Leftover pizza is safe in the fridge for 3 to 4 days, as long as it went into the fridge within 2 hours of being delivered or baked. That is the standard USDA guidance for cooked leftovers, and pizza with meat, cheese and sauce is no exception.
What about pizza left out overnight?
It is a classic dorm-room habit, but pizza left at room temperature for more than 2 hours should be thrown away. Cheese and meat toppings are perishable, and bacteria multiply quickly at room temperature. Reheating does not reliably make it safe, because some bacteria produce heat-resistant toxins. The reasons are explained in how long cooked chicken can be left out.
How to store it
- Do not leave it in the cardboard box: it lets air in and the pizza dries out.
- Wrap slices in foil or plastic wrap, or stack them in an airtight container with paper towels between layers.
- Keep the fridge at 40°F (4°C) or below.
Freezing pizza
Leftover pizza freezes well for 1 to 2 months for best quality. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and then foil, or freeze them on a tray before putting them in a freezer bag so they do not stick together. Reheat directly from frozen.
The best ways to reheat
The microwave is fast but makes the crust soft and chewy. Better options:
- Skillet: heat a pan over medium heat, add the slice, cover for a couple of minutes to melt the cheese. The crust comes out crisp.
- Oven: about 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes on a preheated tray or directly on the rack.
- Air fryer: 3 to 4 minutes at around 350°F (175°C).
Make sure toppings are steaming hot all the way through.
When to throw it out
Mold, a sour smell, slimy toppings or a very hard, dry texture are reasons to throw it away. If you are not sure how long it has been in the fridge, throw it out.
Toppings matter
Pizzas with seafood or extra-perishable toppings are best eaten sooner. If you plan to keep leftovers, refrigerate them right away rather than leaving the box on the counter during the evening.
Want a better pizza next time? See the secrets to making the perfect pizza at home. Using up leftovers creatively is covered in the best ways to reduce food waste.
