The host who likes to prepare ahead
This person wants to cool the pasta before guests arrive and keep it chilled. The Netherlands Nutrition Centre advises cooling cooked leftovers quickly and storing them in sealed containers.
Who might need extra fridge space?
The cook catering for a larger group
This cook needs to fit several sealed portions alongside the usual groceries, so usable shelf space and layout are important.
The small-kitchen dweller
This person is considering extra fridge space but needs to weigh the external dimensions and stated noise level against the space available. It’s also worth comparing the energy consumption of a potential second appliance.
What should you look for in extra fridge space?
According to the Netherlands Nutrition Centre, freshly cooked pasta should be cooled quickly and placed in a sealed container in the fridge within two hours. Keep your fridge at 4 °C.
| What to consider | What should you look for? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature and storage | Set your fridge to 4 °C and check the temperature with a fridge thermometer. Put the pasta in a sealed container in the fridge within two hours. | If I cook pasta ahead of time, I want to know I can chill it promptly and keep it cold. Around 36% of consumers say reliable chilling is their main concern. |
| Space for portions | Check that the sealed containers fit on a shelf. Compare the shelf layout and fridge capacity of the exact model. | If you want to store several portions alongside your usual groceries, usable shelf space is a key consideration. Around 29% of consumers prioritise space for portions. |
| Getting the right size | Measure the available height, width and depth. Also check that the door can open fully in the space. | If I have limited space in my kitchen, the appliance needs to fit the space available. Around 21% of consumers prioritise finding the right size. |
| Energy consumption | Compare the annual consumption in kWh on the energy labels of the exact models. First decide whether you need a second fridge. | If you don’t want to run an appliance just for the occasional dinner party, energy consumption is worth considering. Around 14% of consumers say the energy use of extra fridge space is their main concern. |
Common mistakes
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Buying a new fridge without checking your current one
You don’t necessarily need extra fridge space for a single meal. First check that your fridge reaches 4 °C and that the sealed portions fit inside.
A second fridge takes up extra space and uses energy, even if you only use it occasionally.
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Assuming a rapid-cool function guarantees safe storage
A fridge function is no substitute for cooling food quickly, chilling it promptly and checking the temperature.
Follow the storage instructions for your dish, whatever cooling functions your fridge has.
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Comparing total litres as if they were all fridge space
In a compact model with a freezer compartment, some of the capacity is reserved for frozen food. The stated volume also doesn’t tell you exactly how many containers will fit on the shelves.
Compare fridge capacity separately from freezer capacity, and check the layout of the exact model.
Brands to compare
These models illustrate differences in fridge space, freezer compartments and external dimensions. Check that the layout suits your own containers.
Inventum
The KK550 has no freezer compartment, while the KV550 does. This difference could be useful if you’re mainly looking for fridge space or also want to freeze portions.
- Inventum lists the KK550 as having 131 litres of fridge capacity, adjustable shelves, a digital thermostat and a supercool function.
- For the KV550, Inventum lists 97 litres of fridge space and a 16-litre freezer compartment. These specifications alone don’t tell you how quickly pasta will cool or how long it will stay safe to eat.
Bosch
The KTR15NWEB is an under-counter model without a freezer compartment, while the KTL15NWEB has a built-in freezer compartment, according to Bosch.
- Bosch lists 134 litres of fridge space for the KTR15NWEB and 106 litres for the KTL15NWEB.
- The stated capacities and door-open alarm for the KTR15NWEB are manufacturer specifications. Check the temperature yourself when storing cooked pasta.
Beko
The TSE1285N is an under-counter model to consider if a width of 54 cm will fit your available space.
- Beko lists 101 litres for the fridge and fresh-food compartment, and an energy rating of D.
- Check the interior layout with your own containers; the stated capacity doesn’t tell you how many will fit on the shelves.
Liebherr
The Rc 1401 Pure is an under-counter model worth comparing if external dimensions and the stated noise level are important to you.
- Liebherr lists a total capacity of 111 litres and a noise level of 35 dB for the Rc 1401 Pure.
- The total capacity doesn’t tell you how many pasta containers will actually fit, so check the shelf layout too.
Fridges at Joybuy
These Joybuy products are for anyone looking for extra chilled storage for sealed portions. The selection includes models with and without a freezer compartment.
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Bella BKK090.1BE under-counter fridge, 88 litres, black
A model without a freezer compartment for anyone looking for extra space to chill portions.
The stated net capacity is 88 litres. The model has three adjustable glass shelves and measures 85 × 48 × 45 cm.
The door is reversible. The product is listed with an energy rating of E.
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Bella BKV555-040CW under-counter fridge with freezer compartment, white
A model with fridge and freezer space for anyone who wants to freeze food as well as chill portions.
The stated capacity is 95 litres for the fridge and 14 litres for the freezer compartment. The product is listed with an energy rating of C.
The fridge has two glass shelves, three door balconies and measures 85 × 55 × 58 cm. The door is reversible.
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Exquisit KS16-4-051CW under-counter fridge with freezer compartment
A fridge-freezer model for anyone comparing extra fridge space with a separate freezer compartment.
The stated capacity is 107 litres for the fridge and 13 litres for the freezer compartment. The product is listed with an energy rating of C and a supercool function.
The dimensions are 84,5 × 54,9 × 55,7 cm.
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CHiQ JR263LGE fridge-freezer, 262 litres
A fridge-freezer for anyone who wants to freeze portions as well as have extra fridge space.
The product title lists a total capacity of 262 litres, Low Frost and 4-star freezing.
The product information lists adjustable shelves and a reversible door. The stated noise level is 39 dB.
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Wiggo WL-BTT88E(W) under-counter fridge, 54 cm, white
An under-counter model without a freezer compartment for anyone looking to match the stated width to a smaller space.
The product information lists a capacity of 129 litres, two glass shelves and a rotary temperature control.
The product title lists an energy rating of E.
Frequently asked questions
How can you check whether your fridge is cold enough for cooked pasta?
Set your fridge to 4 °C and check the temperature with a fridge thermometer. The Netherlands Nutrition Centre advises leaving the thermometer in the middle of the bottom shelf for half a day or overnight.
How long can cooked pasta be left out of the fridge?
Cool the pasta quickly and put it in a sealed container in the fridge within two hours of cooking. The Netherlands Nutrition Centre warns against pasta dishes being stored for too long or at a temperature that isn’t cold enough.
How long can you keep cooked pasta in the fridge?
According to the Netherlands Nutrition Centre, eat cooked pasta stored in the fridge within two days. If you won’t eat the portions within that time, freeze them promptly if you have a suitable freezer.
Do you need a rapid-cool function to store pasta safely?
No, a rapid-cool function is no substitute for following storage instructions. Cool the pasta quickly, put it in a sealed container in the fridge within two hours, and check that the fridge is at 4 °C.
What should you compare when considering an extra fridge?
Compare fridge capacity separately from any freezer capacity, as well as the shelf layout, external dimensions and annual energy consumption in kWh. First check whether the sealed containers fit in your current fridge.