Yes, you can freeze bacon, both raw and cooked. Here is how long it lasts, the best way to store it, and what to do with bacon that has been sitting out.
How long does raw bacon last in the fridge?
Before getting to freezing: if you have an unopened package of bacon, it keeps in the fridge until the use-by date on the package, which is typically 1 to 2 weeks from purchase.
Once you open the package:
- Opened raw bacon: 7 days in the fridge
- Cooked bacon: 4 to 5 days in the fridge in an airtight container
If you have opened bacon you will not use within 7 days, freeze it. That is exactly what the freezer is for.
Can you freeze raw bacon?
Yes. Raw bacon freezes very well and is one of the most practical proteins to keep in the freezer.
The best method for freezing raw bacon:
Lay the strips out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 1 to 2 hours until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. The pre-freeze step keeps the strips from fusing together, so you can pull out exactly the number of strips you need without thawing the whole pack.
If you skip the pre-freeze step, separate the strips with parchment paper inside the bag before freezing.
How long does frozen raw bacon last? Up to 1 month for best quality. Technically safe for up to 4 months but the flavour and texture start to degrade after the first month, particularly with higher-fat bacon.
Can you freeze cooked bacon?
Yes. Cooked bacon freezes well and is incredibly convenient to have on hand.
Cook the bacon as normal, drain on paper towels, and let it cool completely before freezing. Lay strips flat in a single layer on a baking sheet and pre-freeze for 30 minutes, then transfer to a freezer bag. Label with the date.
Frozen cooked bacon lasts up to 1 month at best quality.
To reheat: microwave straight from frozen for 20 to 30 seconds per strip. It will be hot and crispy in under a minute, making it genuinely useful for quick breakfasts or adding to dishes without any planning ahead.
How long can bacon sit out at room temperature?
The 2-hour rule applies: raw or cooked bacon left at room temperature for more than 2 hours should be discarded. In a warm kitchen or during summer, reduce that to 1 hour.
This catches people out with breakfast spreads or brunch tables where cooked bacon sits in a warm oven or on the counter for a couple of hours. After the 2-hour mark, bacterial growth in the fat and protein reaches unsafe levels. It is not worth the risk.
Does cooked bacon need to be refrigerated?
Yes, always. Once cooked, bacon must be refrigerated within 2 hours. Store it in an airtight container or zip-lock bag. It will keep for 4 to 5 days.
One exception: fully pre-cooked packaged bacon (the kind sold shelf-stable at room temperature, like some microwave-ready bacon products) follows different rules. Check the label on those products specifically. Once opened, even pre-cooked shelf-stable bacon needs to be refrigerated and used within the timeframe on the packaging.
How long does turkey bacon last in the fridge?
Turkey bacon follows the same rules as regular bacon:
- Unopened: use-by date on the package
- Opened raw: 7 days in the fridge
- Cooked: 4 to 5 days in the fridge
Turkey bacon also freezes well using the same method as regular bacon. It is slightly leaner, so it can dry out a little more in the freezer. Use within 1 month for best results.
A scenario worth knowing about
You have opened a pack of bacon, used a few strips, and left the rest in the fridge. A week later, you are not sure if it is still good.
Check the date you opened it. If it has been 7 days or less, it is still within the safe window. Check the smell (off, sour, or ammonia-like means discard) and the texture (slimy surface even before cooking means discard). If it passes both tests and is within 7 days, it is safe to cook.
If you cannot remember exactly when you opened it, and it has been a while, discard it. Bacon is cheap compared to food poisoning.
Frequently asked questions
Can you freeze an entire unopened pack of bacon? Yes. Freeze the pack as-is, still in the original packaging. Wrap it in an additional layer of foil or place it inside a freezer bag for extra protection against freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge overnight before opening.
How do you separate frozen bacon slices? If you froze them without separating first, run the frozen pack under cold water for 20 to 30 seconds. The outer layer will loosen enough to peel off individual strips.
Can you refreeze bacon? Bacon that was thawed in the fridge can be refrozen once, though the texture will suffer slightly. Bacon thawed in the microwave or cold water should be cooked first before refreezing.
Does freezing change the taste of bacon? Minimally, if stored correctly and used within 1 month. Longer storage means more flavour loss, particularly the smoky notes. Airtight packaging is the most important factor in preserving quality.
For a complete guide to what else you can freeze, see our freezing guide.
For how long bacon and other proteins last in the fridge, see our complete food storage guide.
Storage times based on USDA FoodKeeper guidelines.
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