct temperature, and preventing prolonged exposure to air are the keys to storing cheese properly.

If you are seriously into cheese, consider a Cheese Grotto. It’s a different and unique way to store your cheese.

By using these tips, you can make sure you always have a tasty piece of cheese ready to eat whenever the craving hits.

Want More Tips Like This?

If so, join me on social media, where I share more cooking tips and advice I’d love to continue the conversation there with you.

Til next time,