Can You Reheat Paella?
Written by Jordan Morley · Reviewed against FSA/NHS reheating guidance · Last updated 28 October 2026
Yes, you can reheat paella — but the storage rules matter more than the reheating: cool within 1 hour, fridge for no more than 24 hours, reheat once until piping hot.
What makes it safe (or not)
Uncooked rice can contain spores of Bacillus cereus bacteria. The spores survive cooking, and if cooked rice sits at room temperature they can germinate and produce a toxin (Food Standards Scotland). Reheating rice does not kill the bacteria, so reheating cannot rescue rice that was left out. That's why the danger with paella isn't the reheating itself, but how it was cooled and stored beforehand. Rice handled correctly from the moment it's cooked is safe to reheat.
You can also check the calorie content of paella alongside its safety information.
How to reheat paella safely
- Cool paella within 1 hour of cooking — spread it on a tray to speed this up.
- Refrigerate in a sealed container and eat within 24 hours (UK FSA guidance).
- Reheat straight from the fridge with a splash of water, stirring halfway.
- Check it is piping hot all the way through — 75°C (165°F).
- Eat immediately and never reheat it a second time.
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Can you reheat paella twice?
No — never. Rice should be reheated once at most. Each pass through the temperature danger zone raises the Bacillus cereus risk, and reheating does not kill the bacteria.
What is the best way to reheat paella?
Reheat in a wide pan with a splash of water or stock, covered, stirring now and then, until steaming hot throughout, including any seafood. In the microwave, cover and stir halfway.
Why does rice cause food poisoning?
Rice can carry Bacillus cereus spores that survive cooking. Left at room temperature, the bacteria can produce a toxin (Food Standards Scotland). Healthline describes two forms of 'reheated rice syndrome': vomiting that typically starts within 30 minutes to 6 hours, and diarrhoea usually within 6 to 15 hours, with symptoms typically gone within 24 hours.
Is it safe to eat paella cold?
Yes — rice that was cooled quickly and refrigerated can be eaten cold (in a rice salad, for example) within 24 hours. Rice that has been left at room temperature should not be eaten hot or cold.
How long can I keep leftover paella before reheating?
Up to 24 hours in the fridge (NHS/FSA guidance for anything containing rice), cooled within 1 hour of cooking. After that, throw it away rather than reheat it.
Related answers
Primary source: FSA/NHS reheating guidance.
General information only, not medical advice: see the medical disclaimer. Feeling unwell after eating something? Contact NHS 111 or your GP.