If you’re a fan of blue cheese, you know how important it is to keep it fresh and flavorful.
But with so many different types of blue cheese and packaging options available, it can be tough to know exactly how long your cheese will last in the refrigerator.
In this article, we’ll explore the shelf life of blue cheese and provide tips for storing it properly to ensure maximum freshness.
Whether you’re a cheese connoisseur or just looking to add some flavor to your meals, read on to learn everything you need to know about keeping blue cheese at its best.
How Long Does Blue Cheese Last In The Refrigerator?
The shelf life of blue cheese can vary depending on a few factors, including the type of packaging and whether it’s been opened or not.
Unopened blue cheese typically has a shelf life of one to six months, depending on the packaging. If the cheese is wrapped in cheese paper and inside a carton package, it likely has a shorter shelf life. However, if it’s sealed airtight, it can last much longer.
Once you open the package or start the wedge, it’s best to finish the cheese within three to four weeks. The same applies if you buy yours fresh from the wheel.
Blue cheese crumbles typically have a longer shelf life, up to six months, as long as the package remains unopened. Once you open the container, you should finish blue cheese crumbles within about a week for best results.
Different Types Of Blue Cheese And Their Shelf Life
There are various types of blue cheese available, each with its own unique flavor profile and shelf life.
Gorgonzola is a popular type of blue cheese that originates from Italy. It has a creamy texture and a sharp, tangy flavor. Unopened Gorgonzola can last for up to six months in the refrigerator, while opened Gorgonzola should be consumed within three to four weeks.
Roquefort is a French blue cheese that has a crumbly texture and a strong, salty flavor. Unopened Roquefort can last for up to six months in the refrigerator, while opened Roquefort should be consumed within three to four weeks.
Stilton is an English blue cheese that has a creamy texture and a milder flavor compared to other types of blue cheese. Unopened Stilton can last for up to six months in the refrigerator, while opened Stilton should be consumed within two to three weeks.
Danish blue cheese is another popular type of blue cheese that has a creamy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. Unopened Danish blue cheese can last for up to two months in the refrigerator, while opened Danish blue cheese should be consumed within two weeks.
In general, it’s important to check the expiration date and storage instructions on the packaging of any type of blue cheese you purchase. Proper storage in the refrigerator will help extend the shelf life of your blue cheese, but it’s always best to consume it within the recommended time frame for optimal flavor and quality.
How To Properly Store Blue Cheese In The Refrigerator
Proper storage is key to keeping blue cheese fresh and extending its shelf life. The best place to store blue cheese is in the refrigerator, ideally in the crisper drawer where the temperature is between 46°F – 55°F (or 8°C – 13°C).
When it comes to packaging, there are a few options. If you’ve bought pre-packaged blue cheese, you can continue using the wrap it came in after opening the package. If you’re getting a fresh cut from the wheel, or need to repackage blue cheese, wrap it with cheese paper, wax paper, or parchment paper, and then place it in a freezer bag. Make sure not to wrap it too tightly, so it can breathe.
If you don’t have any of these papers on hand, a plastic bag or an airtight container are okay options. However, they’re not ideal because they don’t allow the cheese to breathe as well as paper does. Regardless of the packaging you use, make sure to seal it tightly to prevent air from entering.
It’s important to keep blue cheese away from other cheeses and food in general if possible, so that the spores of mold from your blue cheese won’t contaminate them.
Before serving the cheese, it’s recommended that you transfer the refrigerated blue cheese to room temperature for about an hour. This will allow the cheese to soften and bring out its full flavor.
Signs That Your Blue Cheese Has Gone Bad
While blue cheese can last for several weeks if stored properly, it can still go bad over time. Here are some signs that your blue cheese has gone bad:
1. Appearance: If you notice any mold growth on the surface of the cheese that is not typical of blue cheese, or if the cheese has turned a different color, such as yellow or green, it may have gone bad.
2. Texture: Blue cheese should be creamy and crumbly. If it becomes excessively dry or slimy, it may have gone bad.
3. Smell: Blue cheese has a strong odor, but if it starts to smell sour or rancid, it may have gone bad.
4. Taste: If the flavor of the blue cheese is off or has a bitter taste, it may have gone bad.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to discard the blue cheese to avoid the risk of food poisoning. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to consuming spoiled food.
Creative Ways To Use Up Leftover Blue Cheese
If you find yourself with leftover blue cheese, don’t let it go to waste! Here are some creative ways to use it up:
1. Blue Cheese Dressing: Mix crumbled blue cheese with some sour cream, mayo, and a splash of vinegar for a tangy and creamy salad dressing.
2. Blue Cheese Butter: Mash together softened butter and crumbled blue cheese for a delicious spread on bread or to top a steak.
3. Blue Cheese Dip: Mix together blue cheese, sour cream, and some herbs for a tasty dip for veggies or chips.
4. Blue Cheese Mac and Cheese: Add crumbled blue cheese to your favorite mac and cheese recipe for an extra kick of flavor.
5. Blue Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms: Mix together cream cheese, blue cheese, and herbs and stuff into mushroom caps before baking for a delicious appetizer.
6. Blue Cheese Burgers: Mix crumbled blue cheese into your ground beef before forming into patties for a flavorful twist on a classic burger.
These are just a few ideas to get you started. With its bold flavor, blue cheese can add a delicious kick to many dishes. So next time you have some leftover, get creative in the kitchen!
Frequently Asked Questions About Blue Cheese Shelf Life And Storage
If you’re a blue cheese lover, you may have some questions about how to store it properly and how long it will last. Here are some frequently asked questions about blue cheese shelf life and storage:
1. How long can unopened blue cheese last in the refrigerator?
Unopened blue cheese can last for one to six months in the refrigerator, depending on the type of packaging. Cheese that is wrapped in cheese paper and inside a carton package usually has a shorter shelf life, while cheese that is sealed airtight can last much longer.
2. How long can opened blue cheese last in the refrigerator?
Once you open the package or start the wedge, it’s best to finish the cheese within three to four weeks. Blue cheese crumbles typically have a longer shelf life, up to six months, as long as the package remains unopened. Once you open the container, you should finish blue cheese crumbles within about a week for best results.
3. Can I freeze blue cheese to extend its shelf life?
Yes, you can freeze blue cheese to extend its shelf life. However, freezing may slightly alter its texture and appearance. It’s best to use defrosted blue cheese only in cooked dishes, like casseroles and stews.
4. How should I store blue cheese in the refrigerator?
It’s important to store blue cheese tightly wrapped in the refrigerator to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other flavors. You can wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or store it in an airtight container.
5. How do I know if my blue cheese has gone bad?
If your blue cheese has mold that is not part of its natural blue veining, or if it has a sour smell or taste, it may have gone bad and should be discarded.
