How to Properly Freeze Ground Meat: Essential Tips

Can you freeze ground meat? Yes, you can! Whether it’s fresh from the store or already cooked, ground meat can be frozen. The extended shelf life varies, but this guide will give you all the details and top tips on how to properly freeze your ground meat—whether it’s raw or cooked.

Can you freeze ground meat? 

Absolutely! Whether it’s raw or already cooked, you can safely store ground meat in the freezer for an extended period. However, there are a few important things to keep in mind. Ground meat is quite delicate and can easily become a breeding ground for bacteria, so it’s essential to handle it carefully. Follow our freezing tips to ensure your meat stays fresh and safe.

Freezing Ground Meat the Right Way – Here’s How

Microorganisms multiply rapidly in ground meat, so it’s important to be prepared even before you make your purchase. If you plan to buy meat for dishes like meatloaf or Königsberger Klopse a few days in advance, be sure to follow these tips for proper freezing.

• Maintain the Cold Chain: If the weather is warm, bring an insulated bag for your groceries. Ground meat should not be left unrefrigerated for more than 1-2 hours.
• Process or Freeze Fresh Ground Meat the Same Day: If you need to store it longer, freeze it on the same day you purchase it.
• Portioning Before Freezing (Optional): This allows smaller portions to freeze faster and thaw more quickly later. For more details, check out our article on thawing ground meat.

Freezing Ground Meat – Raw and Unseasoned

Follow this simple guide to quickly prepare your raw ground meat for the freezer. To preserve the quality and flavour, follow these steps:

1. Remove Raw Ground Meat from Packaging: Optionally, divide it into portions, such as 250g for meatballs or other recipes.
2. Place the Meat in a Freezer Bag: Use a bag that seals well. Squeeze out as much air as possible.
3. Flatten the Meat: Press the meat flat and seal the bag airtight. This helps it freeze quickly and saves space in the freezer.
4. Label the Freezer Bag: Write the date on the bag so you can keep track of how long it’s been in the freezer.
5. Freeze at -18°C: Store the ground meat in the freezer at -18°C (0°F).

Freezing Cooked Ground Meat

Cooked ground meat can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To extend its shelf life, freezing is a great option. Here’s how to do it:

1. Let the Cooked Ground Meat Cool Completely: This prevents condensation from forming in the colder environment.
2. Place the Meat in a Freezer Bag or Container: Use a freezer-safe bag or container, and seal it airtight.
3. Label with the Date: Mark the bag or container with the date to keep track of how long the meat has been stored.
4. Freeze at -18°C: Store the cooked ground meat in the freezer at -18°C (0°F).

How Long Can You Freeze Ground Meat?

By following all the tips, you can freeze ground meat for several weeks. The Federal Center for Nutrition recommends using lean ground meat within 3 months. However, fattier ground meat is best used within 1 month.