How long does pizza last in the fridge?
Leftover pizza lasts 3–4 days in the fridge. It should not sit out more than 2 hours, so pizza left on the counter overnight should be thrown away.
Day by day in the fridge
- Day 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
- 6
Storage times by type
| Type | Fridge | Freezer |
|---|---|---|
| Cheese / veg pizza | 3–4 days | 1–2 months |
| Meat-topped pizza | 3–4 days | 1–2 months |
| Left out overnight | Throw it out | - |
Signs it has gone bad
- Mold on crust or toppings
- Sour smell
- Slimy toppings or very hard, dried crust
No signs doesn't mean safe. Food-poisoning bacteria usually don't change smell or look, so go by time.
How to store it
- Do not leave the pizza box on the counter during a movie night. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.
- Store slices in a sealed container or wrapped in foil; the box lets them dry out.
- Reheat in a skillet or oven until the cheese bubbles, which also gets it to a safe temperature.
Check yours
Questions people ask
Is pizza left out overnight safe to eat?
No. USDA advises discarding perishable food left out more than 2 hours. Cheese and meat toppings can grow bacteria at room temperature, and reheating will not undo toxins.
Can I eat cold pizza from the fridge?
Yes. Pizza refrigerated within 2 hours of delivery and eaten within 3–4 days is safe cold or reheated.
How long does frozen pizza last?
Store-bought frozen pizza keeps for its labeled date. Homemade or leftover pizza frozen at home is best within 1–2 months.
Sources
- USDA FSIS: Leftovers and Food Safety
- USDA FSIS: "Danger Zone" (40°F–140°F)
- FoodSafety.gov: Cold Food Storage Chart
General food safety information, not medical advice. Times assume a fridge at 40°F (4°C) or below and a freezer at 0°F (-18°C). If you're pregnant, older, very young or immunocompromised, follow stricter limits.