Leftover sloppy joe meat will usually keep for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator if stored properly. However, there are some important factors to consider when determining how long sloppy joe meat will last.
Key Factors for Sloppy Joe Leftover Storage
Here are the main factors that affect how long leftover sloppy joe meat will last:
- Ingredient quality – Fresh, high-quality ingredients last longer
- Cooking temperature – Heating meat to a safe internal temperature helps eliminate bacteria
- Proper cooling – Allowing meat to cool quickly before refrigerating
- Airtight storage – Storing in sealed, airtight containers prevents contamination
- Refrigerator temperature – Storing at 40°F or below inhibits bacterial growth
Proper Storage for Maximum Freshness
To get the most shelf life out of your leftover sloppy joes, follow these storage guidelines:
- Allow the cooked meat to come to room temperature before refrigerating. Do not refrigerate when still hot.
- Divide into shallow containers and refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap pressed onto surface of meat or a tight-fitting lid.
- Store in coldest part of refrigerator, 40°F or below.
- Avoid introducing extra moisture which can cause the meat to spoil faster.
- Use within 3 to 4 days for best quality and safety.
Signs Sloppy Joe Meat Has Spoiled
Here are some signs that indicate your leftover sloppy joes are past their prime and should be discarded:
- Off odor – Spoiled meat gives off an unpleasant, sour smell.
- Change in color – Grayish tint or dull, dry appearance.
- Slimy texture – Growth of mold or bacteria makes it feel slimy.
- Mold growth – Fuzzy mold visible on surface.
When in doubt, remember the old adage “When in doubt, throw it out” – don’t risk getting sick from eating spoiled food.
How to Store Sloppy Joe Meat for Maximum Shelf Life
Follow these steps for storing sloppy joe meat to maximize freshness and shelf life:
- Cook sloppy joes fully to an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Allow meat to cool to room temperature, about 1 hour, before refrigerating.
- Transfer meat to shallow airtight containers or resealable plastic bags.
- Press plastic wrap directly onto surface of meat.
- Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.
- Store in coldest part of refrigerator (40°F or below).
- Use leftovers within 3 to 4 days.
- Do not freeze sloppy joes as quality deteriorates. Eat within 3-4 days.
How to Reheat Leftover Sloppy Joes
To safely reheat leftover sloppy joes:
- Use within 3 to 4 days for best quality.
- Reheat fully to 165°F until hot and steaming.
- Reheat in saucepan on stovetop or in microwave, stirring occasionally.
- Do not reheat more than once.
- Discard any leftovers after reheating.
Conclusion
With proper refrigeration at 40°F or below, leftover sloppy joe meat will keep for 3 to 4 days. Allow meat to cool before refrigerating in airtight containers. Discard any sloppy joe meat that smells bad, changes color, grows mold, or has a slimy texture. For best quality and food safety, eat leftovers within 3-4 days and do not freeze. Reheat fully to 165°F before consuming.