Ground turkey is a healthy alternative to ground beef that can be used in a lot of different dishes, like burgers, tacos, and chili. No matter how you like to use ground turkey, you should know how to store it safely so you can have it when you need it.
Ground turkey is a healthy and versatile protein that can be used in everything from weeknight dinners to holiday meals. Its lean nature makes it a smart choice for those looking to reduce fat and calories in their diet. Luckily, ground turkey freezes beautifully allowing you to stock up when it goes on sale or prep recipes in advance. But how long does frozen ground turkey actually last? Here’s what you need to know about maximizing ground turkey’s freezer life.
Optimal Frozen Storage Time
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends using or freezing raw ground turkey within 1-2 days of purchasing it. If frozen immediately, the USDA says uncooked ground turkey will maintain best quality for up to 4 months in the freezer. Ground turkey that has been cooked will keep for 3-4 months in the freezer.
It’s important to note that frozen ground turkey remains safe to eat beyond these timeframes, but the texture and flavor will steadily deteriorate. Many sources recommend using frozen ground turkey within 6 months for optimal taste and texture.
Proper Freezing Method
To get the longest freezer life out of ground turkey, it’s important to freeze it properly. Here are some tips:
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Make sure ground turkey is fresh before freezing Do not freeze meat that is past its sell-by date.
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Separate ground turkey into usable portions Flatten to remove air pockets,
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Place turkey in moisture-proof packaging or plastic freezer bags. Squeeze out excess air and seal tightly.
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Label packages with contents and freeze-by date. Place in coldest part of freezer, 0°F or below.
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Once frozen, packages can be combined into larger bags to consolidate freezer space.
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Avoid refreezing thawed ground turkey; it’s best to cook first then refreeze.
Freezer Burn & Food Safety
When stored for long periods, frozen ground turkey can develop freezer burn or icy spots on its surface. This dries out the meat, causing flavor and texture changes. Though freezer-burned meat is still safe to eat, the quality is diminished. To avoid freezer burn:
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Use moisture-proof freezer bags or airtight containers.
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Remove as much air as possible prior to freezing.
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Avoid overpacking the freezer, as temperature fluctuations can cause freezer burn.
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Inspect turkey for signs of freezer burn before use. Trim off any dried sections before cooking.
It’s also critical to pay attention to food safety with frozen ground turkey. Always inspect for signs of spoilage before cooking. Do not use turkey that has an off odor, strange coloring, or feels slimy or tacky. When in doubt, throw it out.
Thawing Frozen Ground Turkey
Always thaw frozen ground turkey in the refrigerator, not on the counter. Place it on a plate or in a pan to catch any drips. For a 1-pound package, thaw overnight in the fridge or 24 hours in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. Microwave defrosting is okay if cooking immediately after; be sure to cook thoroughly.
Tips for Cooking Previously Frozen Ground Turkey
Previously frozen ground turkey requires some special care when cooking. To prevent bacterial growth, it’s critical that the meat reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a food thermometer to verify doneness.
Here are some other frozen ground turkey cooking tips:
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Add a bit more cooking time, as frozen meat takes longer. Watch carefully to avoid overcooking.
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Defrost first for more even cooking, better texture.
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Sauté over medium-high heat rather than high to prevent burning.
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Add extra moisture by combining with sauces, gravies or veggies.
Creative Ways to Use Frozen Ground Turkey
The good news is frozen ground turkey can be used in all the same ways as fresh. Here are some delicious options:
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Turkey Burger – Thaw in fridge overnight and grill, broil or pan fry for a healthy burger. Top with cheese, lettuce, tomato, avocado – anything goes!
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Turkey Tacos – Spice up thawed ground turkey with taco seasoning and sauté to make easy, protein-packed tacos.
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Turkey Bolognese Sauce – Use defrosted ground turkey instead of beef to put a lighter spin on this hearty pasta sauce.
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Turkey Meatballs – Make a big batch of baked turkey meatballs and freeze half to enjoy later with pasta and marinara.
