How long do beans last in the fridge? This is everything you need to know about storing beans after they're cooked.
How Long Do Beans Last in the Fridge?
Updated on May 29, 2020
Black beans, pinto beans, cannellini beans—no matter what your go-to legume is, the humble bean is a winning ingredient to any number of healthy dinners. But how long do beans last in the fridge once cooked? Here’s what you need to know plus a few helpful tricks to extend their shelf life.
How Long Do Beans Last in the Fridge?
Your cooked beans last about 3 to 5 days in the fridge.
To store them, let the beans cool down after cooking, then pop them in the refrigerator within an hour. Getting them stored quickly and chilled in the fridge will help prevent the growth of bacteria.
How to Make Your Cooked Beans Last
If you want beans to keep, store them in an airtight container. A trusty air-tight container will keep your cooked beans fresh longer compared to wrapping a bowl with plastic wrap or covering it in foil.
Freezing is another excellent way to make your cooked beans last. It’s one of the reasons they’re such a great option for healthy meal prep dishes. Divvy them up between a couple of containers for dinner-sized portions you can reheat at your leisure. Beans will last about a month in the freezer, so make life easier on yourself and jot down the date you froze them. When you’re ready to eat, just let the beans defrost in the fridge overnight and cook them on the stovetop until heated through.
Time to hit the pantry and make the most out of your canned beans. Don’t miss this collection of our top 100 ways to use canned beans!
Quickpea CurryThis colorful curry is a nice change of pace for a busy weeknight. I like to substitute fresh peas for frozen when they're in season. —Beth Fleming, Downers Grove, Illinois
Spaghetti & Meatball Skillet SupperI developed this one-skillet spaghetti and meatball dish to cut down on cooking time on busy nights. The beans, artichokes and tomatoes bump up the nutrition factor, while the lemon and parsley make it pop with brightness. —Roxanne Chan, Albany, California
Mexi-Stroni SoupIf you're a fan of classic minestrone but love bold Mexican flavors, this soup's for you! It's pumped up with spices, veggies and pasta for a filling bowl of fun. —Darlene Island, Lakewood, Washington
Healthy Greek Bean DipThis crowd-pleasing appetizer is healthy to boot! Folks will love to eat their veggies when they can dip them in this zesty, fresh alternative to hummus. —Kelly Silvers, Edmond, Oklahoma
Texas Chili FriesThe delicious chili goes together in minutes and then cooks while you run errands. The only way to make it even better is to pour it over crisp french fries and sprinkle with cheese to make Texas chili fries. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Chorizo & Grits Breakfast BowlsWhile growing up, I bonded with my dad over chorizo and eggs. My fresh approach combines them with grits and black beans for this chorizo breakfast bowl. You can even add a spoonful of pico de gallo. —Jenn Tidwell, Fair Oaks, California
Chicken PizzaWhen done right, chicken makes a quick and wholesome pizza topping. Here's how to make a chicken pizza everyone at home will enjoy.
Roasted ChickpeasCrispy chickpeas will become a favorite when you need something crunchy on your salads and bowls. An added bonus? They're vegan!
Chipotle Butternut Squash SoupMy hearty soup uses herbs and vegetables from the garden along with convenient pantry items, so it’s easy, fast and mostly fresh. Your family will devour it. —Roxanne Chan, Albany, California
Chili Mac CasseroleThis cheesy casserole uses several of my family's favorite ingredients, including macaroni, kidney beans, tomatoes and cheese. Just add a leafy salad for a complete meal. —Marlene Wilson, Rolla, North Dakota
Bean & Beef Slow-Cooked ChiliThis chili may be already chock-full, but we love to build it up even more with toppings like pico de gallo, red onion, cilantro and cheese. —Mallory Lynch, Madison, Wisconsin
Beef ‘n’ Bean TortaThis zesty dish is a favorite of mine because it has a wonderful Southwestern taste and is easy to prepare. I serve it on nights when we have only a few minutes to eat before running off to meetings or sports events. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Best Ever Beans and SausageWhen my wife asks what she should make for a gathering, she's always told to bring this—and a couple of copies of the recipe! — Robert Saulnier, Clarksburg, Massachusetts
Christmas Tortellini & Spinach SoupI made this soup for the first time in the summer, but when I saw its bright red and green colors, my first thought was what a perfect Christmas Eve dinner idea! —Marietta Slater, Justin, Texas
Quinoa and Black BeansQuinoa and black beans is a tasty dish that's also a great source of protein. It's simple to make and perfect for meal prepping because it lasts for a few days in the fridge and freezes well.
