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How Long Can You Keep Thawed Ground Beef in the Fridge?

HowLongFresh ExpertJul 24, 2025

Key Points

  • Safely Keeping Thawed Ground Beef in the Fridge Ground beef that’s been defrosted in the fridge can be safely kept for an additional one to two days in the refrigerator before cooking, says the U
  • And since you thawed the ground beef in the fridge, you can also safely refreeze it within that same timeframe, says the USDA
  • You should immediately cook meat thawed under either of those methods, advises the USDA, since it could easily warm up to the 40°F temperature at which harmful bacteria begins to multiply rapidly

Overview

You’ve got some time before you have to cook it. Safely Keeping Thawed Ground Beef in the Fridge Ground beef that’s been defrosted in the fridge can be safely kept for an additional one to two days in the refrigerator before cooking, says the U.S. Department of Agriculture. And since you thawed the ground beef in the fridge, you can also safely refreeze it within that same timeframe, says the USDA. None of this would apply, on the other hand, if you had thawed the ground beef in the microwave or in cold water. You should immediately cook meat thawed under either of those methods, advises the USDA, since it could easily warm up to the 40°F temperature at which harmful bacteria begins to multiply rapidly.How Long Does Raw Ground Beef Last in the Fridge? How Long Does Cooked Ground Beef Last? Is Raw Ground Beef OK If It’s Turning Brown?Long-Lasting Produce Stock up and enjoy Your Questions Answered Steak that's changed color

Key Points

  • Safely Keeping Thawed Ground Beef in the Fridge Ground beef that’s been defrosted in the fridge can be safely kept for an additional one to two days in the refrigerator before cooking, says the U
  • And since you thawed the ground beef in the fridge, you can also safely refreeze it within that same timeframe, says the USDA
  • You should immediately cook meat thawed under either of those methods, advises the USDA, since it could easily warm up to the 40°F temperature at which harmful bacteria begins to multiply rapidly

This information applies to: beef, chicken, cranberry, eggs, ground beef, hamburger, pie, potatoes, salad, shrimp, steak, stuffing, turkey

Tags

cooking expiration freezing leftovers refrigeration safety storage thawing

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