Don't Overload Your Plate
If meat is dominating the dinner plate, you are probably eating more than what is healthy. A good rule of thumb to remember is that meat should only take up one fourth of the plate. Prepare balanced meals by adding more vegetables, grains and fruits and less meat.
Buy Meat at Reduced Prices
Look for meat that will expire within a day or two. Most stores reduce the prices for quick sales. Remember to prepare the meat within a day or so, or freeze it.
Beware of Fake BOGO Sales
A popular trend at grocery stores is to run "Buy-One-Get-One-Free" meat sales, but before you jump on this kind of deal be careful that the price of the meat has not been raised to accommodate the sale. By knowing how much meat generally costs, you can avoid being duped by fake meat sales. However, if it is a genuine sale, stock up, divide up in portions and stock your freezer.
Be Prepared to Buy in Bulk
If you spot a really good sale try to buy as much as your food budget will allow. You can then break it down into portions and freeze it.
Buy the Family Size
Usually the bigger packages of meat are cheaper. Again, buy big, break it down into smaller portions and freeze.
Buy the Cheaper Cuts
Afraid that the cheaper cuts of meat will be tough and lack flavor? Marinating meat enhances the flavor and acts as a tenderizer. Find recipes for preparing less expensive meats and start experimenting.
Flank steaks, for example, are excellent when marinated and grilled. A thinly cut round steak with the fat trimmed, then cooked in mushroom and French soup for three hours tastes great.
Know What is in the Freezer
Keep a list of the meats that you have stockpiled in your freezer. It will help you with meal planning and also remind you to use what you already paid for before the quality starts to go. It also helps to "turn" your freezer periodically, bringing food stored on the bottom to the top.
Stuff It, Fill It, Wrap It
If you deal with big eaters a good solution to stretching your meat dollars is to look for recipes for stuffing and wrapping meat. Seasoned breadcrumbs, oatmeal, cheese, vegetables and rice all make great stuffing to roll up or add to meat and poultry. Be creative and keep a good collection of recipes on hand.
Avoid Designer Meats
Avoid buying meats in marinades or special cuts like for stews or fajitas. Anytime you can trim it, cut it, or prepare it yourself you will save money.
Recycle
Avoid letting any meat go to waste. Have a plan on how to recycle the leftovers. Explore how to use meat and poultry leftovers in soups, gumbos and casseroles. Turn leftover hamburgers into tacos, turn a pork roast into pulled pork or a chicken into barbecue - be creative.
