How Long Does Steak Last in the Freezer? Resolved

Last Updated on September 13, 2024 by Shari Mason

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In addition to its delicious taste, steak is also a great source of protein. Its convenient and simple preparation makes it a popular option for meat-based meals.

While steak can be frozen for later use, there are some things you need to know about storing it properly in the freezer.

So, how long does steak last in the freezer? Let’s find out.

How Long Will Steak Last In The Freezer?

Steak can last up to 6 to 12 months in the freezer when properly stored. [1] 

The steak should be wrapped tightly in plastic or aluminum foil, then stored in a freezer bag or an airtight container.

“There is no sincere love than the love of food.”

– George Bernard Shaw, Irish Playwright

This will help prevent freezer burn and keep meat fresh while storing it freezer (between 0-10 degrees Fahrenheit). 

Read:

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• How To Get A Good Crust On A Steak?

Factors To Consider

Raw 

Raw steak can last in the freezer for 6 to 12 months. It must be wrapped in plastic and placed inside a freezer bag or airtight container.

Cooked

The cooked steak will last about 6 months in the freezer—but it will dry out over time.

Freezing cooked steak can expand the shelf life because bacterial growth halts in freezing temperatures. [2]

Properly Stored

Properly stored steak can last in the freezer for 6 to 12 months. It is important to store it at the correct temperature, which is 0 degrees Fahrenheit or below.

Temperature

The lower the temperature, the longer steak will last. It is because freezing helps slow the spoilage process caused by bacterial growth.

High temperatures (danger zone) speed up decaying due to moisture build-up. The recommended freezer temperature is -18° C (0° F).

How To Properly Store Steak In The Freezer 

To properly store steak in the freezer at 0° F, wrap it tightly with foil or plastic wrap before putting it in an airtight container to avoid freezer burn.

You can also cut it into strips or small portions and wrap them each with plastic wrap before putting them inside the sealed container.

How To Tell If It Has Gone Bad

Appearance

A spoiled steak has gone bad if the color is dull—usually dark or bluish patches on the meat surface.

Also, if there are any signs of mold growing on the surface of your, that means that bacteria have grown in the steak and made it unsafe for consumption.

Texture

The steak has gone bad if its surface becomes slimy or sticky in texture. The slime on the surface is where the bacteria develop, and you’ll likely get sick if you eat it.

Smell 

The best way to tell if the steak has gone bad is to check the smell of the meat. If it smells like rotten or decaying flesh, it has gone bad and needs to be discarded immediately.

Steak Shelf Life

	Room Temperature	Refrigerator	Freezer
Raw Steak	2 hours	3-5 days	6-12 months
Cooked Steak	2-3 hours	3-4 days	3-6 months

Tips & Tricks When Freezing Steak 

• Store in the freezer at 0° F.
• Use a container with a tight-fitting lid and label it with the date.
• Freeze the steak flat, not on its side; this will help prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze steaks in wrapped small portions, so they don’t stick together when stacked in your freezer.

FAQs

In Conclusion

Generally, steak can last in the freezer for about 6 to 12 months if properly stored in an airtight container and wrapped in aluminum foil or plastic in smaller portions.

The shelf life of steak in the freezer depends on the storage and temperature. It is best to keep the temperature at 0° F to keep the steak fresh when you’re ready to eat them.

References:

1. https://www.foodsafety.gov/food-safety-charts/cold-food-storage-charts
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14698095/