Caribbean Shrimp & Rice BowlI had a similar rice bowl on vacation and re-created this lighter version at home. It takes me back to the islands every time I make it. Try grilling the shrimp for more beachy flavor. —Lauren Katz, Ashburn, Virginia
Southwestern Pulled Pork CrostiniAs a different take on crostini, these apps are fantastic for tailgating and casual parties alike. —Randy Cartwright, Linden, Wisconsin
Cassoulet for TodayFrench cassoulet is traditionally cooked for hours. This version of the rustic dish offers the same homey taste in less time. It’s easy on the wallet too. —Virginia Anthony, Jacksonville, Florida
Tuscan Sausage & Bean DipThis is a spinoff of a Mexican dip I had once. The original was wicked good, but since I was going through an "I’m-so-over-Mexican-dip" phase, I decided to switch it up. Take it to a party—I'll bet you no one else will bring anything like it! —Mandy Rivers, Lexington, South Carolina
Chickpea and Potato CurryGet a whole new perspective on the underappreciated chickpea with this spicy chickpea and potato curry in a tangy tomato sauce. It’s creamy, filling and heady, with wonderful aromas.
Chicken Tamale PieBecause it cooks almost entirely in the slow cooker and uses a boxed cornbread mix, this two-layer chicken tamale pie is an easy and mostly hands-off dinner.
Firehouse ChiliWhen a recipe intended to serve a group of hungry people passes the firehouse test, you know it's worth making. Hearty, zesty, spicy and downright delicious, this firehouse chili will be your go-to when you need something simmering on the stove for friends and family to fill bowls at their leisure.
Grilled Bean BurgersThese juicy veggie patties have major flavor with cumin, garlic and a little chili powder. They hold their own against any veggie burger you‘d buy at the supermarket. —Marguerite Shaeffer, Sewell, New Jersey
Penne with Tomatoes & White BeansI learned how to make this dish from friends in Genoa, Italy, where they're known for creating tasty combinations of veggies, pasta and beans. You can sub feta cheese to give this a Greek twist. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho
Yankee RancherosAfter my in-laws began affectionately referring to me as a Yankee, I decided I had to learn to make some Mexican dishes. These are super easy and make my Tex-Mex-loving family happy—even if they do come from a Northerner!. —Darla Andrews, Boerne, Texas
Quinoa-Stuffed Squash BoatsMy colorful “boats” with quinoa, garbanzo beans and pumpkin seeds use delicata squash, a winter squash with edible skin that’s cream-colored with green stripes. In a pinch, acorn squash will do—but don't eat the skin! —Lauren Knoelke, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Turkey and Black Bean ChiliTypical chilis require hours of cooking, but this turkey and black bean chili recipe can be made in a quick 30 minutes. There's still plenty of flavor, though, thanks to an all-star list of spices and nourishing, tasty ingredients.
Rice and Bean EnchiladasYou won’t miss the meat with this rice and bean enchiladas recipe. These enchiladas are hearty and filling, and you can make them spicy or mild depending on your preferences. Stash them in the freezer for a quick-and-easy meal in the coming weeks.
Chicken NachosFlavorful and hearty chicken nachos feature delicious layers of protein, cheese, salsa and sour cream. They’re ideal for sharing and satisfying big crowds.
Roasted Curried Chickpeas and CauliflowerWhen there’s not much time to cook, try roasting potatoes and cauliflower with chickpeas for a warm-you-up dinner. It's a filling meal on its own, but you can add chicken or tofu to the sheet pan if you'd like. —Pam Correll, Brockport, Pennsylvania
Black Bean Potato au GratinThe addition of black beans and vegetables adds hearty protein and fiber to this tasty side dish. For a southwestern twist, add a handful or two of chopped cooked ham or chorizo sausage and replace the peas with 1 cup of frozen, thawed corn. —Erin Chilcoat, Central Islip, New York
Black Bean SoupThis chunky black bean soup is packed with canned black beans, celery, onion, peppers and tomatoes. With protein, fiber and tons of flavor, it's as easy as it is filling and nutritious.
