Beef broth is a versatile ingredient used in many recipes like soups, stews, gravies, and sauces. It adds rich, beefy flavor to dishes Both homemade and store-bought beef broth can be stored in the fridge, but how long does it last?
Overview
The shelf life of beef broth depends on several factors:
- Type of broth: homemade vs store-bought
- Storage method: airtight container vs open pot
- Ingredients added: vegetables, seasonings, etc.
In general, properly stored beef broth lasts 3-5 days in the fridge. Freezing extends shelf life to 2-6 months. Signs of spoiled broth include off smell, flavor, and appearance.
Shelf Life of Homemade Beef Broth
Homemade beef broth lasts 3-4 days when properly stored in the fridge.
To maximize freshness
- Cool broth completely before refrigerating.
- Transfer to airtight container within 2 hours.
- Keep broth 40°F or below.
- Cook within 3-4 days.
Broth lasts longer if cooked and transferred to the fridge right away. Added ingredients like vegetablesshorten shelf life. If broth smells, tastes, or looks off, toss it.
Shelf Life of Store-Bought Beef Broth
Unopened store-bought beef broth lasts about 1-2 years past the printed expiration date.
Once opened, it lasts about 4-5 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. Some brands recommend using opened broth within 1 week.
If the unopened packaging is compromised – bulging, leaking, rusty – toss the broth even if not expired. Use opened broth within 4-5 days and discard if it smells or tastes spoiled.
Freezing Beef Broth
Freezing extends the shelf life of both homemade and store-bought beef broth.
To freeze:
- Allow broth to cool completely.
- Transfer to airtight freezer bags or containers.
- Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label with date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-6 months.
Thaw frozen broth overnight in the fridge or quickly on the stove or microwave before use.
Signs Beef Broth Has Spoiled
Watch for these signs that beef broth has gone bad:
- Off smell – sour, rancid odors
- Changed appearance – mold, film, bubbles
- Off flavors – sour, bitter taste
- Discolored – unnatural colors
- Texture changes – thick, chunky, or slimy
When in doubt, throw it out. Consuming spoiled broth can cause foodborne illness.
Food Safety Tips
Follow these tips for safe handling and storage:
- Refrigerate opened broth within 2 hours.
- Use clean utensils and containers.
- Cook and consume within recommended time.
- Never leave broth at room temperature more than 2 hours.
- Check for signs of spoilage before use.
- When reheating, heat broth to a rolling boil.
Proper storage and handling prevents contamination and growth of bacteria, mold, and other pathogens.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make my homemade beef broth last longer?
- Freeze broth in portions for longer shelf life.
- Store in very airtight containers to prevent air exposure.
- Add a bit of lemon juice or vinegar as a natural preservative.
- Skim fat layer before refrigerating to prevent premature spoilage.
What is the best way to store beef broth?
The best way to store beef broth is in airtight glass or plastic containers in the fridge. Freeze for longer term storage. Always refrigerate or freeze broth within 2 hours of cooking.
Can you get sick from spoiled beef broth?
Yes, consuming spoiled beef broth can make you sick. Spoiled broth contains bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses like Salmonella, E. coli, Staphylococcus, and Clostridium botulinum. Discard broth past recommended time frames.
How do you know if opened beef broth has gone bad?
Check for off smells, appearance, or tastes. Beef broth should smell pleasantly beefy. It should not be moldy, slimy, or discolored. Spoiled broth may smell sour or rancid. If your broth does not seem quite right, it is safest to discard it.
Does cooking with spoiled beef broth make it safe?
No. Cooking does not necessarily make spoiled beef broth safe for consumption. Toxins from bacteria and mold can survive cooking temperatures. For safety, it is best to toss expired or questionable beef broth.
The Takeaway
With proper refrigeration and freezing, beef broth remains fresh and usable for 3-5 days in the fridge or 2-6 months in the freezer. For best quality and food safety, use beef broth within the recommended time period. Discard broth that shows any signs of spoilage like off smells, tastes, or appearance. Following food safety guidelines prevents foodborne illnesses from consuming spoiled broth. Keep beef broth refrigerated and use it soon for maximum flavor and freshness in your cooking.
Freeze beef broth to extend its shelf-life
If youre approaching the fourth or fifth day of having your beef broth in the refrigerator but know you wont use it all in time, you can absolutely freeze it (dont let that strategically double-strained broth go to waste). Both store-bought and homemade broth can last up to six months in the freezer, though homemade broth is best used within four months for optimal flavor, as extreme cold can degrade its vibrancy.
For best results, store the broth in an airtight container, but avoid freezing it in one large block, which would require thawing all of it at once. Individual portion molds — like these one-cup silicone molds from Souper Cubes — are a great option. Let the broth freeze until solid, then transfer the smaller blocks to a freezer-safe plastic bag.
To thaw, its best to let the broth sit in the refrigerator for up to two days, depending on the amount. But if you need it faster, you can warm up the individual blocks in a saucepan over low heat. If youre thawing a larger quantity, you can pop it in the microwave, but if you do, you must use the broth immediately.