Ideally, keep beef in its original wrapping and move it to your refrigerator. Defrost times are as follows:

  • Large roasts: 4-7 hours per pound
  • Small roasts: 3-5 hours per pound
  • Steaks and burgers (one inch thick): 12-14 hours

If you’re pressed for time, however, you can:

  1. Place the sealed vacuum pack in a sink filled with cold water (make sure the package seal is watertight!)
  2. Remove the beef from its package and microwave it on the “defrost” setting

Please note: We do not recommend thawing beef in your microwave or at room temperature; these steps are only if you really need to use the beef right away.