Indian Spiced Chickpea WrapsRaita, an Indian condiment made with yogurt, elevates this vegetarian dish to a satisfying gourmet wrap. If you're in the mood to experiment, try diced mango or cucumber for the pineapple and add fresh herbs like cilantro or mint. —Jennifer Beckman, Falls Church, Virginia
Tomato & Garlic Butter Bean DinnerOn the days I get home late and just want a warm meal, I stir together tomatoes, garlic and butter beans. Ladle it over noodles if you're in the mood for pasta. —Jessica Meyers, Austin, Texas
Spicy Sweet Potato Kale Cannellini SoupThis cross between a soup and a stew fits the meatless Monday bill quite nicely. It warms you right up, and satisfies without leaving you overstuffed.—Marybeth Mank, Mesquite, Texas
Buenos Dias BreakfastI love the way the tortilla strips puff up when this is baked. It is a terrific no-fuss recipe that everyone in my family enjoys, even the meat lovers. —Barbara Burge, Los Gatos, California
Quinoa & Black Bean Stuffed PeppersIf you're thinking about a meatless meal, give these no-fuss peppers a try. They come together with just a few ingredients and put a tasty spin on a low-fat dinner! —Cindy Reams, Philipsburg, PA
Beef Cabbage SoupWhen I was a little girl, I helped my parents work the fields of their small farm. Lunchtime was always a treat when Mother picked fresh vegetables from the garden and simmered them in her big soup pot. We loved making this delicious recipe. —Ethel Ledbetter, Canton, North Carolina
Cornbread SaladCraving a taste of summer? Whip up this classic southern cornbread salad! Layers of sweet cornbread, creamy dressing, and fresh veggies take sweet and savory to a whole new level.
Louisiana Red Beans and RiceSmoked turkey sausage and red pepper flakes add zip to this saucy, slow-cooked version of Louisiana red beans and rice. For extra heat, add red pepper sauce at the table. —Julia Bushree, Georgetown, Texas
White Turkey ChiliHere's proof that chili doesn't have to be tomato-red. This white turkey chili makes delicious use of leftover turkey meat.
Santa Fe Chipotle ChiliSausage and ground beef make this spiced chili a meat lover's delight. I can freeze and reheat it later without sacrificing any of the flavor. —Angela Spengler, Tampa, Florida
Quinoa TabboulehWe put a gluten-free twist on a classic Middle Eastern salad by using quinoa instead of bulgur. Our quinoa tabbouleh recipe features a protein-packed superfood, crisp veggies, fresh herbs and an easy lemon vinaigrette.
Refried Bean DipThis five-star refried bean dip is one of our most popular appetizer recipes. After one dreamy bite, you'll understand why. It's spicy, a little creamy and extremely cheesy.
Tilapia TostadasEven my non-fish-loving family enjoys this recipe. It’s a winner in my book. —Jennifer Kolb, Overland Park, Kansas
Chicken Cassoulet SoupAfter my sister spent a year in France as an au pair, I created this lighter, easier version of traditional French cassoulet for her. It uses chicken instead of the usual duck.—Bridget M. Klusman, Otsego, Michigan
Confetti Corn QuesadillasThis easy and convenient meal is easily changed to fit any family's picky eaters. You can even sneak in protein, dairy and veggies and the kids will never know this is relatively good for them. I try to keep a batch in the fridge for a quick and hearty lunch. —Carey Hunt, Portland, Oregon
Pasta Fagioli al FornoThe name of this Italian-inspired dish means "baked pasta with beans." But my busy family translates it as "super satisfying dinner." —Cindy Preller, Grayslake, Illinois
Texas CaviarThis top-rated recipe for Texas caviar is a guaranteed favorite at any tailgate or potluck. The fresh dip is made from black-eyed peas, corn, tomatoes and avocado, all tossed in a zippy vinaigrette and served with crispy tortilla chips.
