Beef prices in the U.S. have surged roughly 14.7% over the past year, making ground beef, steaks, and roasts noticeably more expensive at the grocery store. With protein often taking up the largest share of a family’s food budget, finding ways to stretch meat in everyday recipes is more important than ever.
Here are proven strategies to save money without sacrificing flavor:
1. Mix meat with grains and legumes
Add rice, lentils, barley, or beans to your meat dishes. For instance, beans and lentils blend perfectly with ground beef in tacos, chili, or sloppy joes, adding bulk and protein while reducing the amount of beef you need.
One of my personal favorites are taco bowls: start with a base of brown rice, and then add black beans (one of the most nutritious, budget-friendly foods you can buy), ground beef, avocado, tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and any other taco favorites. They’re very filling, and you’ll use less beef than when making regular tacos.
2. Bulk up with vegetables
Vegetables not only add volume but also extra fiber and flavor. Diced onions, peppers, mushrooms, or shredded cabbage work well in meatloaf, burgers, or stir-fries, helping smaller portions of meat feel filling and satisfying.
3. Lean on hearty one-pot meals
Stews, soups, and casseroles are ideal for making meat go further. A small amount of beef can feed a crowd when simmered with potatoes, carrots, beans, or pasta in a rich broth, creating a hearty, budget-friendly meal.
Another perfect option for colder weather is chili! Add plenty of beans (pinto beans, black beans, garbanzo beans) to get fiber-rich plant protein, and then add ground beef as more of a “supporting role” instead of the lead role to stretch the meat budget.
4. Stock up on sales
Grocery stores often have sales on meat, which helps cut down on the cost. Even though it might feel a little painful to spend a lot of money on meat at once, if you do it during a sale and then freeze it, your future self will thank you! (We personally do this at my house using a vacuum sealer to keep the meat perfectly fresh in the freezer, while saving $2 a pound or more.)
By following these tips, you can stretch your beef supply, save money, and still enjoy satisfying meals—even as prices climb. Smart substitutions and clever cooking tricks ensure your plates stay full without breaking the bank.
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