Buying bird in bulk is cost-effective and helps healthier meals happen for your household. Turkey is a tasty base for many meals—from meatballs and burgers to tacos and tetrazzini—the options are endless. But how long does frozen ground turkey last? Find out when to discard it and how to keep it fresher for longer.
Ground turkey is a versatile and affordable protein that can be used in countless dishes. Whether you’re making burgers tacos, or meatballs having ground turkey on hand can be a real lifesaver. But how long can you keep ground turkey in the freezer before it starts to lose its quality?
How Long Can You Freeze Ground Turkey?
According to the USDA, ground turkey can be safely frozen for up to 4 months for optimal quality. However, it’s important to note that the quality of the ground turkey will start to deteriorate after that time. If you need to keep ground turkey for longer, you can freeze it for up to 1 year, but the taste and texture may not be as good.
Tips for Freezing Ground Turkey
- Freeze it fresh. The best time to freeze ground turkey is when it’s fresh. If you’re buying ground turkey in bulk, it’s a good idea to freeze some of it right away.
- Divide it into portions. If you’re only going to use a portion of the ground turkey at a time, it’s a good idea to divide it into smaller portions before freezing. This will make it easier to thaw and use later.
- Wrap it tightly. Make sure to wrap the ground turkey tightly in freezer-safe packaging, such as freezer bags or aluminum foil. This will help to prevent freezer burn.
- Label it. Label the package with the date and the type of meat. This will help you keep track of how long it’s been frozen and what it is.
How to Thaw Ground Turkey
The best way to thaw ground turkey is to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. This will give it time to thaw evenly and safely. If you need to thaw ground turkey more quickly, you can thaw it in a bowl of cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes until the ground turkey is thawed.
How to Tell if Ground Turkey is Bad
If ground turkey is stored incorrectly or has been frozen for an extended period of time, it may begin to deteriorate. These signs include:
- A change in color. Ground turkey that is starting to spoil may turn gray or brown.
- A change in smell. Ground turkey that has gone bad will have a sour or ammonia-like smell.
- A change in texture. Ground turkey that is starting to spoil may become slimy or sticky.
If you see any of these signs, it’s best to throw the ground turkey away.
Ground turkey is a great way to save money and have a healthy protein on hand. By following these tips, you can freeze ground turkey safely and keep it fresh for up to 4 months. Just be sure to thaw it properly before using it.
How to Store Ground Turkey in the Freezer
Before you freeze raw, ground turkey, look for the sell-by date. It is advised to freeze your ground turkey as soon as possible after purchase, ideally within two days of the sell-by date.
How long is ground turkey good in the freezer? 3-4 months for optimal freshness.
Although ground turkey that has been frozen can be kept for up to a year, over time, its flavor and quality may gradually decline. For the freshest taste, it’s best to use within 4 months.
Pro-Tip: You can keep ground turkey in its original packaging. Wrap tightly in aluminum foil and place in a freezer-specific plastic bag. Don’t forget to write the date on the bag.
How Long is Hamburger Meat Good for in the Freezer?
Hamburger meat, AKA ground beef, should be treated similarly to ground turkey. For the best results, freeze it within 2 days of purchase. It will last in your freezer for up to a year, but it’s best if used within 4 months.
Prepare ground beef for the freezer in the same way you would ground turkey (see above).
Always defrost all ground meat in the refrigerator—this prevents dangerous bacteria from growing.
HOW TO COOK AND FREEZE GROUND BEEF/TURKEY
FAQ
Does ground turkey freeze well?
Can I freeze ground turkey in package it comes in?
How do you store raw ground turkey in the freezer?
Can you freeze raw turkey?