How Long is Turkey Broth Good For in the Refrigerator? The Complete Guide

Turkey broth is a delicious and nutritious staple in many kitchens. Whether you’ve just prepared a whole turkey and want to use the bones to make stock, or you picked up some turkey broth at the store, you may be wondering just how long it will last in the fridge. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide the scoop on turkey broth refrigerator shelf life so you can enjoy this versatile ingredient without worry.

Overview of Turkey Broth Shelf Life

The shelf life of turkey broth depends primarily on two factors whether it is homemade or store-bought, and whether it stays refrigerated or frozen Here is a quick overview

• Homemade turkey broth: 3-4 days in the refrigerator; 4-6 months in the freezer
• Store-bought turkey broth: 5-7 days after opening; check package for unopened shelf life

The main takeaway is that broth lasts longer when frozen compared to refrigerated. But with proper storage methods, both homemade and store-bought turkey broth can last for a reasonable length of time in the fridge.

Maximizing Refrigerator Shelf Life of Turkey Broth

Follow these tips and tricks to get the most mileage out of your turkey broth while refrigerated:

• Cool broth quickly before refrigerating Get the broth into the fridge within 2 hours of cooking, Divide into smaller containers so it cools faster

• Use airtight containers. Glass jars or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids work best. This prevents moisture loss and contamination from food odors.

• Refrigerate promptly after use. As soon as you take broth out to use in cooking, refrigerate any leftovers immediately.

• Check for signs of spoilage. If broth smells bad, looks discolored, or has visible mold, err on the safe side and discard it.

• Don’t rely on sight/smell alone if broth is older than recommended fridge times. Discard at the first signs of looking or smelling “off” once past prime storage times.

• When in doubt, throw it out! Don’t take risks with old broth.

Step-By-Step Guide to Refrigerating Homemade Turkey Broth

Follow these steps when refrigerating turkey broth you made from scratch at home:

1. Allow broth to cool at room temperature for 1 hour after cooking.

2. Divide into smaller containers or jars, leaving 1 inch of headspace. This encourages faster chilling.

3. Label containers with date of preparation before refrigerating.

4. Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking. Do not exceed 4 days storage.

5. Use clean utensils to remove portions needed for cooking. Never put used utensils back into broth.

6. Bring broth to a rolling boil when reheating after refrigeration. This ensures safety.

7. Discard any remaining broth after 4 days. Do not consume if smell or appearance is off.

Tips for Refrigerating Store-Bought Turkey Broth

For pre-packaged turkey broth:

• Check label for sell-by/use-by date and don’t purchase if close to expiration.

• Once opened, refrigerate broth immediately in original container. Do not transfer to new containers.

• Discard within 5-7 days of opening, even if broth looks/smells normal. Don’t risk keeping it longer.

• Write the date opened on the container so you know when to discard.

• If turkey broth comes frozen in a pouch, you can safely thaw in the refrigerator overnight before opening.

Keeping Turkey Broth Even Longer by Freezing

For long term storage, the freezer is ideal for extending the shelf life of turkey broth. Here are some freezing tips:

• Cool broth completely before freezing. Divide into portions based on recipe needs or in ice cube trays.

• Use freezer-safe airtight containers, allowing 1⁄2 inch headspace. Rigid plastic containers or freezer bags work well.

• Label each container with contents and date. Place newer containers towards the back of the freezer.

• Frozen broth stays safe indefinitely, but for optimal flavor and texture, use within 4-6 months.

• Thaw frozen broth safely in the fridge overnight before using. Do not refreeze thawed broth.

Serving Ideas to Use Up Turkey Broth Before It Spoils

To avoid wasting turkey broth, get creative with ways to use it in recipes:

• Replace water or other liquids in soups, stews, risotto, or sauces.

• Make turkey noodle soup or broth-basedTurkey and Wild Rice Soup.

• Braise or simmer veggies like green beans, carrots, or onions in broth.

• Use as the poaching liquid for chicken, fish, or eggs.

• Cook rice, quinoa or other grains in broth instead of water.

• Make a savory broth-based gravy to top meats.

• Reduce broth to concentrate flavors for concentrated broth.

• Freeze broth in ice cube trays then pop out cubes to add flavor whenever needed.

FAQs

Let’s answer some frequently asked questions on turkey broth storage:

How can you tell if turkey broth has gone bad?

Signs of spoiled broth include an off smell, abnormal color, slimy texture, or mold growth. When in doubt, discard broth that is past recommended fridge/freezer times.

Can turkey broth be frozen after refrigerating?

Yes, turkey broth can go straight from the refrigerator into the freezer within 4 days of preparation. Freeze in airtight containers leaving headspace.

What is the best way to thaw frozen turkey broth?

Thaw frozen broth slowly in the refrigerator overnight. Do not thaw at room temperature or in hot water to avoid food safety risks.

Can you refreeze turkey broth after thawing?

It is not recommended to refreeze thawed turkey broth. Refreezing can compromise the flavor and texture.

Is expired turkey broth safe to use?

Do not use turkey broth after the expiration or use-by date printed on the packaging, even if it looks or smells normal. Expired broth may harbor dangerous bacteria. When in doubt, throw it out.

The Takeaway on Turkey Broth Storage

With proper refrigeration and freezing methods, both homemade and store-bought turkey broth can be preserved for days, weeks, or even months. But always err on the side of caution. If broth has been sitting too long in the fridge or looks or smells questionable, don’t risk getting sick—just toss it out. Follow the storage recommendations in this guide, and your turkey broth will retain its flavor and nutrition for as long as possible.