How long does pasta last?
Quick answer
- In the fridge
- Cooked: 3–5 days · Fresh: 1–2 days
- In the freezer
- Cooked: 1–2 months
- In the pantry
- Dry, unopened: 2 years · Opened: 1 year
Sources: USDA FoodKeeper · Last reviewed October 1, 2026
Dry pasta lasts 2+ years sealed in a cool dry pantry, often longer — the printed date is conservative. Whole wheat or egg-enriched varieties are shorter at 12 months because of the natural oils. Fresh pasta (refrigerated or freshly made) lasts only 1–2 days raw, 3–5 days once cooked. Frozen cooked pasta keeps 1–2 months. The signs of trouble in dry pasta are insects in the box, mold, or a stale smell — color and rigidity stay stable for years.
How to store pasta
Keep dry pasta in an airtight container in a cool dry pantry. Once opened, transfer from the original cardboard or plastic to seal out moisture and pantry insects. Whole wheat and egg pasta benefit from refrigerator storage for long-term keeping. Fresh pasta belongs in the fridge in its original packaging; check the use-by date. Cooked pasta goes in a sealed container in the fridge within 2 hours; toss with a tiny bit of oil to prevent clumping if you'll be reheating.
- Airtight container in cool dry pantry
- Whole wheat / egg pasta benefits from fridge
- Fresh pasta in fridge in original packaging
- Cooked pasta in fridge within 2 hours
- Add a drop of oil to prevent clumping when reheating
Signs it has gone bad
- Insects or webs in the container
- Mold or unusual discoloration
- Rancid or musty smell (especially whole wheat)
- Slime or sour smell in cooked pasta
Frequently asked questions
How long does dry pasta last?
Dry pasta keeps 2+ years in a sealed pantry container. Whole wheat and egg-rich versions are shorter at about 12 months.
How long does cooked pasta last?
Cooked pasta keeps 3–5 days refrigerated in a sealed container. Drizzle with oil before storing to prevent clumping.
Can you freeze pasta?
Cooked pasta freezes for 1–2 months. Dry pasta doesn't need freezing — pantry storage is enough. Fresh pasta freezes for about 2 months.