Leftover ham after Thanksgiving follows slightly different storage times than leftover turkey, so do not copy the turkey chart blindly. The USDA ham storage chart lists 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator and 1 to 2 months in the freezer for quality for spiral-cut hams and leftovers from consumer-cooked hams. Reheat leftover ham to 165°F. For cooking the ham in the first place, see how to cook a ham for Thanksgiving. Only use leftovers that were refrigerated within 2 hours and are still within 3 to 4 days, unless a specific food has a different USDA window. Reheat mixed dishes to 165°F. See how long leftovers last and USDA leftover guidance.
Breakfast and simple meals
Dice leftover ham and fold it into scrambled eggs, an omelet, or a frittata, heating it until the ham is at 165°F and the eggs are set. It also works in leftover turkey hash if both meats were stored safely. Thin slices can go into sandwiches with leftover rolls and a little mustard. Because ham is saltier than turkey, taste before you add more salt.
Soup and casseroles
A pot of split pea, bean, or potato soup is a classic leftover-ham move. Simmer the diced ham in the soup until it is thoroughly hot. You can also add leftover ham to a leftover stuffing breakfast casserole or to mac and cheese, using the same 165°F check in the center of the bake. Do not mix in ham that sat out too long.
How long leftover ham keeps
Follow the ham chart, not the turkey 3 to 4 day leftover line, when you are dating the container. Freeze leftover ham in small portions if you will not use it within 3 to 5 days; the quality window in the freezer is 1 to 2 months, even though frozen ham stays safe longer at 0°F. For wrapping and packing, see how to store Thanksgiving leftovers. More leftover ideas are in the leftovers guide.
Helpful kitchen tools
- OXO Good Grips Slicing Knife — A sharp slicing knife makes leftover ham easy to shave or dice.
- TempPro TP19H 1-Second Digital Meat Thermometer — Leftover cooked ham should be reheated to 165°F.
- Pyrex Deep 9×13-Inch Glass Baking Dish with Lid — A lidded dish holds leftover ham in the refrigerator.
- Stasher Silicone Reusable Food Storage Bags, 4-Pack — Useful for freezing leftover ham in small portions.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does leftover ham last in the fridge?
USDA lists 3 to 5 days for spiral-cut hams and leftovers from consumer-cooked hams. Reheat leftover ham to 165°F.
Can I freeze leftover ham?
Yes. USDA lists 1 to 2 months for quality. Wrap it tightly and thaw it in the refrigerator.
Is leftover ham storage the same as leftover turkey?
Not exactly. Use the USDA ham chart for ham, and the leftover turkey guidance for turkey. Do not assume the times are identical.