Beef tenderloin is one of the most delicious, tender cuts of beef you can buy. But like all raw meats, proper storage is essential to keep it safe and flavorful. So how long can you keep beef tenderloin in the fridge before cooking it?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about refrigerating beef tenderloin. You’ll learn about optimal storage times, the best wrapping methods, signs of spoilage, freezing tips, and more.
Follow these beef tenderloin refrigeration rules, and you’ll be rewarded with mouthwateringly tender, juicy meat every time you cook it.
The Fridge Life of Raw Beef Tenderloin
First, let’s tackle the pivotal question – how long is raw beef tenderloin good for in the refrigerator?
Here are the general guidelines
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Uncooked beef tenderloin lasts 3 to 5 days in the fridge This assumes it’s stored properly in the coldest part of the fridge at 40°F or below.
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Ground beef tenderloin only lasts 1 to 2 days in the fridge. Ground meats spoil faster than whole cuts.
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Marinated beef tenderloin keeps 1 to 2 days in the fridge. The acidic marinade reduces its shelf life compared to plain tenderloin.
As you can see, you get a fairly small window to use beef tenderloin before the quality declines. But proper handling and storage can help maximize its freshness.
7 Tips to Keep Beef Tenderloin Fresher Longer
Follow these handy beef storage tips to retain tenderness and prevent spoilage:
1. Chill It ASAP
Refrigerate or freeze beef tenderloin as soon as possible after purchasing it. Leaving it out too long gives bacteria a chance to multiply.
2. Wrap It Tightly
Keep beef tenderloin well wrapped in its original butcher paper, or rewrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This prevents freezer burn or dehydration in the fridge.
3. Use the Cold Zone
Store tenderloin on a shelf towards the back of the fridge, where temperatures are coldest. Keep it far away from the door.
4. Separate Raw Meats
Store raw beef separately from cooked foods or produce to prevent cross-contamination. Never let raw meat juices drip onto other foods.
5. Monitor the Temp
Make sure your fridge temp is 40°F or below. Use a thermometer to routinely check fridge and meat temperatures.
6. Don’t Overcrowd
Avoid cramming the fridge full or tightly packing foods. Proper air circulation is vital to keep cold temperatures consistent everywhere.
7. Portion It Out
Divide beef tenderloin into smaller portions before freezing. You can defrost just what you need each time.
Sticking to these practices will help safeguard your beef’s freshness and quality during its fridge life.
5 Signs Your Beef Tenderloin Has Spoiled
Beef tenderloin can go bad before its expiration date if it’s improperly stored. Watch for these red flags:
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Slimy texture – Slime on raw meat indicates bacterial growth. Discard immediately.
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Weird odor – Fresh beef should have a mild odor. A sour, rancid, or ammonia-like smell means it’s spoiled.
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Discoloration – Graying or greenish hues point to spoilage. Natural red beef color is ideal.
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Slack consistency – Beef should feel firm to the touch. Mushy, limp meat has gone off.
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Mold growth – Any fuzzy mold spots mean the meat must be tossed out. Don’t try to cut away mold.
Trust your eyes, nose, and common sense. When in doubt, throw it out!
Answers to FAQs on Refrigerating Beef Tenderloin
To expand on proper tenderloin fridge storage, here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
How should I wrap beef tenderloin for the fridge?
Tightly wrap tenderloin in plastic wrap, foil, or butcher paper. Place it in a sealed container or bag for an extra layer of protection.
Can I freeze beef tenderloin to make it last longer?
Absolutely! Frozen tenderloin stays fresh 6-12 months. Double wrap the meat in plastic plus foil before freezing.
Is it safe to eat beef tenderloin after the “sell by” date?
It’s not advisable. Sell-by dates indicate peak freshness time for beef. Eating it after this date could make you sick.
How can I tell if thawed beef tenderloin has been stored at unsafe temps?
Check its internal temp with a food thermometer. If it’s above 40°F, bacteria may have multiplied, meaning you should discard it.
Should I marinate beef tenderloin before fridge storage?
No, only marinate it right before cooking. Marinating tenderloin ahead of time can cause texture changes or contamination issues.
Can I store cooked beef tenderloin in the fridge?
Yes, store cooked tenderloin up to 3-4 days in the fridge. Be sure to cool it rapidly after cooking before refrigerating.
Is it safe to refreeze previously frozen beef tenderloin?
Refreezing tenderloin is not recommended, as the texture suffers. It’s best to thaw it in the fridge then cook it immediately.
Can I store beef tenderloin in the fridge without packaging?
It’s not ideal, but you can place tenderloin on a plate loosely covered in plastic wrap or foil in a pinch. Air exposure will degrade quality quicker though.
What’s the best way to store a partial piece of tenderloin in the fridge?
Tightly rewrap any leftover beef in fresh plastic wrap or foil, then put it in a sealed container or bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
Master Proper Raw Beef Handling
Storing beef tenderloin correctly helps maximize its short prime window in the fridge or freezer. But proper food safety extends beyond storage.
Always thaw frozen beef in the fridge, never on the counter. Cook beef thoroughly to an internal temperature of at least 145°F. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.
With smart handling and refrigeration, you can enjoy delicious beef tenderloin any night of the week. Just follow these handy beef tenderloin storage guidelines. Your taste buds will thank you!