Coconut-Ginger Chickpeas & TomatoesThis is my go-to quick dish. When you add tomatoes, you can also toss in some chopped green peppers (jalapenos, if you like heat) to make it even more colorful. —Mala Udayamurthy, San Jose, California
Chicken Curry SoupThis cozy, comforting chicken curry soup packs in warm spices and hearty vegetables.
Southwest RiceBright, colorful and chock-full of flavor, this hearty southwest rice will become a favorite side to all your Tex-Mex mains. With total prep and cook time coming in under 30 minutes, it's also ideal for busy weeknights.
Mediterranean Tortellini SaladOne of my childhood friends moved to Italy 20 years ago. During a recent visit to see her, I enjoyed a scrumptious salad made with tortellini and fresh vegetables. I fell in love with the dish and have been trying to recreate ever since. How'd I do? —Kelly Mapes, Fort Collins, Colorado
Minestrone SoupThis minestrone soup recipe is packed with vegetables, pasta and beans in a bright tomatoey broth. It ticks all the boxes: It's hearty, incredibly comforting and a breeze to make!
Southern-Style Egg RollsSausage, black-eyed peas and turnip greens give these unique egg rolls a decidedly southern accent. When I bring them to a party, I always come home with an empty plate. —Holly Jones, Kennesaw, Georgia
Shrimp with Pineapple SalsaOur shrimp with pineapple salsa combines all the best flavors of summer and cooks up in less than 30 minutes—no grill required.
Southwest Chicken SoupZippy and bold southwest chicken soup brings a hearty, protein-dense comfort meal to your dinner table.
Double Jack MacThis spicy mac and cheese recipe came about when I asked my two sisters what they would like to add to mac and cheese to make it special. One said pepper jack cheese and the other said black beans. I liked both of the ideas and this is the result. The black beans add color and nutrition. The pepper jack cheese adds zip and fun. —Andrea Johnson, Freeport, Illinois
Mediterranean Turkey SkilletOur one-pot Mediterranean turkey skillet recipe, filled with lean ground turkey, a rainbow of vegetables and savory black beans, is a weeknight winner.
Cornbread Pizza WheelsThis hearty, colorful snack looks like you spent a lot of time, but it's simple to make. —Patrick Lucas, Cochran, Georgia
Pasta Fagioli SoupFilled with fresh turkey sausage, beans and pasta, pasta fagioli soup is a powerhouse of nutrients and flavor.
Fresh Spinach Tamale PieI got this recipe from my mother, who loved quick and easy meals for dinner. I made a few variations by adding spinach, bell peppers and fresh corn. The changes were well worth it––my family and friends love this dish!—Nancy Heishman, Las Vegas, Nevada
Spicy Bean and Beef PieMy daughter helped me come up with this recipe when we wanted a one-dish meal that was different than a casserole. This pie slices nicely and is a fun and filling dish. —Debra Dohy, Massillon, Ohio
Contest-Winning Pepperoni Pizza ChiliPizza and chili together—what could be better? Fill folks up at halftime when you set out bowls of this chili. —Jennifer Gelormino, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Enchilada Casser-Ole!My husband loves this casserole, so it never lasts too long in our house. Packed with black beans, cheese, tomatoes and southwestern flavor, it's an impressive-looking entree that's as simple as it is delicious. —Marsha Wills, Homosassa, Florida
Fourth of July Bean CasseroleThe outstanding barbecue taste of these beans makes them a favorite for cookouts all summer and into the fall. It's a popular dish, even with kids. The beef makes it so much better than plain pork and beans. —Donna Fancher, Lawrence, Indiana
Southwestern CasseroleThis southwestern casserole is a riff on chili mac, with the added spice of green chiles and sliced jalapenos, all underneath a melted layer of Monterey Jack cheese.
Greek Orzo SaladThis tart, refreshing salad is a big hit in my home. All the tasty toppings—including red onions, tomatoes, olives, feta cheese and a zesty dressing—give it extra interest. —Judy Roberts, Las Vegas, Nevada
Sausage and Kale SoupItalian sausage and kale soup is hearty and filling with nutrient-dense ingredients like kale, white beans and a tomatoey broth.
