Ground beef is a staple ingredient in many households. From tacos to pasta bolognese this versatile meat has a place in a variety of delicious dishes. However, once cooked, ground beef has a relatively short shelf life. So how many days is cooked ground beef actually good for? Let’s take a closer look.
Overview of Cooked Ground Beef Storage
In general, cooked ground beef that has been properly stored in the refrigerator is safe to eat for 3 to 4 days. The exact shelf life depends on a few factors
- Freshness of the raw meat prior to cooking
- Proper storage techniques like sealing in airtight containers
- Individual sensitivity to spoilage
Freezing cooked ground beef can significantly prolong its shelf life. Frozen, it can last for 2-3 months in the freezer before the texture and flavor start to deteriorate.
Regardless of storage method, food safety should always come first when determining whether cooked ground beef is still usable. Consuming spoiled meat can cause foodborne illness.
Proper Storage of Cooked Ground Beef
To maximize the shelf life, proper storage of cooked ground beef is crucial Here are some tips
-
Let the cooked meat cool to room temperature before refrigerating. This helps prevent temperature fluctuations in the fridge that can accelerate spoilage.
-
Store the meat in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, pressing out excess air. Oxygen can degrade the quality.
-
Freeze cooked ground beef as soon as possible after cooking. Freeze in portion sizes for easier thawing and re-heating.
-
Place ground beef on lower shelves of the refrigerator, which tend to be colder.
-
Never store cooked meat in the fridge door, where the temperature varies.
Following these guidelines optimizes preservation and reduces the risk of spoilage organisms multiplying.
How to Know When Cooked Ground Beef Has Spoiled
Cooked ground beef that has gone bad will show obvious signs of spoilage. Look for:
- Slimy or sticky texture
- Discoloration or graying
- Foul, unpleasant odor
- Mold growth
If you detect any of these, discard the cooked ground beef immediately. Do not taste meat that shows signs of spoilage.
Safely Reheating Cooked Ground Beef
Properly reheated leftover cooked ground beef can still be safe to eat, even if it is nearing the end of its refrigerated shelf life. Reheat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Here are some effective reheating methods:
- In a skillet over medium-low heat with a bit of oil
- In a baking dish in a 250°F oven
- In a microwave, stirring periodically
The key is bringing the entire portion thoroughly up to temperature. This kills any harmful bacteria that may be present.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some other common questions about the shelf life of cooked ground beef:
How many days can cooked ground beef be frozen?
Cooked ground beef that has been properly frozen can safely stay frozen for 2-3 months before the texture and flavor declines.
Can I eat cooked ground beef 7 days after cooking if refrigerated?
It’s generally not recommended to eat cooked ground beef more than 3-4 days after cooking, even if refrigerated. Discard meat that is older than this for safety.
Can I refreeze thawed cooked ground beef?
Previously frozen cooked ground beef can be safely refrozen if it was thawed in the refrigerator and was never left at room temperature for over 2 hours.
Can I store cooked ground beef in the original store packaging?
It’s better to transfer cooked ground beef into airtight storage containers or bags. This better protects against contamination.
Does cooked ground beef expire?
Cooked ground beef does expire and has a limited shelf life. The expiration happens faster than raw ground beef due to the rapid growth of spoilage bacteria after cooking.
Can I rely on smell to determine if cooked ground beef is spoiled?
While foul odors can indicate spoilage, smell alone is not completely reliable. Use it in combination with checking for slime, discoloration and mold.
The Takeaway on Cooked Ground Beef Storage
When stored properly in the refrigerator, cooked ground beef will stay fresh for 3-4 days. For longer shelf life, freeze cooked ground beef for up to 2-3 months. Keep food safety top of mind, and discard cooked ground beef that shows any signs of spoilage. Following these simple guidelines will help avoid getting sick from eating spoiled meat.
How long does cooked ground beef last in the fridge?
After you’ve cooked the ground beef to a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees, you have about three to four days to eat it.
You can also store a meal with cooked ground beef in the freezer for about four months without compromising the quality, the USDA says.
How long does ground beef last in the fridge?
Raw ground beef lasts one to two days in the fridge, according to FoodSafety.gov.
Refrigeration slows bacterial growth but it doesn’t stop it. Eating ground beef left in the fridge for more than two days is more likely to contain illness-causing bacteria. It also has a higher risk of spoiling, which worsens the quality of the food and gives it a bad odor and sticky feel.
Make sure your fridge is set to 40 degrees or below. Anything above that is what the USDA considers the “Danger Zone,” a temperature at which pathogenic bacteria can quickly grow.
If you’re not going to use your ground beef in the next few days but don’t want to waste it, try storing it in the freezer. Frozen ground beef is good for three to four months.