How to Reheat Leftovers Safely

The guidance below summarizes current U.S. USDA and FDA recommendations for reheating leftovers at home. Follow recipe-specific or package instructions when they are more specific.

Reheat leftovers thoroughly

USDA and FDA recommend reheating leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). A food thermometer is the reliable way to verify the temperature.

Check more than one spot

Food can heat unevenly, especially in a microwave. USDA recommends checking reheated leftovers in several places.

Stir, rotate and allow standing time in the microwave

FDA and USDA recommend covering food and stirring or rotating it during microwave reheating to reduce cold spots. Allow the recommended standing time before checking temperature.

Bring soups, sauces and gravies to a boil

FDA guidance advises bringing sauces, soups and gravies to a boil when reheating.

Reheating cannot fix unsafe storage

Food that has spent too long at unsafe temperatures should not be treated as safe simply because it is reheated. USDA notes that some bacteria can produce heat-resistant toxins when food is mishandled.

Plan reheating when you plan the leftover

An intentional leftover is only useful when there is a safe and practical way to store and reheat it. Consider reheating as part of the plan rather than as an afterthought.

A leftover is not ready to eat again simply because it feels warm. Reheat it according to authoritative safety guidance.