Mozzarella sticks can stay good in the fridge for 3-5 days if stored properly. Here are some quick tips for keeping mozzarella sticks fresh longer:
Store in an airtight container
Place leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container or ziplock bag. This prevents moisture from evaporating and the cheese from drying out.
Use within 3-5 days
For best quality and taste, mozzarella sticks should be consumed within 3-5 days of refrigeration. After this time, the texture and flavor of the cheese begins to deteriorate.
Keep fridge below 40°F
To slow down bacteria growth, maintain your fridge temperature at or below 40°F. The colder the better for extending the shelf life.
Avoid temperature fluctuations
Try to avoid letting mozzarella sticks sit out at room temperature for long periods of time. Bringing them to room temperature and back to the fridge can shorten their lifespan.
Check for signs of spoilage
Discard mozzarella sticks if you see signs of spoilage like mold, sliminess, or an off smell or appearance.
Freeze for longer storage
For storage beyond 3-5 days, freeze mozzarella sticks for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
More Tips for Storing Mozzarella Sticks
Here are some additional tips for keeping mozzarella sticks fresh longer:
Use high-quality cheese
Mozzarella made from whole milk has a longer shelf life than lower fat versions. Choose reputable brands when buying pre-made sticks.
Avoid air exposure
Minimize how much the cheese is exposed to air during storage. Air can dry out the cheese.
Separate sticks
If storing multiple sticks in one container, try to separate them so air can better circulate around each.
Blot excess moisture
Gently blot mozzarella sticks with a paper towel before refrigerating to absorb any excess moisture on the surface.
Use within cooking times
Cook mozzarella sticks within the recommended cooking times on the package. Overcooking can cause the cheese to separate from the breading.
How to Tell if Mozzarella Sticks are Bad
Check mozzarella sticks carefully before eating them if they are close to or past their recommended storage times. Signs that mozzarella sticks have gone bad include:
- Mold growth
- Slimy texture
- Sour or off smell
- Discoloration
- Dried out, hard cheese
- Soft or mushy breading
- Separation of cheese from breading
If you notice any of these signs, safely discard the mozzarella sticks. Do not taste test sticks that show spoilage.
How to Store Uncooked vs. Leftover Mozzarella Sticks
The guidelines vary slightly for storing uncooked versus leftover mozzarella sticks:
Uncooked Mozzarella Sticks
- Store unopened at fridge temperatures for duration listed on package (typically 1-2 weeks)
- After opening package, use within 5-7 days
- Keep cold in fridge at 40°F or below
- Avoid freezing uncooked sticks as this can damage the breading
Leftover Cooked Mozzarella Sticks
- Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking
- Store in airtight container in fridge for 3-5 days
- Can freeze for 2-3 months; thaw overnight in fridge before using
FAQs
Can you eat expired mozzarella sticks?
It’s not recommended to eat mozzarella sticks past their printed expiration date. Even if they look and smell normal, expired mozzarella sticks can potentially harbor harmful bacteria that can cause illness.
Can you freeze mozzarella sticks after cooking?
Yes, leftover cooked mozzarella sticks can be frozen for 2-3 months. Allow them to cool completely before freezing in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How can you reheat mozzarella sticks?
To reheat mozzarella sticks, place them on a baking sheet in a 375°F oven for 4-5 minutes until hot and crispy. You can also reheat in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Keep an eye on them as the breading can get soggy.
What happens if you freeze mozzarella sticks twice?
Freezing mozzarella sticks twice is not recommended. The texture and quality deteriorates each time they are frozen and thawed. The breading can become soggy and the cheese can weep liquid.
Conclusion
With proper refrigeration, mozzarella sticks can keep for 3-5 days before quality starts to decline. Store them in an airtight container at 40°F or less and check for signs of spoilage before eating. Frozen mozzarella sticks last 2-3 months in the freezer. Follow these storage guidelines and your mozzarella sticks will stay fresh and delicious.
