How to Store Turkey Leftovers Properly So They Stay Fresh and Delicious

The star of many holiday meals is often a beautifully roasted turkey. After spending time preparing cooking and enjoying this special entree you’re likely left with plenty of tasty leftovers. However, improperly stored turkey can quickly go bad, leading to wasted food and possible food borne illness. Follow these tips to safely store turkey leftovers and enjoy delicious sandwiches, casseroles and other creative recipes for days after your initial meal.

Refrigerating Leftover Turkey

Refrigeration is the first step to storing cooked turkey safely. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, all leftovers should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking. This prevents bacteria growth that can occur if food remains in the “danger zone” between 40°F and 140°F.

Once your meal is finished, make refrigerating the turkey a top priority. Don’t leave it sitting out for longer than two hours. If any portion of the turkey is still warm when you’re ready to refrigerate, it’s best to divide it into smaller shallow containers so it cools down faster. A large, deep container of warm turkey will take a long time to fully chill in the center, allowing bacteria to multiply to unsafe levels.

Always use clean, covered containers for refrigerated leftovers. This prevents contamination and keeps the turkey moist. Glass or plastic containers all work well. For especially large amounts like a whole leftover turkey carcass, you may want to loosely tent foil over the container to allow air flow.

Freezing Leftover Turkey

While refrigeration preserves turkey for several days, freezing extends the shelf life for months. Well-wrapped frozen turkey remains safe to eat indefinitely, though quality slowly declines over time. For best flavor and texture, try to eat frozen leftovers within four months.

When freezing turkey, divide it into meal-sized portions so you can thaw only what you need at one time. Freezing in a single block will make it hard to separate pieces. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap, foil or place in freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. This prevents freezer burn which can dry out the turkey. Label each package with the date and contents.

Freeze the turkey as soon as possible after refrigerating Don’t wait more than four days The sooner it’s frozen, the higher the quality will remain. Portions of turkey freeze well for use in casseroles, soups, sandwiches and other recipes. Even leftovers like homemade gravy and stock can be frozen.

Thawing Frozen Turkey Safely

Proper thawing is essential for food safety Never thaw turkey leftovers on the counter, Bacteria can multiply rapidly at room temperature The safest method is thawing in the refrigerator, Place the frozen turkey in a rimmed dish to catch drips and thaw in the refrigerator overnight or up to two days,

For quicker thawing, you can run cold water over the frozen turkey in a water-tight bag or container. Change the water every 30 minutes until it’s thawed. Cook immediately after thawing. Don’t refreeze thawed turkey.

How Long Does Leftover Turkey Last?

According to the USDA, cooked turkey that has been continuously refrigerated will stay safe and retain good quality for three to four days after initial cooking. After this time, it’s best to discard the turkey. Make sure to use refrigerated leftovers within this time frame.

Frozen turkey that’s properly wrapped and stored at 0°F or below will stay safe indefinitely, though quality slowly declines. For best flavor and texture, frozen leftovers should be eaten within four months.

Always rely on your senses instead of the date. Discard any turkey that smells bad, looks slimy or moldy or otherwise seems off. Don’t taste questionable leftovers. When in doubt, throw it out. Food safety isn’t worth getting sick.

Storing Turkey Bones and Carcass

One decision after enjoying a turkey dinner is what to do with the leftover carcass and bones. These can be used to prepare flavorful broth or soup stock. Make sure to remove any meat remaining on the bones and refrigerate it properly first.

The turkey carcass and bones themselves don’t need refrigeration right away if you plan to use them within two days. Simply place them in a clean container or bag, removing as much air as possible, and store in the pantry or another cool, dry place.

To freeze for longer storage, place bones in freezer bags and lay flat so they freeze solid. They can be kept frozen for three to four months before use in cooking stocks and broths.

Creative Uses for Leftover Turkey

Don’t resign yourself to boring old turkey sandwiches. Get creative with leftovers and avoid wasting any precious turkey. Here are some delicious options for using up every last bit:

• Turkey casseroles – Combine turkey with veggies, pasta, rice, cheese, etc.

• Turkey soup – Simmer turkey meat and bones into stock for nourishing soup.

• Turkey tetrazzini – A popular casserole of turkey, noodles and creamy sauce.

• Turkey salad wraps – Dice turkey and mix with mayo, celery, cranberries, nuts, etc.

• Turkey pot pie – Comforting and delicious. You can make mini pot pies too.

• Tacos with turkey – Add shredded turkey, salsa, avocado, cheese, etc.

• Turkey enchiladas – Roll up spiced turkey in tortillas and smother with sauce.

• Turkey hash – Diced turkey, potatoes, veggies, eggs and seasonings.

With proper refrigeration and freezing techniques, you can safely enjoy delicious leftover turkey for many meals to come. Follow the suggestions above for storing turkey correctly after your holiday feast. Then get creative with the leftovers! Your taste buds will thank you.