Good Chop
This is a package of ground beef with a fat content of 20%. It is made from beef that has been coarsely or finely ground. The 80% lean designation means that for every 100 pounds of meat, 80 pounds are lean muscle and 20 pounds are fat. This balance of lean meat to fat is common for many everyday cooking applications.
Ground beef is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of dishes. Its texture and flavor make it a staple in many kitchens.
When cooking, the fat in ground beef renders and adds moisture and flavor. For recipes like burgers or meatballs, it's often best to handle the meat gently to avoid a tough texture. You can brown it in a skillet for sauces or casseroles, or shape it into patties for grilling or pan-frying. The fat content influences how much it shrinks during cooking and the richness of the final dish. It can be seasoned simply or incorporated into more complex flavor profiles.
Compared to leaner ground beef options, 80% lean ground beef has a higher fat content. This results in a more tender and flavorful product, especially when cooked. However, it will also release more fat during cooking and may shrink more than leaner varieties. This makes it ideal for applications where richness is desired.
Home cooks preparing everyday meals often choose this type of ground beef for its balance of flavor and ease of use.
To keep the remaining ground beef fresh, store it in its original packaging or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate it immediately after purchase. It is best used within a few days of opening or by the sell-by date. For longer storage, freezing is an option.