Cooking a nice roast beef dinner, only to have leftovers that need reheating? Don’t worry – with the right techniques, you can reheat frozen cooked roast beef so it’s just as delicious as the first time around.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through the best practices for reheating frozen roast beef using various methods. Whether you’re looking to reheat a rare roast or a well-done one, we’ve got you covered with simple, foolproof instructions.
Why Proper Thawing and Reheating Is Crucial
Reheating frozen cooked roast beef correctly is key for preserving moisture, tenderness and flavor. Improper reheating often leads to dry, chewy meat with a rubbery texture.
The main culprit is thawing the roast beef unevenly or too quickly. Microwaving from frozen can create hot spots that overcook parts of the meat before the inside thaws. Likewise, thawing on the counter leads to condensation on the surface that saps moisture.
Instead, thaw the roast in the refrigerator over 24-48 hours. This allows the meat to gently defrost without sacrificing texture.
Once thawed, use low, even heat to rewarm the beef without pushing it past the original doneness level. Go low and slow when reheating to avoid drying it out.
Oven Reheating Method
The oven allows you to evenly reheat large cuts of roast beef without drying them out. Here’s how to do it right:
- Thaw the roast beef completely in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Preheat your oven to 250°F.
- Place the thawed roast beef in a pan and cover tightly with foil.
- Put the foil-wrapped roast in the oven and heat until it reaches 165°F internally, about 15-20 minutes. Check with a meat thermometer.
- Allow the roast to rest, tented in foil, for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. The temperature will climb slightly as it rests.
This gentle oven reheating ensures even, thorough heating without continuing to cook the meat The foil tent traps in moisture and heat. Letting it rest afterward allows the juices to redistribute so your roast stays succulent.
Microwave Reheating Method
You can also use your microwave to quickly reheat leftover roast beef, but slice it first. Follow these steps:
- Cut the fully thawed roast beef into slices or chunks.
- Place them in a microwave-safe dish in a single layer.
- Cover the dish with a lid or plastic wrap.
- Microwave on half power in 30 second intervals until heated through, about 2-3 minutes total.
- Allow to sit for 1-2 minutes before serving.
Microwaving in short bursts prevents overcooking. The lid or plastic wrap prevents drying out. Letting the meat rest redistributes juices.
This method works well for quick individual portions. For whole roasts, the oven is gentler and less likely to create hot and cold spots.
Tips for Reheating Rare Roast Beef
Rare roast beef is especially delicate. Here are some tips to keep it tender when reheating:
- Cut into thinner slices before reheating so it heats quickly.
- Use an oven temperature no higher than 250°F if using the oven method.
- Microwave in 15-20 second intervals on half power at most.
- Do not overheat or it will quickly go past rare. Check often.
- Add a bit of beef broth or au jus sauce to slices before reheating if desired.
- Allow to rest before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
The key is using gentle, low heat so the middle can warm without the outside overcooking. Adding broth or au jus provides extra moisture and flavor.
Reheating Sliced Roast Beef
For quick individual portions, sliced roast beef can be effectively reheated using the stove or microwave:
Skillet:
- Place slices in a skillet or pan over medium-low heat.
- Add a bit of butter or broth to prevent sticking and drying out.
- Cook 1-2 minutes per side until heated through.
Microwave:
- Layer slices on a microwave-safe plate.
- Microwave on half power in 30 second increments, flipping halfway through.
- Heat until warmed through, about 1-2 minutes total.
Avoid stacking slices or they may steam instead of crisping up. Keep portions thin so they reheat quickly without overcooking.
Tips for Reheating Well-Done Roast Beef
Well-done roasts require extra care when reheating or they can turn dry and tough. Follow these helpful tips:
- Thinly slice across the grain before reheating.
- Use leftover pan juices, au jus or beef broth to add moisture.
- Cover the dish with foil when oven heating to seal in steam.
- Microwave in a dish with sauce, turning and stirring halfway through.
- Add extra sauce after reheating if still dry.
- Shred and use for chili, tacos, sandwiches, etc. where sauce can provide moisture.
Cutting against the grain breaks up tough fibers. Adding extra liquid compensates for the lower natural juices. Go easy when microwaving to avoid worsening dryness.
Alternative Reheating Methods
In addition to the oven and microwave, here are a couple alternative reheating methods to try:
Sous Vide: Seal thawed roast beef slices in a bag with any juices or sauce. Cook at 135°F for 1-2 hours until heated through. Provides incredibly tender, evenly cooked results.
Slow Cooker: Place thawed beef slices and sauce in a slow cooker. Heat on low 2-3 hours, until warmed through. Keeps meat moist.
Roast Beef Sandwich: For hot roast beef sandwiches, wrap sliced beef and cheese in foil. Heat at 350°F for 15 minutes, until melted. Top on bread or a bun.
Don’ts When Reheating Roast Beef
Avoid these common mistakes when reheating roast beef:
- Microwaving directly from frozen state. Thaw first!
- Heating too high or too fast. Use lower, gentler heat.
- Reheating without a sauce, broth or au jus to add moisture.
- Skipping the resting period after reheating and before serving.
- Cutting with the grain instead of against it.
- Stacking slices when reheating.
- Overcooking and drying out the meat.
Following the proper techniques outlined above will ensure your leftover roast beef stays tender and delicious when reheated. With a little care, it can taste just-prepared.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to some common questions about reheating roast beef:
How long does frozen cooked roast beef take to thaw in the fridge?
Allow 24-48 hours for a large roast to fully thaw in the refrigerator. Smaller roasts may only need 12-24 hours.
Can you reheat frozen cooked roast beef without thawing first?
It’s not recommended. Microwaving frozen meat risks partly cooking the outside before the inside thaws. Always thaw first.
What temperature should you reheat roast beef to?
Reheat roast beef to an internal temperature of at least 165°F to ensure food safety when reheating leftovers.
How do you reheat rare roast beef without overcooking it?
Use sliced thin pieces, low heat around 250°F, short microwave intervals, broth/sauce to keep moist, and don’t overheat through.
What is the best way to reheat cooked roast beef?
The oven and microwave are the two most reliable methods. For whole roasts, the oven is ideal. For slices, the microwave works well. Always thaw fully first.
Reheating and enjoying leftover roast beef is easy and delicious with the proper techniques. Now you have all the information needed to keep your roast beef tender, juicy and flavorful when reheating it from frozen. Follow this guide for roast beef that’s as good second time around!
