Last Updated on May 23, 2023 by Shari Mason
Hamburger Helper is a fantastic meal kit. It takes little time and ingredients to go from box to stovetop to finished product.
It is a common household classic because it is a quick meal that can be cooked in about 30 minutes and is an extremely cost-effective option.
Many people prefer to buy a couple of boxes to make various meals. This leads us to the question – how long is Hamburger Helper good in the fridge?
With my firsthand experience, I can provide an authoritative insight into how long this beloved dish remains at its prime when refrigerated.
How Long Will Hamburger Helper Last In The Fridge?
When cooked, leftover Hamburger Helpers in an airtight container could last 3 to 4 days in the fridge.
The Hamburger Helper’s shelf-life in the fridge depends on how it is stored. Uncooked or unopened hamburger helper could last up to 6 months in the fridge.
Freezing properly stored cooked Hamburger helper could extend its shelf-life in the freezer for 3 to 4 months. [1]
It’s important to remember that cooked ground beef can only be kept in the refrigerator for two hours if the temperature exceeds 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Read: What Can You Substitute For Milk Hamburger Helper?
Factors To Consider
Uncooked
Uncooked dry mixes, like Hamburger Helper or dry soup, can still use within two years past the date printed on the package if properly stored at low temperature.
It is important to store food boxes in cool and dry places to avoid building molds.
Read: How Long Do Cooked Hamburgers Last In The Fridge?
Freshly-Cooked
Freshly-cooked Hamburger Helper could last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days if properly stored in an airtight container.
When storing cooked food in the fridge, it is recommended to let it cool first before sealing it in a plastic or airtight container.
Read: Can You Use Frozen Hamburger Patties As Ground Beef?
Leftover
Hamburger Helper’s leftovers stored in an airtight container could stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze leftover food to prolong its shelf-life up to 6 months.
Refrigerate
Refrigerated cooked Hamburger Helper could remain fresh in the fridge for up to 3-4 days if stored properly in sealed containers.
The temperature inside the fridge should stay below 40° F to avoid contamination.
Freeze
Freezing Hamburger Helper cooked or leftover is the best way to extend the food’s shelf-life up to 3-4 months. Just place the food in an airtight container properly before freezing it.
How To Properly Store Hamburger Helper
To properly store Hamburger Helper, place the cooked or leftover food in an airtight or sealed container.
Make sure to let the food cool down before sealing it in the food storage.
“Life is a combination of magic and pasta.”
– Federico Fellini, Italian Film Director
Moisture from the steaming freshly cooked food might cause the development of bacteria even inside the refrigerator. The food could last in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days and is safe to eat.
How To Tell If Hamburger Helper Has Gone Bad
Odor
If the mix has an off odor or smells different from when you first opened it, it is a sign that it has gone bad.
For cooked Hamburger Helper, smell and look at the ground beef; if it has a sour smell, discard them immediately.
Taste
The taste of the spoiled Hamburger Helper is the same as how it smells. If the food tastes sour or rotten, it indicates that it has gone bad. Discard immediately to avoid health risks.
Molds
Molds are a noticeable sign that Hamburger Helpers have gone bad. If it turns dark or discolored, it’s time to throw it away. Do not attempt to eat to prevent food poisoning.
FAQs
Can you eat a hamburger that’s been in the fridge for 4 days?
How long is Hamburger Helper good for past expiration date?
Because of its low moisture content, Hamburger Helper is still good to consume within two years of expiration as long as it is unopened and properly stored. Always check the contents for spoilage before eating.
Summary
Generally, Hamburger Helper is good in the fridge for 3-4 days if cooked and 3-4 months for uncooked.
The fridge temperature should be below 40° F because some ingredients easily spoil at warm temperatures.
Freezing cooked hamburger helper is only recommended if you don’t plan to eat for a few months. Unopened boxes could last up to 2 years as long as they are properly stored.
References:
- https://www.foodsafety.gov/food-safety-charts/cold-food-storage-charts
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/food-safety/faq-20058500
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