Randy Chandler
Macaroni and cheese is a beloved comfort food, but it doesn't last forever. The shelf life of homemade macaroni and cheese in the refrigerator depends on several factors, including storage conditions, ingredients used, and individual sensitivity to food spoilage. Generally, homemade macaroni and cheese can be safely stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days when properly stored in airtight containers. However, some sources suggest a shorter duration of 3 to 4 days, and others recommend consumption within 2 days for optimal taste and quality. Leaving macaroni and cheese at room temperature for more than 2 hours is not advised, as bacteria can rapidly grow, leading to potential food spoilage and safety concerns. When in doubt, it is always advisable to perform a smell and taste test before consuming any leftover food.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How long does homemade macaroni and cheese last in the refrigerator? | 3-5 days |
| How long does unopened boxed macaroni and cheese last in the refrigerator? | Up to 2 years |
| How long does opened boxed macaroni and cheese last in the refrigerator? | A few days |
| How to store | Store in an airtight container |
| When to store | Within 2 hours of cooking |
| How to reheat | Reheat to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) |
| How long does it last in the freezer? | 1-3 months |
| How to identify spoilage | If it smells or tastes funny |
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What You'll Learn
Refrigerate within two hours of cooking
To maximise the shelf life of homemade macaroni and cheese, it is important to refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. Leaving it out at room temperature for longer than two hours may cause it to spoil and become unsafe to eat.
Once you've cooked your macaroni and cheese, let it cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer it to a shallow, airtight container to lock in the flavour and prevent it from drying out. Make sure the container is snug and well-sealed to keep air out and moisture in, and to prevent the macaroni and cheese from absorbing any strange fridge odours.
When storing macaroni and cheese, it is also important to consider portion sizes. It is recommended to separate individual servings before storing them in the fridge, as this will be more convenient when you want to reheat a portion.
By refrigerating your homemade macaroni and cheese within two hours of cooking and storing it in an airtight container, you can expect it to stay fresh and safe to eat for 3 to 5 days.
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Use an airtight container
If you're storing homemade macaroni and cheese, it's important to use an airtight container. This is because macaroni and cheese is made with dairy products like butter, cheese, and milk, and you don't want these ingredients to spoil. An airtight container will keep your macaroni and cheese from drying out and stop it from picking up weird fridge smells.
When you've cooked your macaroni and cheese, it's best not to let it sit out for more than two hours, or it might start to spoil, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). You don't have to let it cool down before putting it in the fridge, but it's best to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it up. This is because hot food can mess with the fridge's temperature and spoil other foods.
Once your macaroni and cheese is in an airtight container, it will last in the fridge for 3 to 5 days. After that, it's time to say goodbye to avoid any nasty foodborne illnesses. Some people say that if it smells, looks, and tastes okay, it's probably safe to eat, but most bacteria that lead to food poisoning cannot be smelled or tasted. If you're immunocompromised, it's best to avoid leftovers.
If you want to keep your macaroni and cheese longer, you can freeze it. It will last in the freezer for about 1 to 2 months, but it's best to eat it within three months so that it doesn't lose its flavor.
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Consume within 3-5 days
Homemade macaroni and cheese is a comfort food classic, but it doesn't last forever in the refrigerator. Generally, it stays good for about 3 to 5 days when stored properly. To maximise the shelf life of cooked macaroni and cheese for safety and quality, follow these steps:
- Refrigerate the macaroni and cheese within two hours of cooking.
- Store it in shallow, airtight containers. This keeps the food from drying out and prevents it from picking up any weird fridge smells.
- Label the container with the date it was stored so you know how long it has been in the fridge.
- When you're ready to reheat the macaroni and cheese, only heat the portion that you want to eat.
It's important to note that cooked macaroni and cheese should be discarded if left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as bacteria grow rapidly at temperatures between 40 °F and 140 °F. Additionally, if the food shows any signs of spoilage, throw it out immediately, even if it's within the 3 to 5-day window.
While some people suggest doing a smell and taste test to determine if the food is safe to eat, it's important to remember that most bacteria growth that leads to food poisoning cannot be smelled or tasted. Therefore, it's best to follow the recommended storage times and conditions to ensure food safety.
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Freeze to extend shelf life
To extend the shelf life of homemade macaroni and cheese, freezing is the best option. It is important to note that cooked macaroni and cheese should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking to maximise its shelf life.
When freezing, it is recommended to use covered airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. This helps to prevent the macaroni and cheese from drying out and absorbing other odours from the freezer. Sauce-based macaroni and cheese dishes tend to freeze better than plain cooked macaroni noodles, which may become overly soft when thawed.
The recommended freezer temperature for storing macaroni and cheese is 0 degrees Fahrenheit. Properly stored, it will maintain its best quality for about 1 to 2 months, but it can be safely stored beyond this timeframe. However, for optimal flavour and texture, it is advised to consume it within three months.
When reheating frozen macaroni and cheese, it is best to thaw it in the refrigerator, which can take several days. Microwaving or using cold water to defrost should be followed by immediate consumption. Adding a splash of milk or butter during reheating can help improve moisture and flavour.
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Reheat to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)
When reheating homemade macaroni and cheese, it is important to ensure that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This temperature is crucial for food safety, as it helps to eliminate any harmful bacteria that may have grown during storage.
Reaching 165°F (74°C) ensures that your macaroni and cheese is safe to consume, especially if it has been stored in the refrigerator for a few days. Bacteria can grow rapidly at temperatures between 40°F and 140°F, so it is essential to reheat your macaroni and cheese thoroughly.
To achieve this temperature, you can use a microwave, stovetop, or oven. If using a microwave, cover the dish and heat it in short intervals, stirring in between, until the desired temperature is reached. For a stovetop, add a splash of milk or butter to prevent drying and heat until steaming hot. In an oven, cover the baking dish with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through, which typically takes around 15 to 20 minutes.
Remember, it is important to reheat only the portion you intend to consume immediately. Avoid reheating multiple times, as this can impact the quality and safety of your macaroni and cheese. Additionally, always use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature and confirm that it has reached 165°F (74°C).
By following these guidelines, you can safely enjoy your homemade macaroni and cheese while minimizing the risk of foodborne illnesses.
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Frequently asked questions
Homemade macaroni and cheese will typically last between 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator. It is recommended to refrigerate it within two hours of cooking and store it in an airtight container to maximise its shelf life.
Bacteria grows rapidly at temperatures between 40 °F and 140 °F, so macaroni and cheese that has been left out for more than 2 hours should be discarded. If the food has been refrigerated, check for any signs of spoilage and use the smell and taste tests to identify any problems with the food.
Yes, freezing is a good option to extend the shelf life of your macaroni and cheese. It can be stored in covered airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and will last for about 1 to 2 months in the freezer.
When reheating, only heat the portion that you intend to eat. You can use the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of milk or a pat of butter to prevent the pasta from drying out. Reheated food should reach an internal temperature of 165 °F (74 °C) to kill any bacteria.
