Leftover stuffing needs the same care as leftover turkey: keep it refrigerated, use it within 3 to 4 days, and reheat it to 165°F. USDA leftover guidance is especially important here because stuffing is moist, dense, and often packed deep in a dish, which means the center can lag behind the edges. A little broth and a cover keep it from drying out. This page is only about reheating. For muffins, waffles, or a breakfast bake, see what to do with leftover stuffing and leftover stuffing breakfast casserole.
Oven method
Heat the oven to 325°F or 350°F. Spread leftover stuffing in a shallow baking dish so it is not piled in a deep mound. Sprinkle or spoon on a little broth or stock if the leftover stuffing looks dry, then cover the dish with a lid or foil. Reheat until a thermometer in the center reads 165°F. If you want a crisper top, uncover the dish for the last few minutes after the center is already hot. Time varies with the depth of the pan, so trust the thermometer more than a clock.
Skillet and microwave
In a skillet, add a small splash of broth and reheat leftover stuffing over medium heat, turning it so the cold pockets warm through. The edges can get pleasantly crisp, but the middle still needs to reach 165°F. In the microwave, use a microwave-safe dish, cover and vent it, stir once or twice, and check the temperature in several places, as USDA leftover reheating advice recommends. Let it stand briefly, then check again, because dense stuffing can keep cooking in the center.
Start with leftovers that were stored safely
Only reheat stuffing that was removed from the turkey if it was cooked inside the bird, packed in its own shallow container, and refrigerated within 2 hours. See how to store Thanksgiving leftovers and how long leftovers last. Do not reheat stuffing that sat out too long; the 2-hour rule applies. If you are warming a whole leftover plate, pair this method with how to reheat leftover turkey and how to reheat leftover gravy. More leftover pages are collected in the Thanksgiving leftovers guide.
Helpful kitchen tools
- Pyrex Deep 9×13-Inch Glass Baking Dish with Lid — A lidded or foil-covered 9×13 is the easiest way to reheat a family-size pan of stuffing.
- TempPro TP19H 1-Second Digital Meat Thermometer — Check the center of the stuffing, not just the edge of the dish.
- OXO Good Grips Oven Thermometer — Helps you confirm the oven is actually at 325°F or 350°F.
- OXO Good Grips 2-Cup and 4-Cup Glass Measuring Cup Set — Useful for adding a measured splash of broth.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Frequently asked questions
What temperature should leftover stuffing reach?
Reheat leftover stuffing to 165°F in the center, whether you use the oven, a skillet, or the microwave.
Why is my leftover stuffing dry?
Add a little broth and keep the dish covered until the center is hot. Uncover only at the end if you want a crisper top.
Can I reheat stuffing that was cooked inside the turkey?
Yes, if you removed it from the bird before refrigerating, packed it in a shallow container within 2 hours, and it is still within 3 to 4 days.