If you’re like me, a perfectly cooked steak is a thing of beauty. But what happens when you can’t finish it all, and you’re left staring at a delicious piece of cooked sirloin or medium-rare steak? You wonder, “How long does cooked steak last in the fridge?” Well, worry no more.
Today, we’ll answer the question & also provide tips to ensure your leftover steak remains fresh and delicious. So, whether you’re a steak connoisseur or a novice, keep reading to make the most out of your leftovers without compromising on taste or safety.
How Long Does Cooked Steak Last In The Fridge?
It’s crucial to store your cooked steak at temperatures lower than 40°F. Under these conditions, your cooked steak can last in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.
Imagine this: you’ve just had a delightful steak dinner at home. You’ve cooked more than you can eat because, let’s face it, who can resist a good sale on prime cuts? Now, you have some leftovers, and the clock is ticking.
Remember the 3 to 4-day rule. Mark the date on the container if you want to be extra sure. It’s a simple trick that chefs use to keep track of their inventory.
How Long Does Cooked Sirloin Steak Last In The Fridge?
Cooked sirloin steak follows the same guidelines.
Picture this: You’ve prepared a lovely sirloin steak dinner, seasoned to perfection and cooked just right. But your eyes were larger than your stomach, and now you’re stuck with leftovers.
No worries, my friend! Store that beautiful sirloin in your fridge, keeping the temperature below 40°F, and enjoy it within the next 3 to 4 days.
How Long Can You Keep Medium Rare Steak In The Fridge?
Similar to how long does cooked steak last in the fridge, you might be thinking, “What about my medium-rare steak? It’s not cooked as much. Does it have the same lifespan?” The answer is yes.
Even if your steak is cooked less, as long as it’s been heated to the right internal temperature initially, it can last 3 to 4 days in the fridge.
Picture a beautifully seared steak, pink in the middle, with juices flowing freely. You’ve savored it for dinner, but there’s still some left. Don’t let it go to waste! Apply the 3 to 4-day rule, and you can enjoy that succulent medium-rare steak again.
How Long Does Cooked Beef Last In The Fridge?
Cooked beef, in general, follows the same principle. After a hearty beef dinner, leftovers can be safely stored in the fridge at temperatures lower than 40°F for 3 to 4 days.
But what if you want to know how long does cooked steak last in the fridge & keep it longer? Here’s where your freezer comes in handy.
While freezing may affect the texture over time, it’s a great option if you want to extend the life of your cooked beef. It can be stored indefinitely if frozen below 0°F, although the quality will degrade after about three months.
How To Store Leftover Steak & Cook Steak In The Fridge
Now that we’ve addressed the “how long does cooked steak last in the fridge,” let’s get to the “how to.” To store leftover steak, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container.
This keeps air out and moisture in, slowing the growth of bacteria and maintaining the steak’s quality. You can also vacuum seal the bag to make it extra airtight.
For optimal safety, consume within 3-4 days.
Imagine, you’ve enjoyed a fantastic ribeye, and you’re left with a few slices. Don’t just throw them in the fridge exposed. Wrap them up or store them in a container, and you’ve got yourself a delicious meal for the next few days.
How Do You Keep Cooked Steak Fresh In The Fridge?
After going through the basics of how long does cooked steak last in the fridge, let’s make it to a new level – freshness reserve.
To keep your steak tasting its best, remember to keep leftover cooked steak in an airtight container, freezer bag is a good alternative, or wrapped tightly. This prevents it from drying out and absorbing odors from other foods in your fridge.
Imagine this: you’re ready for round two with your leftover steak, but when you open the fridge, the steak has taken on the aroma of last night’s fish or the cheese you’re aging. Not appetizing, right? Proper storage prevents this culinary tragedy.
How To Reheat Leftover Steak In The Fridge
Here is how you do reheat properly and give your steak the best it deserves!
Step 1: Allow The Steak To Reach Room Temperature
Take the steak out of the fridge and let it sit on the countertop for about 30 minutes to come to room temperature. This helps to ensure even reheating and reduces the risk of overcooking the steak.
Step 2: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 250-275 degrees Fahrenheit (120-135 degrees Celsius). A lower temperature is key to slowly reheating the steak without drying it out.
Step 3: Heat The Steak
Place the steak on a wire rack over a baking sheet. This allows the heat to circulate all around the steak. Put the steak in the preheated oven for about 20-30 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be around 110 degrees Fahrenheit (43 degrees Celsius) for medium-rare steak.
Step 4: Sear The Steak
While your steak is in the oven, heat a skillet on high with a bit of oil or butter. Once your steak has reached the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and immediately transfer it to the hot skillet. Sear each side for just about 1 minute to recreate that delicious crust.
Step 5: Let It Rest And Serve
After searing, let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy steak. Serve and enjoy!
Remember, the aim is to warm the steak, not cook it further. The searing at the end helps to bring back some of the fresh-off-the-grill flavor.
Now we’ve cleared on how long does cooked steak last in the fridge and how to make it back to brand new – time for signs to check if it’s time to throw it out.
How To Tell If Your Steak Go Bad – Food Safety Is 1st Priority
Finally, let’s talk about identifying a spoiled steak. Food safety should always be your priority. You must use all 5 senses to tell if your steak has gone bad. We have an entire article on how to tell if your steak has past it time here. Let’s have a short summary of it for you as well.
If your steak has a sour or rancid smell, a slimy texture, or a grayish-brown color, it’s time to bid it farewell. Trust your senses—they’re your first line of defense in food safety. When in doubt, throw it out!
FAQs
Can I Cook 7 Day Old Steak?
Yes, you can cook a 7-day-old steak if it’s been properly stored in the fridge and doesn’t have any signs of spoilage like a bad smell, slimy texture, or discoloration.
Can I Eat 7 Day Old Cook Steak From The Fridge?
Yes, you can eat a 7-day-old cooked steak from the fridge, provided it was stored properly and doesn’t show signs of spoilage, though it’s generally best to consume cooked steak within 3-4 days.
Can I Eat Cooked Steak After 5 Days?
Yes, it’s typically safe to eat cooked steak after 5 days if it’s been refrigerated promptly and stored properly, though the taste and texture may start to degrade.
How Long Can Cooked Steak Stay Out?
Cooked steak should not stay out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as bacteria can start to grow rapidly, increasing the risk of foodborne illness.
References
- How long can I keep meat in the refrigerator?: https://ask.usda.gov/s/article/How-long-can-I-keep-meat-in-the-refrigerator
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