How Long Does Tomato Sauce Last in the Fridge?
An opened jar of tomato sauce keeps 5 to 7 days in the fridge with the lid on tight. Unopened, a jar of Jule's keeps about 2 years in the pantry. Check the best-by date on the lid. Need more time? Freeze it.
By the Vitelli family, makers of our dad's 1962 recipe from Jule's in Jersey City.
How long it keeps
| How long | Tips | |
|---|---|---|
| Pantry, unopened | About 2 years | Cool, dark cabinet. The best-by date is on the lid. |
| Fridge, opened | 5 to 7 days | Lid on tight. Clean spoon every time. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months for best flavor | Move it to a freezer-safe container. Leave room at the top. |
| Counter, opened | No more than 2 hours | Then into the fridge. |
Keep it fresh
- Clean spoonEvery time. A used spoon brings bacteria into the jar and shortens its life.
- Back in the fridgeLid on tight, right after dinner. Don't let the jar sit out on the table.
- Freeze the extraPortion it into 1-cup containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- When in doubt, toss itMold, a sour smell, fizzing or a bulging lid all mean it's done.
Stock up. It keeps.
A sealed jar of our recipe keeps about 2 years in a cool, dark cabinet. Keep a few on hand and a real red sauce dinner is never more than 20 minutes away.
No added sugar. Small batches, the way our dad made it.
Tomatoes (tomatoes, salt, dry basil), water, onion, olive oil, garlic, salt, black pepper, citric acid.
Vegan · Gluten-free · Non-GMO“This sauce is very good. This is my third order. I order four jars at a time and I give some to my sister.”
Kathleen · Classic Red
Quick questions
Can you freeze jarred tomato sauce?
Yes. Move it out of the glass jar into a freezer-safe container, leave an inch at the top and use it within 3 months for the best flavor. Thaw it overnight in the fridge.
How can I tell if tomato sauce has gone bad?
Look for mold on the surface or under the lid, a sour or off smell, fizzing, or a lid that bulges or leaks. If you see any of these, throw it out. Don't scoop off mold and use the rest.
Does an unopened jar need to be refrigerated?
No. Keep sealed jars in the pantry. Refrigerate after opening.
