How Long Do Turkey Burgers Last in the Fridge?

Turkey burgers are a delicious, healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers. Made from lean ground turkey meat, they are lower in fat and calories while still being packed with protein and flavor.

If you’ve cooked up a batch of tasty turkey burgers, you may be wondering just how long they will last when properly stored in the refrigerator.

Here is a complete guide to maximizing the shelf life and freshness of turkey burgers in the fridge.

How Long Do Cooked Turkey Burgers Last in the Fridge?

Cooked turkey burgers that have been properly stored in the refrigerator will keep for 3 to 4 days.

To maximize the shelf life:

• Store cooked patties in a sealed container or resealable plastic bag. This prevents drying out or picking up odors from other foods.

• Ensure the fridge temperature is 40°F or below. Cold air helps slow bacteria growth.

• Use cooked turkey burgers within 3 days for peak freshness.

• Cooked patties keep for up to 4 days, but the quality declines after day 3.

Consuming cooked turkey burgers within 3-4 days is recommended. Beyond that, there is increased risk of spoilage and foodborne illness

Proper Storage of Cooked Turkey Burgers

Storing turkey burgers correctly helps preserve freshness and prevent bacteria growth Here are some storage tips

• Let patties cool completely before refrigerating. Warm food raises fridge temp.

• Place cooked patties in a sealed container or zipper bag. Limit air exposure.

• Use shallow containers. This allows for faster chilling.

• Keep fridge at 40°F or below. Use a thermometer to monitor.

• Place burgers on a plate to catch any drips and prevent cross-contamination.

• Don’t overcrowd the fridge, Cold air needs to circulate properly

• Cooked turkey burgers can also be frozen for longer storage.

Following these guidelines optimizes food safety when storing leftovers.

Signs Your Turkey Burger Has Spoiled

Always rely on your senses along with the time guidelines to determine if cooked turkey burgers are still fresh and safe to eat.

Look for these signs of spoilage:

• Slimy texture or mushy consistency

• Grayish or greenish discoloration

• Unpleasant sour odor

• Mold growth (fuzzy spots)

• Dried out, crumbly meat

• Weeping, sticky liquid in the packaging

If you notice any of these signs, it is best to discard the turkey burgers, as they are no longer safe to eat.

Can You Freeze Turkey Burgers?

Freezing is a great way to extend the shelf life of turkey burgers for several months. Here are some freezing tips:

• Cool cooked patties completely before freezing.

• Wrap each patty tightly in plastic wrap or place in resealable bags.

• Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

• Label bags with date and contents.

• Frozen turkey burgers last 3-4 months in the freezer.

Thaw frozen patties in the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stove or grill.

Safe Reheating of Turkey Burgers

Leftover cooked turkey burgers stored properly in the fridge or freezer can be safely reheated using these methods:

• In a skillet over medium-low heat on the stovetop. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

• On the grill for 7-10 minutes per side. Again, verify temperature.

• In the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until hot throughout (165°F).

Only reheat once for food safety. Discard any patties that have been reheated and refrigerated again.

How Long Do Raw Turkey Burgers Last in the Fridge?

Fresh, raw turkey burger patties can be kept refrigerated for 1-2 days before cooking.

For best quality, follow these raw poultry storing guidelines:

• Keep raw turkey burgers in their original packaging or seal tightly in plastic wrap to contain leaks.

• Place on a plate or dish on the bottom shelf of the fridge to prevent cross-contamination.

• Use ground turkey within 1-2 days for maximum freshness.

• Discard if the raw meat has turned gray or smells unpleasant.

Raw turkey patties are very perishable and shouldn’t be kept for more than a couple days.

Food Safety Tips for Turkey Burgers

Follow these important food safety practices when handling and cooking turkey burgers:

• Wash hands and surfaces after handling raw turkey meat.

• Separate raw patties from cooked foods in the fridge.

• Cook turkey burgers to an internal temperature of 165°F. Color is not an indicator of doneness.

• Refrigerate any leftovers within 2 hours. Toss if left out too long.

• Thaw frozen patties in the fridge, not on the counter.

• When reheating, heat thoroughly until steaming hot, at least 165°F.

Proper cooking, cooling, and storage of turkey burgers helps prevent foodborne illnesses.

The Bottom Line

Cooked turkey burgers stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days when stored properly in sealed containers at 40°F or below.Freeze for longer storage.

Signs of spoiled turkey burgers include fouls smells, slimy texture, and mold growth. Discard if any signs of spoilage.

Raw patties last just 1-2 days in the fridge and should be cooked as soon as possible for food safety and quality.

Following proper storage, handling, and reheating guidelines will help keep turkey burgers safe and delicious to eat. Trust your senses and when in doubt, throw it out.