Garlic sausage is a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from breakfast to dinner. But how long can you keep it in the fridge before it goes bad?
The answer is not as straightforward as you might think. There are several factors to consider, such as whether the sausage is cooked or uncooked, how it was prepared, and how it has been stored.
In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of storing garlic sausage in the fridge, so you can enjoy it safely and deliciously. So, let’s dive in!
How Long Is Garlic Sausage Good For In The Fridge?
The shelf life of garlic sausage in the fridge depends on whether it is cooked or uncooked. Uncooked garlic sausage can last in the fridge for one to two days, while cooked garlic sausage can last up to four days. However, these timeframes are not set in stone and can vary depending on how the sausage was prepared and stored.
If you have unopened, prepackaged garlic sausage, it can be placed in the fridge upon arrival and will usually have a “sell by” or “use by” date. It’s important to note that these dates are not expiration dates but rather a guideline for when the sausage is at its best quality. If you’re unsure how long your garlic sausage has been sitting in the fridge, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and throw it out.
According to USDA guidelines, pre-cooked garlic sausages last up to two weeks in the fridge if unopened and one week after opening. When stored in the freezer, pre-cooked garlic sausage can last one to two months. Look out for a use-by date on the packaging too.
Leftover garlic sausages can be stored in the refrigerator for three to four days and in the freezer for two to three months. When you’re ready to use frozen garlic sausages, just place them in a bowl or plate on the lowest shelf in your fridge and wait for them to thaw out. Fully thawed sausages will be soft and easy to pull apart.
Cooked Vs. Uncooked Garlic Sausage: What’s The Difference?
When it comes to garlic sausage, there are two main types: cooked and uncooked. Uncooked garlic sausage is made from raw meat and spices, and it needs to be cooked thoroughly before eating to avoid foodborne illness. The cooking time for uncooked garlic sausage varies depending on the type of meat used. Ground beef, pork, lamb or veal should be cooked to 160 °F, while ground turkey and chicken should be cooked to 165 °F.
On the other hand, cooked garlic sausage is pre-cooked before it is packaged and sold. This means that it can be eaten straight out of the package or heated up for a few minutes to enhance its flavor. Cooked garlic sausage has a longer shelf life than uncooked sausage and can last up to four days in the fridge if stored properly.
It’s essential to note that while cooked garlic sausage has a longer shelf life, it’s still essential to store it correctly. Improper storage can lead to bacterial growth, which can cause food poisoning. To keep your cooked garlic sausage fresh for as long as possible, store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Make sure to label the container with the date of purchase or use-by date.
How Was The Garlic Sausage Prepared?
Garlic sausage can be prepared using different methods and ingredients. One popular recipe involves using a combination of pork and beef/veal, fresh or dried garlic, sage, salt, crushed red pepper, and Parmesan cheese. The meat is ground twice using a meat grinder with the largest holes, and then mixed with water and cheese in a standing mixer equipped with the paddle attachment. A test patty is made to ensure the sausage is delicious before stuffing it into casings using a sausage-stuffing attachment attached to the meat grinder. The casings are twisted to create even-sized sausages that are tied with butcher’s twine to keep them nicely sealed. The sausages are then cooked on a grill or sauté pan until cooked through, usually for 7 to 8 minutes on each side. Another recipe involves making Polish garlic sausage (Kiełbasa Czosnkowa) using top-quality cured meats, salt, Cure #
Proper Storage Techniques For Garlic Sausage
Proper storage techniques are essential to ensure the longevity and quality of garlic sausage. It is important to store garlic sausage in airtight containers or wrapping to prevent the sausage from drying out or absorbing unwanted odors. Here are some tips for storing garlic sausage:
1. Keep refrigerated: Garlic sausage should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F or below. This will slow down bacterial growth and help preserve the sausage’s freshness.
2. Use airtight containers: Store garlic sausage in airtight containers or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will prevent air from getting in and keep the sausage moist.
3. Label and date: It’s important to label and date your garlic sausage before storing it in the fridge or freezer. This will help you keep track of how long it has been stored and when it needs to be used by.
4. Freeze for longer storage: If you want to store garlic sausage for longer than a few days, consider freezing it. Wrap the sausage tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Garlic sausage can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
5. Thaw properly: When you’re ready to use frozen garlic sausage, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid thawing garlic sausage at room temperature, as this can promote bacterial growth and spoilage.
By following these proper storage techniques, you can ensure that your garlic sausage stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible.
How Long Can Cooked Garlic Sausage Be Stored In The Fridge?
Cooked garlic sausage can be stored in the fridge for up to four days, according to USDA guidelines. It’s important to make sure that the sausage is stored at a temperature of 40°F or below to prevent bacteria growth. After cooking, it’s best to transfer the sausage to a shallow airtight container or wrap it tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This helps to prevent air from getting in and causing the sausage to spoil faster.
If you’re not sure how long your cooked garlic sausage has been in the fridge, it’s best to check for signs of spoilage before consuming it. Signs of spoilage include a sour smell and a slimy texture. If you notice any of these signs, discard the sausage immediately and do not taste it. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to food safety.
How Long Can Uncooked Garlic Sausage Be Stored In The Fridge?
Uncooked garlic sausage can be stored in the fridge for up to two days. It’s important to keep the sausage refrigerated at all times and to not leave it out at room temperature for more than two hours. If you have unopened, prepackaged garlic sausage, it can be stored in the fridge until the “sell by” or “use by” date on the packaging. After opening, uncooked garlic sausage should be consumed within two days. To maximize the shelf life of uncooked garlic sausage, freeze it before the number of days shown for refrigerator storage has elapsed. When freezing, place the sausage in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil or plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to use frozen garlic sausage, thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking. It’s important to note that these timeframes are not set in stone and can vary depending on how the sausage was prepared and stored. Always use your best judgment and follow proper food safety guidelines to ensure the safety of your food.
Signs That Garlic Sausage Has Gone Bad
While garlic sausage can last for a decent amount of time in the fridge, it’s important to know when it has gone bad to avoid food poisoning. Here are some signs to look out for:
1. Foul odor: One of the most obvious signs that garlic sausage has gone bad is a strong, pungent, and rancid smell. If the sausage smells off, it’s best to throw it out.
2. Discoloration: If you notice any gray or brown discoloration on the outer surface of the garlic sausage or blue, green, or grey fuzzy mold, it’s a clear indication that the meat has gone bad.
3. Slimy texture: Spoiled garlic sausage will have a slimy or sticky texture instead of a firm consistency that breaks apart if you squeeze the meat. The slime occurs from the build-up of spoilage bacteria.
4. Off taste: If your garlic sausage tastes sour or has an unpleasant taste, it’s best to avoid eating it.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to discard the garlic sausage immediately. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to food safety.
