07 Dec How Long Does Pizza Last in the Fridge? (Safe Storage, Reheating & Freezing)
Last updated: October 21, 2025 — Toronto, ON
Quick answer: In Canada, refrigerated leftover pizza is best eaten within 2–3 days. Reheat slices to 74°C (165°F) and follow the 2-hour rule: don’t leave perishable food out at room temperature for more than two hours (one hour when it’s above 32°C/90°F).
Why the time limit matters
Bacteria multiply fastest in the “danger zone” of 4°C–60°C (40°F–140°F). Keeping pizza out too long, or not reheating hot enough, raises the risk of foodborne illness.
Exactly how long pizza lasts in the fridge
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Canada (Health Canada): Eat refrigerated leftovers within 2–3 days. canada.ca
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U.S. guidance (for reference): Many U.S. resources allow 3–4 days; we follow Canada’s 2–3 day window to be conservative and locally accurate.
Bottom line for Toronto diners: Stick to 2–3 days in the fridge, or freeze for longer storage.
The 2-Hour Rule (and 1-Hour in summer)
Refrigerate pizza within two hours of baking or delivery. If it’s hotter than 32°C/90°F, refrigerate within one hour. After these limits, discard it.
How to store leftover pizza (so it stays tasty)
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Cool fast: Let steam dissipate, then refrigerate promptly in shallow, uncovered containers until cool; cover after cooling. canada.ca
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Wrap tightly: Wrap slices in foil or place in airtight containers to prevent drying.
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Stack smart: Separate slices with parchment to avoid sticking.
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Label it: Date the container so you know when to eat or freeze. canada.ca
Freezing pizza (quality vs. safety)
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Safety: Foods held at −18°C/0°F remain safe indefinitely; quality slowly declines.
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Best quality window: For great texture and flavor, aim to eat frozen pizza within 1–2 months.
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How to freeze: Wrap slices tightly in plastic + foil (or use freezer bags), remove air, then freeze. Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat from frozen.
Reheating methods (hit 74°C/165°F)
Always reheat leftovers to an internal 74°C (165°F). Use a thermometer if you can.
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Oven (crispiest): 220–230°C (425–450°F), 6–10 min on a preheated sheet or directly on a rack.
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Skillet (great for the crust): Medium heat, cover for 2–4 min; uncover briefly to crisp.
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Air fryer: 175–190°C (350–375°F), 3–5 min.
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Microwave (fastest): 30–60 sec, then finish 1–2 min in a hot skillet for crispness.
Does topping or crust type change the timeline?
The safety window doesn’t change (still 2–3 days in the fridge), but quality declines sooner with high-moisture toppings (fresh tomatoes, arugula) and thin crusts (which dry faster). For delicate greens, add them fresh after reheating.
When to toss your pizza
Discard if you notice sour or off smells, slimy or curdled cheese, visible mold, or if it sat out beyond the 2-hour (or 1-hour) limit. When in doubt, throw it out.
How long can pizza sit out?
No more than 2 hours at room temperature, or 1 hour if it’s >32°C/90°F. After that, discard.
What temperature should leftover pizza reach when reheating?
74°C (165°F) internally.
Is it okay to put hot pizza straight into the fridge?
Let steam subside, then refrigerate promptly in shallow containers to cool quickly; cover after cooling. canada.ca
Can I refreeze pizza after reheating?
It’s safe if it hasn’t exceeded time-temperature limits and was cooled properly, but quality will drop. Aim to reheat only what you’ll eat. (General freezing safety reference.)