Eating beef is part of many people’s regular diet. Whether you are cooking up hamburgers, steak, or pot roast, knowing how long beef can be left out is crucial for food safety. I did extensive research on this topic to provide clear guidelines on the shelf life of raw and cooked beef.
How Long Can Raw Beef Stay Out?
According to food safety experts, raw beef should not be left out of refrigeration for more than 2 hours [1]. This 2 hour timeline is for beef sitting out at room temperature which is between 40°F and 140°F.
Here are some key timelines to follow with raw beef [1]:
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If the room temperature is between 40°F and 90°F, only leave beef out for up to 2 hours.
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If the room temperature is above 90°F do not leave raw beef out for more than 1 hour.
The 2 hour rule also applies to frozen raw beef that you are thawing out on the counter. Only thaw for the maximum of 2 hours before cooking or putting back in the refrigerator [2] I recommend thawing in the refrigerator overnight whenever possible
Marinating raw beef in an acidic sauce like vinegar can help extend the 2 hour timeline slightly since the acidity retards bacteria growth. But do not marinate longer than 4 hours outside of the refrigerator [2].
How Long Can Cooked Beef Stay Out?
Cooked beef also should not be left out for more than 2 hours at room temperature [1]. The bacteria risk is just as high for cooked beef as it is for raw.
Leftover cooked beef should be refrigerated within 2 hours. And reheated cooked beef that sits out for more than 2 hours should be discarded.
When reheating beef, use a food thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5 Signs Beef Has Gone Bad
Being able to identify spoiled beef is important to prevent foodborne illness Here are 5 signs that raw or cooked beef has gone bad [1][3]
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Bad Smell: Fresh beef has a mild odor. Spoiled beef will have a rancid odor.
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Discoloration: Raw beef is red or pinkish. Cooked beef is brown. If either shows green or grey spots, it has spoiled.
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Slimy Texture: Spoiled raw beef will have a sticky or slimy feel.
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Mold Growth: Some molds on beef may be harmless but others produce toxins. Visible mold means it should be discarded.
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Questionable Age: Raw beef lasts just 2-3 days refrigerated. Cooked beef lasts 3-4 days refrigerated. Toss out beef of questionable age.
Following the above signs of spoilage ensures you do not serve or eat contaminated beef.
Dangers of Eating Beef Left Out Too Long
Consuming beef that has sat out too long can lead to food poisoning. Bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella grow rapidly when beef is left in the “danger zone” between 40°F and 140°F [3].
Symptoms of food poisoning include [4]:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach cramps
- Diarrhea
- Fever
Food poisoning requires medical treatment. In severe cases it can even be life threatening, especially for the elderly, infants, and those with weakened immune systems.
Always be cautious with beef handling and storage. Follow the recommended room temperature time limits. And if in doubt, remember the old adage “when in doubt, throw it out.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can cooked beef be left out at room temperature?
Cooked beef should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. To prevent bacteria growth, refrigerate or freeze leftovers within 2 hours.
Can you get sick from eating steak left out overnight?
Yes, you can absolutely get sick from eating steak that has been left out overnight. Raw or cooked beef left out for more than 2 hours can cause food poisoning.
Is raw beef OK in the fridge for 5 days?
Raw beef is generally safe in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Ground beef may only last 1-2 days. For maximum food safety, use raw beef within 2 days of refrigeration.
What happens if you eat bad cooked beef?
Eating bad cooked beef that contains harmful bacteria can cause food poisoning symptoms. These include nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhea and fever. Seek medical treatment if you suspect food poisoning.
Can I put cooked beef back in the fridge?
Yes, cooked beef can be put back in the refrigerator for storage. Be sure to refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking. Cooked beef is safe for 3-4 days refrigerated. Reheat fully to 165°F before eating it again.
References:
[1] https://chefstandards.com/how-long-can-meat-sit-out/
[2] https://carnivorestyle.com/how-long-can-raw-meat-sit-out/
The 2-Hour Rule: Stick to It
- At room temperatures (between 68°F and 90°F / 20°C to 32°C), raw beef, pork, poultry, and seafood must be refrigerated within 2 hours.
- If the ambient temperature is above 90°F (32°C) — such as during an outdoor picnic or BBQ — the safe window drops to 1 hour.
These time limits apply to all raw meat, regardless of whether its marinated, fresh from the grocery store, or waiting to be cooked.
Why “Just a Little While” Can Be Dangerous
Leaving raw meat on the counter may seem harmless, especially while prepping a meal or firing up the grill. But food safety experts warn otherwise. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), raw meat should never sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Beyond that point, bacterial growth skyrockets, increasing your risk of foodborne illness.