How to Quickly Defrost Ground Beef: 3 Easy Options

When it comes to buying and storing ground beef, the options are plentiful. There are so many different brands, types, and packaging options. This can make it hard to know which way to go. Luckily, this article will give you the necessary steps to not only buying, but how to defrost ground beef the right way, every time. From freezing tips, to thawing and quick cooking tips, you’ll learn everything you need to know to store your ground beef the right way. Read on for detailed information on how to do this.

What is Ground Beef?

Ground beef is made from beef meat that has been broken down into small pieces by a meat grinder. The quality of ground beef can vary, based on the type of meat used. Here are the three most common types:

• Ground sirloin: this cut comes from the loin, often a premium ground beef blend, that is used in steakhouse burgers. It normally has a fat content of 10-15%
• Ground chuck: typically a fat content of 15-20% very commonly used for burgers
• Ground round: a slightly leaner beef, that is a bit less premium, often used in dishes like meatloaf, tacos, and stuffed bell peppers

Ground beef can be used for tacos, burgers, meatballs, meatloaf, burritos, pasta dishes, macaroni and cheese, sandwiches, and more!

How to Store Ground Beef

There are two main ways to store your ground beef: in the refrigerator for immediate use and the freezer for long term storage.

• In the Freezer: Ground beef can last in the freezer for up to 6 months. We typically freeze it in the existing packaging that we receive it in; however, if we’re buying in bulk, we may decide to transfer and use a vacuum sealer, of if we don’t have the time use zip lock bags for storage. If you have vacuum sealed ground beef, or beef wrapped in the grocery store packaging, it is safe to place directly into the freezer.
• In the Refrigerator: This is the most obvious one, but this is the best place for short term storage or for safely defrosting your frozen ground beef. Ground beef purchased from the grocery store can last 3 to 5 days before use. It’s always best to check the dates on the labels prior to cooking.

Buying Affordable Ground Beef

The best way to get the freshest and highest quality ground beef every time is to buy your ground beef from a wholesale club. These clubs buy meat in bulk, often from large or small farms, and then sell it to members at a discounted price.

A wholesale club will usually have lower prices than other grocery stores. Plus, you’ll have access to a wider variety of different types of ground beef. When buying from a wholesale club, be ready to buy in bulk. If you’re looking to save some money, this is a great way to take the packaging and portion it out to freeze. The next time you cook ground beef, you’ll have the exact amount you need.

Some of the best wholesale clubs include Costco, Sam’s Club, BJ’s, and Walmart.

Defrost Ground Beef the Right Way

For best long term storage, ground beef should always be stored frozen. There are three main ways to defrost ground beef:

1. The Refrigerator: this method usually takes about 24 hours for the beef to fully thaw out and be ready for cooking.
2. The counter: we always recommend thawing your ground beef in a refrigerator; however, if it’s still partially frozen, removing it from the refrigerator for a few hours before you meal is an option. By leaving it out in room temperature air, this will accelerate the defrosting process.
3. A bowl of water: this is the fastest method. Keep in mind, you’ll still want to have a few hours before grilling. Simply submerge the ground beef (ensure that it is in a container, or vacuum sealed) with cold tap water. Replace the tap water periodically to ensure that the water doesn’t get too warm.

Quick-Cooking Tip: Grilling or Pan-Frying

When you’re ready to cook your ground beef, the best thing you can do is read the instructions on the packaging. Some pre-packaged burgers will recommend cooking frozen, this so to ensure that the burgers cook evenly all the way through. If you cook a partially frozen burger, it will lead to some spots that are over and undercooked. Check out our guide on medium rare burgers.

If you’re looking to grill or pan-fry your ground beef, there are 2 quick-cooking tips you can use. First, use a cast-iron skillet or a cast-iron griddle to quickly get the meat searing and golden.

Second, season your ground beef with flavorful herbs or spices before grilling or pan-frying. This will help add extra flavor throughout your meal.

Always ensure your meat is cooked to temperature with a meat thermometer and check our beef temperature charts.

Freeze Ground Beef the Right Way

Freezing is the best way to preserve both flavor and nutrients. When you freeze fresh ground beef, it keeps for up to 6 months in a freezer.

Pre-freeze your ground beef by placing the ground beef in an air-tight freezer-safe container and placing it in the freezer for at least 4 hours. This can be a Ziplock bag or a vacuum sealed bag. This will make it easier for you to take out what you need, without having to completely defrost the entire container.

Once your ground beef is in the freezer, make sure you don’t leave it there too long. Label the meat with your date of purchase and ensure you use it in under six month. If it is stored too long it can cause freezer burn, which is when the meat loses moisture, it can lead to the meat drying out, and becoming discolored. In order to prevent freezer burned ground beef, ensure it’s wrapped tightly in Ziplock bags, plastic wrap, or vacuum sealed packages.

Instructions to Defrost Ground Beef

Bottom Line

Ground beef can and should be stored in a freezer – especially when buying in bulk! Make sure to portion based on your personal usage, wrap in airtight containers, and you’ll be ready to quickly defrost ground beef in no time.

The safest way to defrost ground beef is to place it in a refrigerator for twenty four hours and allow it to thaw. We know we all don’t have that much time, the next best option is to defrost ground beef by using the bowl of water method. While it’s not preferred, it is possible, just be sure to cook your beef immediately after defrosting.