How long do Thanksgiving leftovers last?
Short answer: 3 to 4 days in the fridge and 3 to 4 months in the freezer. That goes for turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy and casseroles. Refrigerate them within 2 hours of the meal.
Thanksgiving leftovers chart
| Leftover | Fridge | Freezer |
|---|---|---|
| Turkey (sliced or in pieces) | 3–4 days | 3–4 months |
| Stuffing and dressing | 3–4 days | 3–4 months |
| Mashed potatoes and sides | 3–4 days | 3–4 months |
| Gravy | 3–4 days | 3–4 months |
| Casseroles | 3–4 days | 3–4 months |
Count the days from the day you cooked, not the day you opened the container. If dinner was Thursday, finish or freeze the leftovers by Monday.
Put it away within 2 hours
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking. Take the turkey off the bone and cut it into smaller pieces, and divide big dishes into shallow containers so they cool quickly. Don't leave the whole bird on the counter while everyone watches football.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers until they reach 165°F (74°C) on a food thermometer. Bring gravy to a rolling boil. Frozen leftovers can be thawed in the fridge, in cold water or in the microwave, then eaten within 3–4 days.
Make the leftovers last
- Freeze some on day one. Portion turkey and sides into freezer bags the night of the meal and you've got dinners for the next three months.
- Label everything with the date. By Sunday nobody remembers what went in when.
- Put the oldest at the front. Leftovers at the back of the fridge are the ones that get thrown out.
Common questions
How long is leftover turkey good for?
3 to 4 days in the fridge, or 3 to 4 months in the freezer. Refrigerate it within 2 hours of cooking.
Is turkey still good after 5 days?
The USDA says to eat or freeze leftovers within 3 to 4 days. After that, throw them out, even if they look and smell fine.
Can you freeze Thanksgiving leftovers?
Yes. Turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy and casseroles all freeze. They stay safe frozen and keep the best quality for 3 to 4 months.
What temperature should I reheat leftovers to?
165°F (74°C), measured with a food thermometer. Bring sauces and gravy to a rolling boil.
How long food lasts
Source: USDA FSIS guide to leftovers and food safety. This page is general information, not medical advice. When in doubt, throw it out.