Getting the Best Deal on Ground Beef at WinCo

As a budget-conscious shopper and ground beef enthusiast, I’m always looking for the best deals on quality ground chuck sirloin and lean varieties. That’s why WinCo is one of my go-to grocery stores when I’m restocking my freezer – their meat department offers excellent prices on fresh, customizable ground beef options.

I’ve learned how to get the most for my money when I buy ground beef at WinCo after many trips down the meat aisle to look at different options and prices. Ready to save big? Here’s everything you need to know:

An Overview of WinCo’s Ground Beef Selections

WinCo has a lot of different kinds of ground beef, with different amounts of fat and different grinds. Here’s a quick look at what they offer:

• Ground Chuck – Typically 80/20 or 85/15 blends. Great for burgers and meatloaf.

• Ground Sirloin – 90-93% lean. Ideal for chili, tacos, meatballs.

• Extra Lean Ground Beef – 96-97% lean. Lower fat option.

• Ground Round – 85-90% lean Nice and dense for patties

• Fresh Ground Beef – Custom ground in-store. Choose grind and fat %.

They carry popular national brands like Butterball, but I usually go for the WinCo fresh ground beef since you can customize the blend.

Buying Pre-Packaged vs. Fresh Ground at WinCo

WinCo has both pre-packaged ground beef selections as well as a fresh meat counter where you can get custom grinds. Here’s how the prices and quality compare:

Pre-Packaged:

• Convenient, ready-to-go sealed packs

• Typically 80/20 or 85/15 blends only

• Pack sizes range from 1-5 lbs

• Prices from $3.68-5.99/lb depending on bulk

Fresh Ground:

• Choose fat % and coarseness of grind

• Lean options like 90/10 or 96/4

• Package exactly what you need, even odd amounts

• Price is by the pound (typically $3.99-4.99/lb)

I like having full control over the fat percentage and grind style, so I usually get WinCo’s fresh ground beef. With the customization and decent per-pound pricing, it’s a great value.

Getting the Best Deal on Fresh Ground Beef

To maximize savings on fresh ground beef at WinCo, follow these tips:

• Buy in bulk – Larger 5 lb. tubes are the best value per pound

• Mix lean and fatty – Blend half 90/10 and half 80/20 for average 85/15

• Watch for markdowns – Check for soon-to-expire discounted meat

• Layer with coupons – Use WinCo or manufacturer’s coupons for extra savings

• Purchase fatty trimmings – Add to lean meat for DIY 85/15 blend

• Join loyalty program – Earn discounts and fuel rewards

With the right strategies, you can get fresh ground beef for around $3.50-$4.00/lb at WinCo – not bad!

Helpful Tips for Picking the Best Packages

Don’t just grab any pack from the cooler – check for these signs of quality when selecting your ground beef:

• Bright red color – Avoid brown or gray hues

• ** Minimal liquid** – Small amounts of clear juice only

• No off odors – Should smell fresh, not sour

• Firm texture – Gently press, it should hold shape

• Clean packaging – No tears, stains, or leaks

• Check dates – Look for furthest from expiring

Taking a peek inside the packaging and giving the ground beef a sniff test ensures you get the freshest, highest quality meat for your recipes.

Creative Recipe Ideas for WinCo Ground Beef

Once you get home, you’ll want delicious ways to cook up all that affordable WinCo ground beef! Here are some of my favorite recipes:

• Juicy backyard burgers with fun toppings

• Family-friendly meatloaf and mashed potatoes

• Savory shepherd’s pie topped with creamy mashed potatoes

• Easy weeknight sloppy joes full of flavor

• Beef tacos with crispy shells and all the fixings

• Hearty chili packed with beans and seasonings

• Stuffed peppers filled with herbed beef and rice

With the right recipes, you can transform budget-friendly ground beef into impressive, satisfying meals. Get creative with seasonings, sauces, and sides!

Canned Ground Beef is a Money-Saving Option Too

In addition to fresh ground beef, WinCo also carries pre-cooked, canned ground beef which can be a time and money saver.

The Butterball All Natural Ground Beef comes fully cooked in 12 oz cans, perfect for hash, chili, casseroles, and more. It has a shelf life of up to 2 years when unopened.

At only $3.18 per can (or $4.77/lb equivalent), keeping a few cans in the pantry is an easy way to whip up quick ground beef recipes without having to defrost and cook raw meat.

The canned ground beef is nicely seasoned and breaks apart easily when cooking. It’s not quite as tasty as fresh, but still a solid option for convenience and savings.

Get Your Best Ground Beef Value at WinCo

As you can see, WinCo offers great prices and selections when it comes to ground beef shopping. By choosing fresh customized grinds, buying in bulk, mixing blends yourself, and keeping an eye out for promotions, you can maximize savings while still enjoying high-quality meat.