How Long Does Meatloaf Last? 4 Common Signs of Spoilage

“How long does meatloaf last?” is an important question that could save your next meal from turning into a food fail. Well, meatloaf can stay good for months, depending on how you store it.

Stick around to explore the secrets of keeping your meatloaf tasty and safe for as long as possible! Keep reading.

How Long Does Meatloaf Last And When To Expect Spoilage?

Meatloaf typically lasts 3-4 days in the refrigerator. If you freeze it, it can stay good for up to 4 months (when stored properly). Factors such as initial freshness, cooking method, and storage conditions significantly affect this timeline. Such factors ensure safety and taste. Let’s have a look.

• Initial Freshness of Ingredients: The shelf life of meatloaf begins with the freshness of the meat and other components used. Fresher ingredients extend the longevity of the final product.

• Cooking Method: Meatloaf should be cooked to an internal temperature of 162°F. Why? To eliminate harmful bacteria. Undercooked meatloaf will spoil faster.
• Storage Conditions: Properly cooling meatloaf before refrigeration and using airtight containers are crucial. Exposure to air can increase bacterial growth and spoilage.
• Temperature Control: Refrigeration at or below 40°F and effective freezer storage at 0°F is essential to halt bacterial growth and preserve quality.
• Cross-Contamination: Keeping meatloaf separate from other foods, especially raw products, prevents cross-contamination and extends its shelf life.

Various factors can cause your food, including meatloaf, to spoil prematurely. Learn about these in “Exploring the Factors That Lead to Food Spoilage,” which can help you extend your food’s freshness.

Here’s a general table on the shelf life of different meatloaf.

How Long Does Fresh Meatloaf Last?

Freshly made meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for four days and up to four months in the freezer when properly sealed. Note that fresh meatloaf needs quick refrigeration to preserve freshness. Therefore, you should wrap it tightly.

If you want, you can also store fresh meatloaf in an airtight container to protect it from air and prevent spoilage. Many misconceptions exist about preserving food safely at home. To help you separate fact from fiction, this article is a great resource: “Unraveling Common Myths in Food Preservation.”

How Long Does Meatloaf Last After Opening?

Once opened, meatloaf lasts for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. After initially cutting into your meatloaf, keep leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator. This prevents air exposure and contamination, which are key factors that can accelerate spoilage. Proper storage maintains safety and taste.

How Long Does Meatloaf Last After Cooked?

Cooked meatloaf is good for 3-4 days in the fridge and can last up to 4 months in the freezer. To ensure safety, store cooked meatloaf in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. Use airtight containers or wrap them securely for the fridge or freezer, which helps maintain their quality over time.

How Long Does Bake Meatloaf Last?

Baked meatloaf will be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. In the freezer, it can stay good for up to 4 months in the freezer (if stored appropriately). After baking, meatloaf should be allowed to cool to room temperature before storage (but no longer than two hours to avoid bacterial growth). 

Store the meatloaf in the refrigerator by wrapping it tightly in cling wrap, or placing it in an airtight container. This reduces exposure to air and moisture. Both are leading causes of spoilage. 

For longer storage, freezing baked meatloaf is effective. Wrap it securely in freezer wrap, and then place it in a bag. After this, squeeze out as much air as possible.

How Long Does Meatloaf Last in the Fridge?

Meatloaf lasts 3 to 4 days in the fridge when stored appropriately in an airtight container. The key to keeping meatloaf fresh and safe in the refrigerator is minimizing its exposure to air. Air can dry out the meatloaf and promote the growth of bacteria. 

To store it, cool your meatloaf to room temperature soon after cooking and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also use an airtight container. Make sure your refrigerator is at a constant temperature of 40°F or below. Regularly checking the temperature can help prevent fluctuations that might encourage bacterial growth.

How to Store Meatloaf in Fridge to Extend Its Shelf Life?

To extend the shelf life of meatloaf in the fridge, store it in airtight conditions and keep your fridge at the right temperature. Note that proper storage involves cooling the meatloaf promptly after cooking and before refrigeration. 

Wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap. You can also place it in a container to shield it from air exposure, which accelerates spoilage and can introduce odors from other foods. Remember that keeping your refrigerator at a consistent temperature of 40°F or below is crucial, as higher temperatures can promote bacterial growth. 

Additionally, placing the meatloaf in the coldest part of the refrigerator, typically at the back rather than the door, can help maintain its quality for longer. For optimal results, consider slicing the meatloaf before storing it. This not only makes it easier to reheat but can also help cool it more quickly, reducing the risk of bacterial growth during the cooling process.

How Long Does Meatloaf Last in the Oven?

Meatloaf should not be left in the oven to store as it does not provide a safe temperature for long-term storage. When discussing how long meatloaf lasts in the oven, it’s important to clarify that this typically refers to cooking time rather than storage. A typical meatloaf cooks for about 1 to 1.5 hours at 350°F (175°C). 

Once cooking is complete, it should be removed from the oven. If you mean keeping it warm, it can stay in a turned-off oven for a short period — ideally less than 2 hours — to maintain temperature before serving. 

However, for safety reasons related to bacterial growth, it’s crucial not to leave the meatloaf in the oven as a means of storage.

How Long Does Meatloaf Last in the Freezer?

In the freezer, meatloaf can be stored for up to 4 months if properly wrapped and sealed. To freeze meatloaf, either whole or in slices, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap first. Then, cover it with aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. 

The key is to protect the meatloaf from air exposure. Note that air can cause freezer burn and affect the taste and texture. When you’re ready to eat the meatloaf, thaw the meatloaf before reheating it thoroughly in the oven or microwave.

