Chorizo is a spicy Spanish sausage that can last for 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator when stored properly. The shelf life of chorizo depends on a few factors like the type of chorizo, how it was made, and how it is stored. Fresh chorizo sausages that contain no preservatives will have a shorter shelf life than dry cured sausages. Keep reading to learn more about how long chorizo lasts in the fridge and how to maximize its freshness.
What is Chorizo?
Chorizo is a fermented, cured sausage from Spain and Portugal made with coarsely chopped pork and pork fat, seasoned with smoked paprika and other spices. The distinctive reddish-orange color comes from the generous amounts of paprika used. There are many regional varieties of chorizo throughout the Iberian peninsula that can differ in flavor profiles and textures.
There are two main types of chorizo: Spanish-style and Mexican-style. Spanish chorizo is made from pork and pork fat and seasoned with pimentón (Spanish smoked paprika). Spanish chorizo is classified as either curado (cured) or fresco (fresh). The cured or dried type is what you commonly find in supermarkets. It has a firm texture that needs to be cooked before eating.
Mexican chorizo is made from fatty pork and is seasoned with chili peppers and other warm spices. It is raw and uncooked and crumbles easily. Mexican chorizo must be cooked before eating. It has a soft, spicy fresh sausage texture.
This article focuses mainly on the cured Spanish-style chorizo sold in links.
Shelf Life of Chorizo in the Fridge
In general, cured chorizo sausages that contain preservatives like nitrites will last around:
- Unopened package: 2-4 weeks past the sell by date
- After opening: 1-2 weeks
For fresh chorizo sausages without preservatives, expect it to last:
- Unopened: 1 week
- After opening: 3-5 days
Keep in mind these timelines are just general guidelines and the shelf life can vary based on several factors.
Factors that Affect Chorizo’s Shelf Life
Here are some of the main variables that play a role in how long chorizo lasts in fridge conditions:
- Preservatives – Cured chorizo contains preservatives like nitrates/nitrites that prevent bacterial growth and prolong shelf life. Fresh chorizo lacks these additives so won’t last as long.
- Meat and fat content – Higher fat content leads to faster spoilage. Fresh chorizos tend to have a higher meat-to-fat ratio.
- Curing method – Dry cured chorizo lasts longer than chorizo cured with vinegar or wine.
- Smoking – Smoked chorizo keeps longer than unsmoked.
- Storage temperature – Chorizo stored at a consistent fridge temperature between 35°F-40°F lasts longer than room temperature.
- Exposure to air – Cut or opened chorizo exposed to oxygen deteriorates faster.
- Opened vs. unopened package – Once opened, the shelf life decreases due to exposure to air and handling.
To maximize how long chorizo lasts, follow the storage guidelines and tips below.
How to Store Chorizo in the Fridge
Proper storage is key for extending the shelf life of chorizo. Here are some refrigerator storage tips:
- Keep chorizo stored in the original packaging or wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This prevents drying out and protects from oxygen.
- Make sure chorizo is kept in the coldest part of the fridge, which is at the back where temperatures are most consistent. The ideal temperature range is 35°-40°F.
- Don’t overcrowd the fridge. Keep space around the chorizo for cold air circulation.
- Store chorizo away from high moisture areas like the fridge door where temperature fluctuations happen.
- Once opened, rewrap the chorizo tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Use opened chorizo within 1 week.
- Either keep the chorizo hanging or store horizontally in a sealed container. Avoid stacking.
- Don’t freeze cured chorizo. The texture will degrade.
How To Tell If Chorizo Has Gone Bad
Although chorizo can last 1-2 weeks past the sell by date when stored properly in the fridge, it’s important to watch for signs of spoilage. Here’s what to look for to determine if chorizo has gone bad:
- Sliminess – Fresh chorizo may have a sticky texture, but a slimy consistency is a clear sign of spoilage.
- Mold – Check for fuzzy mold growing on the surface.
- Discoloration – Look for brownish-grayish spots or hue different from the normal reddish-orange color.
- Dull appearance – Fresh chorizo looks glossy. Dullness indicates drying out.
- Funny odor – Smell for unpleasant or rotten smells.
- White film – A thick, sticky white film on the surface signals the growth of bacteria like lactobacillus.
When in doubt, remember the old adage “When in doubt, throw it out”. Don’t risk getting sick from eating spoiled chorizo.
How To Use Leftover Chorizo
To avoid wasting chorizo once you’ve opened the package, here are tips for using up leftover chorizo:
- Chop and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
- Incorporate into scrambled eggs, omelets, breakfast tacos or burritos.
- Fry up with diced potatoes for a quick hash.
- Add to pasta, pizza, frittata, or quiche.
- Sauté with beans, spinach or kale for a boost of flavor.
- Roll up in puff pastry for quick appetizers.
- Mix into dips, spreads, fillings for stuffed peppers or mushrooms.
With proper storage in the refrigerator, sealed chorizo sausages can last for 1-2 weeks. Signs of spoilage like slime, mold, odor, or change in color indicate it’s time to throw out the chorizo. Follow these fridge storage guidelines and tips for getting the maximum shelf life out of your chorizo.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can you tell if chorizo has gone bad?
Look for these signs that indicate chorizo has spoiled: slimy texture, mold growth, brown/grey discoloration, dull appearance, foul odors, or white film on the surface. Trust your senses – if chorizo smells or looks bad, it’s best to discard.
Can you freeze chorizo sausages?
You can freeze cured Spanish-style chorizo sausages, but the texture will degrade after thawing. For best quality, cook chorizo before freezing. Portion cooked crumbled chorizo in airtight containers or freezer bags. Frozen cooked chorizo will keep for 2-3 months.
How long does cooked chorizo last in the fridge?
Cooked chorizo sausage will last 3-4 days when stored properly in airtight containers in the fridge. Keep refrigerated at 40°F or below and use within 3-4 days for best quality. Discard if you see signs of spoilage.
How can you make chorizo last longer?
Store chorizo properly in the fridge in original packaging tightly wrapped in 35-40°F temperatures. Use within 1 week of opening. You can also chop and freeze for longer term storage. Freeze cooked chorizo in portions for lasting up to 2-3 months frozen.
Can you eat chorizo cold?
It’s safe to eat cured Spanish chorizo cold straight out of the package. The curing process makes it shelf stable. For best flavor and texture, slice chilled chorizo and bring to room temperature before serving. Fry or char chorizo for hot preparations.
Fresh Mexican chorizo should always be cooked first before eating and not eaten cold.
Conclusion
With proper refrigerated storage, cured Spanish chorizo sausages can keep for 1-2 weeks after opening. Unopened, they may last 2-4 weeks past any sell by date. Signs of sliminess, mold, foul odor, discoloration, or dulled appearance means it’s time to discard the chorizo. Keep chorizo stored away from air, light, and moisture in the coldest section of the refrigerator set below 40°F. Use opened packages within a week and freeze any leftovers for longer storage. Follow these tips for maximizing the shelf life of chorizo in the fridge.
