Smoked bacon is one of life’s simple pleasures. There’s nothing quite like waking up to the smell of sizzling bacon cooking in the pan. But when you make more than you can eat right away how long will leftover smoked bacon stay fresh in the fridge?
Knowing how to properly store and determine the shelf life of smoked bacon ensures you can safely enjoy this smoked treat again and again. Below we’ll cover everything from ideal storage methods to signs of spoiled bacon so you can keep your smoked bacon tasting great.
Storing Smoked Bacon in the Fridge
To maximize freshness here are some storage tips for smoked bacon in the refrigerator
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Let the smoked bacon cool completely before refrigerating, Store within 2 hours of cooking,
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Place in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Push out excess air.
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Store smoked bacon in the coldest section of the refrigerator, not in the door.
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Avoid cross-contaminating foods by keeping raw meats on bottom shelves.
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If liquid accumulates in the container, drain it off and replace with a clean paper towel.
Proper storage helps prevent bacterial growth and locks in moisture to maintain texture. Now let’s look at how long it will last.
Shelf Life of Smoked Bacon in the Fridge
The shelf life of smoked bacon depends on a few factors:
Smoking Method
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Cold smoked bacon lasts longer than hot smoked since it’s not cooked through.
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Dry cured smoked bacon keeps longer than immersion cured smoked bacon due to lower moisture content.
Packaging
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Vacuum sealed smoked bacon maintains quality longer than bacon stored in permeable bags or containers.
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Sliced smoked bacon has a shorter shelf life than unsliced slabs. More surface area exposed leads to faster spoilage.
General Food Safety Guidelines
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Uncooked smoked bacon keeps 1 week past the “sell by” date.
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Once opened, smoked bacon lasts about 1 week in the fridge.
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Cooked smoked bacon lasts 3-4 days in the fridge.
So following proper cold storage methods, most smoked bacon will last approximately 1 week in the refrigerator once opened. For optimal safety and quality, use smoked bacon within that timeframe.
How To Tell If Smoked Bacon Has Gone Bad
There are several signs that indicate your smoked bacon has spoiled and is no longer safe to eat:
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Slimy texture – Good smoked bacon should be slightly moist but not slick. Discard if it feels slimy.
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Off odor – Spoiled bacon gives off a rancid, sour, or ammonia-like smell.
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Discoloration – Bad bacon may appear gray, green, or brown rather than pink or red.
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Mold – Any visible mold is a sign bacteria has spread and bacon should be thrown out.
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Expired date – If smoked bacon surpasses 1 week past the “sell by” or opening date, play it safe and toss it.
When in doubt, remember the old adage “when in doubt, throw it out” applies to questionable smoked bacon too. Don’t risk getting sick – stick to bacon within its prime.
Tips for Enjoying Leftover Smoked Bacon
Smoked bacon brings great flavor to so many dishes. Try these delicious ways to use up leftovers:
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Crumble on salads and baked potatoes
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Add to omelets, quiches, and egg bakes
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Use in place of raw bacon in favorite recipes
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Toss with roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans
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Make carbonara sauce for pasta
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Top baked potatoes with sour cream, bacon, and chives
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Mix into dips and spreads for a smoky twist
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Crumble over cooked rice dishes for a pop of salty flavor
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Bake into casseroles, soufflés, frittatas, and tarts
With proper storage, you can keep leftover smoked bacon in the fridge for up to 1 week. Keep an eye out for signs of spoilage and incorporate it into tasty recipes. Smoked bacon is delicious on its own but shines when used to add flavor to other foods too.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does unopened smoked bacon last in the fridge?
Unopened, store-bought smoked bacon will last 1 week past the “sell by” date when stored in the fridge.
Can you freeze smoked bacon?
Yes, you can freeze smoked bacon to extend its shelf life. It will keep in an airtight package in the freezer for 2-3 months.
How can you make smoked bacon crispy again?
If smoked bacon loses its crispness in the fridge, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat or bake at 400°F for 5 minutes to recrisp it.
Is it safe to eat moldy smoked bacon if you cut off the mold?
No, you should discard smoked bacon if any mold is visible, even if you think you can cut it off. Mold is a sign bacteria has spread.
How do you know when smoked bacon has gone bad?
Rancid odor, slimy texture, green/gray color, and mold growth are all signs that smoked bacon has spoiled and should be thrown out.
Enjoy your smoked bacon within a week and store it properly in the fridge for the best flavor, texture, and food safety. With the proper guidance, you can continue enjoying this tasty smoked treat!
