How To Defrost Packaged Meat. Place package on a tray to catch any drippings. The sealed bag should be completely submerged in cold tap water.

Remove the meat from its packaging, and place it in a clean plastic zip lock bag,. Department of agriculture, ground beef, stew meats and steaks will defrost within 24 hours; Place meat on a tray in a relatively cool room for one to two hours before completing thawing in the refrigerator.