The Best Budget Cuts of Meat

Whole Chicken: A Budget-Friendly BBQ Option

Chicken is a versatile and economical choice for barbecuing. Purchasing a whole chicken and cutting it into pieces yourself is generally more cost-effective than buying pre-cut portions. Grilling the pieces over medium heat, perhaps basted with barbecue sauce, can create a widely appealing meal.

Beef and Pork Ribs: Flavorful and Affordable BBQ Choices

Beef and pork ribs can be an affordable selection for a barbecue. Cooking them low and slow, whether in a smoker or on a grill, is key to achieving tender meat and rich flavor. When purchasing, select racks with a good meat-to-bone ratio and a moderate amount of fat, which contributes to juiciness during cooking. Since bone constitutes a notable part of the weight, aim for meatier racks to get the best value.

Classic Hamburgers: A Popular and Versatile Grill Option

Hamburgers are a widely popular and often budget-friendly choice for grilling. Many people enjoy a well-made, juicy burger, whether plain or with additions like cheese.

Many methods exist for preparing hamburgers. For desirable results, consider using fresh ground beef and handling it minimally to maintain tenderness. Patty thickness can affect cooking time and the burger’s final moisture; aim for even cooking without drying out the meat. Sizing patties appropriately for the bun is an economical approach.

Flavorful Flat Steaks: Flank, Skirt & Hanger Steaks

Flank, skirt, and hanger steaks, once very inexpensive, have gained popularity and seen price increases. Despite this, they remain a valuable option. These cuts benefit from marination, quick high-heat grilling, and thin slicing against the grain to ensure tenderness. Serving them in dishes like fajitas, tacos, or salads allows a smaller amount of meat to contribute to a larger meal, enhancing their cost-effectiveness.

Pork Shoulder: Ideal for Pulled Pork

Pork shoulder, comprising cuts like the picnic roast and Boston butt, is among the most economical pork options. Slow cooking, particularly smoking, transforms these roasts into tender pulled pork, a popular barbecue dish. This method is both cost-effective and yields a flavorful result. Shredded smoked pork is commonly served on buns, often accompanied by coleslaw and fries.

Beef Brisket: A Low-and-Slow BBQ Favorite

Untrimmed beef brisket can be an economical choice, though it experiences significant shrinkage during its characteristic low and slow cooking process. A smoker is often preferred for achieving classic barbecue brisket, requiring considerable time. When choosing a brisket, look for a good fat cap—essential for flavor and moisture—but avoid excessive surface fat. It’s advisable to inspect the brisket carefully and consult with a butcher if specific needs aren’t met by pre-packaged options.

Turkey: A Versatile Choice for Grilling Beyond Holidays

Turkey is often underutilized outside of holiday periods, yet it offers an economical option for feeding groups. Various preparation methods, including brining, can enhance its flavor. Similar to chicken, purchasing a whole turkey and portioning it yourself can be more cost-effective than buying pre-cut pieces. While turkey breast can be pricey, cuts like thighs are often more affordable. Opt for fresh turkey, avoiding those with excessive added solutions or flavor enhancers.

Lamb Breast & Ribs: Economical and Flavorful Lamb Options

Lamb offers excellent flavor for grilling, though certain cuts can be costly or less available. Lamb breast, taken from the rib area, is a more economical option than the prized rack of lamb, providing flavorful meat. From this area, you might find lamb riblets (Denver ribs) or breast meat suitable for various preparations. These cuts can be tougher, so marinating for several hours, particularly with an acidic ingredient like lemon juice, helps tenderize the meat and can mellow its distinct flavor. Cook thinner pieces hot and fast, while thicker portions benefit from slower, indirect grilling.

Chuck Eye Steak: An Affordable Ribeye Alternative

Chuck eye steaks offer a flavorful and more affordable alternative to premium steaks like ribeye. Sourced from the chuck primal near the rib section, they share some characteristics with ribeyes. While not as inherently tender as more expensive cuts, chuck eye steaks can be greatly improved with marination, which enhances juiciness. They are best cooked to no more than medium-rare, as overcooking can result in toughness. Consulting your butcher can help ensure you are getting a true chuck eye steak.