Don’t Toss That Parmesan Cheese Lid—Here’s a Genius Way to Reuse It

We get it—sometimes, convenience wins. If you're reaching for a canister of pre-grated Parmesan cheese instead of a fresh wedge, no judgment here. That stuff is a pantry staple for a reason: it’s shelf-stable, pre-grated, and gives off some serious childhood spaghetti-night nostalgia. But before you toss that empty container in the trash, let’s talk about the real hidden treasure—the lid.

Kraft Grated Parmesan Cheese Photo: Kraft

The Surprising Hack: Parmesan Lids Fit Mason Jars

That little green plastic lid you were about to throw away? Turns out, it screws perfectly onto regular-mouth mason jars. And if you’ve ever dealt with rusty metal mason jar lids, you know this is a game-changer.

Mason jars have evolved way beyond their original purpose of canning fruits and veggies. Now, they’re trendy, multifunctional kitchen MVPs. And with a repurposed Parmesan lid, your mason jar just got even more useful.

1. DIY To-Go Cup

Those perforations in the lid? They’re perfectly sized for sipping or fitting a straw, making your mason jar an easy grab-and-go cup. Think of it like a homemade Stanley cup—but without the hefty price tag. Whether you're commuting, heading to the beach, or packing a picnic, this spill-resistant hack keeps your drinks secure and stylish.

2. Easy-Pour Storage Solution

A lidded mason jar isn’t just for drinks. It’s also perfect for storing and pouring pantry staples like:

• Oats, rice, or quinoa

• Chocolate chips or sprinkles

• Nuts, seeds, or granola

• Dried beans or lentils

The wide-mouth opening makes scooping easy, while the lid lets you shake or pour just what you need.

3. Craft & Office Supply Organizer

This hack isn’t just for the kitchen! Use a Parmesan-lidded mason jar to store and dispense small items like:

• Paper clips & rubber bands

• Beads & buttons

• Thumbtacks & screws

• Glitter (for those who love chaos)

The Takeaway? Reuse > Waste

Before you toss that Parmesan lid, think twice. It might just become your new favorite kitchen (or office, or craft room) tool. Just give it a good wash with hot, soapy water, let it dry, and pop it onto a mason jar for instant upcycling magic. Who knew a simple cheese lid could do so much?