Leftover cooked turkey lasts 3-4 days in the fridge at 40°F or below. Freeze it for about 4 months of best quality (6 months in broth or gravy); it stays safe indefinitely at 0°F.
Storage times from USDA, FoodSafety.gov, FDA and university extension services. Checked .
How long does cooked turkey last in the fridge?
3–4 days at 40°F (4°C) or below.
Can you freeze cooked turkey?
Yes. For best quality use it within 4 months. Plain pieces; pieces in broth or gravy 6 months; best quality; safe indefinitely at 0°F.
- Carve meat off the bone before refrigerating or freezing.
- Freeze slices in broth or gravy to keep them moist.
After thawing: Thaw in the fridge and use within 3-4 days, or reheat straight from frozen to 165°F; fridge-thawed portions can be refrozen.
How long can cooked turkey sit out?
No more than 2 hours at room temperature, or 1 hour when it's above 90°F (USDA's 2-hour rule). After that, throw it out.
How to tell if cooked turkey has gone bad
- Sour or off smell
- Slimy surface
- Mold
Bacteria that cause food poisoning don't always change the look or smell of food, so go by the storage times above. When in doubt, throw it out.
Questions people ask
How long do Thanksgiving turkey leftovers last?
Use cooked turkey within 3-4 days, or freeze it. Store stuffing separately from the bird.
Should I cut up the turkey before refrigerating?
Yes. Slice the breast meat and cut the carcass into smaller parts so it cools quickly; legs and wings can stay whole.
Can you freeze cooked turkey?
Yes. Frozen at 0°F, cooked turkey stays safe indefinitely; for best quality use it within 4 months.
How long does sliced turkey last in the fridge?
Cooked turkey keeps 3–4 days in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.
How long can cooked turkey sit out?
No more than 2 hours at room temperature, or 1 hour when it's above 90°F (USDA's 2-hour rule). After that, throw it out.
Can you freeze leftover turkey?
Yes. Frozen at 0°F, cooked turkey stays safe indefinitely; for best quality use it within 4 months.
How long does cooked turkey last in the fridge?
Cooked turkey keeps 3–4 days in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.