Don't just save your food—save money with these insider tricks to making kitchen staples last a bit longer.
11 Storage Tricks to Make Your Foods Last Longer
Olive oil
Stick to small bottles unless you use olive oil very frequently. Once opened, olive oil can go rancid in as little as three months (even though the bottle might say it will last longer). Fresh olive oil smells like green, ripe olives and has a bright, peppery taste with a kick; be wary of a crayon- or putty-like odor, which indicates spoilage.
Psst! You might like this mini bag sealer that keeps food fresh, too.
Peanut butter
Flip natural varieties upside down to allow the pool of oil near the lid to move through the rest of the jar and make the peanut butter creamier (and to skip messy stirring). Just make sure the cap is screwed on tight to avoid a greasy pantry shelf.
Cheese
Let it breathe. Wrap cheese in porous material. If you don’t have cheese paper, parchment will also work. Avoid tinfoil and tight plastic wrap. Failing to expose cheese to enough oxygen will cause it to dry out quickly.
Butter
You can freeze bars you don’t plan to use quickly. This will prevent spoilage and the scent absorption of fragrant leftovers. In the fridge, unopened butter should last about four months. It can stay in the freezer for about a year. Leave wrapped sticks in the original carton, then enclose in double plastic freezer bags. One sign you need to freeze butter: inconsistent color, which means you’re not using yours fast enough. Butter that is lighter on the inside than on the outside is no longer fresh, thanks to oxidation.
Brown sugar
Store the sweet crystals with “friends” to prevent hardening. Transfer to an airtight plastic container and include moist items like marshmallows, a slice of bread, or apple slices; the sugar will soak up the moisture and stay soft.
Mayonnaise
Store in the fridge door. In the inner part of the fridge, mayo may get too cold, which will cause it to separate and leave oil at the top of the jar. If kept in the refrigerator door, your tasty sandwich dressing will last two to three months past the purchase date.
Flour
Keep whole wheat flour chilled. High oil levels in the wheat germ can make this baking staple go rancid if kept in the pantry too long. If you use it infrequently, store in an airtight container in the fridge, where it can last two to six months. Sniff to check freshness — it should be almost completely odorless. Toss it if it smells sharp or bitter. (Regular white flour can last about a year in the pantry in an airtight container.)
100% maple syrup
Once opened, store in the freezer to preserve if you use it rarely. Because of its high sugar content, syrup won’t freeze. Pure maple syrup should last indefinitely unopened in the pantry; once opened, it can last up to a year refrigerated.
Soy sauce
Watch the color. Common varieties are reddish brown when fresh. If it’s darkened, this go-to ingredient has likely fallen victim to oxidation. Soy sauce doesn’t need to be kept chilled, but refrigeration will help the flavor remain at peak quality longer. It should last up to two years this way.
Spices (red ones)
Stash red spices in the fridge. Paprika, cayenne powder, and chili powder will stay fresher and keep their bright color — which can be dulled by light and heat — longer.
Honey
Revive crystallized honey by placing the jar in a frying pan on the stove with simmering water; stir the honey until the crystals have dissolved. Don’t keep honey in the fridge, which can make it crystallize. Honey can last forever even once opened (pots of it have been excavated from ancient Egyptian tombs, still preserved) because enzymes in bees’ stomachs create by-products that fight bacteria.
Check Out These Delicious Comfort Food Dinners
Beef and Mushrooms with Smashed PotatoesI was inspired to make this recipe after I couldn't stop thinking of a similar dish served in my elementary school cafeteria more than 50 years ago! I like that it's quick to make, and my husband and grandchildren love it. —Ronna Farley, Rockville, Maryland. Need some more fast meals? Try out these quick comfort food recipes.
Potluck Macaroni and CheeseYou'll always have a winner at the potluck when you bring macaroni and cheese. Here's an extra-rich, creamy version for the slow cooker. —Jennifer Blondek, Chicopee, Massachusetts
Chicken PotpieLearning how to make chicken potpie from scratch is 100% worth it. This chicken potpie recipe features a flaky, buttery crust packed with chicken, vegetables and a creamy sauce.
