Preserve the Flavor of Thanksgiving with Safe Leftover Handling

How long is it safe to eat Thanksgiving leftovers?

According to the guidelines from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Thanksgiving leftovers are safe to eat within three to four days when stored properly in the refrigerator at or below 40°F. However, different food items have varying storage times:

Cooked turkey can be kept for 3 to 4 days. Cooked ham also lasts for 3 to 4 days. Stuffing and gravy are good for 1 to 2 days. Casseroles and cooked vegetables can be stored for 3 to 4 days. Cranberry sauce can stay fresh for up to 7 days.

To ensure safety, it's crucial to store leftovers within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth. Using shallow containers helps food cool quickly. And always reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F.

By Monday, make sure to either enjoy, freeze, or discard any remaining leftovers to avoid food safety issues.

Is it OK to freeze leftovers after they’ve been in the refrigerator?

If you need more time to savor your leftovers, freezing is an excellent option. Most items can remain in the freezer for two to six months. Leftovers can be frozen up to three days after being stored in the fridge.

While freezing may slightly impact the quality, it guarantees that your food remains safe to eat for an extended period. For the best quality, consume frozen leftovers within two to six months and store them in airtight containers to prevent freezer burn.

Creative ways to use your leftovers

The post-Thanksgiving leftovers sandwich is a true holiday classic. Packed with turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and a generous spread of gravy or mayo, this sandwich combines all the best elements of the Thanksgiving meal into a convenient handheld form. USA TODAY even has a recipe for the perfect leftovers sandwich.

Other creative ideas include turning leftover turkey into a hearty soup or casserole. Use the stuffing as a stuffing crust for a pizza. Mix cranberry sauce with cream cheese for a delicious spread. And don't forget about using leftover cooked vegetables in stir-fries or omelets.

With a little creativity, you can extend the enjoyment of your Thanksgiving leftovers and make the most of this post-holiday time.