Can You Freeze Pepperoni?
Pepperoni is one of those ingredients I nearly always have in the fridge.
While it’s famous as a pizza topping, I also use it in pasta dishes, toasties, omelettes and homemade pizza. Since my husband and I bought an Ooni pizza oven, we’ve been getting through plenty of it!
The good news is that yes, you can freeze pepperoni, making it easy to stop it going to waste and always have some ready for your next pizza night.
Can You Freeze Pepperoni?
Yes, pepperoni freezes very well.
Whether you’ve bought a whole pepperoni sausage, a packet of sliced pepperoni or even cooked pepperoni on a pizza, it can all be frozen successfully.
Because pepperoni is a cured meat, freezing has very little effect on either its flavour or texture.
If you’ll use it within a couple of weeks, it’s usually easier just to keep it in the fridge. But if you’ve stocked up during a supermarket offer or bought more than you need, freezing is an excellent option.
What Is Pepperoni?
Pepperoni is an American-style cured sausage made from pork and beef that’s seasoned with spices, including paprika, which gives it its distinctive red colour.
It’s most commonly sold as:
- Whole pepperoni sticks
- Ready-sliced pepperoni
- Deli-sliced pepperoni
- Mini pepperoni slices
While it’s best known as a pizza topping, pepperoni is also delicious in sandwiches, pasta dishes, salads and baked potatoes.
Can You Freeze Sliced Pepperoni?
Yes.
In fact, sliced pepperoni is probably the easiest type to freeze.
I usually buy the ready-sliced packs because they’re perfect for homemade pizzas. If I know I won’t use the whole packet, I’ll freeze the leftovers so they’re ready for the next pizza night.
If you’re freezing slices, it’s worth checking whether the product has already been frozen, as previously frozen meat shouldn’t usually be frozen again unless it’s been cooked.
Can You Freeze A Whole Pepperoni Stick?
Yes.
Whole pepperoni sausages freeze just as well as sliced pepperoni.
If you’ve already cut into it, wrap the exposed end tightly before freezing to help prevent freezer burn.
Can You Freeze Pepperoni Pizza?
Yes.
Pepperoni pizza freezes brilliantly.
Allow the pizza to cool completely before wrapping it well and freezing.
I’ve actually done this after taking advantage of pizza deals—eating one pizza on the day and freezing the other for another meal. It works surprisingly well.
Can You Freeze Cooked Pepperoni?
Yes.
If you’ve cooked pepperoni as part of a pizza, pasta bake or another recipe, it can be frozen once it’s cooled completely.
Can You Refreeze Pepperoni?
Generally, no.
Like most cured meats, pepperoni shouldn’t normally be frozen more than once.
However, if raw pepperoni was previously frozen, then cooked as part of another dish, that cooked dish can usually be frozen again.
How To Freeze Pepperoni
Pepperoni is very straightforward to freeze.
For unopened packets, simply place them straight into the freezer.
Once opened, I prefer freezing it in smaller portions.
- Divide the pepperoni into portions if needed.
- If freezing slices, lay them out on a baking tray so they aren’t touching.
- Freeze for around one to two hours until firm.
- Transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container.
- Remove as much air as possible.
- Label with the contents and freezing date.
Flash freezing first stops the slices sticking together, meaning you can grab just a handful whenever you need them.
How Long Can You Freeze Pepperoni?
Pepperoni is best used within three months.
Because it’s a cured meat, it often keeps its quality very well, but using it within this time gives the best flavour and texture.
How To Defrost Pepperoni
The safest way to thaw pepperoni is in the fridge.
Sliced pepperoni usually only takes a couple of hours to defrost.
If you’re adding it to a pizza or another cooked dish, you can often use it straight from frozen without thawing first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Freeze Pepperoni Sticks?
Yes.
Wrap them well before freezing and consider cutting larger sticks into smaller portions if you won’t use them all at once.
Can You Freeze Deli Pepperoni?
Yes.
Deli pepperoni slices freeze just as well as supermarket packets.
Can You Freeze Pepperoni After Opening?
Yes.
Just make sure it’s wrapped well or transferred to an airtight freezer container before freezing.
Can You Freeze Pepperoni For Pizza?
Absolutely.
This is probably the most common reason I freeze pepperoni. Having a bag of slices in the freezer means homemade pizzas are always quick and easy.
Can You Freeze Pepperoni On Homemade Pizza?
Yes.
Homemade pepperoni pizza freezes very well once it’s cooled completely.
Related Freezing Guides
If you’re freezing chorizo, you might also find these guides helpful.
Freezing Cured Meats
Freezing Cooked Meats
Freezing Ingredients
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