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85/15 Ground Beef

For those who want delicious, beefy dishes without excessive grease, 85/15 ground beef emerges as the smart compromise. With 85% lean meat and 15% fat, it strikes a satisfying balance for flavorful meals with a slightly healthier profile.

Why 85/15 is a Smart Choice

This leaner grind offers several distinct advantages:

  • Reduced Fat Content: Compared to 80/20, 85/15 offers less overall fat, making it a good option when a slightly leaner choice is desired.
  • Flavor Without Sacrifice: While leaner than 80/20, 85/15 still packs plenty of beefy flavor. It won’t leave you feeling like you’re missing out on taste.
  • Adaptable: This versatile grind adapts seamlessly to most recipes calling for ground beef. A fantastic choice for tacos, sauces, lasagna, stuffed peppers, and more.
  • Drainage Option: 85/15 gives you the flexibility to drain off some rendered fat if desired, further customizing the final result for your dish.

Where 85/15 Excels

Here’s when this leaner option truly shines:

  • Everyday Cooking: Its adaptability makes it an excellent go-to for weeknight dinners where both flavor and ease matter.
  • Sauces & Chilis: 85/15 is ideal when you want a rich base for sauces or chilis, with the option to drain excess grease if needed.
  • Health-Conscious Choices: When keeping an eye on fat intake, 85/15 allows you to enjoy satisfying ground beef dishes with less saturated fat.
  • Variety: Alternating between 85/15 and 80/20 provides balance in your diet, letting you indulge in richer options occasionally.
Kitchen Guide

Ground Beef Meat

The USDA minimum safe internal temperature is 160°F.

Popular serving temperatures:

  • 120 – 130°F – Rare
  • 130 – 140°F – Medium Rare
  • 140 – 150°F – Medium (most popular, especially by chefs)
  • 150 – 160°F – Medium Well
  • 160°F and more – Well Done
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Tips for Success with 85/15

  • Seasoning is Key: Since it’s slightly leaner, boost the flavor by seasoning your 85/15 well with your favorite herbs and spices.
  • Prevent Overcooking: To ensure juicy results, avoid overcooking. 85/15 has less fat than 80/20, so it can dry out if cooked beyond the desired doneness.
  • Add Moisture if Needed: For dishes like meatballs or meatloaf, adding flavorful ingredients like chopped vegetables or a splash of broth can boost moisture and keep the results tender.

85/15: The Flavorful and Balanced Ground Beef

If you’re looking for a ground beef option that hits the sweet spot between flavor and a slightly healthier profile, 85/15 is a wise pick. It delivers satisfying beefiness, adapts beautifully to various recipes, and offers flexibility in managing the final fat content of your dish. Whether you’re whipping up weeknight tacos or a simmering pot of chili, 85/15 offers delicious results without the excess grease.

Food & Ingredients

Conventional, Grass-Fed, Pastured, and Organic Beef

April 17, 2024

Beef doesn’t magically appear in the grocery store. It follows a journey from the farm to your table, and the way cattle are raised along the way drastically influences everything from taste to sustainability. Let’s explore the different paths beef can take, and how those choices affect what ends up on your plate.

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Tom Tom Founder

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