Maximizing the Shelf Life of Bob Evans Sausage

Bob Evans is a popular brand of pre-cooked breakfast sausage loved by many for its savory smoky flavor. Like any fresh sausage proper storage is key to keeping Bob Evans links tasting great and avoiding food waste. This article provides a complete guide to maximizing the shelf life and freshness of Bob Evans sausage in the fridge or freezer.

An Overview of Bob Evans Sausage Varieties

Bob Evans offers several different types of fully-cooked pork sausage

• Original Sausage Links – The classic smoked breakfast sausage flavor Bob Evans is known for.

• Maple Flavored Sausage Links – The original sausage recipe with added sweet maple flavor

• Spicy Sausage Links – The original sausage with more heat from red and black pepper.

• Turkey Sausage Links – A lower-fat alternative made with lean turkey meat.

• Sausage Patties – Available in original, maple, and spicy varieties.

• Roll Sausage – Sold in chubs to slice and cook yourself.

While pre-cooked, Bob Evans sausage still requires thorough heating before eating for food safety.

Determining Freshness of Bob Evans Sausage

When buying and consuming Bob Evans sausage, inspect packages closely for signs of freshness:

• Check Sell-By Date – Located on top or side of packaging. Do not purchase if expired.

• Observe Color – Should be light pink or tan. Grayish hues signal spoilage.

• Feel Texture – Links should feel firm and plump. Wrinkled or slimy texture is undesirable.

• Smell Aroma – Should have a mild smoky scent. Rancid or sour odors mean spoiled sausage.

Use common sense – if sausage seems off in any way, do not eat it.

Proper Storage for Fresh Bob Evans Sausage

Storing Bob Evans sausage correctly preserves freshness and prevents the growth of dangerous bacteria:

• Unopened – Keep original packages refrigerated at 40°F or below. Place on shelf, not door, for stable temperature.

• Opened – Transfer leftover links to airtight container or bag. Refrigerate and use within 3-4 days.

• Freezer – For long-term storage, tightly wrap in plastic wrap or foil and freeze below 0°F. Keeps 2-3 months frozen.

• Thawing – Thaw frozen sausage overnight in the refrigerator. Never thaw sausage at room temperature.

• Avoid Cross-Contamination – Store raw sausage away from other meats. Clean surfaces and hands after handling.

Following proper refrigeration guidelines helps Bob Evans sausage stay fresh and safe to eat.

How Long Does Bob Evans Sausage Last Refrigerated?

When stored correctly, here is how long Bob Evans sausage lasts refrigerated:

• Unopened – Up to 14 days past sell-by date when refrigerated.

• Opened – 3-4 days after opening when kept refrigerated.

• Cooked Links – 5-7 days in the refrigerator once cooked.

• Frozen then Thawed – 3-4 days in the fridge once thawed.

Discard sausage if it develops an off appearance, texture, or smell.

Identifying Spoiled Bob Evans Sausage

Watch for these signs that Bob Evans sausage has gone bad:

• Unnatural Color Changes – Gray, brown, or greenish tinting.

• Slimy Texture – Links feel overly soft, sticky, or tacky.

• Mold Growth – Presence of fuzzy spots or coating.

• Rancid Smells – Smells sour instead of smoky.

• Rotten Egg Odor – Caused by sulfur gas from bacterial growth.

Sausage that seems spoiled should be thrown away, as consuming could cause food poisoning.

Tips for Using Up Leftover Bob Evans Sausage

Leftover cooked Bob Evans sausage keeps 3-4 days refrigerated. Creative ways to use it up:

• Make breakfast sandwiches with eggs and cheese.

• Fry up with potatoes and veggies for hash.

• Mix into pasta, pizza, soups, and casseroles.

• Wrap in crescent roll dough for quick sausage rolls.

• Add to rice bowls like jambalaya or dirty rice.

• Stuff into peppers or potatoes along with other fillings.

With a little innovation, no leftover sausage goes to waste!

Freezing Bob Evans Sausage

Freezing helps extend the shelf life of Bob Evans sausage. To freeze properly:

• Wrap raw sausage tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing. Prevents freezer burn.

• Place wrapped sausage in freezer bags or airtight containers. Maintains flavor and freshness.

• Remove air and seal freezer bag/container tightly.

• Label with contents and freeze date.

• Freeze at 0°F or below for best quality.

Once thawed, use frozen sausage within 3-4 days. Do not refreeze sausage after thawing.

Bob Evans Sausage Fridge and Freezer Storage Times

Use this quick guide for maximizing Bob Evans sausage shelf life:

Key Tips for Storing Bob Evans Sausage

Follow these essential tips for keeping Bob Evans sausage fresh:

• Observe sell-by date on packaging for best quality.

• Use opened packages within 3-4 days.

• Cook or freeze ground sausage within 1-2 days.

• Freeze unopened packages up to 2-3 months.

• Discard sausage with off smells or appearance.

Properly storing Bob Evans sausage ensures you get great tasting and safe sausage every time.