Cooked ground beef lasts 3-4 days in the fridge at 40°F or below. Freeze it for 2-3 months of best quality; it stays safe indefinitely at 0°F. Reheat to 165°F.
Storage times from USDA, FoodSafety.gov, FDA and university extension services. Checked .
How long does cooked ground beef last in the fridge?
3–4 days at 40°F (4°C) or below.
Can you freeze cooked ground beef?
Yes. For best quality use it within 2–3 months. Best quality; safe indefinitely at 0°F.
- Cool quickly in shallow containers, then freeze in recipe-size portions.
- Drain fat before freezing for better quality.
After thawing: Thaw in the fridge and use within 3-4 days, or reheat straight from frozen to 165°F; fridge-thawed portions can be refrozen.
How long can cooked ground beef sit out?
No more than 2 hours at room temperature, or 1 hour when it's above 90°F (USDA's 2-hour rule). After that, throw it out.
How to tell if cooked ground beef has gone bad
- Sour or rancid smell
- Slimy texture
- Mold
Bacteria that cause food poisoning don't always change the look or smell of food, so go by the storage times above. When in doubt, throw it out.
Questions people ask
How long is taco meat good in the fridge?
Cooked ground beef, including taco meat, should be eaten within 3-4 days.
Can I freeze cooked ground beef?
Yes. It keeps best quality 2-3 months frozen and can be reheated without thawing.
How long does cooked ground beef last in the fridge?
Cooked ground beef keeps 3–4 days in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.
How long does cooked hamburger meat last in the fridge?
Cooked ground beef keeps 3–4 days in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.
Can you freeze cooked ground beef?
Yes. Frozen at 0°F, cooked ground beef stays safe indefinitely; for best quality use it within 2–3 months.
How long does cooked mince last in the fridge?
Cooked ground beef keeps 3–4 days in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.
How long does cooked mince beef last in the fridge?
Cooked ground beef keeps 3–4 days in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.