The general rule from the USDA is simple: most cooked leftovers last 3–4 days in the fridge and 3–4 months in the freezer. But there are important exceptions — some foods spoil faster, and others last much longer than you'd expect.
Cooked Proteins
| Food | Fridge | Freezer |
|---|---|---|
| 🍗 Cooked chicken or turkey | 3–4 days | 2–6 months |
| 🥩 Cooked beef or pork | 3–4 days | 2–3 months |
| 🐟 Cooked fish or shrimp | 3–4 days | 3 months |
| 🥚 Cooked eggs (scrambled, hard-boiled peeled) | 3–4 days | Do not freeze |
Grains and Starches
| Food | Fridge | Freezer |
|---|---|---|
| 🍚 Cooked rice | 4–6 days | 6 months |
| 🍝 Cooked pasta (plain) | 3–5 days | 1–2 months |
| 🥔 Mashed potatoes | 3–4 days | 10–12 months |
Soups, Stews, and Casseroles
| Food | Fridge | Freezer |
|---|---|---|
| 🍲 Soups and stews (meat or veggie) | 3–4 days | 2–3 months |
| 🥘 Casseroles and mixed dishes | 3–4 days | 2–3 months |
| 🍕 Pizza | 3–4 days | 1–2 months |
The #1 Rule That Actually Matters
These times assume your fridge is at or below 40°F (4°C). If your fridge runs warmer — and many home fridges do, especially after the holidays when they're packed — all these times shrink. A fridge thermometer costs $10 and is worth every cent.
Freezer: Your Secret Weapon Against Waste
If you're not going to eat something within 3–4 days, freeze it on Day 1 — not Day 3. Freezing on Day 3 doesn't reset the clock; it just pauses it. When you thaw it, it's still Day 3 food. Freeze early, thaw safely, and you can turn a 4-day leftover into a meal 3 months from now.
Want the exact times for a specific food? Search DoesItLast.com — we have 100+ foods with fridge, freezer, and pantry times.
💡 Stop guessing every week: Use My Kitchen to log when you stored each leftover. You'll see at a glance what needs to be eaten today. Try it →