This method for freezing chili is super simple and the most convenient since it doesn’t take much room in the freezer! Double your favorite recipe, and enjoy a delicious bowl of chili whenever you need it!
Chili also freezes well, so you can enjoy it much later — properly stored, chili will maintain its quality in the freezer for four to six months.
How Long Does Chili Last in the Freezer
Chili will stay good in the freezer for 4 to 6 months! So when I plan to make a batch, I’ll double the recipe, use ½ for dinners that week, and freeze the extra that day.
Whenever I’m in a pinch or know a day out my upcoming week will be extra busy, I have a delicious dinner waiting to be defrosted and reheated.
How to Freeze Homemade Chili
Freezing chili helps you save time, make the most of leftovers, and avoid any waste. I’ll show you how to freeze chili for future meals quick and easy using a zip bag and a baking sheet:
- Cool down Allow chili leftovers to cool down to room temperature.
- Label the bags Before filling the bags, write down the date, servings, and thaw/reheating instructions in the bag. This will be very useful for later!
- Pack Pour the chili into a freezer-safe bag. Pack it in single-serve portions or the amount of servings you usually serve for dinner. You can also use an airtight container or souper cubes.
- Flatten Place the bag on a baking sheet and store in the freezer for about 2 hours or until solid. This way, the chili will freeze flat, making it easy to store.
- Store Once the chili is frozen, remove the baking sheet and keep it in the freezer for 2 to 3 months.
Watch this video and I’ll take you through the steps!
If you cooked chili and feel that it turned out more like a soup, here you can learn how to thicken chili before freezing it.
How to Freeze Chili & Reheat it For Future Lunches & Dinners
FAQ
How can you tell if frozen chili is bad?
Can you eat year old frozen chili?
Is it OK to freeze chili with beans?
How long can chili meat be held in the freezer?
Does Chili go bad if frozen?
Chili won’t go bad once it hits the freezer but has a ‘best by’ date. You can store your chili in the freezer for 4 to 6 months, and it will still stay fresh and delicious. After that, the textures start to change. Chili stored in the freezer for up to 12 months is still perfectly safe.
Does chili powder cause gas?
Chili powder may cause gas, digestive upset, heartburn and stomach pains if taken in excess amounts. It can also cause the mucus membranes to swell, and therefore should be consumed with caution.
Can you freeze chili?
Freezer bags won’t enhance the flavor of your chili, but they will make your life a little easier. Fill the freezer bag until it’s 2/3 full, and ensure the zipper is locked up tightly. Lie the bag of chili flat, and then pop it in the freezer. This will save you oodles of valuable freezer real estate. 3. Freeze it on the same day you made it.
How long does Chili last in the freezer?
Paying attention to these signs and using your senses to evaluate the chili’s condition will ensure that you consume chili that is safe and of high quality. The length of time chili can last in the freezer varies, but generally, it is recommended to consume frozen chili within 3 to 6 months for the best flavor and quality.