Is cooked stuffing left out overnight okay?

Here's why:

* Bacteria Growth: Stuffing, especially if it contains meat, is a prime breeding ground for bacteria. Leaving it out at room temperature for an extended period allows bacteria to multiply rapidly, leading to food poisoning.

* Temperature Danger Zone: The "danger zone" for bacterial growth is between 40°F and 140°F. Leaving stuffing out overnight means it's likely to be within this danger zone for hours.

* Risk of Illness: Consuming bacteria-laden stuffing can cause food poisoning with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.

It's best to refrigerate cooked stuffing within two hours of it being cooked. It can safely be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

If you're worried about stuffing going bad, here are some tips:

* Make it ahead: Make the stuffing ahead of time and refrigerate it until you're ready to cook.

* Cook it in the oven: Stuffing cooked inside the turkey is less likely to be left out at room temperature for too long.

* Serve it hot: Make sure the stuffing is steaming hot when you serve it.

* Don't reheat leftovers: It's best to avoid reheating leftover stuffing, as it can become dry and less palatable.

Always err on the side of caution when it comes to food safety.