How Long Does Ground Beef Last (in the Fridge, Freezer, Raw or Cooked)
on Nov 11, 2021
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How long does ground beef last and how can you ensure you’re having the safest, best quality beef with all your meals? This simple guide provides insight for both cooked and raw ground beef.
Ground beef is inexpensive meat that can be used in a variety of recipes and can make dinner a breeze on busy nights. From burgers to casseroles to savory pies, it is the king of versatile proteins.
How Long Does Ground Beef Last?
How Long Can Raw Ground Beef Stay in the Refrigerator?
An easy method of safely defrosting ground beef is by putting it in the refrigerator. It takes about 24 hours to fully raw defrost ground beef in the fridge. Raw ground beef shouldn’t be stored in the fridge for longer than 2 days.
How Long Does Cooked Ground Beef Last in the Fridge?
If you’ve got leftovers or if you’re using ground beef for meal prep, bear this in mind. Cooked ground beef will last 3-4 days in the fridge.
How Long is Hamburger Good in the Fridge?
Like regular ground beef, raw hamburger meat is good for about 2 days in the fridge. Beyond this point, there is a risk of contamination
How Long Does Cooked Hamburger Last in the Fridge?
Cooked hamburgers made from ground beef can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
How Long Can You Freeze Ground Beef?
It’s easy to stock up on ground beef because it has a fairly long shelf life in the freezer. Raw ground beef can be frozen for up to 4 months. Consider this the next time you pick up a bulk pack on sale.
How to Tell if Ground Beef is Bad?
To determine if ground beef has gone bad, start by examining its appearance. Fresh, raw ground beef should be bright or dark red. Throw out ground beef that has turned brown or gray. If you spot mold on the meat, this is a telltale sign to throw away that packet. A quick sniff of the meat can also inform you if it’s gone bad. Any foul odor is a definite indication that the beef is spoiled. Lastly, test the texture of the meat to determine its freshness. Ground beef should have a firm consistency and should break apart when squeezed. If you notice a slimy texture to the meat, you should toss it immediately.
How to Thaw Ground Beef?
Ground beef can be thawed by putting it in the fridge for about 24 hours. This allows the meat to maintain cool temperatures while thawing. Another method is by putting the meat in a watertight plastic bag and submerging it in a bowl of cold water. If you’re pressed for time, the microwave is a quick and convenient alternative.
Things to Do with Ground Beef
It can be used as fillings for tacos, casseroles and pies. Seasoned ground beef can be shaped into patties for juicy homemade burgers. For pasta lovers, ground beef can be used in a variety of delicious recipes, from spaghetti and meatballs to a meaty baked mac and cheese.
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