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Turkey Chili – Ground turkey provides a lean base for turkey chili; just add beans, tomatoes, spices and simmer.
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Turkey Stir Fry – Toss cubed turkey breast or thawed ground turkey into a stir fry along with veggies and teriyaki. Fast and healthy!
The Bottom Line
Ground turkey can be frozen for maximum quality for 4 months according to the USDA. For ideal taste and texture, use frozen ground turkey within 6 months. With proper storage methods, ground turkey can be frozen for convenience without sacrificing too much quality. Thaw safely in the refrigerator before cooking. Previously frozen ground turkey works beautifully in all your favorite recipes, from simple sautés to burgers and tacos. Follow safe handling tips and frozen ground turkey will retain both its flavor and convenience.
How Long Can Ground Turkey Sit Out on the Counter?
Per the US Department of Agriculture, or the USDA, raw turkey should not be left out for more than 2 hours (one hour if at a temperature more than 90 degrees). However, I would leave in the fridge until you are ready to use to be safe.
Cooked ground turkey shouldn’t be left out at room temperature for more than two hours, just like raw ground turkey.
How to Tell if Ground Turkey is Bad?
When turkey or other poultry starts to go bad, it can grow bacteria that are bad for you, like salmonella. Luckily, your senses will help you when determining whether ground turkey has gone bad.
Ground turkey should have a light pink color with specks of white fat. If it starts to turn a darker color or a yellow color, it is going bad. Also, if you notice any mold or visible change in texture I would also throw it out.
If there is any unpleasant oder to you ground turkey, throw it out. Ground turkey shouldn’t smell bad, so if you smell something bad, it’s probably gone bad.
If the texture of your ground turkey feels off, get rid of it. Most likely, your turkey has gone bad if you notice that it is slimy, unusually dry, or sticky.
If you don’t notice anything strange about the way something looks, smells, or feels, but it doesn’t taste right when you start to eat it, stop and throw it away. The risks of food poisoning are certainly not worth taking a chance. As I always say, when in doubt, throw it out.
How long can food stay in your freezer?
FAQ
Can frozen ground turkey go bad?
Is a 2 year frozen turkey safe to eat?
Is 2 year old frozen hamburger still good?
How long can a turkey be frozen before it goes bad?
How long does ground turkey last in the freezer?
Do you like this article? When properly stored in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, ground turkey can last in the freezer for up to 3-4 months. However, for optimal quality, it’s best to use frozen ground turkey within 2-3 months.
Can ground turkey be frozen?
* Place the packages of ground turkey in the freezer as soon as possible after they are cooked. This will help to preserve the quality of the meat. How Long to Freeze Ground Turkey Ground turkey can be frozen for up to 3 months. After 3 months, the quality of the meat will start to deteriorate. How to Thaw Frozen Ground Turkey
How long can you eat frozen ground turkey?
While ground turkey that has been properly frozen and stored at 0°F (-18°C) or below will remain safe to eat indefinitely, it is recommended to use it within three months for the best quality and taste. Can you freeze ground turkey in its original packaging?
How do you store a frozen ground turkey?
Place the ground turkey in freezer bags or airtight containers. Be sure to leave enough space for the ground turkey to expand as it freezes. 3. Label the bags or containers with the date and type of meat. This will help you keep track of how long the ground turkey has been frozen.
What happens if you freeze ground turkey?
Freezer burn occurs when food is exposed to air in the freezer. This can cause the food to dry out and develop a discolored, leathery texture. However, if you freeze ground turkey properly, you can minimize these risks and enjoy delicious, safe ground turkey months after you freeze it.
Can you put a cooked turkey in the freezer?
Be sure that your freezer is at the proper temperature and open as little as possible so it can maintain freshness longer. Cooked ground turkey can also be stored in the freezer. After cooking, allow it to cool completely then store in airtight freezer safe bags or containers in the freezer. Do not put hot turkey into the freezer.