🧀
How long does ricotta cheese last?
Updated 2026-05-13 · USDA FoodKeeper & FDA guidelines
Refrigerator
2 weeks
Unopened
After opening
1 week
1 week after opening
Freezer
2 months
Texture changes — best for cooked use
The short answer
Ricotta Cheese lasts as long as you store it correctly — which can mean anywhere from a few days on the counter to a year in the freezer. The numbers above represent best quality per USDA and FDA guidelines, not absolute safety limits.
Why these numbers vary
Soft fresh Italian cheese. Storage life depends on temperature consistency, humidity, packaging, and how fresh it was when you got it. Refrigerators that swing between 38°F and 45°F shave days off these numbers; vacuum-sealing or freezing extends them.
How to tell if ricotta cheese is bad
- Yellow tint
- Sour or acidic smell
- Watery separation
- Pink or grey mold
Storage tips
- Use within a week of opening
- Freezing changes texture — fine in lasagna
Ad slot · article-mid
Frequently asked questions
How long does ricotta cheese last in the refrigerator?
Ricotta Cheese lasts 2 weeks in the refrigerator. Unopened
How long does ricotta cheese last in the after opening?
Ricotta Cheese lasts 1 week in the after opening. 1 week after opening
How long does ricotta cheese last in the freezer?
Ricotta Cheese lasts 2 months in the freezer. Texture changes — best for cooked use
How can you tell if ricotta cheese is bad?
Watch for: Yellow tint; Sour or acidic smell; Watery separation.