Which Ground Beef Should You Buy? A Simple Guide to Choosing the Best

Ground beef is a kitchen staple, perfect for everything from juicy burgers and tacos to hearty casseroles and comforting meatloaf. But with so many choices at the grocery store—like ground chuck, sirloin, round, or just “ground beef”—how do you know which one is best for your recipe?

In this friendly guide, we’ll break down the different types of ground beef, explain what those percentages on the packaging mean, and help you pick the right one for your next meal. Let’s make shopping for ground beef easy and stress-free!

Understanding Ground Beef Labels

When you look at packages of ground beef, you’ll notice labels like “80/20” or “93/7.” These numbers refer to the percentage of lean meat versus fat in the product. For example, “80/20” means 80% lean meat and 20% fat.

• More Fat = More Flavor: Fat adds juiciness and flavor to your dishes. Higher fat content is great for burgers or recipes where you want a rich taste.
• Less Fat = Leaner Option: Lower fat ground beef is healthier but can be a bit drier if overcooked. It’s perfect for dishes where you’ll be mixing in other moist ingredients.

Common Ground Beef Ratios:

• 70/30 (70% lean, 30% fat): Extra juicy, best for grilling burgers but can shrink a lot due to high fat.
• 80/20 (80% lean, 20% fat): The classic choice for burgers—juicy but not too greasy. Also great for meatballs and meatloaf.
• 85/15 (85% lean, 15% fat): A good all-purpose option. Works well in tacos, sauces, and casseroles.
• 90/10 or 93/7 (90-93% lean, 7-10% fat): Leanest options—great for chili, stuffed peppers, or recipes where you want less grease.

Types of Ground Beef Cuts

The cut of beef used for grinding affects both the flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll commonly find:

• Ground Chuck: Comes from the shoulder area. Usually 80/20. Rich in flavor and perfect for burgers because it’s juicy and holds together well.
• Ground Sirloin: Cut from the middle-back of the cow. Often 90/10 or 85/15. Leaner and a bit more expensive. Good for recipes where you want beefy flavor without extra fat.
• Ground Round: From the rear leg. Usually around 85/15 or 90/10. Lean and slightly less flavorful than chuck or sirloin, but works well in sauces or casseroles.
• Regular Ground Beef: This can be a mix of cuts and usually has a higher fat content (up to 30%). Good for flavor but may shrink more during cooking.

How to Choose the Right Ground Beef for Your Recipe

The best ground beef depends on what you’re cooking! Here are some tips to help you decide:

• Burgers: Go for 80/20 ground chuck. The extra fat keeps burgers juicy and flavorful.
• Tacos & Sauces: Try 85/15 or even leaner if you want less grease. You can always add moisture with tomatoes or broth.
• Meatloaf & Meatballs: Use 80/20 or 85/15. The fat helps everything stick together and stay moist.
• Casseroles & Stuffed Peppers: Leaner ground beef (90/10 or 93/7) works well since other ingredients add moisture.

Tips for Cooking with Ground Beef

• Don’t Overwork It: When mixing ground beef (for burgers or meatballs), handle it gently to avoid tough results.
• Browning Matters: For the best flavor, brown your ground beef in a hot pan without stirring too much at first. Let it develop a nice crust!
• Drain Excess Fat: If your ground beef releases a lot of grease, drain it off before adding other ingredients to keep dishes from getting too oily.
• Season Generously: Don’t forget to season your beef with salt, pepper, and other spices to bring out its full flavor.

Is Grass-Fed or Organic Ground Beef Better?

You might see labels like “grass-fed,” “organic,” or “natural” on ground beef packages. Here’s what they mean:

• Grass-Fed: These cows eat mostly grass instead of grain. The beef is usually leaner and has a slightly different flavor—some say it’s richer or more “beefy.”
• Organic: The cattle are raised without antibiotics or hormones and eat organic feed. This option is often pricier but appeals to those wanting fewer chemicals in their food.
• Natural: This term isn’t regulated as strictly. It usually means minimally processed with no artificial ingredients but doesn’t guarantee organic practices.

If you care about how your beef is raised or want specific flavors, these options are worth exploring. Otherwise, standard ground beef works perfectly for most home cooks!

How to Store Ground Beef Safely

• Refrigerate Promptly: Always put ground beef in the fridge as soon as you get home. Use within one to two days for best quality.
• Freeze for Later: If you won’t use it right away, freeze it in an airtight bag. It keeps well for up to four months.
• Avoid Cross-Contamination: Wash hands and surfaces after handling raw beef to prevent spreading bacteria.

Your Questions Answered: Ground Beef FAQ

What’s the healthiest ground beef?

The leaner the beef, the less fat and fewer calories it contains. Look for labels like 93/7 or 90/10 if you’re watching your diet. Grass-fed and organic options may also have health benefits if you prefer natural products.

Can I substitute one type of ground beef for another?

You can swap different types as long as you adjust for fat content. If using leaner beef in a burger recipe, consider adding a little olive oil or sautéed onions for moisture.

Why does my ground beef shrink when cooked?

The higher the fat content, the more it will shrink as fat melts away during cooking. That’s why burgers made with fattier beef sometimes end up smaller than expected!

How do I know when ground beef is fully cooked?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer—ground beef should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). If you don’t have one, make sure there’s no pink left in the middle and juices run clear.

The Bottom Line: Which Ground Beef Is Best?

The best ground beef is the one that fits your recipe and taste preferences! For juicy burgers, go with an 80/20 blend (usually ground chuck). For lighter meals like tacos or casseroles, try leaner options like ground round or sirloin. And if you want something special, explore grass-fed or organic varieties.

No matter what you choose, remember to handle your ground beef safely and cook it thoroughly. With these tips in mind, you’ll always pick the perfect ground beef for any dish!