Hard-boiled eggs keep 1 week in the fridge at 40°F or below. Refrigerate them within 2 hours of cooking. Don't freeze them; the whites become tough and watery.
Storage times from USDA, FoodSafety.gov, FDA and university extension services. Checked .
How long do hard-boiled eggs last in the fridge?
1 week at 40°F (4°C) or below.
Can you freeze hard-boiled eggs?
do not freeze; whites turn rubbery
- Don't freeze whole hard-cooked eggs.
- Cooked yolks alone can be frozen for toppings (texture-based tip).
How long can hard-boiled eggs sit out?
No more than 2 hours at room temperature, or 1 hour when it's above 90°F (USDA's 2-hour rule). After that, throw it out.
How to tell if hard-boiled eggs has gone bad
- Sulfur or off smell
- Slimy or chalky texture
- Gray-green discoloration with odor
Bacteria that cause food poisoning don't always change the look or smell of food, so go by the storage times above. When in doubt, throw it out.
Questions people ask
Can dyed Easter eggs be eaten?
Yes, if they went back in the fridge within 2 hours and are eaten within 1 week.
Do peeled hard-boiled eggs last as long?
USDA gives 1 week for hard-cooked eggs in the fridge; keep peeled ones in a covered container.