Can You Freeze Honey Baked Ham Turkey Breast?

Honey baked ham and turkey are holiday favorites for many families. The sweet and savory glazed ham and tender sliced turkey breast are delicious but often leave lots of leftovers after the big feast. Freezing the leftovers is a great way to save them for future meals and make the most of your holiday centerpiece. But can you actually freeze honey baked ham and turkey?

Freezing Honey Baked Ham Turkey Breast

Yes, you can absolutely freeze both honey baked ham and turkey breast. According to the Honey Baked Ham Company, their hams and turkey breasts can be frozen for up to 6 weeks after opening

To keep Honey Baked goods from getting freezer burn, it’s important to wrap them correctly before freezing them. Wrap each piece tightly in aluminum foil before putting it in a freezer bag or other container that won’t let air in. Get rid of as much air as you can and seal the container all the way.

Proper freezing allows you to enjoy delicious Honey Baked ham and turkey for weeks after the holidays. It saves you from having to eat it all in just a few days and wasting the leftovers.

Steps for Freezing Honey Baked Ham and Turkey

Follow these simple steps for freezing Honey Baked ham and turkey:

• Allow ham and turkey to cool completely after baking. Refrigerate any leftovers within 2 hours.

• Slice or portion ham and turkey into meal-sized servings. Freeze in usable amounts that your household will realistically eat at one time.

• Wrap each portion very tightly in aluminum foil, pressing out as much air as possible. Foil prevents freezer burn.

• Place foil-wrapped portions in freezer bags or airtight containers, removing additional air. Seal tightly.

• Label bags or containers with contents and freeze-by date. Store ham up to 6 weeks and turkey up to 9 months.

• Freeze ham and turkey immediately at 0°F or below. Consistent freezing temperature preserves quality.

• Once frozen, packages can be stacked or consolidated to save freezer space.

Thawing Frozen Honey Baked Meats

To thaw Honey Baked ham and turkey breasts frozen using the steps above:

• Refrigerator: This is the safest thawing method. Place frozen packages on plates to catch drips and thaw overnight in the fridge.

• Cold Water: For faster thawing, seal meat in a plastic bag and submerge in cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes until thawed.

• Microwave: Only partially thaw in the microwave if cooking immediately after. Use defrost setting and check often to prevent cooking edges.

Avoid thawing ham or turkey at room temperature or in hot water. This allows bacteria to grow on the exterior before the inside thaws.

Cook thawed meats immediately and do not refreeze for food safety.

Cooking Previously Frozen Ham and Turkey

Honey baked ham and turkey that has been properly frozen retains much of its original juicy texture and flavor when cooked again after thawing.

You can cook thawed ham in the oven, grill it for glazed ham steaks, slice it for sandwiches, dice it for omelets or hash, and more.

Thawed turkey breast can be used in any recipe calling for cooked turkey. Enjoy it in salads, sandwiches, casseroles, soups, wraps, and other dishes.

As a fully cooked product, ham and turkey just need to be reheated to 165°F until hot and steaming before serving. Use a meat thermometer to verify the temperature.

Storing Thawed Ham and Turkey

For food safety, thawed ham or turkey should not sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours before cooking.

Store any uneaten thawed and cooked ham or turkey in the refrigerator. Use within 3 to 5 days for maximum freshness. Do not refreeze previously frozen ham or turkey once it has been thawed.

With proper freezing, thawing, and storage methods, you can enjoy Honey Baked ham and turkey for holidays and meals weeks after purchasing. Follow safe handling tips and consume thawed meats promptly after cooking.