Roast Math

How Long Is Leftover Turkey Good? (USDA Storage Times)

By Tam Vu · Updated

On this page
  1. The 2-hour rule
  2. Storing leftovers
  3. Freezing
  4. Quick checks
  5. Reheating leftovers
  6. Sources

The USDA's limits for turkey, stuffing and gravy after the meal:

Where How long
Left out at room temperature 2 hours, or 1 hour if it's above 90 °F
Refrigerator use within 3 to 4 days
Freezer use within 2 to 6 months

The 2-hour rule

Throw out any turkey, stuffing or gravy that has sat at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If the room or picnic spot is hotter than 90 °F, the limit is 1 hour.

Storing leftovers

  • Divide into smaller portions. Big pots and whole birds cool slowly in the middle.
  • Use covered, shallow containers in the refrigerator or freezer so the food cools quicker.
  • Label containers with the date so you know when the 3 to 4 days are up.

Freezing

The USDA says to use frozen leftovers within 2 to 6 months. Freeze portions early, on day 1 or 2, rather than on day 4 of their refrigerator time.

Quick checks

  • Cooked Thursday evening, refrigerated within 2 hours: use by Sunday or Monday (3 to 4 days).
  • Left on the buffet all afternoon: past the 2-hour limit, throw it out.

Reheating leftovers

FSIS says cooked turkey may be served cold or reheated. Reheat it to 165 °F, checked with a food thermometer. For oven reheating, set the oven no lower than 325 °F; adding broth or water and covering the turkey helps keep it moist. In a microwave, cover and rotate the food for even heating, allow standing time, then check that it reached 165 °F.

Sources