Burgers, tacos, chili, meatballs, lasagna – yep, ground turkey can do it all. We love cooking with ground turkey because this lean protein is just so versatile. And did we mention that it can be a low-fat alternative to ground beef? While we encourage you to get creative and test out turkey’s versatility in your mealtime favorites, there are some specific food safety tips to follow when handling and cooking ground turkey.
Ground turkey is a healthy and versatile meat that can be used in everything from burgers and meatballs to tacos and chili. However, proper cooking is essential to ensure ground turkey is safe to eat. This comprehensive guide will provide everything you need to know about achieving the right temperature when cooking ground turkey.
Why Temperature Matters with Ground Turkey
Cooking ground turkey thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) kills any harmful bacteria that may be present, including Salmonella and E coli Consuming undercooked turkey can lead to foodborne illness, with symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. Using a food thermometer is the only reliable way to confirm ground turkey reaches a safe final temperature.
USDA Recommended Minimum Temperature
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) advises cooking all ground poultry, including turkey, to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This temperature destroys pathogens that can cause food poisoning.
Ground turkey should always be cooked to 165°F even if the meat is not pink in color. Do not rely on visual cues to determine if ground turkey is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Average Cook Times for Ground Turkey
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Ground turkey patties or burgers generally take 7-12 minutes to cook over medium-high heat to reach the 165°F mark.
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The total cooking time will depend on the thickness and size of your turkey burgers. Larger thicker patties will require more time.
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Ground turkey crumbles for use in dishes like chili or pasta sauce need approximately 8-10 minutes of cooking to fully reach 165°F
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When in doubt, use a food thermometer to verify the internal temperature rather than relying solely on estimated cook times.
Why 165°F is Critical
Cooking ground turkey to the recommended safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F is necessary to eliminate illness-causing bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter.
Ground meats are more prone to bacterial contamination since the grinding process exposes more surface area to potential bacterial growth. Ground turkey should always be cooked thoroughly with no pink color remaining to be safe to eat.
Checking Temperature Accurately
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Use an instant-read digital meat thermometer to get the most accurate temperature reading.
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Insert the thermometer probe into the thickest part of the turkey, taking care that the probe is not touching bone.
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For patties, insert the thermometer through the side of the burger to get an accurate center reading.
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Take temperatures in several spots, especially for larger dishes, to confirm even doneness throughout.
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Do not rely solely on visual color changes or texture to gauge if ground turkey is fully cooked. Always take a temperature reading.
Key Safety Tips
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Always wash hands, utensils, and surfaces after handling raw turkey to prevent cross-contamination.
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Never leave cooked ground turkey dishes or raw turkey out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacteria growth. Refrigerate promptly.
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When reheating cooked ground turkey, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F.
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Defrost frozen ground turkey gradually in the refrigerator rather than at room temperature.
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Do not rinse raw turkey before cooking, as this can spread bacteria. Proper handling and thorough cooking are best practices.
Why You Should Never Eat Ground Turkey Rare
Ground turkey should never be consumed rare or medium-rare the way you can safely eat whole cuts of beef or lamb. The potential health risks make undercooked ground turkey unsafe to eat.
Ground turkey can only be served fully cooked to 165°F from a safety standpoint, even when shaped into burgers. The texture also suffers if ground turkey is undercooked. For optimal safety and taste, always cook turkey thoroughly to 165°F.
Tips for Safely Cooking Ground Turkey
Follow these tips for safely cooking ground turkey:
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Form patties no more than 3⁄4 inch thick for even cooking to 165°F.
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Pre-heat pans or grill to ensure the turkey browns without overcooking the exterior before the interior hits 165°F.
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Use a digital food thermometer to accurately monitor the internal temperature.
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Flip turkey patties just once during cooking to prevent drying out.
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Let cooked turkey rest 5 minutes so juices can redistribute through the meat.
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For dishes like turkey chili, stir occasionally until crumbles reach 165°F.
Proper Storage and Freezing
Follow these ground turkey storage guidelines:
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Refrigerate raw ground turkey at 40°F or below and use within 1-2 days.
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Cooked ground turkey stays fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days.
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Freeze cooked ground turkey for 2-3 months by dividing into airtight portions.
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Label frozen packages with date and contents.
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Once thawed, use refrigerated cooked turkey within 3-4 days and do not refreeze.
With careful temperature monitoring and safe handling, you can enjoy nutritious, great-tasting ground turkey confident that it is safe to eat. Follow these tips for cooking success!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum safe internal temperature for ground turkey according to the USDA?
The USDA recommends cooking ground turkey to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F.
Can you determine if ground turkey is fully cooked by color?
No, color is not a reliable indicator of doneness. Always use a food thermometer to verify ground turkey reaches 165°F.
Is it safe to eat ground turkey medium or medium-rare?
No, ground turkey should never be consumed below 165°F for food safety. Always cook thoroughly.
How long does it take to cook ground turkey patties or burgers?
Ground turkey patties/burgers generally take 7-12 minutes over medium-high heat to reach 165°F internally. Larger patties take more time.
Can you use wood chips when smoking ground turkey?
Yes, presoaked wood chips can be added when smoking ground turkey to impart flavor. Ensure the turkey still reaches 165°F.
Should you rinse ground turkey before cooking?
No, do not rinse raw ground turkey. This can spread bacteria. Safe handling and thorough cooking to 165°F are best practices.
How do you keep ground turkey moist when cooking?
Mixing in diced onions, herbs, or a panade of milk and breadcrumbs can help retain moisture in ground turkey during cooking.
Can you freeze cooked ground turkey?
Yes, cooked ground turkey can be frozen in airtight containers or bags for 2-3 months. Thaw before using in recipes.
What are some ways to use ground turkey besides burgers?
Ground turkey is versatile for meals like turkey tacos, stuffed peppers, chili, meatballs, casseroles, sauces, and more.
Following proper temperature guidelines and safe handling procedures are vital when cooking with ground turkey. Refer to this guide anytime you are preparing recipes using ground turkey.
Ground Turkey Food Safety Tips
Any raw meat – not just turkey – can contain bacteria. Handling and cooking it properly can eliminate the risk of foodborne illness. Following the “Core Four Practices of Food Safety” will help keep you and your crew food safe. By the way, go ahead and keep these tips in mind any time you’re in the kitchen no matter what you’re cooking…
Clean – Wash hands and kitchen surfaces often. Scrub those hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds before and after handling raw meat. Make sure to toss the packaging and sanitize the counter. Not sure of the difference between cleaning and sanitizing? Check out these helpful guidelines from USDA.
Separate – Don’t cross contaminate! Use separate cutting boards, mixing bowls, plates and utensils for raw ground turkey than you use for other ingredients. That plate you used for the raw burgers? Wash it with soap and hot water before placing the cooked burgers back on it or, better yet, grab a clean one.
Cook – Use a digital meat thermometer to verify ground turkey reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F. To test burgers for doneness, insert the meat thermometer horizontally from the side. Always make sure to test the thickest burger as well! Color is not a good indicator of doneness – go for the temperature instead.
Chill – Safely store any leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate within two hours of being cooked. Make sure your fridge is at 40°F or below. Discard any food that has been sitting out for more than 2 hours (1 hour if the outdoor temperature is above 90°F).
Click here to dive a little deeper into the Core Four.