Condiments, Sauces & Canned Goods
How long does homemade broth last in the fridge?
Homemade broth keeps 3–4 days in the fridge and 2–3 months frozen — chill it fast in a shallow pan rather than overnight in the stockpot.
How long does it keep?
| Fridge | 3–4 days |
|---|---|
| Freezer | 2–3 months |
Can it sit out?
Homemade broth is perishable — the FSIS 2-hour rule applies.
Perishable food left at room temperature for more than 2 hours should be thrown out — 1 hour if it’s 90°F or hotter (a picnic, a hot car, a summer kitchen).
How to tell if homemade broth has gone bad
- A sour or yeasty smell as it warms in the pan
- Foam or bubbles rising in broth straight from the fridge
- A ropy strand that follows the spoon
- A fat cap gone gray or blotchy on top
When in doubt, throw it out.
The fat cap that sets on top seals the broth underneath — leave it in place until you’re ready, then lift it off in one piece.
Quick answers
How long does homemade broth last in the fridge?
Homemade broth keeps 3–4 days in the fridge and 2–3 months frozen — chill it fast in a shallow pan rather than overnight in the stockpot.
Can you freeze homemade broth?
USDA’s freezer window for homemade broth is 2–3 months.
How long can homemade broth sit out?
The FSIS 2-hour rule applies to homemade broth. Perishable food left at room temperature for more than 2 hours should be thrown out — 1 hour if it’s 90°F or hotter (a picnic, a hot car, a summer kitchen).