Can you defrost frozen ground beef in the microwave with the metal clips on the sides still on?

No. It is recommended to remove any metal clips from the plastic if they are present.

Here's How to Thaw Ground Beef In Your Microwave courtesy of leaftv:

Step 1: Take the beef out of all its packaging, including any original store packaging.

Step 2: Place the frozen ground beef on a microwave-safe plate and cover it loosely with microwave-safe plastic wrap.

Step 3: Microwave the ground beef on the "Thaw" or "Defrost" setting for the amount of time recommended for that weight of meat. If your microwave does not have a "Defrost" setting, use a 20- to 30-percent power setting for approximately 8 to 10 minutes for each 1 pound of meat.

Step 4: Check the beef frequently as it thaws. Break it into smaller pieces to help it defrost more evenly, unless it's already in patties.

Step 5: Take the ground beef out of the microwave as soon as it is fully thawed. Cook it immediately.

According to USDA - Food Safety and Inspection Service, when thawing food in a microwave, plan to cook it immediately after thawing because some areas of the food may become warm and begin to cook during the thawing process (bringing the food to "Danger Zone" temperatures). Holding partially cooked food is not recommended because any bacteria present wouldn't have been destroyed and, indeed, the food may have reached optimal temperatures for bacteria to grow.

After thawing in the microwave, always cook immediately after, whether microwave cooking, by conventional oven, or grilling.

Foods thawed in the microwave should be cooked before refreezing.

Also, never thaw foods in a garage, basement, car, dishwasher or plastic garbage bag; out on the kitchen counter, outdoors or on the porch. These methods can leave your foods unsafe to eat.

Tip! Learn these 5 Ways to Safely Thaw Frozen Foods from Kitchn.

Thursday, October 12 2017
Source: https://www.leaf.tv/articles/how-to-thaw-ground-beef-in-your-microwave/