Contest-Winning Broccoli Chicken CasseroleThis delicious chicken and broccoli casserole recipe is a twist on chicken divan that came from an old boss. It’s quick, satisfying comfort food. —Jennifer Schlachter, Big Rock, Illinois.
Cream of Celery Soup RecipeThis rich cream of celery soup recipe will warm up any family gathering or quiet evening at home. With just the right amount of onion flavor, it's creamy and crowd-pleasing. —Janet James, Bluff City, Tennessee
Hungarian Chicken PaprikashYou can’t go wrong with a sweet and spicy chicken drizzled with a velvety cream sauce for dinner.
Shrimp QuesadillaQuick and simple enough for any weekday, these shrimp quesadillas boast a refreshing flavor special enough for guests. Serve with salsa on the side and a frosty smoothie, if you like. —Tiffany Bryson-San Antonio, Texas
Chicken and GravyHere's a lightened-up take on the classic southern comfort-food dish: chicken and gravy. This recipe has been a hit at our house since the first time we tried it! —Ruth Helmuth, Abbeville, South Carolina
Salmon Chowder RecipeI've lived on a farm in the Yakima Valley all my life. I have a big garden, and by the end of fall, my cellar shelves are full of canned fruits and vegetables. This salmon chowder recipe uses some of the root vegetables I grow…along with the delicious salmon that is so plentiful here. —Josephine Parton, Granger, Washington
Turkey Shepherd’s PieWe live way out in the county, and the nearest grocery store is 25 miles away. So I've become quite skilled at turning leftovers into second-time-around successes like this turkey shepherd's pie. —Linda Howe, Jackman, Maine
Ground Turkey Vegetable SoupLow-sodium ingredients don't diminish the full flavor of this brothy ground turkey vegetable soup. The turkey lends a heartiness that everyone will welcome on a cold blustery evening. —Bonnie LeBarron, Forestville, New York
Steak and Shrimp KabobsThese steak and shrimp kabobs make any get-together special. Cubes of marinated steak are skewered with shrimp and veggies, then grilled. For picnics, I assemble the kabobs at home and carry them in a large container. —Karen Mergener, St. Croix, Minnesota
Slow-Cooker Pork LoinI live in Arizona, and this slow-cooker pork loin is an easy dish with many southwestern seasonings. It's fantastic with rice and beans or in a taco with hot sauce. —Johnna Johnson, Scottsdale, Arizona
Swedish Meatball RecipeMom fixed this Swedish meatball recipe for all sorts of family dinners, potluck suppers and PTA meetings. The scent of browning meat is intoxicating. Add to that the sweet smell of onions caramelizing, and everyone’s mouth starts watering. —Marybeth Mank, Mesquite, Texas
Crockpot SpareribsEven my three little ones love these easy-to-make and delicious-to-eat slow-cooker spareribs. The succulent meat falls right off the bone! —Julie Czmer, West Bloomfield, Michigan
Chicken Parmesan SpaghettiI like to make this yummy chicken Parmesan with spaghetti when I have extra sauce on hand. The herbed coating on the tender chicken gets nice and golden. —Margie Eddy, Ann Arbor, Michigan
Healthy Turkey ChiliI've taken my mother's healthy turkey chili recipe and made it thicker and more robust. It's a favorite, especially in fall and winter. —Celesta Zanger, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan
Instant Pot Whole ChickenWe love rotisserie chicken, and now with a pressure cooker, I can have it ready to eat in an hour or so. I combined several recipes to come up with this favorite. If you are new to the kitchen tool, this is a perfect recipe to begin with since it is so easy. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Ground Beef StroganoffThis easy ground beef stroganoff is even quicker than the original. In just 30 minutes, you'll have a comforting meal on the table.
Zucchini BoatsStuffed zucchini boats are quick, easy and low-carb, making them the perfect vessel (literally) for your garden's summer bounty.
