How Long Is Spaghetti Good For In The Fridge – Cooked spaghetti can typically be stored in the fridge for 3 to 5 days. To keep it fresh and safe to eat, follow these tips:
Storage Tips
- Cool it down: Allow the spaghetti to cool to room temperature before storing it in the fridge. However, don’t leave it out for more than 2 hours to avoid bacterial growth.
- Use an airtight container: Store the spaghetti in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag to maintain its quality and prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.
- Reheat properly: When you’re ready to eat the spaghetti, reheat it thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.
Freezing Spaghetti
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze cooked spaghetti. In the freezer, it will last up to 2 months. To freeze, place the spaghetti in a freezer-safe container or bag. When reheating, it may not be as fresh as when it was originally made, but it will still be tasty.
If you notice any signs of spoilage (such as an off smell, mold, or unusual texture), it’s best to discard it.
Top Tips
An easy way to reheat leftovers is in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.
If you stored the sauce and spaghetti separately, reheat the sauce on the stove over medium heat until hot. You can microwave the pasta or reheat it in boiling water for about 30 seconds.
If you are eating plain leftover spaghetti you may want to toss it with a little olive oil and parmesan cheese after reheating.
Frozen sauces and pasta noodles should be defrosted in the fridge for safety but can sit at room temperature for no more than 4 hours.
Store-bought sauce may contain preservatives allowing it to last longer in the fridge than homemade pasta sauce.
How to tell if spaghetti is bad
Pasta will be slimy and have a weird texture if it has gone bad.
You will begin to see bacteria growth in the sauce. Mold growth may look like different types of herbs so be sure to thoroughly inspect the sauce before consuming it if it’s been in the fridge for more than 3-5 days.
If you notice a weird smell, it is time to toss the leftovers to avoid any food poisoning.