Whether you have homemade or store-bought gravy, heres how long you can store this holiday favorite.
No Thanksgiving meal would be complete without gravy, regardless of whether you want to serve your roast turkey with the family’s classic casseroles and gratins or try some brand-new recipes. It is so often made in a large batch that you’ll probably have plenty left over at the end of the meal to enjoy with your other leftovers. It tastes better than anything, even turkey and mashed potatoes. But it’s crucial to understand how long gravy keeps in the refrigerator before that gravy boat makes its rounds in the coming days. We asked a food safety expert for insights.
Tamika Sims, Ph.D., senior director of Food Technology Communications at the International Food Information Council
Leftover gravy, the unsung hero of Thanksgiving dinner, can elevate your leftovers to new heights. But how long does gravy last before it goes bad?
The short answer:
- 3-4 days: According to the USDA, leftover gravy, whether homemade or from a jar, should be used or frozen within 3-4 days of making or opening it.
- 4-6 months: You can freeze gravy for 4-6 months, making it a convenient option for enjoying later.
Longer answer:
While the USDA guidelines provide a general timeframe, several factors can influence how long your gravy will last:
- Storage method: Storing gravy in an airtight container, like a glass jar or deli container, helps preserve it and protect it for longer.
- Freezing: Freezing gravy is a great way to extend its shelf life. You can freeze it in a freezer bag or ice cube trays for smaller portions. To reheat frozen gravy, thaw it in the fridge overnight or run it under cold water until defrosted.
- Signs of spoilage: Even within the recommended timeframe, it’s essential to check for signs of spoilage before consuming leftover gravy. If it has a sour taste or unpleasant aroma, discard it immediately.
Tips for storing and reheating gravy:
- Store in an airtight container: This will help prevent the gravy from drying out or absorbing unwanted flavors.
- Add a splash of water or stock before reheating: This will help offset any evaporation and prevent burning.
- Reheat until boiling: Ensure the gravy is heated thoroughly before serving.
- Check seasoning before serving: Adjust the seasoning as needed after reheating.
What to do if your gravy separates:
Don’t worry if your gravy separates; it doesn’t mean it’s gone bad, Simply add a little liquid and whisk it vigorously to recombine the ingredients
Remember:
- When in doubt, throw it out: If you’re unsure whether your gravy is still good, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard it.
- Follow proper food safety practices: Always store and reheat gravy according to the guidelines above to prevent foodborne illness.
Leftover gravy can be a delicious addition to your post-Thanksgiving meals, but it’s essential to handle it properly to ensure its safety and quality. By following the tips above, you can enjoy your gravy for days or even months to come.
How to Store It Properly
Gravy should be kept in a jar or airtight container, or covered with plastic wrap in a dish; when refrigerated, it will keep for at least three days.
If Added to Meat or Poultry
It can save guesswork to store store-bought gravy according to the label’s instructions, but Sims notes that if you use the gravy in a dish with meat or poultry, “you will need to treat it like the homemade gravy that would be prepped using meat and poultry.” This means when properly stored (see above), it should last three to four days in the refrigerator.