The best part of Thanksgiving may be the day after. With a little planning, leftover turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce can become five or six new meals. Here are ten ideas, plus the food-safety rules that keep them safe to eat.
First, store leftovers safely
- Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking, in shallow containers so they cool quickly.
- Eat refrigerated leftovers within 3 to 4 days, or freeze them for 2 to 3 months.
- Reheat to 74 C (165 F) all the way through, and bring gravy and soups to a full boil.
- Freeze portions flat in bags, and label them with the date.
10 ways to use Thanksgiving leftovers
- 1. Turkey sandwich with stuffing and cranberry: our leftover sandwich is the classic.
- 2. Turkey soup: simmer the carcass and meat into a cozy turkey soup.
- 3. Chicken and turkey pot pie: use leftover turkey in a pot pie with peas and carrots.
- 4. Stuffing waffles or muffins: press cold stuffing into a waffle iron or muffin tin and crisp it.
- 5. Mashed potato pancakes: mix cold mashed potatoes with egg and flour, then pan-fry until golden.
- 6. Turkey tacos or quesadillas: shred the meat with chili powder and cumin.
- 7. Cranberry yogurt parfait or oatmeal topping: stir leftover cranberry sauce into yogurt.
- 8. Turkey fried rice: stir-fry day-old rice with turkey, peas and soy sauce.
- 9. Sweet potato hash: cube leftover sweet potatoes and crisp them with onion for a breakfast hash with eggs.
- 10. Pie for breakfast: leftover pie is good with coffee or yogurt, and no one is judging.
Tips to make leftovers taste fresh
- Add moisture when reheating turkey: a splash of broth or gravy and a covered dish.
- Crisp things at the end: finish stuffing, potatoes and rolls uncovered or in a hot pan.
- Brighten rich flavors with something fresh: pickles, lemon, herbs or a crisp salad.
- Cut the turkey off the bone before storing, so it cools faster and is ready to use.
Frequently asked questions
How long can Thanksgiving turkey stay in the fridge?
Three to four days at 4 C (40 F) or below. After that, freeze it or throw it out.
Can I freeze mashed potatoes and stuffing?
Yes, for 2 to 3 months. Potatoes can turn grainy; add a little butter or cream when reheating. Stuffing freezes well.
Is it safe to eat leftover turkey cold?
Yes, as long as it was stored in the fridge promptly and within the time limit.
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