When to Toss Thanksgiving Leftovers According to Experts

If you are anything like me, Thanksgiving leftovers are basically a holiday food group all their own. While I enjoy a turkey sandwich, it's the leftover carbs like the stuffing, mashed potatoes, and the sweet potato casserole that I really love. But there is a fine line between “days of delicious leftovers” and “it’s time to let that casserole go.”

After several years of working in the food service industry, I personally stick to a strict three-day rule when it comes to leftovers. If it has been in my fridge for more than 72 hours, I am done. No questions asked. I'm not touching it.

The Vanderburgh County Health Department agrees that leftovers have an expiration date, and they are reminding everyone how to store holiday food safely so you are not spending Black Friday regretting your life choices.

How Fast You Need to Refrigerate Thanksgiving Leftovers

Once dinner is over, you only have a two-hour window before bacteria start to party. Make getting everything into the fridge or freezer within that time a priority. It's best to store food in shallow containers so it cools evenly and quickly. You also want to avoid putting food that's too hot into the refrigerator. That can raise the internal temperature above the food-safe zone of 40°.

Read More: Learn How to Safely Thaw Your Holiday Turkey

How Many Days Turkey and Stuffing Stay Safe

According to a USDA chart shared by the Vanderburgh County Health Department, most Thanksgiving leftovers stay safe for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. That goes for turkey, stuffing, gravy, potatoes, casseroles, and most sides. After that, it is time to freeze them or throw them out.

Expert Tips for Cooling and Storing Holiday Food

Here are a few reminders:

• Refrigerate or freeze leftovers within two hours.
• Use shallow containers for faster cooling.
• Eat or freeze leftovers within 3 to 4 days.
• If you are questioning it, trust your instincts. When in doubt, throw it out.
• The FDA has more helpful information about food refrigeration

When to Freeze Leftovers and When to Throw Them Away

Both the USDA’s refrigerator storage chart and the downloadable/printable one available from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration break down exactly how long common foods stay safe. Even if something looks fine, bacteria do not always announce themselves. In the case of leftovers, it’s better to be safe than sorry.