How Long Can Marinated Steak Stay in the Fridge? Explained

Last Updated on September 13, 2024 by Shari Mason

Ever wanted to know how long to leave a steak in the fridge for **maximum flavor and tenderness**?

With our expert guide on how to store marinated steak, you can make sure it stays safe and tastes great. 

Learn all you need to know to enjoy juicy, flavorful meat and ensure food safety. Let’s dive in.

How Long Can You Store Marinated Steak in the Fridge?

Marinated beef can last up to two days in the refrigerator when stored properly [1]. 

“Proper storage is key to preserving the quality and flavor of steak,”

– Chef John Doe, Renowned Culinary Expert 

Safely marinating meat in an airtight container and keeping it at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below can keep the steak fresh and flavorful for long periods.

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How Long Can You Marinate Meat?

To ensure the perfect steak, marinating time is 2-4 hours. It will allow the food to absorb it before they start to break. 

Discard unused marinade and marinate for not longer than six hours. Also, using the right marinades and technique can add zest to your meal.

How To Properly Refrigerate Marinated Steak

To store marinated meat, the key is to keep it fresh and delicious. To do this, ensure you marinate the beef in an airtight container, place it in the fridge, and allow it to marinate for up to 24 hours.

Do not leave it in the marinade longer to get perfectly cooked food.

After 24 hours remove them at room temperature and pat dry with paper towels. Discard the used marinade.

What Happens If You Leave Steak Marinating Too Long?

Steak gets its delicious flavor from marinades, but if you leave for more than a few hours, you may have a tough and unpleasant texture. The excess marinade can cause the protein to break down, leaving it mushy. 

There are many marinade recipes. If you’re in a rush, try a quick one that consists of herbs, spices, oil, and vinegar. That way, you’ll get the strong flavors you want without overdoing it. 

How to Tell If Your Marinated Meat Is Bad

Discoloration: When cooking steak, trust your senses! Discolored patches or slimy residue can mean it’s gone bad, so discard it immediately. A beef steak recipe calls for fresh meat that is safe to eat.

Sliminess: Many marinades can add flavors, but if the meat has a slimy texture, you should throw it out. If the meat has turned slimy, it is already spoiled. To be safe, always check the expiration date and discard any beef, chicken, or poultry recommend that has exceeded its shelf life. 

Odor: Trust your nose, the surest sign of spoiled meat is a strong odor. Always check the expiration date, and if in doubt, throw the food out!

Can Marinated Meat Be Frozen?

Yes. You can freeze them for later enjoyment. Just pop them in the freezer, and they’ll be ready for cooking whenever a recipe calls for it. 

Tips & Tricks When Marinating Raw Meat in the Fridge

• To marinate steak, most recipes combine soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, lime juice, or an acidic ingredient like red wine, balsamic vinegar, or lemon juice. It will help tenderize the steak.
• Always combine the steak marinade and uncooked meat in the refrigerator, never at room temperature [2]
• Cover the steak evenly in the marinade before placing it in the refrigerator.
• Safely leave marinated steak for at least an hour or several hours but no more than 24 hours 
• Use a shallow baking dish or zip-top bag to marinate beef in the fridge.
• When ready to cook, pat the beef dry before seasoning it with salt and grilling.
• Most steak recipes add a few spices to the marinade to your taste. 

FAQs

Let’s wrap it up

Marinating meat is a terrific way to add flavor and tenderness to your meal. Your steak will keep in the refrigerator for up to five days if you marinate it and store it properly. 

Use a shallow container with a tight lid and throw away any leftover marinade to keep your steak safe and tasty. 

With careful preparation and attention, you can enjoy great food any day of the week. Trust us: your steak tastes as good as it did when you first marinated it.

References: 

1. https://oureverydaylife.com/long-can-marinate-meat-before-goes-bad-20884.html 
2. https://www.livestrong.com/article/542302-can-i-marinate-steak-then-freeze-it/