How Long Is Pizza Good for in the Fridge? The Straight Answer 🍕

Carla Morel
Sep 14
3 min read

Pizza is one of the most loved foods worldwide, and chances are you’ve got a few slices left over from last night. But how long can you safely keep them in the fridge before they go bad?

Understanding how long is pizza good for in the fridge ensures you enjoy every slice safely—without risking food poisoning.

Leftovers sitting in the fridge? Find out how long cooked chicken stays good before it’s time to toss it.

Close-up of a sliced pizza with chicken, pineapple, red onion, and cilantro on a wooden board. The background shows garlic and cilantro sprigs.

The Quick Answer: How Long Does Pizza Last in the Fridge?

Pizza lasts 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap. After this window, bacteria growth increases, and it’s best to discard it.

According to the USDA, cooked foods like pizza should not be kept in the fridge longer than 4 days.

How Long Can Pizza Last in the Fridge by Type?

Not all pizzas are created equal. Here’s how storage times vary:

Pizza Type	Fridge Life	Notes
Cheese pizza	3–4 days	Lower toppings = slightly longer freshness
Meat-topped pizza	3 days	Higher risk of bacterial growth
Vegetable pizza	3–4 days	Moist toppings may cause sogginess
Vegan pizza	3–4 days	Similar rules as cheese pizza
Deep dish/thick crust	3–4 days	Denser crust may retain moisture

How to Store Pizza Safely in the Fridge

Cool quickly – Refrigerate within 2 hours of delivery or baking.
Use airtight containers – Prevents drying out and cross-contamination.
Layer with parchment paper – Keeps slices from sticking together.
Reheat properly – Bring to at least 165°F (74°C) before eating.

Leaving pizza out overnight? Toss it. Bacteria multiply quickly at room temperature.

Freezing Pizza for Longer Storage

If you don’t plan to eat leftovers within 3–4 days, freezing is the better option.

Wrap slices individually in foil or plastic wrap.
Place wrapped slices in a freezer bag.
Pizza lasts 1–2 months in the freezer with minimal quality loss.

To reheat, bake frozen slices at 375°F for 15–20 minutes, or use the air fryer for crispiness.

Signs Your Pizza Has Gone Bad

Even if it’s been in the fridge less than 4 days, check for these warning signs:

Sour or unusual smell
Slimy or discolored toppings
Rock-hard or dried-out crust
Mold spots

When in doubt, throw it out.

How Long Is Pizza Good for in the Fridge Compared to Other Leftovers?

Food Item	Fridge Life
Pizza	3–4 days
Cooked chicken	3–4 days
Pasta	3–5 days
Cooked vegetables	3–4 days
Soups & stews	3–4 days

If your eggs are near the sell-by date, do a quick check with this simple rundown on how to tell if eggs are bad.

FAQ

How long is pizza good for in the fridge? Pizza is safe to eat for 3–4 days when refrigerated properly.

How long does pizza last in the fridge? Leftover pizza can last up to 4 days in the fridge, though meat toppings should be eaten within 3.

How long can pizza last in the fridge? Most pizzas are safe for 3–4 days, provided they were refrigerated within 2 hours of cooking or delivery.

Can you eat pizza after 5 days in the fridge? It’s not recommended—bacteria growth makes it unsafe.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover pizza? Use an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness and heat to a safe temperature.

If you’ve finished cooking, make sure your skillet lasts: check this guide on how to clean a cast-iron skillet to preserve the seasoning and prevent rust.

Conclusion

So, how long is pizza good for in the fridge? The clear answer is 3–4 days, depending on toppings and storage. Meat-heavy pizzas should be eaten sooner, while cheese and veggie slices may last a bit longer. For anything beyond that, freeze your leftovers for longer life.