Use leftover turkey within 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator, or freeze it for later. The best next meals are simple: sandwiches, soup, and stock from the carcass. Carve leftover meat off the bone, get it into shallow containers within 2 hours of serving, and reheat leftovers to 165°F.
First, store it safely
| Step | What to do |
|---|---|
| Get it cold | Refrigerate within 2 hours (1 hour if the room is above 90°F) |
| How to pack | Carve the meat off the bone into shallow containers |
| Refrigerator life | 3 to 4 days, per USDA leftover guidance |
| Freezer | 2 to 6 months for best quality; still reheat to 165°F |
| Stock from the carcass | Simmer soon, or freeze the bones and make stock later |
Do not leave a whole roasted turkey on the counter while the dishes wait. The USDA two-hour rule applies to the meat, stuffing and gravy. For how long other leftovers keep, see how long Thanksgiving leftovers last. If you bought extra turkey on purpose, the per-person guide explains the 1½-pound planning amount.
Sandwiches, soup and stock
Sliced breast on bread with mayonnaise or leftover cranberry sauce is the fastest leftover meal. For soup, simmer chopped onions, carrots and celery, add leftover meat near the end, and use homemade or boxed broth. A pot of soup is also a good way to use up odds and ends of vegetables. Reheat any leftover soup to 165°F. Leftover gravy, stuffing and vegetables can go into the same pot, or into a simple pot pie or casserole baked until the center is 165°F. If the meat was not refrigerated on time, do not try to rescue it in a soup.
The carcass still has flavor. Cover the bones with water, add onion, carrot, celery and a bay leaf, and simmer until you have a light stock. Strain, cool, and refrigerate or freeze. The turkey-stock from the carcass article walks through that pot in more detail, and the reheating guide covers warming sliced meat without drying it out. The Thanksgiving guide links the rest of the leftover cluster.
Frequently asked questions
How long is leftover turkey good for?
Use it within 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator, or freeze it. Reheat to 165°F.
What can I make with leftover turkey?
Sandwiches, soup, pot pie, enchiladas or a simple casserole all work. Start with safely stored, carved meat, not a turkey that sat out too long.
Can I freeze leftover turkey?
Yes. Freeze it in portions for 2 to 6 months for best quality. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat to 165°F.
Helpful kitchen tools
- Stasher Silicone Reusable Food Storage Bags, 4-Pack — Portion leftover turkey for the refrigerator or freezer.
- Pyrex Deep 9×13-Inch Glass Baking Dish with Lid — A lidded dish for leftover casseroles or a turkey pot pie.
- OXO Good Grips Slicing Knife — Slices leftover breast cleanly for sandwiches.
- OXO Good Grips POP Container, 4.4 qt — Airtight storage for carved meat or cooled stock.
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