No-Fry Black Bean ChimichangasMy chimichangas get lovin’ from the oven so they’re a bit healthier. Black beans and corn make it meatless. And it’s a smart way to use leftover rice. —Kimberly Hammond, Kingwood, Texas
Hacienda Hash BrownsI use a clear glass dish to show off my hash brown bake. The bold pepper, cilantro, cumin and garlic make this potato-egg casserole extraordinary. —Jeanne Holt, Mendota Heights, Minnesota
Spicy Lentil & Chickpea StewThis recipe came to me from a friend who had worked at a health food store. I changed a few things until I found a version that my family loved. My son doesn't like things too spicy, so I make the stew milder for him and add a sprinkle of extra spice in mine. My husband, who farms, works outdoors for long hours at a time and finds this soup hearty enough to keep him satisfied. —Melanie MacFarlane, Bedeque, Prince Edward Island
Spicy White ChiliI thought the original version of this dish was fine. But my son can't get enough spice, so I added green chiles and other seasonings until I'd created a quick and easy chili he's wild about. —Carlene Bailey, Bradenton, Florida
Festive Bean SaladI had experimented with all kinds of bean salads before I hit on this one. My husband loves all the different bean varieties, and corn adds to the color and texture.—Dale Benoit, Monson, Massachusetts
Huevos RancherosMy husband and I had huevos rancheros while visiting Cuernavaca, Mexico, and he loved the meal so much he asked me to cook it for him when got home. My version is suited to my family's preference for sunny side up eggs, but poached or scrambled eggs would be just as tasty. —Cheryl Woodson, Liberty, Missouri
Meatball Chili with DumplingsMy family enjoys this delicious recipe—it's like a spicy meatball stew with dumplings!—Sarah Yoder, Middlebury, Indiana
African Peanut StewThis hearty slow-cooker stew is a wonderful meal to serve when you’re making dinner for folks with all types of dietary restrictions (or none whatsoever!).
Mexican Roasted Potato SaladMy husband is the No. 1 fan of this south-of-the-border potato salad. The leftovers make an awesome late-night snack, straight from the fridge. —Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, Utah
New England Bean & Bog CassouletWhen I moved to New England, I embraced the local cuisine. My cassoulet with baked beans pays tribute to a French classic and to New England in one hearty, heartwarming dish. —Devon Delaney, Westport, Connecticut
Patio Pinto BeansSweet, savory and a little tangy, this pinto bean recipe is simple, flavorful and packed with protein, fiber and plenty of vitamins and minerals.
Refried Bean TostadasFor a change of pace, you can substitute purchased tostada shells for tortillas or add more lettuce and use taco salad shells. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Rosemary Chicken with Spinach & BeansWith two young boys constantly on-the-go, I’m always looking for ways to simplify meals. This recipe uses just one skillet, making it a cinch to prepare dinner for a hungry family in half an hour. —Sara Richardson, Littleton, Colorado
Easy Chicken EnchiladasWith a few staple ingredients, these easy chicken enchiladas are so quick to make, dinner will be on the table before you know it.
Slow-Cooker Stuffed PeppersMake dinner a breeze with slow-cooker stuffed peppers. These flavorful peppers are filled with a delicious combination of South American inspired ingredients, making them a hit with the whole family.
Tilapia with Corn SalsaMy family loves fish, and this quick and tasty dish is very popular at my house. Though it tastes like it takes a long time, it cooks in minutes under the broiler. We enjoy it with lemon wedges with couscous on the side. —Brenda Coffey, Singer Island, Florida
Simple Vegetarian Slow-Cooked BeansWhen I have a hungry family to feed, these tasty beans with spinach, tomatoes and carrots are a go-to dish. This veggie delight is frequently on our menu. —Jennifer Reid, Farmington, Maine
White Bean Soup with EscaroleThis escarole and bean soup recipe is tasty enough to make everyone forget how healthy it is. Better yet, it's quick and easy.
Black Bean & White Cheddar FrittataThis is one of my favorite comfort foods for breakfast or even a quick dinner. I like to make it with lime salsa. But if you're looking for something with more kick, use hot salsa or add some chipotle pepper. —Aysha Schurman, Ammon, Idaho
