Holiday meals often leave behind plenty of leftovers. With the right storage and reheating techniques, those extra servings can become safe, tasty meals for days (or months) to come.  

Keep Food Out of the “Danger Zone” 

Bacteria thrive between 40 degrees and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. To prevent foodborne illness: 

• Refrigerate perishable items within 2 hours of cooking—or within 1 hour if it's more than 90 degrees Fahrenheit. 
• Store leftovers in shallow containers to cool quickly and evenly. 
• Cut large items like turkey or ham into smaller portions before refrigerating. 

Storing Smart 

• Wrap leftovers tightly in airtight containers or heavy-duty foil. 
• Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3–4 days. 
• Freeze for longer storage: leftovers stay safe for up to 3–4 months. 
• For best taste and texture, use frozen leftovers within 2–6 months. 

Reheating Right 

• Reheat food to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. 
• Use a food thermometer, especially for dense items like casseroles or roasts. 
• Bring soups and sauces to a rolling boil. 
• In the microwave: 
  • Spread food evenly. 
  • Add a splash of liquid for moisture. 
  • Cover loosely and rotate during cooking. 

Thawing Safely 

• Defrost in the refrigerator, under cold running water, or in the microwave. 
• Food thawed in water or the microwave should be cooked immediately. 
• You can refreeze leftovers after reheating them to 165°F. 

Bonus Tip: Stuffing Safety 

• Always cook stuffing to an internal temp of 165°F, whether inside poultry or on its own. 
• Combine wet and dry ingredients just before cooking. 
• Bake any extra stuffing in a separate casserole dish. 

Handled properly, leftovers aren’t just safe—they're a delicious encore to your holiday celebration. 

Connect with your Health Promotions team through Semper Fit at your installation for tips on safe food storage, nutrition, and making the most of your leftovers.