Few things beat the convenience of keeping beef tenderloin in the freezer. But when you’re ready to cook that beautiful cut of meat, thawing it properly is key. Rushing the thawing process can lead to uneven cooking or potential bacterial growth.
Follow this guide to learn how long it takes to thaw beef tenderloin and the safest methods for defrosting. You’ll get perfectly thawed meat ready for cooking up delicious recipes.
Why Does Thawing Time Matter?
Freezing meat keeps it safe long-term by halting bacteria growth. But once thawing begins, bacteria becomes active again.
If tenderloin spends too much time at unsafe temperatures during thawing bacteria multiply rapidly. This leads to potential food poisoning when the meat is later cooked and consumed.
That’s why it’s important to thaw frozen beef using methods that keep it chilled at 40°F or below, Higher temperatures for too long during defrosting create an unsafe condition for bacterial growth
How Long Does Beef Tenderloin Take to Thaw?
The size of the roast determines how long it takes to thoroughly defrost beef tenderloin:
- 1-2 pounds: 12-24 hours
- 3-4 pounds: 16-20 hours
- 5 pounds or more: 24 hours or longer
A 3 pound tenderloin will need around 16 hours to defrost completely when using the refrigerator method.
For quicker thawing, allow 30 minutes per pound submerged in a cold water bath. So a 3 pound roast would take 1.5 hours to thaw this way.
The Best Method: Refrigerator Thawing
Refrigerator thawing is the safest way to defrost beef tenderloin. It keeps the meat consistently chilled below 40°F as it gradually defrosts. Here’s how to do it right:
- Place frozen tenderloin on a plate or pan to catch drips
- Put in the refrigerator, allowing space for air flow
- Allow 12-24 hours thawing time depending on size
Though it takes more planning ahead, this slow thaw reduces bacterial growth risk. And meat thawed in the fridge can be safely refrozen if your plans change.
Quick Thawing in a Cold Water Bath
For faster thawing, submerge the frozen tenderloin in a bowl of cold tap water. Change the water every 30 minutes so it stays cold. Figure about 30 minutes thawing time per pound.
Once thawed, cook the meat immediately and don’t refreeze. The outer areas get above 40°F during this fast thaw, making it unsafe to refreeze.
Why Room Temperature Thawing Is Unsafe
Never leave frozen meat sitting out at room temperature to thaw. The outside rapidly warms above 40°F and stays there too long while the inside is still defrosting.
This extended time in the ‘danger zone’ temperature range breeds harmful bacteria. Always keep tenderloin chilled while thawing.
Tips for Thawing Large Cuts of Meat
For extra large cuts like whole tenderloins, use these tips:
- Partially thaw in the fridge if short on time, then finish in cold water
- Submerge bagged meat in cold water, changing water every 30 mins
- Use a cooler instead of a bowl for very large cuts
- Cook immediately, don’t refreeze after cold water thawing
Splitting the tenderloin in half before freezing also reduces thawing time later.
Can You Cook Frozen Beef Tenderloin?
Yes, you can cook beef tenderloin straight from frozen! Add 50% more cooking time since the meat’s core will still be partially frozen when you start.
Use an instant-read thermometer to test for doneness, allowing for carryover cooking after removing from heat.
This skips the defrosting step altogether. Just be sure to thaw any marinade or seasoning applied before freezing.
Handling Thawed Beef Safely
Once tenderloin is thawed, handle it safely:
- Cook within 3 days
- Refrigerate at 40°F or below
- Discard if slimy, sticky, or smelly
- Don’t refreeze if thawed with cold water
- Safely rewrap and refreeze only if thawed in fridge
Proper freezing, thawing, and cooking destroys potentially harmful bacteria.
Mastering the Thawing Process
Armed with this knowledge, you can perfectly thaw frozen beef tenderloin for flawless cooking results.
Use refrigerator thawing for the safest, gently defrost. Or speed it up in a cold water bath when needed sooner. Avoid room temperature thawing at all costs for food safety.
Finally, safely cook the thawed roast right away or refreeze only if thawed in the refrigerator. Now relax knowing your tenderloin is defrosted and ready for any recipe!
How to Defrost Meat Fast
But what if you don’t have time to let the meat thaw slowly? These tips will help you get your steaks on the grill quickly.
- Cold Water Defrosting. If your steaks are still sealed in their original box, this is the fastest way to thaw them. Fill a large bowl with cold water. Submerge the meat, in its packaging, in the water. Change the water periodically. In 45 to 2 hours, your steaks should be ready to cook. Remember that the water should be cold. Warm water may be faster, but it will make a great place for bacteria to grow.
- Microwave. It’s not a good idea, but this is the fastest way to defrost meat. Follow your microwave defrosting instructions. Pay close attention, because you only want to thaw the steak and not cook it!
When you press on your steak with your thumb and it “gives,” it means they are ready to go on the grill.
We do not recommend thawing steaks or roasts on the countertop.
HOW TO DEFROST FROZEN STEAKS AND MEATS
For steaks, other cuts of beef, or any other meat, letting it slowly thaw in the fridge is the best way to serve it. Our FlavorLockTM system makes sure that our steaks are frozen at their best; letting them thaw slowly keeps their high quality. To thaw your steak, just take it out of the box, put it on a plate to catch any juices, and put it in the fridge. For the best flavor, we recommend you cook your steaks immediately after defrosting.
- Let steak, burgers, and ground beef thaw in the fridge for at least 24 hours.
- You can let roasts defrost in the fridge for 3 to 4 days, depending on their size.
When you press on your steak with your thumb and it “gives,” it means they are ready to go on the grill.
Frozen Beef Facts – Meat Minutes
FAQ
How long does it take to thaw a frozen beef tenderloin?
When to take beef tenderloin out of the freezer?
How to thaw tenderloin?
How long to thaw 4 lb roast in the fridge?
How long does frozen beef tenderloin take to thaw?
The best way to thaw frozen meat is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight. Even though it takes a while, the gradual thawing ensures that the meat remains cold and safe (below 40 degrees Fahrenheit). Allow around 16 hours for a typical 3 pound roast. How do you defrost beef tenderloin quickly?
Can You refreeze beef tenderloin after it is thawed?
It’s not recommended to refreeze beef tenderloin after it has been thawed. This is because the process of thawing and refreezing can cause the meat to lose its texture and flavor, and can also increase the risk of bacterial growth.
How long does beef tenderloin take to defrost?
Allow around 16 hours for a typical 3 pound roast. How do you defrost beef tenderloin quickly? Foods that are thawing in the fridge (at 40 °F or less) are still safe to eat.
How long does frozen meat take to thaw?
A pound of frozen meat should thaw with this method in about an hour. 3 to 4 pounds of meat will take anywhere from 2 to 3 hours to thaw. It’s a good rule of thumb to estimate about 30 minutes of cold water submersion per pound of meat. If you really need your meat defrosted ASAP, you’re better off trying a different method – like your microwave.