How Long Does Cooked Steak Last In The Fridge? | Tips (2024)

Ah, the smell of a perfectly cooked steak! Nothing quite hits the spot like a delicious and juicy cut of beef. But what do you do if you can’t finish it all in one sitting? If this is an issue you have struggled with when deciding whether or not to make that trip to the butcher shop, we have some incredibly helpful advice for you. After reading this blog post, you’ll know how long does cooked steak last in the fridge– so no more wasting precious meat.

How Long Does Cooked Steak Last in the Fridge?

How long does cooked steak last in the fridge? The recommended time frame for consuming cooked steak, according to USDA guidelines, is 3-4 days. Ensure that the beautifully grilled or seared steak doesn’t go bad in the fridge, especially when there are occasions of leftover steak.

How To Store Cooked Steak?

Store It Immediately

Cooked steak and cooked meat, in general, contain a considerable number of microbes. The longer these foods are left out at room temperature, the more these pathogens multiply, leading to spoilage. To prevent this, it is vital not to let the meat sit out any longer than necessary. As soon as you finish your meal, make it a habit to pack up your food and store it in the fridge or freezer.

Monitor Temperature

Check your fridge and ensure that the temperature is set to 40°F or below. It is recommended to store cooked steak at this temperature as soon as possible. At 40°F, cooked steak can last for 3 to 4 days. Maintaining this temperature slows down microbial activity significantly, ensuring the safety of the cooked steak for consumption.

Use Airtight Containers

The manner in which you store leftover steak will affect its longevity and freshness in the fridge. Besides temperature, the most crucial factor is using air-tight containment. Whether you opt for a Ziploc freezer bag, plastic wrap, or freezer paper, make sure that you are using an airtight container. Air is the enemy of fresh food, as its presence facilitates microbial activity and the growth of bacteria, subsequently spoiling the leftover food. An airtight container will seal the food, keeping air out.

Tips for Maximizing Your Cooked Steak’s Shelf Life

Now that you know how long does cooked steak last in the fridge, let’s explore tips for maximizing your cooked steak’s shelf life. If you happen to come across a great deal on steak but won’t be able to cook it within the USDA’s recommended 3-5 day range for raw steak in the fridge, or if you find yourself with unexpected steak leftovers that won’t be consumed within four days, you may be wondering how to prevent the steak from spoiling.

Signs That Your Cooked Steak Has Gone Bad

Smell

If you detect an unpleasant odor when you open your fridge or freezer bag, it indicates that the steak has gone bad and should be discarded. Despite how delicious a well-prepared steak can be, it becomes unenjoyable once spoiled. A foul smell serves as the most evident indication that the steak is no longer safe to consume. Trust your senses and dispose of steak that smells off.

Visual Cues

A change in color typically signifies bacterial growth and renders the steak unsafe. Alongside the smell, the appearance is a clear giveaway that the steak is inedible and should not be consumed. If you find mold or yeast growing on the steak, it is undoubtedly unsafe and must be discarded. Leftover steak should maintain its original color. If the leftovers appear different from the rosy pink interior and brown crust that you cooked, it is best to throw away the meat. Even when properly stored, carefully inspect all steak leftovers before consuming.

Texture

If your leftover steak has a slimy or slippery film, it is a sign of bacterial growth and indicates that the meat’s quality has deteriorated. In this case, do not consume the steak, even if the smell and appearance are not obviously bad. Discard the spoiled meat to avoid any health risks.

Taste

Do not attempt to taste the steak to determine if it has gone bad. If you suspect that it is spoiled, discard the steak. Consuming questionable steak can lead to food poisoning. It’s not worth the risk.

How Can I Reheat Leftover Steak?

If the steak has been in the freezer, it’s best to let it thaw on a wire rack before heating. Once thawed, you can proceed with one of the following methods:

Microwave

Although it’s the fastest and easiest option, microwaving may not produce the best results. Ensure you remove any aluminum foil and place the steak in a covered, microwave-safe container. Heat for 1 to 3 minutes until warm.

Air Fryer

Another quick and easy method is using an air fryer. Set the temperature to 375°F and reheat the steak for 3 to 5 minutes.

Stovetop

Personally, I find heating leftover steak on the stovetop to be a great option. Melt some butter in a skillet over medium-low heat and heat the steaks for about 5 minutes or until they reach your desired temperature.

Oven

Preheat the oven to 275°F and place the steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with aluminum foil and let them cook for 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through. This is my preferred method as it requires less monitoring and yields delicious results.

Grill

If you have a grill, you can set it to 350°F and heat the steaks for about 10 minutes undisturbed. To preserve moisture, you can also wrap the steaks in aluminum foil before placing them on the grill. However, this method requires some extra effort, particularly with a charcoal grill.

FAQs: Cooked Steak

Can I eat cooked steak after 5 days?

According to the USDA, it is recommended to consume cooked beef, such as steak, within 3 to 4 days if refrigerated at 40°F or below. It’s important to note that refrigeration slows but does not halt bacterial growth. Additionally, cooked leftovers should be used within 3 to 4 days.

Can I eat cooked steak after 4 days?

According to USDA guidelines, it is recommended to consume cooked steak within 3 to 4 days if stored properly in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F or below. Refrigeration slows down bacterial growth but does not halt it completely. It is also advised to use any cooked leftovers within 3 to 4 days.