Creamed Garden Potatoes and PeasNew potatoes and peas are treated to a creamy sauce for this special side. —Jane Uphoff, Cunningham, Kansas
De-Lightful Tuna CasseroleThis mild, homemade tuna casserole will truly satisfy your family's craving for comfort food without all the fat! —Colleen Willey, Hamburg, New York
Pot RoastOur pot roast recipe takes a tough chuck roast and braises it, transforming it into a tender, fork-friendly meal.
Cube Steak and GravyCube steaks and gravy are a hearty home-style dinner your family will love after a busy day. The slow-cooked beef is wonderful served over mashed potatoes or noodles. —Judy Long, Limestone, Tennessee
Tender Salsa BeefThis is my Mexican-style twist on comfort food. To keep it kid-friendly, use mild salsa. —Stacie Stamper, North Wilkesboro, North Carolina
Light Chicken and Broccoli BakeCheesy chicken and broccoli bakes are the ultimate comfort food, but I wanted to give the classic casserole a healthier spin. Mine cuts down on fat and calories, but keeps the same cozy flavor. —Jenny Dubinsky, Inwood, West Virginia
Sunday Roast ChickenThis recipe proves that comfort food doesn't have to be full of unwanted calories. Mixed with orange and lemon juice, my roast chicken is both flavorful and healthy. —Robin Haas, Cranston, Rhode Island.
Au Gratin Peas and PotatoesWhile this delicious potato skillet is a wonderful side dish, we find it satisfying enough to be a main course, too. The skillet preparation takes less time than it does to bake an au gratin casserole or scalloped potatoes—but it's still good old-fashioned comfort food at its best! —Marie Peterson, DeForest, Wisconsin
Pasta with Sausage and PeasThis rustic pasta with sausage and peas is a simple, comforting meal that's perfect any night of the week. With a creamy tomato sauce, bright-tasting cheese and pleasant pops of green, rigatoni is the perfect vessel.
Ham ChowderThis ham chowder recipe is chock-full of ham, bacon, potatoes and cheese—all ingredients we love on their own, but even more so together. A warm bowl will warm you up from the inside, out!
Mom’s Roast BeefEveryone loves slices of this fork-tender roast beef with its savory gravy. The well-seasoned roast is Mom's specialty. People always ask about the secret ingredients. Now you have the delicious recipe for our favorite meat dish! —Linda Gaido, New Brighton, Pennsylvania
Fried ChickenThis crispy fried chicken recipe uses a batter instead of a flour coating. That helps the flour adhere to the chicken so it won’t fall off after cooking!
Firecracker ShrimpThese delightful firecracker shrimp are coated in a sweet and spicy glaze. The marinade comes together in moments for sizzling shrimp skewers. —Mary Tallman, Arbor Vitae, Wisconsin
Root Vegetable Pot RoastDuring the hectic holiday season, I make this roast a lot. We've scarfed it down before and after shopping, and while wrapping presents. Root vegetables and roast beef make everyone feel cozy and calm. —Pat Dazis, Charlotte, North Carolina
Meatball StroganoffA quick and delicious twist on the classic, our meatball stroganoff uses frozen meatballs to get dinner on the table in just 30 minutes.
Chili Dog CasseroleKids and dads alike will dive right into this hearty, comforting dish. With a crispy cheese topping on a warm corn bread crust, this chili dog casserole recipe is a keeper. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Sunday Pot RoastWith the help of a slow cooker, you can prepare a down-home dinner any day of the week, not just on Sundays. The roast turns out tender and savory every time. —Brandy Schaefer, Glen Carbon, Illinois
Slow-Cooker Spaghetti and MeatballsLow-and-slow cooking is the key to achieving tender, flavorful meatballs in this slow-cooker spaghetti and meatballs recipe. Make homemade meatballs, or swap in store-bought frozen meatballs if you're running short on time.
Seasoned Crab CakesAt the National Hard Crab Derby in Crisfield, Maryland, these scrumptious crab cakes won me first place. I entered them on a whim after trying many crab cake recipes for my family. —Betsy Hedeman, Timonium, Maryland
Pork Chops and NoodlesIndulge in the comforting flavors of tender pork chops smothered in a tangy mustard sauce, served over creamy egg noodles. This hearty dish, inspired by classic European cuisine, is a quick and satisfying meal for any night of the week.
