master-cooks | Should You Buy Steak From Costco?

Buying steak from Costco can be a smart choice for many consumers, particularly for those seeking high-quality meat at competitive prices. Costco is known for its bulk buying options, which often translate to significant savings on a per-pound basis compared to traditional grocery stores. The retailer offers a variety of steak cuts, including popular choices like ribeye, sirloin, and filet mignon, providing options for different tastes and cooking methods. Additionally, Costco is reputed for its quality control and sourcing practices, often providing USDA Prime or Choice grade steaks, which are considered top-tier in terms of marbling and flavor. Moreover, Costco's steaks are typically vacuum-sealed, ensuring freshness and a longer shelf life. This packaging method helps maintain the quality of the meat during storage. For those who entertain frequently or have large families, buying in bulk from Costco can be especially advantageous. However, it is important to consider your storage capabilities, as bulk purchases require adequate freezer space. Overall, Costco is a reliable option for purchasing steak, offering a balance of quality and value that can be appealing to both casual consumers and serious home cooks alike.

The quality of Costco steaks

Across the web, many individuals appear to be satisfied with the overall quality of Costco's steaks. Users on Reddit have lauded various cuts from Costco, describing the USDA Choice New York strip steak as "delicious," the filet mignon as "fantastic," and rating the beef tenderloin a perfect 10 out of 10. While some feedback in the subreddit r/Costco is less favorable, others quickly come to the steaks' defense, suggesting that quality may vary by region.

One concern some shoppers have regarding Costco's steaks, particularly those under the Kirkland Signature brand, is that they are blade tenderized. As reported by NPR, "This means the beef has been punctured with blades or needles to break down the muscle fibers, making it easier to chew. However, it also increases the risk of contamination, which could lead to foodborne illness."

These steaks should not pose a health risk if cooked properly to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's recommended temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. However, this temperature corresponds to medium doneness, so cooking these steaks to rare or medium rare may not be safe. If you prefer your steaks on the rarer side, you might want to exercise caution with Costco's blade-tenderized options. It's important to note that not all steaks sold at Costco are from the Kirkland Signature line, and not every one of them is blade tenderized, so be sure to check the packaging when making your selection.

Stocking up on steak

One important point to remember is that Costco's average steak selection is unparalleled compared to other grocery stores. In addition to offering bulk USDA Prime beef (priced at just $13 per pound for sirloin), Costco also provides Wagyu beef, a renowned Japanese delicacy celebrated for its rich marbling and exceptional flavor, though you should be ready to spend a bit more for these premium cuts.

As is the case with nearly everything from Costco, purchasing steaks means you'll be buying in larger quantities. Costco's steaks are quite substantial and usually come in packs of four. This is enough to feed a family of four with some leftovers, so unless you're preparing a meal for a large group, you might end up with extra steak. While having "too much steak" might sound like a delightful dilemma, it's worth considering if you have limited storage space before committing to more than you can handle. If you find yourself in this situation, think about cooking all the steak for meal prep or using vacuum seal bags to store the steaks in the freezer.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to buy Costco steaks depends on your personal preferences. There's certainly no harm in giving them a try to see how you feel about them. While these steaks may not be the cheapest option available, if you're in search of quality steaks at a reasonable price, Costco is a solid choice.

Should You Buy Steak From Costco?

The quality of Costco steaks

Stocking up on steak

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