How Long Do Thanksgiving Leftovers Last? Safe Storage Guide

Thanksgiving usually leaves enough food for days. That is the fun part, as long as it is stored safely. The guidance here comes from the USDA, and the rules are simple: cool the food fast, keep it cold, and use it quickly or freeze it.

Put it away within two hours

Refrigerate perishable leftovers within 2 hours of taking them out of the oven or fridge. After that, food sits in the range between 40°F and 140°F, where bacteria multiply quickly. If something has been out for longer than 2 hours, throw it away. Don’t wait until the day is completely over. Pack the food up while guests are having dessert.

How long leftovers keep

Most cooked leftovers keep for 3 to 4 days in the fridge. For Thanksgiving on Thursday, November 26, the USDA’s Monday rule is a handy reminder: Monday, November 30 is the last day to eat refrigerated leftovers. If you want to keep food longer, freeze it within that window.

• Turkey, stuffing, potatoes and most cooked dishes: 3 to 4 days in the fridge.
• Gravy: use it first, and bring it to a boil when you reheat it.
• Frozen leftovers: safe indefinitely, with the best quality in about 2 to 6 months, according to the USDA.
• Pumpkin and other custard-style pies: keep them in the fridge too.

Cool and store it right

• Cut the turkey into smaller pieces.
• Use shallow containers, so the food cools quickly.
• Make containers as airtight as you can, or wrap the food tightly.
• Put leftovers in the fridge or freezer right away. Don’t let them cool on the counter first.
• Write the date on each container.

Reheat to 165°F

Reheat leftovers until they reach 165°F, and check with a food thermometer. Bring gravy and other sauces to a boil. In the microwave, cover the food, stir partway through and let it stand for a minute, so there are no cold spots.

When in doubt, throw it out

If leftovers sat out for more than 2 hours, or you can’t remember when they were cooked, discard them. Unsafe food doesn’t always smell or look bad, so don’t rely on your nose.