How long do prepared meals last in the fridge? Cooked, refrigerated meals are best eaten within 3–4 days. For anything you won't eat in that window, freeze it. Frozen meals stay safe indefinitely but taste best within 2–3 months. SmashMeals arrive fresh, so you decide what to eat this week and what to tuck in the freezer for later. How long do fresh prepared meals last in the refrigerator? 3 to 4 days at 40°F or below. SmashMeals are labeled so you always know what you have — eat the early-week meals first and freeze the rest if your week changes. When should you freeze a meal instead of refrigerating it? If you won't eat it within 3–4 days, freeze it the day it arrives while it's freshest. Freezing on day 3 still works, but day 1 gives the best result. How do you freeze meals so they don't get freezer burn? Keep them in their sealed container, or wrap tightly so no air touches the food. Press out extra air; air is what causes freezer burn. Label with the date. Best quality within 2–3 months. Avoid freezing meals with crisp items (salads, fresh greens) — texture suffers. What's the safest way to thaw a frozen meal? In the refrigerator overnight — that's the safest method. In a hurry, you can reheat straight from frozen; just add a little extra time and stir partway so it heats evenly to 165°F. Don't thaw on the counter. Which meals freeze best? Saucy and hearty dishes freeze beautifully — bowls, casseroles, braised and smoked meats, soups. Anything fresh and crisp is better eaten this week. Related reading How to Reheat Meal Prep Without Drying It Out How SmashMeals Ordering Works See this week's menu →