It is generally not recommended to cover a roast with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight. Instead, you should store the roast properly to ensure food safety and preserve its quality.
After cooking a roast, it's essential to follow these steps for safe and effective refrigeration:
Allow Cooling: Let the roast cool at room temperature for about 1 to 2 hours after cooking. This helps avoid condensation, which can lead to bacterial growth when the meat is wrapped and stored in the refrigerator.
Slice or Separate: If you have a large roast, consider slicing or separating it into smaller portions. This helps the meat cool faster and ensures more even chilling.
Airtight Container: Place the roast in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with aluminum foil. You can also use resealable plastic bags designed for food storage.
Store in Its Own Juices (Optional): If you have plenty of cooking juices or gravy left from the roast, you can store the meat in a container along with some of the juices. This helps maintain moisture and flavor during refrigeration.
Refrigerate: Put the roast in the refrigerator promptly after it has cooled down. Ensure the refrigerator temperature is set to 40°F (4°C) or below to prevent bacterial growth.
By following these steps, you can safely refrigerate your roast overnight or for up to 3-4 days. However, it's essential to use your judgment and senses – if the roast looks, smells, or tastes off, it's best to discard it to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.
Additionally, if you plan to keep the roast for an extended period or won't be consuming it within a few days, consider freezing it instead. Freezing can preserve the quality and safety of the roast for several months. When thawing and reheating, ensure you do so thoroughly and follow proper food safety guidelines.