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How long does leftover soup / stew last?
Updated 2026-05-13 · USDA FoodKeeper & FDA guidelines
Refrigerator
4 days
3-4 days refrigerated; 7 days for vinegar/tomato base
Freezer
4 months
4 months — leave room for expansion
The short answer
Leftover Soup / Stew lasts as long as you store it correctly — which can mean anywhere from a few days on the counter to a year in the freezer. The numbers above represent best quality per USDA and FDA guidelines, not absolute safety limits.
Why these numbers vary
Cooked soup or stew. Storage life depends on temperature consistency, humidity, packaging, and how fresh it was when you got it. Refrigerators that swing between 38°F and 45°F shave days off these numbers; vacuum-sealing or freezing extends them.
How to tell if leftover soup / stew is bad
- Mold
- Sour smell
- Bubbling/fermentation
Storage tips
- Cool in shallow containers (faster cooling)
- Cream-based: 2-3 days only
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Frequently asked questions
How long does leftover soup / stew last in the refrigerator?
Leftover Soup / Stew lasts 4 days in the refrigerator. 3-4 days refrigerated; 7 days for vinegar/tomato base
How long does leftover soup / stew last in the freezer?
Leftover Soup / Stew lasts 4 months in the freezer. 4 months — leave room for expansion
How can you tell if leftover soup / stew is bad?
Watch for: Mold; Sour smell; Bubbling/fermentation.