Pizza rolls are a beloved freezer food that many households keep stocked for easy snacking and meals. But how long do pizza rolls last in the freezer before they expire? And what’s the best way to store them to maximize freshness? Here’s a quick look at pizza roll shelf life and storage.
How long do unopened pizza rolls last in the freezer?
Unopened packages of pizza rolls that have been continuously frozen can last for a remarkably long time. According to food safety experts, commercially packaged frozen foods like pizza rolls have an indefinite shelf life when stored properly in the freezer. That means unopened pizza rolls that are kept frozen can be safe to eat indefinitely, although they may start to decline in quality after about 12 months.
The key is keeping them continuously frozen. If stored at a constant temperature of 0°F, the pizza rolls will always remain safe to eat. However, the quality will slowly degrade over time. The dough may become a bit drier and the filling not quite as flavorful after many months or years in the freezer.
For best quality, try to use frozen pizza rolls within about 12 months of the date you purchased them. But if stored longer while remaining properly frozen, they will still be safe to eat – they just may not taste quite as good.
How long do opened pizza rolls last in the freezer?
Once the package is opened, the shelf life is shortened due to exposure to freezer air. Opened pizza rolls will maintain best quality for about 6-8 months in the freezer.
To help pizza rolls last as long as possible after opening, re-seal the package tightly or transfer any remaining rolls to a freezer bag or airtight container. This protects them from exposure to air, ice crystals, and freezer burn.
Properly stored opened pizza rolls can remain safe to eat for up to 1 year in the freezer past the printed expiration date. But for best flavor and texture, use within 8 months.
How long do thawed pizza rolls last in the fridge?
Once thawed, pizza rolls have a much shorter shelf life. According to the USDA, thawed pizza rolls will last just 1-2 days in the refrigerator.
It’s best to thaw only the number of pizza rolls you plan to eat within the next couple of days. Keep thawed pizza rolls stored in a sealed container in the fridge.
Do not refreeze pizza rolls after thawing them. The ice crystals that form during freezing deteriorate the quality of the dough.
How to maximize pizza roll shelf life
Follow these tips for safely storing pizza rolls to get the longest shelf life:
- Keep unopened packages frozen at 0°F or below.
- Allow space around packages for air circulation in the freezer.
- Avoid temperature fluctuations – don’t open the freezer door more than necessary.
- Reseal opened packages tightly before returning to the freezer.
- Refreeze thawed pizza rolls only if they still contain ice crystals, and use within 24 hours.
- Thaw frozen pizza rolls in the refrigerator, not on the counter.
- Use thawed pizza rolls within 1-2 days and don’t refreeze.
How to tell if pizza rolls are bad
Although frozen pizza rolls have a long shelf life, they can eventually spoil. Here are signs to look for to determine if frozen pizza rolls have gone bad:
- Ice crystals or freezer burn on the rolls – This indicates they have been improperly stored in the freezer.
- Dried out, wrinkled dough – A sign they have been kept frozen too long.
- Off color, flavor, or odor – The filling may be spoiled if the rolls smell bad or taste off.
- Mold – Mold growing anywhere signals spoilage.
When in doubt, remember the old adage – “When in doubt, throw it out.” Don’t take chances with spoiled frozen foods.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the shelf life of pizza rolls?
The shelf life of pizza rolls is:
- Unopened: Indefinite when frozen properly at 0°F
- Opened: 6-8 months in the freezer
- Thawed: 1-2 days in the fridge
Can you eat expired pizza rolls?
Frozen pizza rolls that have been kept at a constant 0°F can technically be eaten indefinitely past the printed expiration date on the package. However, for best quality and flavor, it’s best to eat them within about 12 months.
Do pizza rolls need to stay frozen?
Yes, pizza rolls must stay continuously frozen to maintain safety and quality. Allowing the temperature to fluctuate, or thawing and refreezing pizza rolls, causes degradation.
Can you freeze and reheat pizza rolls?
Pizza rolls can be frozen after cooking, but the quality diminishes. It’s best to cook only the amount you plan to eat and keep the rest frozen raw. Always reheat pizza rolls thoroughly to 165°F.
Do pizza rolls need to be refrigerated after opening?
No, opened pizza rolls do not need to be refrigerated as long as they are promptly returned to the freezer. They will maintain best quality frozen for 6-8 months.
Storing Pizza Rolls
Here is a quick summary of how to store pizza rolls:
| Pizza Roll Type | Refrigerator (40°F) | Freezer (0°F) |
|---|---|---|
| Unopened Package | Don’t refrigerate | Indefinite shelf life when frozen |
| Opened Package | Don’t refrigerate | 6-8 months |
| Thawed | 1-2 days | Don’t refreeze |
Conclusion
Freezing is the best way to maximize the shelf life of pizza rolls. Properly stored frozen pizza rolls can stay safe to eat essentially forever, although best quality is achieved within 12 months. Once thawed, pizza rolls have just a day or two before they must be eaten. Follow the guidelines for freezer temperatures and storage times, and your pizza rolls will stay fresh for as long as possible.
2265 Words