How Long is Cooked Bacon Good for in the Refrigerator?

Few things complete a dish quite like the smoky, salty crunch of bacon While raw bacon has a decent shelf life, the cooked stuff tends to go bad faster. So how long is cooked bacon actually good for in the fridge?

Knowing proper storage methods and signs of spoiled bacon will help you enjoy every last delicious bit before it goes bad. Read on for tips on maximizing the shelf life of cooked bacon.

How to Store Cooked Bacon in the Fridge

Proper storage is key for keeping cooked bacon safe and tasty. Here are some guidelines for storing cooked bacon in the refrigerator:

• Let bacon cool to room temperature before refrigerating Storing warm foods decreases fridge life

• Place cooled bacon in an airtight container or sealed bag Limit air exposure to prevent drying

• Store bacon on lower shelves away from refrigerator door, where temperature fluctuates.

• Only refrigerate the amount of cooked bacon you plan to use within 3-4 days. Freeze the rest.

• Use clean utensils each time you access bacon to prevent cross-contamination.

• Keep cooked bacon away from raw meats, produce, and other ingredients.

Following these steps optimizes refrigeration conditions so your cooked bacon stays fresh as long as possible.

How Long Does Cooked Bacon Last in the Fridge?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, cooked bacon will generally last:

• 7 days past the sell-by date: This is for bacon refrigerated in its original sealed packaging. Follow the sell-by date for unopened cooked bacon.

• 3-4 days after cooking: Bacon you cooked at home and sealed in an airtight container will stay good for 3-4 days.

• 7 days maximum: Even if refrigerated and tightly sealed, cooked bacon should be thrown out after 7 days due to risk of bacteria growth.

So for cooked bacon you buy pre-packaged, go by the expiration date. But for homemade cooked bacon, plan to use within 3-4 days, and always discard any leftovers after 1 week in the fridge.

Freezing any cooked bacon you won’t use up within 3-4 days extends its shelf life for later use.

Signs Your Cooked Bacon Has Gone Bad

Cooked bacon can show the following signs of spoilage, at which point it should be discarded:

• Slimy or sticky texture – Fresh cooked bacon feels dry to the touch. Excess moisture indicates spoilage.

• Off odors – Rancid or sour smells mean the bacon is past prime.

• Dull color – Leftover bacon often fades but should not look grey or green.

• Mold growth – Any fuzzy spots mean the bacon must be thrown out immediately.

• Weird flavor – Tasting “off” including bitterness or sourness.

When in doubt, remember the old adage “When in doubt, throw it out.” Bacon is inexpensive and not worth risking food poisoning over.

Does Cooked Bacon Go Bad Faster Than Raw?

Raw bacon lasts longer than cooked bacon when refrigerated. The reason is that cooking kills any bacteria initially present but also creates a moist environment perfect for bacteria to grow back over time if not handled properly.

Here’s a comparison:

• Raw bacon lasts 1-2 weeks beyond the sell-by date if refrigerated unopened.

• Cooked bacon lasts just 3-4 days refrigerated before risking bacterial growth.

So raw bacon keeps longer in the fridge, while cooked bacon has a shorter shelf life and should be frozen if not being used up quickly.

Can You Freeze Cooked Bacon?

Freezing cooked bacon is an excellent way to extend its shelf life. Frozen properly in an airtight container, cooked bacon will last 1-2 months in the freezer.

To freeze cooked bacon:

• Allow to cool completely first to maintain texture.

• Place strips in a single layer between layers of wax or parchment paper in an airtight container.

• Remove as much air from container as possible before sealing.

• Label container with freeze date and contents.

• Freeze bacon for up to 2 months for optimal quality.

Thaw frozen cooked bacon overnight in the refrigerator before using. Cooked bacon should never be thawed at room temperature or in the microwave, which allows bacterial growth.

Tips for Enjoying Bacon Safely

Here are some top tips for handling cooked bacon safely:

• Never leave cooked bacon out for more than 2 hours. Refrigerate promptly in shallow airtight containers for fast cooling.

• Cook raw bacon thoroughly until crispy to destroy harmful bacteria.

• Always thaw frozen bacon in the fridge, allowing 1 day for full thawing.

• Reheat cooked bacon to 165°F before serving. Quick sauté, bake or microwave just until hot.

• When reheating, cook bacon thoroughly. Don’t just warm through.

• Discard any bacon that smells or looks off instead of tasting to check if unsure.

Storing, freezing, thawing, and reheating bacon properly helps prevent foodborne illnesses. So follow these guidelines and your refreshing BLTs, loaded potatoes, and bacon-wrapped appetizers will always stay tasty and safe to eat.

Common Questions about Cooked Bacon Storage

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about how long cooked bacon lasts:

How do you know when cooked bacon has gone bad?

Signs that signal it’s time to toss cooked bacon include an off smell, slimy or sticky texture, dull or unnatural color, mold growth, and a sour or rancid taste.

Can cooked bacon be frozen and eaten later?

Yes, cooked bacon can be frozen in an airtight container for 1-2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.

Is it safe to eat cooked bacon left out overnight?

No. Cooked bacon left at room temperature over 2 hours should not be eaten due to potential bacterial growth. Refrigerating after cooking inhibits bacteria.

What happens if you cook spoiled bacon?

Cooking spoiled bacon does not make it safe to eat. The bacteria are still present and cooking doesn’t destroy the toxins. Always discard rotten raw bacon.

How do you store leftover cooked bacon grease?

Pour grease into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 month or freeze for up to 6 months. Use within these timeframes for food safety.

By following the proper guidelines for refrigerating, freezing, and reheating cooked bacon, you can safely keep this tasty treat on hand for breakfasts, sandwiches, salads and more recipes. Use your senses and never take risks with bacon that smells or appears spoiled.