How Long is Pork and Sauerkraut Good For? The Ultimate Storage Guide

Pork and sauerkraut is a classic pairing that never seems to go out of style. The sweet and salty pork combines perfectly with the tangy, fermented sauerkraut to make a hearty and comforting meal But if you’ve cooked up a batch of this dynamic duo, you may be wondering – how long does it last in the fridge or freezer?

I’ve got the answers to help you store pork and sauerkraut properly, so you can safely enjoy the leftovers for days to come. In this article, I’ll provide a complete guide on how long pork and sauerkraut stays fresh, with tips for refrigerating, freezing, reheating, and more.

How Long Does Cooked Pork and Sauerkraut Last in the Fridge?

Cooked pork and sauerkraut will stay good in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when stored properly. To maximize freshness:

• Allow pork and sauerkraut to cool completely before refrigerating. Don’t put hot food straight into the fridge.

• Transfer to an airtight container. Use plastic, glass, or aluminum containers with tight-fitting lids. This prevents drying out.

• Make sure to place container towards the back of the fridge where temperatures are coldest. Optimally below 40°F.

• Use refrigerated pork and sauerkraut within 3-5 days for best quality. After 5 days, discard even if it still looks OK.

Pay attention for signs of spoilage after 3-4 days in the fridge:

• Mold growth
• Sliminess
• Rancid smell
• Discoloration

When in doubt, remember the old adage – “When in doubt, throw it out”. Don’t risk getting sick from eating spoiled food.

Freezing Leftover Pork and Sauerkraut

For longer term storage, frozen pork and sauerkraut can keep for 4-6 months in the freezer. Follow these tips for freezing:

• Let pork and sauerkraut cool completely before freezing. No hot liquids.

• Use airtight containers or freezer bags. Squeeze out excess air.

• Label with contents and freeze-by date 3-6 months out.

• Place in freezer set at 0°F or below. Use a thermometer to verify temperature.

• Once solidly frozen, you can move container to long-term freezer storage.

To use, thaw frozen pork and sauerkraut overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Do not refreeze after thawing.

Can You Eat Pork and Sauerkraut After 5 Days?

It’s not recommended to eat pork and sauerkraut that’s been in the fridge for over 5 days, even if it still smells and looks fine. Bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella can grow over time in refrigerated foods and lead to food poisoning. The texture and flavor also deteriorates. Play it safe and stick to eating refrigerated leftovers within 5 days.

How to Reheat Leftover Pork and Sauerkraut

To safely reheat pork and sauerkraut:

• Use the stove, oven, or microwave to reheat thoroughly until piping hot, at least 165°F.

• Only reheat the portion you’ll eat. Do not reheat more than once.

• Bring sauces or gravy to a full boil when reheating.

• Use a food thermometer to verify safe temperature before eating.

• Refrigerate again within 2 hours of reheating.

Reheating thoroughly kills any bacteria that may have developed and makes the pork and sauerkraut safe to enjoy again.

Storing Cooked Pork and Sauerkraut Long Term

For long term storage beyond 5 days, the freezer is your friend. Frozen pork and sauerkraut maintains optimal quality for 4-6 months. After that point, it’s still safe to eat but the texture may suffer a bit.

I recommend portioning pork and sauerkraut into meal-sized containers before freezing. That makes it easy to pull out just what you need.

And be sure to label frozen containers with the contents and freeze date. It’s easy to lose track of leftovers in a crowded freezer.

Tips for Enjoying Leftover Pork and Sauerkraut

Here are some serving ideas to give leftover pork and sauerkraut new life:

• Stuff into sandwiches or wraps

• Top baked potatoes or mashed cauliflower

• Fold into omelets or frittatas

• Toss with pasta or use as a pizza topping

• Add to soups or chilis for heartiness

• Use as a filling for cabbage rolls, golumpkis, or pierogies

A splash of vinegar or mustard gives leftover sauerkraut brightness. Caraway seeds, dill, or parsley add fresh flavor too.

The Takeaway – Enjoy Pork and Sauerkraut Safely

With proper refrigerator and freezer storage, leftover pork and sauerkraut can be safely enjoyed for up to a week after cooking. For maximal freshness and flavor, aim to eat refrigerated leftovers within 3-5 days. Then freeze any remaining portions for up to 6 months.

Reheat frozen pork and sauerkraut thoroughly before serving again. Follow these guidelines to get the most out of the leftovers from this hearty and traditional meal. Just be sure to label and track dates closely. When in doubt, trust your nose – rancid odors mean it’s time to toss it out.

With a bit of planning, you can safely savor pork and sauerkraut for lunches, dinners, and more all week long after cooking up this delicious pairing.