Meat is usually one of the priciest parts of a grocery trip, and rising costs can make it feel tough to keep within budget. The good news is, you can still make great meals by sticking to the cheapest cuts. Not every low-cost option is worth it, though, so knowing which ones to pass on can help you save money and avoid wasted effort.
Skipping meat altogether isn’t the only way to save on family meals. You can enjoy tender, flavorful meat without overspending — it just takes a little strategy. The key is to choose affordable cuts that are versatile and easy to cook, giving you plenty of options for feeding your family without breaking the bank.
Cheapest cuts of meat
Confidently walk into the grocery store and save money — all while buying meat. It’s easy to save money on groceries by being picky about which cuts to cook. You just have to choose the cuts that are priced lower and cook them correctly.
Ground beef
One of the most versatile ways to eat meat is to cook with ground beef. It’s easy to buy it in bulk, and grocery stores often put it on sale when the sell-by date is close. Use it in easy skillet recipes like creamy ground beef and cauliflower rice.
Pay close attention to the numbers on the package. Ground beef is classified by how much fat it has; the price will often increase when it has less fat. The leanest ground beef could be as much as $1 more per pound than the one with the most fat. If a package is labeled 70/30, it is 70% lean meat with 30% fat content.
Ground sirloin is the leanest cut, with only 10% fat. It will be the priciest. If the price of ground beef is too high, consider poultry. Ground chicken or turkey can be substituted in many recipes without affecting the flavor.
Flank steak
Whether you’re looking for cheap meat for grilling, stews or casseroles, flank steak is always the right answer. It’s inexpensive, versatile and full of flavor. It’s also known for being a tougher cut, so it usually requires marinating.
The best marinade will work for both flank and sirloin steaks. “I find that cheap cuts do really well when you marinate and cook them appropriately. Flank steak is one of my favorites, as is beef sirloin,” says Michelle Price of Honest and Truly. “Both do well with a marinade to tenderize them and keep them from drying out.”
Chicken
Chicken is one of the most versatile and budget-friendly meats out there. Bone-in options, like chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks, are typically more affordable than boneless cuts and work well in a variety of recipes.
“When feeding a family on a budget, buying cheaper cuts of meat like chuck roast or bone-in chicken thighs can be both cost-effective and flavorful,” says Jessica Haggard of Primal Edge Health. “These cuts are great for slow cooking and braising.”
Bone-in chicken thighs and drumsticks are perfect for hearty stews, sheet-pan dinners, or slow cooker recipes. For example, bake drumsticks with a simple seasoning rub for an easy dinner or use bone-in thighs to make a flavorful chicken and rice dish.
If a recipe calls for boneless chicken, don’t hesitate to swap in bone-in cuts, like in this creamy Tuscan chicken recipe. Just adjust the cooking method by keeping an eye on the internal temperature — chicken should reach 165 degrees F to be done. This simple swap can make a big difference in how far your dollar goes.
Pork
Pork is budget-friendly and packed with options for any meal. From pulled pork tacos to shake-and-bake chops, it’s a versatile meat that delivers big flavor without a big price tag.
Pork cuts to look for
- Pork chops: Bone-in pork chops are a budget-friendly alternative to their boneless counterparts. They’re great grilled, pan-fried, or baked with a breadcrumb crust like these shake-and-bake chops. If you’ve only tried them as a simple main course, branch out by slicing them thin for stir-fries or dicing for hearty stews.
- Pork loin: This lean cut is a great option for roasts or slicing into medallions for pan-searing. Pork loin is also a great candidate for stuffing — fill it with herbs, garlic, and spinach for a fancy dinner on a budget.
- Pork shoulder: Also known as Boston butt or pork butt, this is a flavorful, cost-effective cut perfect for slow cooking or smoking. It shreds easily for pulled pork sandwiches, tacos, or even homemade tamales.
Tips for getting the most from pork
- Save the bones: If you buy bone-in pork chops or a pork shoulder, save the bones for making broth. Pork broth adds a rich depth to soups, stews, or ramen.