Creole JambalayaJambalaya is a traditional Louisiana dish, coming from our Spanish and French culture. Rice is the main ingredient, with different meats or seafood mixed in. I particularly like this variation with shrimp and ham. —Ruby Williams, Bogalusa, Louisiana
Chicken and Swiss Stuffing BakeI love to cook but just don't have much time. This casserole is both comforting and fast, which makes it my favorite kind of recipe. I serve it with a green salad. —Jena Coffey, Sunset Hills, Missouri
Grilled Ribeye with Garlic Blue Cheese Mustard SauceThis simple steak gets a big flavor boost from two of my favorites: mustard and blue cheese. My husband and I make this recipe to celebrate our anniversary each year! —Ashley Lecker, Green Bay, Wisconsin
Roasted ChickenThis tender chicken is a real time-saver on a busy weekend. A simple blend of seasonings makes it a snap to prepare, and it smells heavenly as it roasts. —Marian Platt, Sequim, Washington
Chicken and Rice DinnerThe chicken in this recipe bakes up to a beautiful golden brown while the moist rice is packed with flavor. The taste is simply unbeatable! —Denise Baumert, Dalhart, Texas
Pork Chops with Apples and StuffingThe heartwarming taste of cinnamon and apples is the perfect accompaniment for these tender pork chops. The dish is always a winner with my family. Because it calls for only four ingredients, it's a main course I can serve with little preparation. —Joan Hamilton, Worcester, Massachusetts
Chicken and DumplingsThis homestyle chicken and dumpling soup recipe is just like mom's with its classic mirepoix base and doughy drop dumplings.
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
Homemade Fish SticksThis fun homemade fish stick recipe is super easy and healthy, too! Kids and adults will love them.
Slow-Cooked Beef TipsThese slow-cooked beef tips remind me of a childhood favorite. I cook them with mushrooms and serve over brown rice, noodles or mashed potatoes. —Amy Lents, Grand Forks, North Dakota
Tuna Mushroom CasseroleI love to serve this dressed-up version of a tuna casserole. The green beans add nice texture, color and flavor. The first time I made this dish, my uncle asked for seconds even though tuna casseroles are not usually his favorite.
—Jone Furlong, Santa Rosa, California
Cabbage RollsCall them old-fashioned, but these stuffed cabbage rolls are just as cozy and comforting as they've always been. Once you've got the hang of the rolling technique, you can stuff them with just about anything.
Meat LoafThis traditional meat loaf recipe creates a tender, juicy meat loaf topped with a caramelized glaze. The best part: It’s so easy to make, and it’s ready to eat in about an hour!
Hay and StrawThis recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare, it's pretty, too. This colorful pasta dish combines julienned ham, Parmesan cheese, peas and linguine.—Priscilla Weaver, Hagerstown, Maryland
Deviled ChickenMy family has always loved this flavorful golden brown chicken. I watch for frequent sales on leg quarters to keep the cost per serving low. —Linda Trammell, Kingston, Missouri
Beef in Onion GravyI double this super recipe to feed our family of four so I'm sure to have leftovers to send with my husband to work for lunch. His co-workers tell him he's lucky to have someone who fixes him such special meals. It's our secret that it's an easy slow cooker dinner! —Denise Albers, Freeburg, Illinois
Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu"Cordon Bleu" is a French phrase meaning "blue ribbon"—given as a prize for culinary excellence. The term also refers to a signature dish of chicken topped with a slice of ham and Swiss cheese, usually breaded and sauteed, or in this case, wrapped in puff pastry for a quick and easy finish. —Sharon Laabs, Hartford, Wisconsin
Dad’s Famous StuffiesThe third of July is almost as important as July Fourth in my family. We make these stuffed clams on the third every year, and it's an event in and of itself! —Karen Barros, Bristol, Rhode Island
Country Ham and PotatoesBrowned potatoes are a simple but perfect side for country ham. Not only do the potatoes pick up the flavor of the ham, but they look beautiful! Just add veggies or a salad and dinner’s done. —Helen Bridges, Washington, Virginia
Chicken and Wild Rice CasseroleThis chicken and wild rice casserole is the perfect dinner for when you need something easy, balanced and friendly for the whole family. Precooked chicken and rice make it even quicker.
