Can You Reheat McDonald's?
Written by Jordan Morley · Reviewed against FSA/NHS reheating guidance · Last updated 28 October 2026
Yes, you can reheat McDonald's — if it went in the fridge within 2 hours of arriving. Reheat once, until piping hot throughout (75°C).
What makes it safe (or not)
Reheating leftover McDonald's is safe under the same rules as home-cooked food — the catch is that takeaway food has already been cooked, transported and left out while you ate, so its safe window is partly used up. If it was refrigerated within 2 hours of delivery, you can reheat once until piping hot. If the containers sat out all evening or overnight, throw them away. Rice dishes deserve extra caution: refrigerate within 1 hour and eat within 24 hours.
You can also check the calorie content of mcdonald's alongside its safety information.
How to reheat mcdonald's safely
- Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of the food arriving (1 hour for rice dishes).
- Eat within 1–2 days (24 hours for rice).
- Reheat in the oven, pan or microwave until piping hot all the way through — 75°C (165°F). Stir rice and noodle dishes halfway.
- Eat immediately; never reheat takeaway leftovers twice.
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Traps steam so food heats evenly — the main cause of cold spots is dry heating.
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More kitchen essentials
Oven thermometer
Oven temperatures drift — a thermometer keeps cooking accurate.
Check Price →McDonald's: the other answers on this site
| Question | Short answer (links to the full page) |
|---|---|
| In pregnancy | Safe |
Common questions
Can you reheat McDonald's that was left out overnight?
No — throw it away. Bacteria multiply rapidly at room temperature, and some produce toxins that reheating can't destroy. No reheat can rescue food left out overnight.
What is the best way to reheat mcdonald's?
Burgers reheat best in a hot oven or an air fryer; fries need the oven or air fryer to crisp again. The microwave works for burgers but makes the bun and fries soft.
Can you reheat McDonald's twice?
No — once only. Portion out what you'll eat and leave the rest chilled.
How long do McDonald's leftovers last in the fridge?
1–2 days, assuming they were refrigerated promptly. Rice-based dishes: 24 hours.
Is the microwave OK for McDonald's?
Yes — it's the standard method. Cover the food, stir halfway, and make sure the centre is steaming hot before eating.
Related answers
Primary source: FSA/NHS reheating guidance.
General information only, not medical advice: see the medical disclaimer. Feeling unwell after eating something? Contact NHS 111 or your GP.