Leftover meatloaf can last 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator, but there are some important factors to consider to determine just how long it will stay safe to eat. Read on for more details on exactly how long leftover meatloaf will last in the fridge.
How Long Does Cooked Meatloaf Last in the Fridge?
The exact shelf life of leftover meatloaf depends on a few key factors:
- Proper storage container: Store meatloaf in airtight, sealed containers or rewrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Fridge temperature: Keep your fridge set below 40°F. Higher temps shorten shelf life.
- Preparation method: Meatloaf prepared with precooked ingredients like deli meats will last a bit shorter than meatloaf made completely from raw ground meat.
- Ingredients used: Types of cheeses, vegetables, binders, etc. can impact total shelf life.
Taking these factors into account, here are some general guidelines for how long cooked meatloaf will last refrigerated:
| Type of Leftover Meatloaf | Fridge Life |
|---|---|
| Plain meatloaf made with raw ground beef | 3 to 4 days |
| Meatloaf with non-precooked ingredients like eggs, veggies, cheese | 3 to 4 days |
| Meatloaf made with deli meats or precooked ingredients | 2 to 3 days |
As you can see, most leftover meatloaf will last for 3 to 4 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. Meatloaf made with ingredients that were already cooked before making the meatloaf will have a slightly shorter shelf life of 2 to 3 days.
How to Tell if Leftover Meatloaf is Bad
Using your eyes, nose, and common sense are the best ways to determine if leftover meatloaf has gone bad. Here’s what to look for:
- Mold: If you notice any fuzzy mold growing on the meatloaf, it has spoiled and should be discarded.
- Off odor: Leftover meatloaf that smells unpleasant or rotten should not be eaten.
- Change in color: Though harmless color changes can occur as meat ages, any extreme darkening or unnatural colors are signs of spoilage.
- Slimy texture: A slippery, slimy texture or appearance is a clear sign of bacterial growth.
- Questionable ingredients: If there are cooked veggies, cheeses, or other ingredients that seem off, likely the whole dish should be tossed out.
When inspecting leftover meatloaf, it’s important to use common food safety sense too. If for any reason the dish seems off or suspicious, it’s better to be safe than sorry and throw it away. Trust your senses!
Storing Leftover Meatloaf Safely
To help maximize the shelf life of leftover meatloaf, proper storage methods are essential. Here are some tips for safe storage:
- Let cool completely first: Wait until meatloaf reaches room temp before refrigerating. Hot food can raise fridge temps.
- Use shallow airtight containers: This helps prevent bacteria growth. Don’t stack containers.
- Don’t overfill containers: Leave space for air circulation. Overstuffed fridges thaw slower.
- Place on fridge shelves, not doors: The back of the fridge is coldest. Shelves maintain temps better.
- Label containers with dates: Mark when you stored it to know when to toss.
- Don’t freeze previously refrigerated meatloaf: Freezing and re-thawing will degrade quality.
Following proper storage methods like these can help maximize the shelf life and freshness of leftover meatloaf stored in the refrigerator.
Should Leftover Meatloaf be Reheated?
It’s best practice to reheat leftover meatloaf to an internal temperature of 165°F before eating to eliminate any bacteria that may have grown during refrigerated storage. Here are some reheating tips:
- Use the microwave or conventional oven to reheat fully.
- Microwave in 30 second intervals, stirring between sessions, until heated through.
- Place in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until hot internally.
- Stir in a saucepan over medium-low heat until fully warmed through.
- Bring gravy or sauce to a boil when reheating meatloaf and gravy.
- Check internal temp with a food thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
Proper reheating will help ensure any bacteria that may have developed on the meatloaf while in the fridge are eliminated before eating.
How to Use Leftover Meatloaf
Don’t let leftover meatloaf go to waste! Here are some delicious ways to repurpose and use up refrigerated meatloaf:
- Make meatloaf sandwiches topped with cheese, ketchup, mustard, etc.
- Dice up meatloaf and add to salads, rice bowls, pasta dishes, etc.
- Throw pieces of meatloaf into soups, stews, chili, or casseroles.
- Mix chopped meatloaf with barbeque sauce and serve on buns or over baked potatoes.
- Make meatloaf hash by frying it up with potatoes and onions.
- Layer sliced meatloaf and cheese between bread for hot meatloaf melts.
With a little creativity, leftover meatloaf can be reinvented into all sorts of tasty dishes throughout the week.
Conclusion
Leftover meatloaf that has been properly stored will last for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to store it in airtight containers in the back of the fridge at a temperature below 40°F. Check for signs of spoilage like mold, sliminess, or off odors before eating. Reheat to 165°F before consuming to eliminate bacteria. Repurpose leftover meatloaf in sandwiches, salads, soups, and more so none goes to waste. Following basic food safety practices will ensure leftover meatloaf stays fresh and delicious all week long.