Meatballs and GravyI can still see Grandmother making dozens of these little meatballs, and gravy to go with them! The hint of spices gives them a savory taste that makes them authentically Norwegian. —Karen Hoylo, Duluth, Minnesota
Clam StewThis clam stew highlights the fresh, sweet and salty clam flavor, with the chorizo adding a little kick. Fresh Swiss chard greens from our garden, corn and cannellini beans round out the flavor profile. The best part, though, is dipping crusty bread into the delicious broth! —Pamela Gelsomini, Wrentham, Massachusetts
Big John’s Chili-Rubbed RibsWhen my family thinks of summer grilling, it's ribs all the way. Our Asian-inspired recipe is a welcome change from the usual barbecue-sauce versions. —Ginger Sullivan, Cutler Bay, Florida
Slow-Simmered Burgundy Beef StewDon't be intimidated at the idea of making Beef Bourguignon, it's just a farmhouse stew with an accent. This recipe simplifies the process by streamlining a few steps, making it an elevated option for those comfort-food days.
Paprika PorkA classic Hungarian dish, paprika pork is served over buttery egg noodles or rice for a hearty, homemade dish that won't take up too much of your valuable time at the stove.
Slow Cooker Pot RoastWhat if you could get the perfect pot roast with half the work, but double the flavor? Good news: You can. Here's how, with the help of our best slow-cooker pot roast recipe.
Best LasagnaWhat makes this classic lasagna recipe so spectacular? Homemade meat sauce and plenty of cheese. Best of all, it's easy to make lasagna ahead of time so dinner can be ready in a flash.
Chicken Noodle SoupYou don’t need a whole chicken to make homemade chicken noodle soup. Here's how to make it with bone-in chicken, chewy egg noodles and an aromatics-infused broth.
Wintertime Braised Beef StewThis easy beef stew is incredibly rich. Since it's even better a day or two later, you may want to make a double batch. —Michaela Rosenthal, Woodland Hills, California
Chicken-Fried SteakThis chicken-fried steak and gravy combination is absolute comfort food. Cube steak gets a lightly seasoned coating, making this dish perfect for those nights when you want something filling but don't have a lot of time to prep dinner.
How to Cook a HamWhip up a gorgeous holiday centerpiece with this easy glazed ham recipe. Our Test Kitchen experts share their best tips and tricks for how to cook a ham for special occasions.
Turkey Stew with DumplingsMy husband and I love dumplings, and this mild-tasting, homey dish has flavorful ones floating on a tasty turkey and vegetable stew. It really hits the spot on chilly fall and winter days. —Rita Taylor, St. Cloud, Minnesota
Standing Rib RoastThis juicy, tender standing rib roast has a savory rub that bakes into a golden brown crust for an impressive but surprisingly easy recipe perfect for a special occasion.
Veggie Mac and CheeseTake a decadent family fave, add in a variety of vegetables, and you've got a dinner worth being excited about: veggie mac and cheese.
Garlic Herbed Beef TenderloinYou don't need much seasoning to add flavor to this tender beef roast. The mild blend of rosemary, basil and garlic does the trick. —Ruth Andrewson, Leavenworth, Washington
Frito PieCrunchy, salty Fritos corn chips are the star ingredient of Frito pie. Make this cheesy Tex-Mex favorite for dinner or game day.
Italian Pasta BakeWhether feeding a small army or just your very hungry family, this pasta bake recipe never fails to satisfy.
Slow-Roasted Chicken with VegetablesEven a beginner cook could make this slow cooked chicken and have it turn out perfectly. This recipe could not be easier. A few minutes of prep and you'll come home to a delicious dinner. —Anita Bell, Hermitage, Tennessee
Crockpot Beef StroganoffCrockpot beef stroganoff is a comforting meal of slow-cooked beef, onions and mushrooms, simmered until tender in a seasoned sauce made rich and creamy with a secret ingredient: condensed mushroom soup.
