What to do with leftover turkey (and how long it lasts)
Short answer: Cooked turkey keeps 3–4 days in the fridge and 4–6 months in the freezer; turkey covered in gravy or broth keeps 3–4 days in the fridge and 1–2 months frozen (USDA FoodKeeper). If you won't finish it by day 3, freeze it in meal-size portions.
8 ways to use it up
- Turkey soup. Simmer the carcass for broth, then add turkey, carrots, celery and noodles or rice.
- Leftover sandwiches. Turkey, cranberry sauce and stuffing on toasted bread.
- Pot pie. Turkey, frozen mixed vegetables and gravy under a pie crust or biscuits.
- Enchiladas. Roll shredded turkey in tortillas with salsa verde and cheese, then bake.
- Fried rice. Uses up leftover rice and the last of the turkey together.
- Turkey chili. Add shredded turkey to beans, tomatoes and chili spices for the last hour.
- Quesadillas. Turkey, cheese and a spoon of cranberry sauce in a crisp tortilla.
- Freeze it in portions. Shred, bag in recipe-sized amounts and freeze within the 3–4 day window.
How long it keeps
| Food | Fridge (40°F / 4°C) | Freezer (0°F) |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked turkey (plain, sliced or shredded) | 3–4 days | 4–6 months |
| Turkey covered in gravy or broth | 3–4 days | 1–2 months |
| Turkey deli meat, opened | 3–5 days | 1–2 months |
Common questions
How long is leftover turkey good for?
3–4 days in the fridge and 4–6 months in the freezer for best quality (USDA FoodKeeper). Turkey covered in gravy or broth: 3–4 days in the fridge, 1–2 months frozen.
How fast do Thanksgiving leftovers need to go in the fridge?
Within 2 hours of cooking (1 hour if it's above 90°F), per USDA. Carve the turkey off the bone first so it cools quickly in shallow containers.
Can you freeze cooked turkey?
Yes. Freeze it in airtight portions within 3–4 days of cooking; it keeps best quality for 4–6 months.
How do you reheat leftover turkey safely?
Reheat to 165°F (74°C). Add a splash of broth and cover it so it doesn't dry out.
Related
Storage times: USDA FoodKeeper data. Recipe ideas are general suggestions. General information, not medical advice.