You ordered your favorite pizza, enjoyed a few slices, and left the rest on the table. The next morning, you walk into the kitchen and spot the box still sitting there. The pizza looks fine, smells okay, and you’re hungry. The big question is: Is it safe to eat pizza that’s been left out overnight?
While it may seem harmless, leaving pizza unrefrigerated for hours can turn a simple snack into a serious food safety concern. In this article, we’ll explore what happens when pizza sits out too long, what the risks are, and how to store it properly for safe, tasty leftovers.
How Long Can You Eat Pizza That’s Been Left Out Overnight?
Let’s start with the basics. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), perishable food should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If the room is particularly warm (above 90°F or 32°C), that time drops to just 1 hour.
Why? Because bacteria thrive at temperatures between 40°F and 140°F (4°C to 60°C)—this is known as the “danger zone.” When food sits in this temperature range, harmful bacteria like E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella can multiply quickly. In fact, bacteria can double in number every 20 minutes.
Pizza is not just bread and sauce. It typically contains cheese and often meat toppings like pepperoni, sausage, or chicken—all of which are highly perishable and need proper storage. Even vegetarian pizza contains dairy products that require refrigeration.
But It Still Looks and Smells Fine…
It’s easy to assume that if food looks and smells okay, it must be safe to eat. Unfortunately, that’s not always true. Some of the most dangerous foodborne bacteria and toxins do not change the smell, taste, or appearance of food.
That means your leftover pizza could be loaded with bacteria, even if it still smells like last night’s delicious dinner. Eating it could lead to food poisoning—and that’s not a risk worth taking for a quick snack.
What About Reheating It?
Reheating food is often seen as a fix for questionable leftovers. While reheating pizza to 165°F (74°C) can kill many types of bacteria, it cannot eliminate all foodborne toxins that may have developed while the pizza was left out. Some toxins, especially those from Staphylococcus aureus, are heat-resistant and will remain even after cooking.
In short: reheating might make the pizza hot again, but it won’t make it safe if it’s already been sitting out all night.
The Health Risks of Eating Pizza Left Out Overnight
Consuming pizza that’s been left out too long can lead to foodborne illnesses with symptoms like:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Fever
While healthy adults may recover within a day or two, these illnesses can be dangerous for certain people, including:
- Children
- Elderly individuals
- Pregnant women
- People with weakened immune systems
Foodborne illness isn’t just uncomfortable—it can be serious and even life-threatening in vulnerable individuals.
When Is Leftover Pizza Safe to Eat?
If you want to enjoy your leftover pizza without worries, follow this golden rule: Store it in the fridge within two hours of cooking or delivery. Once refrigerated properly, pizza can last for 3 to 4 days.
Here’s how to store pizza safely:
- Wrap slices tightly in foil, plastic wrap, or store in an airtight container
- Separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking
- Label with the date to keep track
- Reheat slices in the oven, skillet, or microwave to at least 165°F (74°C)
Proper storage keeps the pizza both safe and delicious, with no stomach troubles the next day.
Tips for Reheating Pizza the Right Way
Want to bring your leftover pizza back to life? Try these tips:
- Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes for a crispy crust
- Skillet: Heat on low with a lid to re-crisp the bottom and melt the cheese
- Microwave: Add a cup of water next to the plate to reduce sogginess
And remember, always check that the pizza is hot in the center before eating.
Conclusion
So, is it safe to eat pizza that’s been left out overnight? The honest answer is no. While it may be tempting to grab that slice from the box the next morning, the risk of foodborne illness is real—and just not worth it. Harmful bacteria can grow quickly, even if the food looks and smells normal.
The good news is that pizza can be safely enjoyed the next day—if it’s stored correctly in the fridge within a couple of hours. So next time, take a minute to put those leftovers away. Your stomach will thank you later.
