How Long Can I Keep Turkey in the Freezer?

For those who love cooking turkey, whether for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any time of year, it’s useful to know how long turkey lasts in freezer storage. Freezing is a great way to buy turkey in advance when it’s on sale or stock up for future meals. But how long does frozen turkey stay fresh and retain good quality?

Follow this guide on maximizing freezer life for whole turkeys, parts and leftovers.

How Long Do Whole Frozen Turkeys Last?

Whole frozen turkeys can be kept in the freezer almost indefinitely without spoiling. According to the USDA, a whole frozen turkey will remain safe to eat indefinitely.

However, for best quality, it is recommended to cook frozen whole turkeys within 1 year of storage. The flavor and texture will decline after a year.

So if you buy an extra turkey on sale before Thanksgiving, cook it within 1 year for optimal freshness.

Proper freezer storage is important to prevent freezer burn or rancidity. Ensure whole turkeys are tightly wrapped in freezer-safe packaging. Store at 0°F or below. Avoid repeated thawing and refreezing.

What About Frozen Turkey Parts?

Frozen turkey parts like breast thighs drumsticks, wings, etc. will last slightly less time than a whole bird. Turkey pieces should be cooked within 9 months for best flavor.

Turkey parts are more prone to freezer burn since they have more surface area exposed. Wrap pieces tightly in freezer bags or airtight containers. Don’t refreeze previously frozen and thawed turkey parts.

Can You Freeze Leftover Cooked Turkey?

Cooked leftover turkey also freezes well for 3 to 4 months. Refrigerate leftovers for 3 to 4 days first before freezing. Portion turkey into freezer bags or airtight containers leaving 1⁄2 inch headspace.

For longer freezer life, leftover turkey meat can be used in dishes like casseroles, soups, chili, etc. and frozen for 4 to 6 months.

Always thaw frozen cooked turkey in the refrigerator, never at room temperature. And avoid refreezing thawed cooked turkey more than once.

What If the Frozen Turkey Exceeds Recommended Storage?

Frozen turkeys lasting over 1 year past the sell-by date are still safe to eat, but the flavor and texture quality may suffer. Older frozen turkeys may taste rancid or dry.

If your turkey has been frozen for over a year, first check it thoroughly. Look for signs of freezer burn like dried, dull areas. There should be no odd odors. Thaw it completely and inspect the color and feel of the meat.

Cook older frozen turkeys thoroughly to 165°F internal temperature. Using it in recipes where turkey is chopped or cooked in liquid can help mask any quality issues.

For best results though, stick to the 1 year frozen storage limit. The longer turkey is frozen, the greater decline in moisture and juiciness.

Proper Defrosting of Frozen Turkey

Once ready to use your frozen turkey, proper thawing is critical for both food safety and quality.

Never thaw turkey at room temperature, which allows harmful bacteria to multiply. The best way is thawing in the refrigerator:

• Whole turkey: Allow 24 hours of fridge thawing for every 4 to 5 pounds. So a 15 lb turkey needs 3 to 4 days. Place the turkey in a container to catch drips.

• Turkey parts: Thaw breast, legs, wings etc. in the fridge for 1 to 2 days.

You can also submerge the turkey sealed in a leakproof bag in cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes. Allow 30 minutes thawing time per pound. A whole 15 lb turkey would need 8 hours in cold water.

After thawing, cook immediately and don’t refreeze.

Key Tips for Freezing Turkey

Follow these best practices when freezing turkey:

• Allow fresh turkeys to freeze fully before storing long-term. Don’t exceed 1 year frozen storage.

• Quick freeze turkey parts/pieces for max of 9 months.

• Prevent freezer burn by using airtight packaging. Exclude air pockets.

• Maintain freezer temperature at or below 0°F.

• Cook defrosted turkey right away, don’t refreeze.

• Use older frozen turkey in cooked dishes rather than roasting.

Storing turkey properly in the freezer can allow you to always have some on hand. Just be diligent with cold temperatures and follow freezer times for optimal freshness and taste.