Most leftovers keep 3-4 days in the fridge at 40°F or below. Frozen, they keep best quality 3-4 months and stay safe indefinitely at 0°F. Reheat to 165°F.
Storage times from USDA, FoodSafety.gov, FDA and university extension services. Checked .
How long do leftovers last in the fridge?
3–4 days at 40°F (4°C) or below.
Can you freeze leftovers?
Yes. For best quality use it within 3–4 months. Best quality; safe indefinitely at 0°F.
- Cool in shallow containers before freezing.
- Label with the dish and date.
After thawing: Thaw in the fridge and use within 3-4 days, or reheat straight from frozen to 165°F; fridge-thawed portions can be refrozen.
How long can leftovers 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 leftovers has gone bad
- Sour or off smell
- Mold
- Slimy texture or off color
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 I eat leftovers after 5 days?
USDA recommends eating or freezing leftovers within 3-4 days; after that, throw them out.
Do leftovers need to cool before going in the fridge?
No. Refrigerate within 2 hours; divide large amounts into shallow containers so they cool quickly.
How long can leftovers last in the fridge?
Leftovers keep 3–4 days in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.
How long does cooked food last in the fridge?
Leftovers keep 3–4 days in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.
How long leftovers in fridge?
Leftovers keep 3–4 days in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.
How long can cooked food 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.
Can I reheat leftovers more than once?
Food reheated to 165°F can be refrozen, but quality drops each time. Reheat only what you'll eat.