All About Gravy
Your complete guide to gravy - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Gravy Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for gravy in different conditions.
Safety first: This guide provides general information. When in doubt, throw it out! Trust your senses and err on the side of caution. If something smells, looks, or tastes off, don't consume it.
Homemade Gravy (Cooked Fridge)3-4 days
Signs of Spoilage
Visible mold (fuzzy spots of any color), sour or unpleasant odor, slimy or stringy texture, significant discoloration (e.g., darker, greenish, or streaky).
How to Check
Visually inspect for mold or unusual colors. Perform a smell test; if it smells sour, rancid, or 'off,' discard it. Gently feel the surface with a clean spoon; if it feels slimy or stringy, it's spoiled. Do not taste.
Storage Tips
Always cool gravy quickly before refrigerating (within 2 hours of cooking). Divide into smaller, shallow airtight containers to aid rapid cooling and prevent bacterial growth. Reheat thoroughly to 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Gravy Mix/Powder (Unopened Pantry)1-2 years past 'best by' date
Signs of Spoilage
Hard clumps that don't break apart easily, discoloration (e.g., darker or off-white), presence of pests (weevils, larvae), musty or stale odor.
How to Check
Visually inspect the contents for clumps, color changes, or any signs of insect activity. Perform a smell test; if it smells stale, musty, or unpleasant, it's best to discard. Check the 'best by' date.
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dry place. Once opened, transfer to an airtight container to protect from moisture and pests, and use within 6-12 months for best quality.
Prepared Gravy from Mix (Cooked Fridge)3-4 days
Signs of Spoilage
Visible mold, sour or unpleasant odor, slimy texture, significant discoloration.
How to Check
Visually inspect for mold or unusual colors. Perform a smell test; if it smells sour, rancid, or 'off,' discard it. Gently feel the surface with a clean spoon; if it feels slimy or stringy, it's spoiled. Do not taste.
Storage Tips
Treat prepared gravy from a mix just like homemade gravy. Cool quickly and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat thoroughly to 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Canned/Jarred Gravy (Opened Fridge)3-5 days
Signs of Spoilage
Visible mold, sour or fermented smell, slimy texture, significant discoloration.
How to Check
Visually inspect for mold or unusual colors. Perform a smell test; if it smells sour, alcoholic, or 'off,' discard. Check texture with a clean spoon. Do not taste.
Storage Tips
Transfer any unused portion from the can into an airtight container for refrigeration to maintain freshness and prevent metallic flavors. Always use a clean utensil when serving to prevent contamination.
Homemade Gravy (Cooked Freezer)3-4 months
Signs of Spoilage
Significant freezer burn (dry, discolored patches), excessive ice crystals, off-flavor or aroma upon thawing and reheating, major separation of ingredients that doesn't re-emulsify with stirring.
How to Check
Visually inspect for freezer burn. After thawing, check for any unusual smells or colors. While some separation is normal, if it's extreme and doesn't blend back, quality is compromised. If it smells off after thawing, discard.
Storage Tips
Freeze in airtight, freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. Thaw safely in the refrigerator overnight or using the defrost setting on a microwave. Reheat thoroughly to 165°F (74°C).
Canned/Jarred Gravy (Unopened Pantry)12-18 months past 'best by' date (quality)
Signs of Spoilage
Bulging or leaking can/jar, deep dents on can seams, rust on the can, broken seal, visible mold or unusual growth inside (if jar is clear), foul odor upon opening.
How to Check
Visually inspect the container for any damage, bulges, or leaks. Check the 'best by' or 'expiration' date. If the container is compromised or past its date by a significant margin, it's best to discard. Never taste gravy from a bulging can.
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and temperature extremes. While safe beyond the 'best by' date, quality (flavor, texture) may degrade over time.