Are you a fan of turkey bacon?
It’s a healthier alternative to traditional bacon and can be just as delicious when cooked properly.
But what do you do with the leftovers?
How long can you keep cooked turkey bacon in the fridge or freezer?
In this article, we’ll explore the shelf life of cooked turkey bacon and provide tips on how to store it properly to ensure it stays fresh and safe to eat.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just trying to reduce food waste, read on to learn more about how long you can keep cooked turkey bacon.
How Long Can You Keep Cooked Turkey Bacon?
Cooked turkey bacon can last for a few days in the fridge and up to a few months in the freezer. The exact shelf life will depend on how it’s stored and whether it’s been opened or not.
If you have an unopened package of turkey bacon, it can last up to 14 days past its “sell by” date in the fridge. However, it’s best to use it within a week for optimal freshness. You can also store unopened turkey bacon in the freezer for up to three months.
Once you’ve opened the package and cooked the turkey bacon, it should be consumed within three to five days if stored properly in the fridge. If you have leftover cooked turkey bacon, you can store it in the fridge for up to five days or freeze it for up to two months.
To freeze cooked turkey bacon, place it in a single layer in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. For best results, place parchment paper between layers of bacon strips. This will help prevent them from sticking together and make it easier to thaw only what you need.
It’s important to note that the quality and texture of cooked turkey bacon may start to decrease after a few months in the freezer. For this reason, it’s best to consume it within two months for optimal taste and texture.
The Shelf Life Of Cooked Turkey Bacon
Cooked turkey bacon has a relatively short shelf life compared to uncooked turkey bacon. Once cooked, it can last for up to three to five days in the fridge if stored properly. This means that it should be placed in shallow airtight containers or wrapped tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
If you plan to keep cooked turkey bacon for longer than five days, it’s best to freeze it. You can store cooked turkey bacon in the freezer for up to two months, but it’s important to note that its quality and texture may start to decrease after a few months. To freeze cooked turkey bacon, place it in a single layer in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. For best results, place parchment paper between layers of bacon strips to prevent them from sticking together.
When thawing frozen cooked turkey bacon, it’s important to do so safely. You should never thaw frozen cooked turkey bacon at room temperature as this increases the risk of harmful bacteria growth. Instead, thaw it in the refrigerator or using the defrost setting on your microwave.
It’s important to remember that once cooked turkey bacon has been left out at room temperature for more than two hours, it should be discarded. This is because harmful bacteria can grow rapidly at room temperature and cause foodborne illness.
How To Store Cooked Turkey Bacon In The Fridge
Storing cooked turkey bacon in the fridge is relatively simple, but it’s important to follow a few key steps to ensure it stays fresh and safe to eat.
First, make sure the cooked turkey bacon has cooled down to room temperature before storing it in the fridge. This will help prevent condensation from forming inside the container or bag, which can lead to bacterial growth.
Once cooled, wrap the turkey bacon tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help keep it moist and prevent it from drying out in the fridge. Alternatively, you can place the cooked turkey bacon in an airtight container.
If you’re storing multiple servings of cooked turkey bacon, separate them into individual portions before wrapping or placing them in a container. This will make it easier to reheat only what you need without exposing the rest of the bacon to potential contamination.
Label the container or bag with the date that you stored the cooked turkey bacon. This will help you keep track of how long it’s been in the fridge and when you should consume it by.
Finally, store the wrapped or containerized cooked turkey bacon in the fridge. It should be consumed within three to five days for optimal freshness and safety.
Tips For Freezing Cooked Turkey Bacon
Freezing cooked turkey bacon is a great way to save time and reduce waste. Here are some tips to keep in mind when freezing cooked turkey bacon:
1. Allow the bacon to cool completely: Before freezing, make sure the cooked turkey bacon has cooled down to room temperature. This will prevent moisture from forming, which can lead to freezer burn.
2. Pre-freeze the bacon: To prevent the bacon from sticking together, pre-freeze it on a baking sheet lined with wax paper. Once it’s frozen, transfer it to an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
3. Use parchment paper: To make it easier to thaw only what you need, place parchment paper between layers of bacon strips before freezing. This will also help prevent them from sticking together.
4. Label and date: Always label and date the container or bag before placing it in the freezer. This will help you keep track of how long the bacon has been frozen and ensure you use it before it loses quality.
5. Thaw in the fridge: When you’re ready to use the cooked turkey bacon, thaw it in the fridge overnight. This will help preserve its texture and flavor.
By following these tips, you can extend the shelf life of your cooked turkey bacon and always have some on hand for quick and easy meals.
How To Reheat Cooked Turkey Bacon Safely
When it comes to reheating cooked turkey bacon, there are a few methods you can use. One option is to use the oven. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and place the turkey bacon on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the bacon is heated through.
Another option is to use the microwave. Place the turkey bacon on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a paper towel. Microwave for 20-60 seconds, checking after each round to make sure it’s heated through.
If you prefer to use a frying pan, place the turkey bacon in a cold pan and heat over medium heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through.
No matter which method you choose, it’s important to make sure the turkey bacon is heated to an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s safe to eat. Also, be sure to store any leftover reheated turkey bacon in the fridge and consume within three to five days.
Creative Ways To Use Leftover Cooked Turkey Bacon
If you have leftover cooked turkey bacon, there are plenty of creative ways to use it up in delicious and satisfying meals. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
1. Add it to salads: Crumble up your leftover turkey bacon and sprinkle it on top of a fresh salad for added flavor and protein.
2. Make a breakfast skillet: Heat up some leftover turkey bacon in a skillet with eggs, diced potatoes, and veggies for a hearty breakfast that will keep you full all morning.
3. Top your pizza: Use leftover turkey bacon as a pizza topping for a delicious twist on the classic pepperoni.
4. Make a quiche: Whip up a quiche with leftover turkey bacon, cheese, and veggies for an easy and tasty breakfast or brunch option.
5. Add it to pasta dishes: Toss leftover turkey bacon into your favorite pasta dish for added protein and flavor.
6. Make a wrap: Roll up some leftover turkey bacon with lettuce, tomato, and avocado in a whole wheat wrap for a healthy and satisfying lunch.
7. Use it in soup: Add diced leftover turkey bacon to your favorite soup recipe for added depth of flavor.
With these creative ideas, you can make the most out of your leftover cooked turkey bacon and enjoy delicious meals without any waste.