How Long Will a Frozen Turkey Keep in the Freezer?

For many families, a roasted turkey is the centerpiece of holiday meals like Thanksgiving and Christmas. If you want to get your turkey early or find a great deal, freezing is a convenient option But how long does a frozen uncooked turkey last?

With proper freezer storage, an uncooked whole turkey can keep for 12 months in the freezer before the quality starts to diminish. For the best flavor and texture, aim to cook your frozen bird within 9 months. Here are some turkey freezing guidelines so you can enjoy a high quality bird when the holidays roll around.

How Long Does a Frozen Turkey Last?

According to the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service, a whole raw turkey that is correctly frozen at 0°F can safely stay in the freezer for up to one year. However, for ideal taste and texture, it’s best to cook frozen whole turkeys within 9-12 months.

The timeline for safe freezer storage is slightly shorter for turkey parts like breast, thighs, drumsticks, wings, etc. Raw Turkey parts maintain optimal quality for up to 9 months in the freezer before you start to notice taste and texture changes.

After the maximum recommended freezer times, the turkey will still be safe to eat if properly thawed and cooked, but the meat may be drier and not as flavorful.

What Affects How Long a Turkey Keeps in the Freezer?

Several factors impact frozen turkey lifespan and quality

• Proper packaging – Make sure the turkey is securely wrapped in freezer bags or airtight freezer-safe wrap with no tears or holes. This prevents freezer burn which can cause drying and textural changes.

• Freezer temperature – Keep your freezer set to 0°F or below. Consistent freezing temp is key. The freezer compartment of a refrigerator often fluctuates and is best for short term storage only.

• Freezing method – Frozen turkeys purchased from the store maintain quality longer than fresh turkeys you freeze yourself at home. Commercial flash freezing locks in more moisture and flavor.

• Thawing – Letting the turkey thaw and refreezing reduces how long it will last in peak condition compared to an untouched continuously frozen bird.

Storing Turkey in the Freezer

Follow these tips for optimal frozen turkey storage:

• Place turkey in freezer bags or airtight freezer wrap with as much air pressed out as possible. You can double wrap for extra protection.

• Use freezer tape or rubber bands to tightly seal the package. Check periodically for any tears or holes and rewrap if needed.

• Put the turkey in the coldest part of the freezer, either the back or the bottom. Arrange flat if possible so it freezes evenly.

• Attach a label with the freeze date and weight. Use oldest turkeys first for maximum freshness.

• Once thawed, do not refreeze raw turkey. Cook within 1-2 days. Frozen cooked turkey can be safely refrozen.

Freezing Cooked Turkey

Leftover fully cooked turkey keeps well in the freezer for future meals. Here are some cooked turkey freezing guidelines:

• Cool cooked turkey completely before freezing so it doesn’t raise freezer temp. Break up large amounts into smaller containers for fast chilling.

• Portion turkey into freezer bags or airtight containers. Remove as much air as possible and wrap tightly.

• Label packages with contents and date. Use within 4 months for best quality.

• Thaw frozen cooked turkey in the fridge before reheating. Use within 3-4 days after thawing.

Thawing Frozen Turkey

Always thaw frozen turkeys gradually in the refrigerator, never at room temperature. Here are some turkey thawing guidelines:

• Allow approximately 24 hours of thaw time in the fridge for every 4-5 lbs of turkey. A 16 lb bird takes about 4 days to thaw.

• Place the wrapped frozen turkey on a tray or pan to catch any drips as it thaws. Keep raw turkey juices away from foods.

• Do not refreeze raw turkey once thawed. Cook within 1-2 days.

• For faster thawing, place still-wrapped turkey under cold running water. Rotate and change water every 30 minutes until thawed. Cook immediately.

Once your turkey is thawed, roast it up for a beautiful holiday centerpiece! Just follow our guide for how long to cook a turkey and check the internal temperature to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to enjoy.

Enjoying Turkey After Freezer Storage

Freezing lets you stock up on great turkey deals or prep early for holiday meals. Follow the storage guidelines above and your bird can keep for up to a year in the freezer.

For the highest quality taste and texture, cook frozen whole turkeys within 9 months and parts within 6 months. Handle the frozen turkey carefully to avoid damage and use proper thawing methods for food safety.

With proper freezing and thawing, your household can keep enjoying delicious turkey year-round. Use your frozen birds for special occasion roasts, easy casseroles, soups, sandwiches and more!