Expiration & Storage Tips
When does Philly Cheese Steak expire?
The pre-packaged Philly Cheese Steak you get from the store usually has an expiration date printed on the package. It remains good for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator once you open it. Now, if you have frozen it, it can last for about 2 to 3 months. Always remember to not eat these past their expiry date, even if they smell or look good.
How do you tell if Philly Cheese Steak is bad?
The easiest way to know if a Philly Cheese Steak is spoiled is to smell it. Spoiled food generally has an off-putting smell. You can also examine the steak for changes in color. If it's turned gray or black, it is definitely spoiled. Any growth of mold or slimy texture suggests that it has gone bad too.
Tips for storing Philly Cheese Steak to extend shelf life
• Always store Philly Cheese Steak in an airtight container to prevent the circulation of air and to retain its flavor.
• If you intend to store it in the fridge for a couple of days, ensure that you place it at the bottom shelf, to avoid any blood drip and cross contamination with other foods.
• For freezing, wrap it tightly with aluminium foil or a plastic freezer wrap before putting it inside a freezer bag.
• Always defrost in the refrigerator or microwave (using the 'defrost' setting), never at room temperature to prevent bacteria growth.
• If you are planning to eat the Philly Cheese Steak within a couple of hours, you can employ the quick-thaw method by placing it in a sealed zip-top bag and then submerge it in a sink of cold water, replacing the water every 30 minutes.