Stuffed Shells

Store-bought stuffed shells can usually last unopened in your fridge anywhere from one week to 10 days past the sell-by date. It depends on the ingredients inside the shells. Once open, they are best consumed within 2-4 days. Stuffed Shells that you've cooked at home should also be eaten within the same timeframe of 2-4 days. If you've frozen your shells, then you can expect them to last up to one month.

If your stuffed shells have gone bad, you'll notice a few things. They could develop a sour smell, similar to old cheese or milk. Any visible mold or significant discoloration are also obvious signs. The texture could change too, becoming slimy or overly soft, which isn't pleasant. When in doubt, take a very small taste, but if you're at all unsure, it's best to err on the side of caution and discard the shells.

• Store them in an airtight container, whether it's in the fridge or the freezer. This keeps out bacteria and ensures that your shells don't dry out. • If you're freezing the shells, try to portion them out beforehand. It's much easier to defrost just the right amount rather than a large batch. • Consider adding a date label when you store your shells, either homemade or store-bought. It can be easy to lose track of how long they've been in your fridge or freezer. • When defrosting your shells, do it slowly in the fridge. Rapid temperature changes can affect the texture, not to mention make it easier for bacteria to form.