How Long Is Thawed Turkey Good for in the Fridge?
The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and plenty of food. Turkey is often the centerpiece of many holiday meals, but what do you do with the leftovers? Can you save them in the fridge? How long will they last?
In this article, we will answer all of your questions about storing leftover turkey in the fridge. We will also provide some tips on how to keep it fresh and delicious.
Refrigerator Storage
Once your turkey is cooked, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. You can also store it in an airtight container.
If you are not going to eat the turkey within 3-4 days, you can freeze it. To freeze leftover turkey, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Leftover Turkey
When you are ready to eat your leftover turkey, you can reheat it in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop. If you are reheating it in the oven, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and reheat the turkey for about 30 minutes, or until it is heated through.
If you are reheating the turkey in the microwave, place it on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for 2-3 minutes, or until it is heated through. If you are reheating the turkey on the stovetop, place it in a skillet over medium heat and cook it for about 5 minutes per side, or until it is heated through.
Tips for Keeping Leftover Turkey Fresh
Here are a few tips for keeping your leftover turkey fresh:
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
- Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Do not store it in the refrigerator for more than 3-4 days.
- If you are not going to eat the turkey within 3-4 days, freeze it.
- Reheat the turkey thoroughly before eating it.
Expert Advice
In addition to the tips above, here is some expert advice on storing leftover turkey:
- According to the USDA, leftover turkey can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- If you are freezing the turkey, be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- When reheating the turkey, be sure to reheat it thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about storing leftover turkey:
- How long can I store leftover turkey in the refrigerator? Leftover turkey can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- How long can I store leftover turkey in the freezer? Leftover turkey can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- How do I reheat leftover turkey? Leftover turkey can be reheated in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop.
- What is the best way to store leftover turkey? The best way to store leftover turkey is to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to store leftover turkey properly, you can enjoy your holiday leftovers all week long! Just be sure to wrap it tightly and store it in the refrigerator or freezer to keep it fresh.
Are you interested in learning more about food storage? Check out our other articles on the topic!
Image: www.goodhousekeeping.com
Image: sundaysuppermovement.com
How Long Does It Take To Thaw A Turkey? – Thawing A Frozen Turkey Oct 16, 2023Keep your turkey in its original packaging for this method, too. To finish a partially defrosted bird, 30 minutes in cold water may be all you need. If fully frozen, allow about 30 minutes per pound to completely thaw, and change the water every 30 minutes to ensure the water stays cool (below 40 degrees F).