Thawing beef properly and safely is an important step before cooking it. Knowing how long thawed beef remains fresh can help prevent foodborne illnesses and make sure you get the most flavor and quality out of your meat. In this complete guide we’ll cover everything you need to know about how long beef stays good after thawing.
Overview of Thawing Methods
There are three main ways to safely thaw beef
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Refrigerator thawing: The slowest but safest method. Keep the frozen beef in its original packaging and place it on a tray to catch any drips. Allow 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds.
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Cold water thawing: Submerge the packaged beef in cold water, changing out the water every 30 minutes. About 30 minutes per pound.
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Microwave thawing: Use the defrost setting in short intervals, stopping to flip and check the beef often. Only use this if needed.
Thawing at room temperature or in hot water risks bacterial growth, so refrigeration and cold water are best.
How Long Does Thawed Beef Last in the Fridge?
Once thawed, beef should be cooked or refrozen within these time frames:
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Steaks, roasts, chops: 3 to 5 days.
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Ground beef 1 to 2 days maximum
The cut of beef impacts shelf life. Ground meats spoil fastest since grinding exposes more surface area to bacteria. Whole cuts last slightly longer.
Proper storage is also key. Keep thawed beef in the coldest part of the fridge, tightly wrapped, and never on top shelves where temps are warmer.
Identifying Spoiled Beef After Thawing
Check thawed beef closely before cooking. Signs it may be spoiled include:
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Unpleasant or sour odor.
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Slimy texture or sticky surface.
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Discoloration to gray, green, or brown.
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Mold growth.
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Weird marbling patterns.
If you notice any of these, it’s safest to discard the thawed beef. When in doubt, throw it out.
Handling and Cooking Thawed Beef
To safely handle and cook thawed beef:
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Cook beef immediately after thawing, within the safe timeframe above.
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Always cook beef to an internal temperature of at least 145°F. Use a meat thermometer.
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Avoid cross-contamination by keeping raw beef isolated from ready-to-eat foods.
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Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and use within 3 to 4 days.
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When reheating, cook to 165°F internal temperature.
Following basic food safety rules prevents bacteria from multiplying after thawing.
Food Safety Tips for Thawed Beef
Keep these food safety guidelines in mind when thawing beef:
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Never leave beef on the counter or any surface to thaw. Thaw only in the fridge or cold water.
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If using the microwave method, cook the beef immediately after thawing.
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Marinate beef in the fridge, not on the counter. Discard used marinade after cooking.
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Don’t refreeze thawed beef more than once. This seriously impacts texture and flavor.
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When in doubt, throw it out! Don’t risk eating beef that seems questionable.
Proper thawing, storage, and cooking destroys harmful bacteria that can multiply on beef as it defrosts and sits. Following good food safety practices reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Quickly Thawing Beef in a Time Crunch
For those times you need thawed beef in a hurry:
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Place sealed beef in a large bowl of lukewarm water. Change water every 15 minutes.
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Use the microwave defrost setting then immediately cook.
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Submerge sealed beef in a sous vide water bath set to 100°F for 1-2 hours.
While not ideal, these quicker thawing methods can work in a pinch. Just be extra diligent about cooking the beef soon after thawing.
Key Takeaways on Thawed Beef’s Shelf Life
To recap, properly thawed beef should be consumed or refrozen quickly:
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Whole cuts last 3-5 days maximum in the fridge after thawing.
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Ground beef only lasts 1-2 days after thawing.
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Always inspect thawed beef closely before cooking or eating.
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Cook beef thoroughly and follow food safety principles after thawing.
Knowing how long beef stays fresh after thawing, picking safe thawing methods, monitoring for spoilage, and proper cooking and storage are all critical to prevent foodborne illnesses from improperly handled thawed beef.
Ask the Test Kitchen: How Long Will Meat Last in the Fridge?
FAQ
Can you eat meat 3 days after defrosting?
While foods are in the process of thawing in the refrigerator, they remain safe. After thawing, use ground meats, poultry, and fish within one or two additional days, and use beef, pork, lamb or veal within three to five days.
How long after defrosting beef should it be cooked?
Is ground beef good 3 days after defrosting?
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Thawing in the refrigerator:Ground beef can be stored for an additional 1-2 days after thawing in the refrigerator before cooking.
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Thawing in cold water or microwave:If thawed using these methods, it’s best to cook the ground beef immediately.
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Refreezing:Ground beef that has been thawed in the refrigerator can be refrozen safely, although some changes in texture or flavor may occur.
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Safety guidelines:It’s crucial to keep ground beef cold while thawing to prevent bacterial growth. Never leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours (or 1 hour above 90°F).
Is raw beef ok for 5 days in the fridge?
Beef, veal, lamb and pork roasts, steaks and chops may be kept 3 to 5 days.
How long does thawed ground beef last?
This method should be used only if necessary. Once ground beef is thawed, its shelf life depends on the storage method: Refrigerator: Ground beef can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days after thawing. Freezer: If you don’t plan to use the thawed ground beef within 2 days, refreeze it for up to 4 months.
How long can you keep thawed beef in the fridge?
Use ground meats, poultry, and fish within one or two more days of thawing, and roasts, steaks, or chops of beef, pork, lamb, or veal within three to five days. How long can you keep defrost beef in the refrigerator? Steaks, ground beef, and stew meat can all defrost in the refrigerator in a single day.
Is ground beef good after thawing?
Generally, no. It’s best to use ground beef within 1-2 days of thawing in the refrigerator. While it might still appear safe on the third day, the risk of bacterial growth increases significantly. 2. Is raw ground beef good after 7 days in the fridge? Absolutely not.
Can You refreeze thawed ground beef?
Uncooked Ground Beef: Use thawed ground beef within 1-2 days in the refrigerator. Do not refreeze thawed ground beef. If you notice any of the following signs, the ground beef is likely spoiled and should be discarded:
How long can beef defrost in the fridge?
Steaks, ground beef, and stew meat can all defrost in the refrigerator in a single day. Whole roasts and parts with bones could require two days or more. The raw ground beef can be kept in the fridge for one to two days after it has thawed. Before cooking, all other beef cuts can be safely stored in the refrigerator for an additional 3 to 5 days.
Can you eat meat after thawing?
Information. Foods that are thawing in the fridge (at 40 °F or less) are still safe to eat. Use ground meats, poultry, and fish within one or two more days of thawing, and roasts, steaks, or chops of beef, pork, lamb, or veal within three to five days.