You might think cured meat like pepperoni can last for months in the fridge, but this isn’t true. An opened packet of pepperoni will only last a week or two when stored correctly! We all know freezing food is a great way to make it last longer, but can you freeze pepperoni?
Pepperoni is an Italian-American variety of salami, usually made from cured pork and beef. I love adding pepperoni to my pizzas, pasta, and even sandwiches! It’s such a great meat to add saltiness and a little spice to your packed lunches. It’s also pretty easy to buy in bulk and keep in the fridge for those last-minute meal ideas.
But let’s get back to the question at hand – can you freeze pepperoni?
Is Freezing Pepperoni Possible?
Yes! You can definitely freeze pepperoni. However, the way you freeze it is key to maintaining its quality. The meat should be wrapped tightly to safeguard it from frostbite and funky smells. And as with any frozen food, texture and taste might change slightly once thawed.
It’s important to note that freezing pepperoni will not turn it into an everlasting meat. It still has a limited shelf life, but freezing can help prolong it. Frozen pepperoni can last up to 6 months before the taste and texture starts to deteriorate.
Can You Freeze Pepperoni Slices?
Pepperoni usually comes in two forms: whole and sliced. Whole pepperoni can be stored in the pantry for up to 6 weeks, but once sliced, it should be refrigerated for it to last longer. Sliced pepperoni must be refrigerated to keep it fresh. But can you freeze sliced pepperoni? Absolutely! Just like whole pepperoni, it should be tightly wrapped before being placed in the freezer. I cover exactly how I freeze my pepperoni below.
Can You Freeze Hormel Pepperoni Slices?
If you love the Hormel brand pepperoni, you might now wonder can you freeze Hormel pepperoni slices. The answer is also yes! However, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First off, ensure the pepperoni slices aren’t past their expiration date. Freezing pepperoni that’s already expired will not extend its shelf life. Secondly, I would remove the slices from their original packaging and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or freezer bags. The original Hormel packaging isn’t the best for long-term freezer storage.
How to Freeze Pepperoni
Freezing pepperoni is super simple. The only real consideration is whether you want to freeze whole pepperoni or slice it up first. Whichever you choose, it must be wrapped well to prevent freezer burn.
Here’s the step-by-step process I follow when freezing pepperoni:
- Slice and Portion: Slice pepperoni if desired and portion out into serving sizes. I prefer having multiple smaller portions so I can grab exactly how much I need instead of breaking up or defrosting a larger pack.
- Wrap it up: Wrap each portion in multiple layers of plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. I always squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing the bag to save on freezer space!
- Date and Label: Write the date on a label or directly on the bag so you know when it was frozen. It makes it easier to check how long it has been in the freezer and when you should use it.
- Freeze: All that’s left to do is place your pepperoni in the freezer and let it chill until you’re ready to use it!
- Defrost: You can use frozen pepperoni straight from the freezer, but for best results, it’s recommended to defrost it first. Leave it in the fridge overnight to thaw and use within 24 hours. Don’t refreeze unless you cook it through first.
Can You Freeze Pepperoni Rolls?
Who doesn’t love pepperoni rolls?! Pepperoni, pizza dough, and cheese all rolled up into one delicious snack is just the best! But can you freeze pepperoni rolls for later? For this one, I’m going to say it depends.
Homemade pepperoni rolls can be frozen for up to 3 months easily. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Then defrost and reheat once you’re ready to indulge!
However, if you’re buying store-bought pepperoni rolls, I recommend checking the package for freezing instructions. Some may advise against freezing due to the ingredients or how they’re prepared. But if nothing is mentioned, feel free to freeze them for future use.
Final Thoughts on Can You Freeze Pepperoni
Freezing food is the best way to prevent food waste and ensure you always have something tasty on hand. So, if you find yourself wondering, ‘Can you freeze sliced pepperoni?’ again, the answer is yes! Whether it’s for meal prep or prolonging the shelf life of your pepperoni, freezing is a great option.
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