Italian sausage is a flavorful favorite in many kitchens, whether you’re making pasta, pizza, or a hearty breakfast. But like all fresh meats, it has a limited shelf life. That brings us to the question: how long does Italian sausage last in the fridge?
The answer depends on whether it’s raw, cooked, or opened vs. unopened. In this guide, we’ll cover safe storage times, signs of spoilage, and the best storage tools to keep your Italian sausage fresher for longer.
Quick Answer
- Raw Italian sausage: 1–2 days in the fridge
- Cooked Italian sausage: 3–4 days in the fridge
- Frozen Italian sausage: Up to 1–2 months for best quality
Quick Picks (Best Storage Tools)
- Best Overall: FoodSaver Vacuum Sealer Machine — Extends fridge and freezer life of sausage.
- Best Budget: PrepNaturals Glass Meal Prep Containers — Affordable and reusable storage.
- Best Premium: GE Chest Freezer — Extra freezer space for bulk sausage storage.
How Long Does Italian Sausage Last?
The shelf life of Italian sausage depends on storage method and whether it’s raw or cooked:
- Raw sausage: Refrigerate immediately and use within 1–2 days.
- Cooked sausage: Store in airtight containers in the fridge for 3–4 days.
- Frozen sausage: Wrap tightly or vacuum seal for 1–2 months of best quality, though safe longer.
Signs Italian Sausage Has Gone Bad
- Color change: Grey or brown spots indicate spoilage.
- Off smell: Sour, rancid, or sulfur-like odor means it’s unsafe.
- Texture: Slimy or sticky surface is a clear sign of bacterial growth.
- Expiration date: Always check the package date and follow USDA guidelines.
Tips for Storing Italian Sausage
- Keep sausage in its original packaging until ready to use.
- For longer storage, vacuum seal before freezing.
- Label packages with dates to track freshness.
- Always refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking.
Detailed Product Reviews
1) FoodSaver Vacuum Sealer Machine
Who it’s for: Home cooks who want to extend the freshness of raw and cooked sausage.
- Key Benefits:
- Removes air for longer fridge and freezer life
- Prevents freezer burn
- Compact and easy to use
- Pros:
- Keeps sausage fresh 2–3 times longer
- Great for bulk storage
- Versatile for meats, veggies, and leftovers
- Cons:
- Requires vacuum sealer bags
Final Verdict: The best way to maximize sausage shelf life. Check Price
2) PrepNaturals Glass Meal Prep Containers
Who it’s for: Anyone who wants budget-friendly containers for cooked sausage storage.
- Key Benefits:
- BPA-free and microwave-safe
- Airtight lids prevent leaks and odors
- Reusable and eco-friendly
- Pros:
- Affordable
- Dishwasher safe
- Good for portioning meals
- Cons:
- Lids may wear out over time
Final Verdict: A budget solution for storing leftovers. See Price
3) GE Chest Freezer
Who it’s for: Families or bulk buyers who store sausage and other meats long term.
- Key Benefits:
- 7 cubic feet of extra freezer space
- Manual defrost with removable basket
- Compact size fits most garages or basements
- Pros:
- Great for bulk sausage storage
- Reliable GE build quality
- Energy-efficient design
- Cons:
- Larger upfront cost
Final Verdict: Ideal for anyone who buys sausage in bulk. View Price
FAQ
Can I eat Italian sausage after 5 days in the fridge?
If it’s cooked, maybe — but check for spoilage signs. Raw sausage should not be eaten after 2 days in the fridge.
Can I freeze Italian sausage in its original packaging?
Yes, but vacuum sealing or wrapping tightly in freezer-safe bags will preserve quality longer.
Can you reheat cooked Italian sausage?
Yes. Reheat to 165°F for safety, either in the microwave, oven, or skillet.
Does Italian sausage go bad if left out overnight?
Yes. Any sausage left at room temperature for more than 2 hours should be discarded.
Conclusion & Call-to-Action
So, how long does Italian sausage last in the fridge? Raw sausage should be cooked within 1–2 days, while cooked sausage lasts 3–4 days. For longer storage, freezing is your best option. With the right storage tools like a vacuum sealer or airtight containers, you can keep your sausage fresher, safer, and tastier.
Keep your sausage fresh longer — get a FoodSaver Vacuum Sealer today.