How long does cooked turkey bacon last? The short answer is 3-5 days in the refrigerator, but keep reading for even MORE info. Be sure to cook your turkey bacon in the air fryer for a crispy bacon that is quick and easy breakfast side dish.
If you find yourself with leftover turkey bacon, you can store in the refrigerator for 3-5 days or freezer for up to 3 months. To freeze, store slices of turkey bacon in a single layer in shallow airtight containers or a heavy-duty freezer bag (stasher bags work too!). Place parchment paper between layers of bacon strips for best results and freeze for up to 3 months for best quality. Flavor and texture will start to decrease after 3-4 months.
Turkey bacon has become a popular alternative to traditional pork bacon. Its lower fat content makes it an appealing choice for health-conscious eaters. Like regular bacon, turkey bacon is versatile and can be used in various recipes. With its convenience, many people buy turkey bacon in bulk when it goes on sale. But can you freeze turkey bacon to extend its shelf life? The short answer is yes.
How to Properly Freeze Turkey Bacon
Freezing is an effective way to make turkey bacon last longer. Here are some tips on properly freezing turkey bacon:
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Slice the turkey bacon prior to freezing. Cutting it into portions makes for easier thawing and cooking later on.
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Lay the sliced turkey bacon flat in a single layer on a baking sheet or plate, Make sure the pieces aren’t touching Freezing in a single layer prevents the slices from sticking together
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Once the bacon is frozen solid, transfer the slices into freezer bags or airtight containers. Squeeze out excess air before sealing. This protects the bacon from freezer burn.
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Label the container with the date Frozen turkey bacon will keep for 4-6 months in the freezer
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For best quality, use frozen turkey bacon within 4 months Discard if kept frozen longer than 6 months
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When ready to use, thaw turkey bacon overnight in the refrigerator. Do not thaw at room temperature. Cook from frozen if in a hurry.
Tips for Cooking Previously Frozen Turkey Bacon
Cooking frozen turkey bacon requires some adjustments:
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Thawed turkey bacon needs a few minutes longer to cook than fresh to regain crispiness.
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Frozen turkey bacon patties and strips can go straight into a cold pan or oven from the freezer.
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Turn the heat to medium-low and cook slowly to prevent burning.
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Watch closely as turkey bacon can quickly go from uncooked to burnt once thawed out.
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Bake frozen turkey bacon on a rack over a foil-lined sheet for even cooking.
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Microwaving frozen turkey bacon gives inconsistent results. Partially thaw first for best texture.
With proper freezing and cooking methods, frozen turkey bacon tastes nearly as good as fresh. Follow these tips to enjoy the convenience of having turkey bacon ready when you need it.
How to Tell if Turkey Bacon is Bad
It’s always a good idea to err on the side of caution (food poisoning is no fun!) and ditch any uncooked turkey bacon that is past sell-by date or use-by date, or if it has sat out at room temperature for too long. Opened packages of turkey bacon that have changed colors, smell bad, or have any visible mold are obviously bad and should be thrown out. Bad turkey bacon will usually be pretty obvious, but use common sense.
An unopened package of turkey bacon can be frozen if you will not use it before the expiration date.
Round out your turkey bacon with a few of these sides for a nutritious, balanced meal:
How to Reheat Cooked Turkey Bacon
There are a few different ways to reheat turkey bacon (or regular bacon) and the best way will depend on what you prefer:
- Air Fry – Place bacon in air fryer and cook for 1 minute, until hot.
- Microwave – Wrap turkey bacon slices in paper towel and microwave for 30-60 seconds, until hot. (Cooking time will vary greatly, depending on microwave.) This is probably the easiest way.
- Hot Skillet – Place turkey bacon in a hot skillet over medium heat and cook for a minute or two on each side, or until hot.
Can you cook turkey bacon from frozen?
FAQ
How long does turkey bacon last in the fridge?
Can you freeze Oscar Mayer turkey bacon?
Can you cook turkey bacon from frozen?
Does bacon in the freezer go bad?
Can you freeze turkey bacon?
Although freezing your turkey bacon will not change the taste, texture, or original product, it can lose some of its flavor and color. It’s best to consume your turkey bacon within 4 to 6 months of freezing. This will require you to take out the turkey bacon from the freezer and cook it up right away when needed so you can enjoy eating it.
How long does turkey bacon last in the freezer?
Turkey bacon can last in the freezer for about two to three months. The key to keeping turkey bacon fresh in the freezer is to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, cling wrap or aluminum foil, and then store it in a heavy-duty freezer bag. This will help keep out any moisture and prevent the turkey bacon from getting freezer burn.
Can you freeze cooked bacon?
One good method: roll individual slices and pack them into freezer bags. Frozen bacon, which is how it’s typically sold at farmers’ markets, will keep indefinitely, but for the best results, the USDA recommends using it within two months. You can even freeze cooked bacon, something Cordray swears by.
Can You reheat frozen turkey bacon?
You can thaw and reheat frozen turkey bacon in the microwave. Just remove from the freezer and then place the turkey bacon on a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and heat up for 5 to 10 seconds at a time until thawed. How to Use Thawed Turkey Bacon? Once your turkey bacon is thawed, you can use it in multiple ways.