If you find yourself with cooked ground turkey and are wondering if you can freeze it, the answer is yes! This quick and easy guide will show you the best way to freeze your cooked ground turkey so that it stays fresh and delicious. Read on to find out more.
Quick Answer
Yes, you can freeze cooked ground turkey. However, it will lose some of its flavor and texture when frozen. It will last in the freezer for 3-4 months.
Can You Freeze Cooked Ground Turkey?
Cooked ground turkey can be frozen, but there is a potential for the taste and texture to be impacted. The length of time that the cooked ground turkey will last in the freezer depends on how it is packaged.
How To Freeze Cooked Ground Turkey?
Many people might think that cooking ground turkey is a difficult task, but with the following steps, it can be a breeze. First, start by thawing the ground turkey in the refrigerator overnight. Then, cook the turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it is no longer pink. Once the turkey is cooked, drain any excess grease and let it cool slightly. Finally, place the cooked turkey in a freezer-safe container and freeze for later use.
Precautions to Take When Freezing Cooked Ground Turkey
Cooked ground turkey can be frozen for later use, but there are some precautions to take. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends taking the following steps when freezing cooked ground turkey:
1. Cool the cooked ground turkey thoroughly before freezing.
2. Package the cooked ground turkey in small, shallow containers so it will freeze quickly and evenly.
3. Use a freezer bag if you are freezing the cooked ground turkey in bulk.
4. Make sure to label the container or bag with the date it was frozen and the type of food it is:
5. The cooked ground turkey can be frozen for up to three months.
How To Thaw Frozen Cooked Ground Turkey
The best way to thaw frozen cooked ground turkey is to place it in the refrigerator overnight. You can also use the microwave, but be sure to cook it thoroughly afterwards.
Here are the steps:
1) Place the frozen cooked ground turkey in a colander and rinse under cold running water for a few minutes until it’s thawed.
2) Pour out any liquid that has accumulated and pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
3) Cook the turkey as desired – you can fry, bake, or microwave it.
How Long Does Cooked Ground Turkey Last (Stays Fresh) Outside at Room Temperature?
Cooked ground turkey will last between 3 and 5 days outside of the fridge. Make sure to keep it in a sealed container or bag to prevent bacteria from growing. It’s also important to note that cooked ground turkey is not safe to eat after 5 days.
How Long Does Cooked Ground Turkey Last (Stays Fresh) in the Fridge?
Ground turkey typically lasts 3–4 days in the fridge.
Cooked ground turkey will last a little longer than raw ground turkey, but it’s still important to use your best judgement and smell it before eating. If it smells bad, or has any kind of slimy texture, then you should throw it away.
cooked ground turkey can also be frozen for 2-6 months. Just make sure to label it with the date so you don’t forget what’s in there!
How To Use Up Extra/Leftover Cooked Ground Turkey?
There are many ways to use up leftover cooked ground turkey. Here are a few ideas:
-Add it to a salad or wrap for a quick and easy meal.
-Make turkey quesadillas for a quick and delicious dinner.
-Stuff bell peppers with cooked ground turkey, cheese, and rice for an easy one-dish meal.
-Mix cooked ground turkey with salsa, black beans, and corn for a tasty burrito filling.
-Make a batch of turkey chili for a hearty meal on cold days.
