HoneyBaked ham turkey is a delicious holiday favorite with its signature sweet and savory flavor. But once you’ve enjoyed those tasty slices how long will the leftovers last? Can you safely store HoneyBaked turkey ham in the fridge or freezer to enjoy later?
This complete guide covers everything you need to know about HoneyBaked ham turkey storage, shelf life, reheating, and more. Read on for tips to safely preserve your HoneyBaked turkey ham so you can savor the flavor well past the initial meal!
How Long Does HoneyBaked Turkey Ham Last Refrigerated?
Freshly sliced HoneyBaked turkey ham will last for 5-7 days when properly stored in the refrigerator. To maximize fridge life promptly store any uneaten portions in airtight containers or resealable plastic bags.
Keep HoneyBaked turkey ham refrigerated at 40°F or below. When stored in the ideal conditions, it will maintain quality for a full 5-7 days after being initially served.
Be sure to place turkey ham toward the back of the fridge, rather than in the door where temperature fluctuates. Only reuse refrigerated turkey ham for cold sandwiches and applications, rather than reheating repeatedly.
Watch for changes in color, odor, or texture once turkey ham passes day 5 in the fridge. As long as it’s been continuously refrigerated, it should remain pleasant tasting and safe to eat for the full 5-7 day window when stored properly.
Does HoneyBaked Turkey Ham Freeze Well?
Freezing is an excellent way to preserve HoneyBaked turkey ham even longer. It retains its flavor and texture very well when frozen lasting for 1-2 months in the freezer.
Allow turkey ham to cool completely before freezing – you don’t want to raise the temperature inside your freezer. Package in airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible.
Lay packages flat in the freezer to speed up freezing and optimize thawing later on. Be sure to label bags with the name and freeze date so you know what’s inside!
Within 1-2 months is the best quality timeframe for frozen HoneyBaked turkey ham. It can technically last up to 3 months frozen before drying out or absorbing freezer odors, but the sooner you enjoy it, the better.
How Should You Reheat HoneyBaked Turkey Ham?
Proper reheating restores HoneyBaked turkey ham to its ideal serving temperature without drying it out. Use the oven, microwave, or skillet over low heat to gently reheat refrigerated or defrosted turkey ham slices.
In the oven, wrap slices in foil and heat at 275°F until warmed through – about 10 minutes usually does the trick. For microwave, use 50% power in 30 second intervals. In the skillet, just a couple minutes per side over low heat warms slices.
Stir or flip reheated turkey ham frequently to distribute heat evenly. Avoid boiling, broiling, or overcooking the ham when reheating, as high heat will dry it out. Reheat only the portion you plan to immediately eat.
How Long Does Thawed HoneyBaked Turkey Ham Last?
Once thawed, HoneyBaked turkey ham should be eaten within 3-5 days. It’s best to thaw turkey ham in the refrigerator overnight, rather than leaving it out at room temperature.
Refrigeration after thawing helps preserve quality and prevent bacterial growth. Bacteria multiplies most rapidly between 40°F and 140°F, so the fridge keeps turkey ham safe once thawed.
For optimal safety and quality, use defrosted HoneyBaked turkey ham within 3-5 days. Discard any leftovers after that point. The refrigerator’s cool environment helps post-thawed turkey ham retain pleasant taste and texture for almost a week.
What Are Signs of Spoiled HoneyBaked Turkey Ham?
Although HoneyBaked turkey ham keeps for 5-7 days when refrigerated, signs of spoilage will emerge if it’s kept too long. Discard turkey ham if you notice any of the following:
- Sliminess or stickiness on surface
- Unpleasant or sour odors
- Mold growth, slime formation, dryness
- Dull or unnatural colors
- Off or bitter taste when sampled
- Significantly dried out slices or sections
Doneness temperature does not apply since the ham is fully cooked when purchased. So relying on your senses is key to identifying spoiled turkey ham. Promptly discard any ham that exhibits signs of spoilage.
Tips for Safely Storing HoneyBaked Turkey Ham
Follow these tips for safe storage and maximum shelf life of HoneyBaked turkey ham:
- Refrigerate promptly after serving in airtight containers
- Freeze for longer storage within 1-2 months
- Thaw overnight in the fridge vs. at room temperature
- Reheat gently to 165°F before serving
- Avoid reheating more than once
- Check for spoilage before consuming older leftovers
- When in doubt, throw it out!
Properly stored, HoneyBaked turkey ham stays deliciously fresh for a week in the fridge, or 1-2 months in the freezer. Follow safe handling tips to fully enjoy this classic holiday treat!
Honey Baked Ham Serving Instructions
FAQ
How long does Honey Baked Ham turkey last?
Is HoneyBaked turkey fully cooked?
How do you heat a precooked HoneyBaked turkey?
How to store HoneyBaked Turkey Breast?
How long do Honey Baked hams last?
Honey baked hams are a delicacy like no other. They are evenly smoked and have the potential to provide a much deeper and richer flavor than what is achievable at home. But when it comes to their storage, how long are honey baked hams good for? Honey Baked Hams can last up to 7-10 days in the fridge and up to 2-6 months in the freezer.
Can you freeze honey baked ham & turkey?
To serve after freezing, remove from the freezer and place in refrigerator. Once thawed, the Ham and Turkey will keep fresh for two days. Place your HoneyBaked proteins in the refrigerator ahead of your planned serving time; do not thaw a Honey Baked Ham or other protein on the counter.
Can You reheat a honey baked ham turkey?
Reheat honey baked turkey by warming slices on low heat for a flavorful experience, ensuring to check the internal temperature for safety. For reheating honey baked ham turkey, it’s best to gently heat the slices on low heat, avoiding warming the whole ham or turkey breast.
Can Honey Baked Ham be refrigerated?
If you choose to refrigerate your products, Honey Baked Ham can be refrigerated for 7 to 10 days and Honey Baked Turkey Breast can be refrigerated for 5 to 7 days. Find a store near you to shop our HoneyBaked products, grab lunch and learn about catering. Shop our online selection of HoneyBaked products and have them shipped to your door.