How to Freeze Mushrooms the Easy Way (So They Don’t Get Mushy)

 Ever wondered how to freeze mushrooms without sacrificing texture or flavor? These simple steps will show you the best way to freeze fresh mushrooms so they last longer, taste better, and are ready to toss into your favorite recipes anytime.

If you’re a mushroom lover like me, chances are you’ve found yourself with extra mushrooms from the grocery store and not enough time to cook them all. And if you’ve ever opened your fridge to find soggy mushrooms or an unpleasant odor, you know the heartbreak of throwing out a bin of squishy mushrooms.

The good news? Freezing mushrooms is an easy way to reduce food waste and save money. Whether you’re working with baby bella, shiitake mushrooms, or any of your favorite varieties of mushrooms, here’s exactly how to do it for the best quality and longer freezer life.

Can You Freeze Mushrooms?

Yes, you can! While raw mushrooms have a high water content and a shorter shelf life, blanching or sautéing them first gives you better texture and the best taste when cooking later. Frozen mushrooms are a great way to make good use of bulk purchases or your own mushrooms from the garden.

Best Way to Freeze Mushrooms

Ingredients and Supplies:

• Pot of water and bowl of ice water
• 1 container of fresh mushrooms
• Water
• Freezer-safe containers or quart Ziploc freezer bags
• Baking sheet or cookie sheet
• Paper towel

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Clean the Mushrooms

Rinse mushrooms in cold water using a colander. Gently scrub off any dirt, but don’t soak them too long since mushrooms already have a high moisture content. Pat dry thoroughly with a paper towel.

Tip: Trim off bad spots or ends of the stems and discard any signs of spoilage.

2. Slice into Uniform Pieces

Cut your mushrooms into uniform pieces based on how you plan to use them. Smaller mushrooms can be halved, while larger mushrooms may need to be sliced.

3. Blanch to Preserve Texture

Bring a pot of water to a boil. Blanch mushrooms for 1–2 minutes depending on size, then immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking.

This step helps prevent soggy mushrooms and maintains the texture of mushrooms after freezing.

4. Flash Freeze in a Single Layer

Once cooled, drain and dry the mushrooms. Spread them in an even layer on a cookie sheet or baking sheet (lined with wax paper if you prefer). Freeze for 30 to 60 minutes until solid.

5. Store in Freezer-Safe Containers

Transfer frozen mushrooms into airtight containers or freezer-safe bags, pressing out as much air as possible. Leave about a half-inch of headspace if using containers.

Pro tip: Store away from strong-smelling items to preserve their earthy flavor and prevent freezer odors.

Keep track of what's in your freezer!

Get the free Freezer Inventory printable!

How Long Do Frozen Mushrooms Last?

For best results, use within 9 to 12 months. Store in the coldest part of your freezer and avoid opening the container repeatedly to prevent ice crystals and freezer burn.

Quick Tips for Freezing Mushrooms

• Always start with mushrooms in good condition
• Choose the method (blanch or sauté) that fits your favorite dishes
• Don’t skip the ice bath to lock in best flavor and texture
• Label with the expiration date and type of mushrooms

Freezing mushrooms is such a great way to stretch your grocery budget and reduce food waste. Whether you’re freezing for the first time or just want to save your favorite varieties of mushrooms for next time, these easy steps will help you freeze mushrooms like a master food preserver.

Want to see some other foods you can freeze? Check out a few of my favorite foods you can freeze.