How to Store Sausage in Refrigerator

Sausage comes in many forms — fresh raw links, smoked, cured, cooked, and dried — and each type has different storage requirements. Here's a complete guide to how to store sausage in the refrigerator safely and correctly.

Types of Sausage and Storage Differences

• Fresh raw sausage (breakfast links, Italian sausage, bratwurst) — Most perishable, must be refrigerated and used quickly.
• Smoked or cooked sausage (kielbasa, andouille, hot dogs) — Longer refrigerator life than fresh.
• Cured/dry sausage (pepperoni, salami, chorizo) — Longest shelf life; some don't require refrigeration until opened.

How to Store Fresh Raw Sausage

1. Keep in original packaging if using within 1–2 days — Store packaging is adequate for short-term storage.
2. Repackage for slightly longer storage — Transfer to a ComSaf Airtight Container or SPLF Reusable Bag with air squeezed out.
3. Store on the bottom shelf — Raw sausage juices can contaminate other foods. Always store on the lowest shelf on a plate to catch drips.
4. Label with the date — Fresh sausage has a short window.

How to Store Cooked Sausage

1. Let cool completely before refrigerating.
2. Store in a ComSaf Airtight Container or the Rubbermaid Brilliance Container.
3. Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking. Use within 3–4 days.

How Long Does Sausage Last in the Refrigerator?

• Fresh raw sausage links/patties: 1–2 days
• Smoked sausage (unopened): up to 2 weeks
• Smoked sausage (opened): 3–7 days
• Cooked sausage: 3–4 days
• Hard/dry sausage (opened): 3 weeks
• Frozen raw sausage: 1–2 months
• Frozen cooked sausage: 1–2 months

How to Freeze Sausage

Sausage freezes very well. For raw links, freeze in original packaging or transfer to a SPLF Reusable Freezer Bag. For best quality, use a FoodSaver Vacuum Sealer Bag to prevent freezer burn. Label with the type and date. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Signs Sausage Has Gone Bad

• Sour or off smell
• Slimy or tacky texture
• Gray or green discoloration
• Mold on the surface
• Past the use-by date or storage window

Quick Tips Summary

• ✅ Store fresh raw sausage on the bottom shelf and use within 1–2 days
• ✅ Store cooked sausage in an airtight container for 3–4 days
• ✅ Freeze in vacuum seal bags for best quality
• ✅ Hard/dry sausage lasts up to 3 weeks in the fridge after opening
• ❌ Never store raw sausage above ready-to-eat foods
• ❌ Don't leave cooked sausage at room temperature for more than 2 hours