- Slice it yourself: Buying a whole pork loin and cutting it into chops or medallions yourself can save money compared to buying pre-portioned cuts.
- Stretch the meat: Use pork sparingly in dishes like fried rice, casseroles, or pasta sauces, where a small amount of meat can go a long way.
- Season generously: Pork is a mild meat that takes well to bold flavors. Try spice rubs, marinades, or brines to bring out the best in each cut.
Skip these cheap options
Not all budget-friendly meats are worth adding to your cart. Sometimes a low price doesn’t translate to good value, especially when the quality or versatility isn’t there. Knowing which ones to leave behind can save you money and frustration in the kitchen.
Spam
Spam, short for “spice and ham,” is a processed meat product that’s been around for decades. While a 12-ounce can might only cost about $4, it’s worth reconsidering before adding it to your cart.
A closer look at the label reveals why. Each can contains 36 grams of saturated fat and a staggering 198% of the recommended daily sodium intake. With more fat than protein, Spam might not give you the value you’re looking for when compared to other, more balanced meat options.
Frozen chicken nuggets
Chicken nuggets are a popular go-to, but the frozen versions aren’t always the best option for your budget. Many of them are mostly breading with less actual meat than you’d expect, and the price per pound can really add up.
Making nuggets or tenders at home is simple and easy on your wallet. Just cut up chicken breast, coat the pieces with batter or breadcrumbs, and bake or air fry. You’ll get a fresher, more customizable result that’s just as convenient.
Chicken wings
Chicken wings might seem like a fun choice, but they’re not the best bang for your buck. There’s not much meat on them, and a lot of what you’re paying for is skin and bones.
Plus, getting that classic flavor usually means extra steps like breading, frying, or tossing them in sauce. When you look at the effort and cost, wings just don’t stack up.
Ham hocks
Ham hocks are often used to flavor beans or soups, but they don’t bring much meat to the table. Most of what you’re paying for is fat, bone, and a little bit of smoky flavor. While they’re inexpensive, the value isn’t great when you consider how little usable meat you get.
For a better option, try flavoring soups with ingredients like whole garlic, onions, or smoked paprika. These add depth to your dish without relying on an ingredient that doesn’t contribute much in terms of substance. If you’re after a meaty flavor, small amounts of bacon or smoked sausage can go a lot further.
Pre-seasoned meats
Pre-seasoned meats, like marinated chicken breasts or pork chops, can be tempting when you’re short on time, but they often cost significantly more than unseasoned cuts. Instead, consider buying plain meats and making your own marinades at home.
It’s as simple as mixing pantry staples like olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and spices to create something that works perfectly with your recipe. You can even prep and freeze plain cuts with marinade in freezer bags, so they’re ready to go when you need them — saving both money and time in the long run.
Deli meats
Packaged deli meats, like turkey or ham slices, can be convenient but often come with a higher price tag. They can cost $10 or more per pound, making them an expensive choice for sandwiches or snacks.
Cooking and slicing your own turkey breast or ham is a much more budget-friendly option. It’s simple to do and gives you plenty of meat for sandwiches, wraps, or any recipe that calls for deli slices.
Frozen breaded meat products
Frozen breaded items like chicken patties or schnitzels might seem like a quick fix, but they can end up being more breading than actual meat. For the price, you’re often paying for less meat than you’d expect.
Buying whole cuts and making your own breaded versions at home can be a smarter option. It’s simple — just coat the meat with breadcrumbs or batter and bake or fry. You’ll get more value out of your purchase and end up with a meal tailored to your preferences.
The cheapest meat can make the best meals
When it comes to meal planning on a budget, meat doesn’t have to be out of reach. Choosing the right cuts and sticking with the cheaper options can stretch your dollar without sacrificing flavor. Affordable doesn’t mean inferior — some of the least expensive cuts can make the most flavorful recipes.
With a little planning and the right approach, great-tasting meals with meat can fit into your budget. It’s all about knowing what to buy and how to make it work for the dishes you love.
Leave a Reply