Discover the incredible Costco ribeye hack that could save you $1.50 per pound. It’s time to rethink your steak-buying habits!
Costco shoppers may want to pay close attention to a game-changing tip shared by TikTok creator Opie (@opie_petsitting). She reveals that skipping the meat counter in favor of ordering a 20-pound ribeye roll can lead to significant savings on your favorite cuts. Let’s break down this clever approach and explore whether it's genuinely worth the effort.
Understanding the Costco Ribeye Hack
Opie’s method involves asking the butcher for a 20-pound ribeye roll, which you can then cut into your preferred steak thickness. Her TikTok gained over 571,000 views, indicating a substantial interest in this savings strategy. Instead of purchasing a smaller package of ribeye steaks, she suggests investing in the larger option available at the butcher station.
By opting for the larger cut, users can bypass the higher per-pound price attached to pre-cut steaks. Here’s the math: a 20-pound ribeye roll typically costs about $257, translating to roughly $12.85 per pound. In contrast, a package of 14 pre-cut ribeye steaks on Costco’s website costs $249.99, amounting to about $23.81 per pound. This stark price difference highlights the potential for hefty savings when you tackle the cutting yourself.
Comparing the Options
- 20-pound ribeye roll: $257 (~$12.85 per pound)
- 14 ribeye steaks: $249.99 (~$23.81 per pound)
For those who enjoy DIY projects and cooking, the Costco ribeye hack may prove especially appealing. You have the opportunity to retain the trimmings as you cut the steaks, which some find justifies the extra work. Not only do you have control over steak thickness, but you can also manage waste by keeping desirable trimmings.
Potential Pitfalls of Cutting Your Own Ribeyes
While the idea of cutting your steaks can be tempting, some consumers express skepticism about whether the savings are as substantial as Opie suggests. The concern is whether the yield from the 20-pound roll will be enough to warrant the effort. It’s not uncommon for home cooks to inadvertently waste some usable meat while trimming.
For instance, if you only end up with 11 pounds of usable ribeye, the cost per pound would rise to $23.36, not significantly lower than buying individual steaks. It’s critical to account for how much usable meat comes from that massive roll after trimming fat and other waste.
Community Reactions and Debates
Reactions to Opie’s advice have varied, igniting debates within the foodie community. One Redditor shared their own positive experience with cutting the whole roast into steaks and echoed Opie’s sentiments about savings. For many, it’s about finding the best value without sacrificing quality or taste.
- Pros
- Save approximately $1.50 per pound
- Choose your preferred thickness and keep trimmings
- Cons
- Potential waste from trimming
- Extra time and effort needed
Critics, however, have pointed out that sometimes the convenience of buying pre-sliced steaks outweighs the benefits. Some consumers simply prefer picking up freshly cut ribeyes rather than performing the task themselves, especially with the butcher’s assistance available.
Practical Tips for Cutting Ribeyes
Those who decide to take the plunge into the world of self-cutting should keep a few practical tips in mind to ensure success and maximize savings
- Use a sharp knife to ensure clean cuts and minimize waste.
- Allow the ribeye to rest before cutting; this helps preserve juices.
- Familiarize yourself with proper butchering techniques, or watch tutorial videos online for guidance.
Exploring this Costco butcher advice can lead to a rewarding experience in your kitchen. Whether you’re a dedicated meat lover or someone looking to explore cost-effective dining options, learning how to cut ribeyes may be skill-worthwhile.
Final Considerations
Making the choice between buying in bulk versus individual steaks comes down to personal preference and cooking habits. Those who enjoy the creative process of preparing their meat and want to save money can benefit from this ribeye hack. However, if convenience and taste are paramount, sticking with pre-cut steaks might be a better option in the long run.
By carefully weighing your options and understanding the potential savings involved, you can navigate your meat purchasing effectively. Whether you dive into the Costco ribeye hack yourself or stick to the traditional butcher counter, quality beef is always a worthy investment.
The bottom line remains clear: you can enhance your cooking experience while saving money with a little effort. Happy cutting!