Last Updated on May 28, 2023 by Lauren Beck
As a self-proclaimed cheese enthusiast, I understand the predicament of having leftover shredded mozzarella cheese. But fear not, my fellow cheese lovers!
I’m here to share some cheesy wisdom and help you discover delightful ways to make the most of that extra mozzarella goodness. So, grab your apron and prepare for a journey of culinary creativity.
What to Do With Extra Shredded Mozzarella Cheese?
Here are the 15 Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Recipes:
- Classic Margherita Pizza: Top your homemade pizza dough with shredded mozzarella, fresh basil, and tomato sauce for a taste of Italy.
- Cheesy Baked Ziti: Layer cooked ziti pasta, marinara sauce, and shredded mozzarella in a baking dish, and bake until golden and bubbly.
- Caprese Salad: Combine sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil for a simple and refreshing salad.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: Spread garlic butter on sliced bread, sprinkle with shredded mozzarella, and toast until golden and melty.
- Chicken Parmesan: Bread and fry chicken cutlets, top with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella, and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Three-Cheese Stuffed Shells: Fill cooked pasta shells with ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, then bake with marinara sauce.
- Caprese Grilled Cheese: Layer sliced mozzarella, tomatoes, and fresh basil between two slices of bread, and grill until the cheese is melted.
- Meatball Sub: Top meatballs with marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella, and broil until the cheese is melted and slightly browned. Serve on a toasted sub roll.
- Spinach and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Breast: Butterfly chicken breasts, stuff with spinach, shredded mozzarella, and garlic, then bake until cooked through.
- Mozzarella Sticks: Coat mozzarella sticks in breadcrumbs, fry until golden and crispy, and serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
- Baked Eggplant Parmesan: Layer breaded and baked eggplant slices with marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, and bake until bubbly.
- Cheesy Stuffed Mushrooms: Fill mushroom caps with cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and herbs, then bake until melted and golden.
- Margherita Grilled Chicken: Grill chicken breasts, top with sliced tomatoes, shredded mozzarella, and fresh basil, and broil until the cheese is melted.
- Mozzarella and Tomato Panini: Layer sliced tomatoes, shredded mozzarella, and fresh basil between two slices of bread, and grill until the cheese is melted.
- Mozzarella and Pesto Pasta: Toss cooked pasta with pesto sauce and shredded mozzarella, and heat until the cheese is melted and gooey.
Is It Ok to Freeze Shredded Mozzarella Cheese?
Yes, you can freeze shredded mozzarella cheese to extend its shelf life. However, freezing may affect the texture and make the cheese slightly crumbly once thawed.
It is best to use frozen shredded mozzarella in cooked dishes rather than for melting on top.
Can You Freeze Pre-Shredded Mozzarella Cheese?
Pre-shredded mozzarella cheese is often coated with anti-caking agents, which can affect its texture when frozen.
While freezing pre-shredded mozzarella is possible, using it within 2-3 months is recommended for best results.
What Is Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Good For?
Shredded mozzarella cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, including:
- Pizzas, calzones, and flatbreads
- Pasta dishes like lasagna, baked ziti, and stuffed shells
- Salads such as Caprese or pasta salads
- Sandwiches, paninis, and wraps
- Appetizers like mozzarella sticks and stuffed mushrooms
- Casseroles and baked dishes
- Grilled cheese sandwiches and quesadillas
- Chicken Parmesan and eggplant Parmesan
- Soups, stews, and chili
Why Doesn’t Shredded Mozzarella Melt?
Shredded mozzarella cheese is typically coated with cellulose powder or anti-caking agents to prevent clumping.
These additives can affect the meltability of the cheese, resulting in a less smooth and stringy melt than fresh mozzarella.
However, it still adds a delicious cheesy flavor to dishes when melted.
Can I Use Expired Mozzarella Cheese?
It is generally not recommended to use expired mozzarella cheese, as it may have developed mold or harmful bacteria.
Always check the expiration date and discard any cheese past its prime to ensure food safety [1].
Conclusion
When faced with a surplus of shredded mozzarella cheese, don’t let it go to waste! The possibilities are endless, from classic dishes like pizzas and pasta to creative options like stuffed mushrooms and grilled sandwiches.
Embrace your inner cheese enthusiast and get creative in the kitchen. With these ideas in your culinary arsenal, you’ll transform that extra mozzarella into cheesy masterpieces that will delight your taste buds and impress your loved ones. So, grab your cheese grater and let the cheesy adventures begin!
Reference:
- https://www.tastingtable.com/678477/what-happens-if-you-eat-expired-cheese/
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