People also ask, “Can you freeze Meatloaf leftovers?” Yes, you can freeze meatloaf leftovers, and they can last in the freezer for up to 4 months.

How Long Can You Freeze Homemade Meatloaf?

Homemade meatloaf can be frozen for up to 4 months without significant loss of quality. When freezing homemade meatloaf, ensure it is completely cool to avoid condensation inside the packaging, which could lead to ice crystals and freezer burn. 

Wrap the meatloaf tightly in aluminum foil. After this, place it in a freezer-safe bag. When stored properly, the meatloaf maintains its best quality for about four months, though it will remain safe beyond that time. 

To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator and then reheat it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

How Long Can Cooked Meatloaf Sit Out?

Cooked meatloaf should not sit out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. The time is 1 hour if the temperature is above 90°F (32°C). Food safety guidelines suggest that perishable items like meatloaf should not be left out for more than 2 hours because bacteria grow rapidly at room temperature. 

This period shortens to just 1 hour in warmer environments. To ensure safety, always refrigerate meatloaf promptly after serving. If it has been left out longer than the recommended time, it is safer to discard it. Doing this avoids the risk of foodborne illness.

Can You Eat Meatloaf After 7 Days?

It is not recommended to eat meatloaf after seven days of storage in the refrigerator; it should be consumed within 3-4 days for best safety and quality.

How Long Does Canned Meatloaf Last?

Unopened canned meatloaf can last for 2-5 years if stored in a cool, dry place. Once opened, it should be consumed within 3-4 days when kept in the refrigerator. Canned foods (including meatloaf) have a long shelf life due to the sterilization process used during canning, which eliminates bacteria and seals the food in an airtight environment. 

However, once opened, canned meatloaf should be treated as fresh food. You should store the meatloaf in a covered container in the refrigerator. Be sure to check the expiration date on the can for the best-before date, and always store cans in a cool, dark place to maintain their quality.

How Long Does Chicken Meatloaf Last?

Chicken meatloaf stored in the refrigerator should be eaten within 3-4 days; in the freezer, it can last up to 4 months. Chicken meatloaf follows similar storage guidelines as traditional meatloaf made from beef. However, because chicken is more prone to bacterial growth, it’s important to refrigerate or freeze it promptly after cooking. 

How Long Does Turkey Meatloaf Last in the Fridge?

Turkey meatloaf will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you freeze it, it can stay good for up to 4 months. Like other types of meatloaf, turkey meatloaf should be stored in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. 

You can also store it in an airtight container to keep it from drying out and to protect it from contaminants. When stored in the freezer, ensure it is wrapped properly to prevent freezer burn. 

How Long Does Meatloaf Mix Last in Fridge?

Meatloaf mix typically lasts 1-2 days in the refrigerator. Like raw meatloaf, the shelf life of meatloaf mix is limited due to the perishable nature of raw meat. It’s important to store the meatloaf mix in a tightly sealed container.

If you find that your plans change, you can freeze the mix to extend its usability; just make sure to use it within 3-4 months for the best quality.

How Long Does Costco Meatloaf Last?

Costco’s prepared meatloaf should be consumed within 3-4 days when stored in the refrigerator, and it can last up to 4 months if frozen. You should store meatloaf leftovers in an airtight container as soon as possible after purchase or preparation. 

If the meatloaf will not be consumed within a few days, freezing is a good option. Be sure to wrap it well. It’s crucial to avoid freezer burn and maintain taste and texture.

How Long Does Homemade Meatloaf Last?

Homemade meatloaf stored in the refrigerator lasts for 3-4 days. It can be frozen for up to 4 months. Homemade meatloaf should be treated with the same precautions as store-bought or cooked meatloaf. After cooking, allow it to cool. You can then store it in a covered container in the refrigerator. 

How To Tell if Meatloaf Has Gone Bad? All the Signs

To tell if meatloaf has gone bad, check for several signs. A sour or off smell is a clear indicator of spoilage. Also, look at the color; if the meatloaf has turned gray or brownish and has a slimy texture, it’s not safe to eat. 

Discard any meatloaf that has these characteristics to ensure food safety.

Off Smell

An unusual or sour odor is a strong indicator that meatloaf is no longer safe to eat. Fresh meatloaf should have a mild, meaty smell. Any strong, foul odors suggest bacterial growth.

Slimy Texture

A slimy film on the surface of the meatloaf, especially when it feels slippery or sticky, indicates spoilage. This sliminess is caused by bacterial growth and is a clear sign that the meatloaf should not be consumed.

Visible Mold

Mold growth, which can appear as fuzzy green, white, or black spots, is an obvious sign of spoilage. Mold on any part of the meatloaf means it has been compromised and should be thrown away immediately.

Change in Color

Any significant changes in color, such as the meat turning gray or greenish, can also indicate spoilage. Freshly cooked meatloaf usually has a consistent color throughout, and any changes should be taken as a warning. Check out this image to get an idea:

Conclusion

As we wrap up, here are the key takeaways to remember about storing meatloaf:

• Refrigerator Lifespan: Meatloaf lasts for 3-4 days in the fridge when stored appropriately.
• Freezer Guidelines: You can freeze meatloaf for up to 4 months without compromising its flavor and texture.
• Signs of Spoilage: Keep an eye out for bad odors, slimy texture, and any visible mold as indicators that your meatloaf has gone bad.
• Safety Tips: Always refrigerate meatloaf within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.

By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure that your meatloaf remains a safe and tasty option for your meals!