Barbecue, also known as BBQ, is a popular cooking method that involves cooking meat low and slow over indirect heat. BBQ meats like brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and chicken are flavorful and tender after hours of smoking. However, after all that effort into making delicious BBQ, you’ll want to store the leftovers properly so none of that flavor goes to waste. So how long can you keep BBQ in the fridge?
How Long Does Leftover BBQ Last in The Fridge?
Leftover BBQ will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly. The key is making sure to refrigerate the BBQ within 2 hours of cooking. Splitting BBQ into shallow containers helps it cool down faster in the fridge, helping prevent bacteria growth.
Always follow the USDA’s food safety guidelines and refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours, and reheat them fully when ready to eat. This helps prevent foodborne illnesses.
Proper Storage of BBQ In The Fridge
To maximize how long BBQ lasts in the fridge, follow these storage tips:
- Let the BBQ cool down before refrigerating. Don’t put piping hot food straight into the fridge.
- Divide into shallow containers or ziplock bags. This helps the food cool faster.
- Make sure containers are sealed properly to prevent freezer burn. Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil for extra protection.
- Place containers of BBQ in coldest sections of the fridge, away from the door. The back is ideal.
- Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking. Don’t leave at room temp more than 2 hours.
- Once refrigerated, leftovers last around 3-4 days. Label containers with date cooked.
Following proper storage, different types of leftover BBQ can last:
- Pulled pork: 3-4 days
- Brisket: 3-4 days
- Ribs: 3-4 days
- Chicken: 3-4 days
- Sausage: 3-5 days
If the BBQ has touched raw meats or marinades containing raw ingredients like uncooked garlic, refrigerate for just 2-3 days to be safe.
How To Know If Leftover BBQ Has Gone Bad
Even when stored properly in the refrigerator, leftover BBQ can go bad after a while. Look out for these signs your BBQ has spoiled:
- Unpleasant sour smell
- Mold growth on surface
- Change in color or texture – becomes slimy
- Dried out appearance or hard texture
- Weird bubbly coating forms on top
If you notice your leftover BBQ exhibits any strange changes, it’s best to throw it out. Don’t risk eating spoiled food.
Can You Freeze Leftover BBQ?
Freezing is a great way to extend the shelf life of leftover BBQ even longer. Here’s how long BBQ lasts in the freezer:
- Pulled pork: 2-3 months
- Brisket: 2-3 months
- Ribs: 2-3 months
- Chicken: 4-6 months
- Sausage: 1-2 months
To freeze BBQ:
- Let cool completely first
- Use air-tight containers or ziplock freezer bags
- Remove as much air as possible before sealing
- Label with date and contents
- Place in freezer immediately after sealing
Thaw frozen BBQ leftovers overnight in the fridge when ready to eat again. Then reheat fully on the stove or in the oven until piping hot.
Can You Reheat Leftover BBQ?
Yes, leftover BBQ that has been properly stored can be safely reheated and eaten.
To reheat BBQ:
- Thaw if frozen first
- Use stove, oven or microwave to reheat until steaming hot all the way through
- Stir occasionally to distribute heat evenly
- Only reheat once – don’t keep reheating
- Consume within 3-4 days of first reheating
Proper reheating helps kill any bacteria that may develop and makes the BBQ safe to eat again.
Conclusion
With proper refrigeration and food safety practices, leftover BBQ can last 3-4 days in the fridge. For maximum shelf life, freeze leftovers, where they’ll keep 2-6 months depending on type of meat. Always reheat BBQ thoroughly before consuming to prevent foodborne illness. Following these storage tips will help you enjoy your delicious smokey BBQ for days after cooking.