Can You Freeze Cooked Pasta?
Yes, you can freeze cooked pasta for up to 2-3 months. Cook it slightly underdone (al dente), toss with a little oil to prevent sticking, and freeze in portions. Plain pasta freezes better than pasta with sauce, though both work. Reheat from frozen or thawed.
Key Takeaways
- Pasta freezes well because it has relatively low moisture content once cooked.
- Stuffed pastas like ravioli and tortellini freeze exceptionally well, even better than plain pasta.
- Cream-based sauces may separate when frozen with pasta; tomato-based sauces fare better.
Explanation
Pasta freezes well because it has relatively low moisture content once cooked. The key is cooking it slightly underdone since it will continue cooking when reheated. Overcooked pasta becomes mushy after freezing and thawing.
To freeze, drain pasta and toss immediately with a small amount of olive oil or butter to prevent sticking. Spread on a baking sheet to cool quickly, then portion into freezer bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible.
For reheating, drop frozen pasta directly into boiling water for 30-60 seconds, or microwave with a splash of water. Pasta bakes and casseroles can be assembled and frozen unbaked, then baked directly from frozen with additional cooking time.
Things to Know
- Stuffed pastas like ravioli and tortellini freeze exceptionally well, even better than plain pasta.
- Cream-based sauces may separate when frozen with pasta; tomato-based sauces fare better.
- Pasta salads do not freeze well due to the vegetables and mayonnaise-based dressings.