what is 70 30 ground beef?

70/30 ground beef means it’s made of 70% lean meat and 30% fat. That higher fat content gives it a rich flavor and makes it extra juicy when cooked.

This type of ground beef is great for things like burgers, meatballs, or tacos where you want that juicy, tender bite. The fat melts as it cooks, helping keep the meat moist. But because it has more fat, it also shrinks more during cooking and leaves more grease behind.

If you’re cooking with 70/30 ground beef, it’s a good idea to drain off the extra fat after browning it. You can also cook it on a rack or in a pan where the grease can drip away.

It’s not the best choice for dishes like meatloaf or casseroles, where too much fat can make things soggy or greasy. For those, a leaner mix like 80/20 or 90/10 might work better.

So, 70/30 ground beef is all about flavor and juiciness. Just make sure to handle the extra fat so your meal doesn’t end up too greasy.

MEAT PERCENTAGES % – how to choose the right ground beef | Jess Pryles

Ever looked at a package of ground beef and wondered what those numbers like “70/30” actually mean? You’re not alone! It can feel like decoding a secret code in the grocery store. But here’s the scoop: 70/30 ground beef means the meat is 70% lean and 30% fat.

That extra fat makes a huge difference when you cook. It helps keep your burgers juicy and full of flavor but also means the beef will release more grease. Whether you’re a grill master or just making a quick weeknight dinner, knowing about 70/30 beef helps you pick the right meat for the job.

In this article, I’ll explain what 70/30 ground beef really is, how to cook with it, and when it’s the perfect choice plus some things to watch out for. Let’s jump in and make your next meal a winner!

What Does 70/30 Ground Beef Mean?

When you see “70/30” on a pack of ground beef, it means the meat is made up of 70% lean meat and 30% fat. The numbers show the ratio of meat to fat in the mix. The higher the fat number, the juicier and greasier the beef will be when it’s cooked.

This kind of beef has more fat than the leaner types like 80/20 or 90/10. That extra fat can help with flavor, but it also means the beef will shrink more as it cooks. That’s because fat melts away in the pan or on the grill.

You’ll usually find 70/30 ground beef is darker and has more white spots of fat in it. Some people love it for burgers because it makes them really juicy. Others don’t like it as much because it can get too greasy if you’re not careful.

How Is 70/30 Ground Beef Made?

70/30 ground beef usually comes from parts of the cow that have more fat, like the chuck or brisket. Butchers take those cuts, trim off the right amount of meat and fat, then grind them together to hit that 70% lean and 30% fat ratio.

Sometimes, they mix leaner meat with extra beef fat to get the balance just right. This is pretty normal and helps keep the fat content consistent. You might notice that it looks a bit softer or greasier when raw—that’s because there’s more fat mixed in.

The goal is to make a blend that gives you a juicy bite and full flavor when it’s cooked. But since it has more fat, you might see a lot of grease in the pan. That’s totally normal for 70/30 ground beef.

When Should You Use 70/30 Ground Beef?

70/30 ground beef is perfect when you want juicy, flavorful meat. It works best for burgers, especially when you’re grilling. The extra fat helps the patties stay moist and tasty, even if you cook them well-done.

It’s also great for meatballs, meatloaf, or chili. These dishes need some fat to stay soft and rich. If you use beef that’s too lean, they can turn out dry or crumbly.

This kind of beef really shines in recipes where the fat mixes in with other ingredients. It brings a deep, meaty flavor that lean beef can’t always match. So if you’re making something where you want that rich, beefy taste, 70/30 is a solid pick.

When You Shouldn’t Use 70/30 Beef

You probably don’t want to use 70/30 ground beef in meals where grease is a problem. If you’re making tacos, spaghetti sauce, or casseroles, all that fat can leave the dish feeling heavy or too oily.

It can also be tricky on the grill. The fat drips down and causes big flare-ups. That might burn the outside of your burger before the inside is done.

If you’re trying to eat less fat for health reasons, 70/30 might not be your best choice either. It’s one of the fattiest kinds of ground beef you can buy. For meals where you want something lighter or leaner, it’s better to go with 80/20 or 90/10 instead.

How to Cook with 70/30 Ground Beef the Right Way

Cooking with 70/30 ground beef takes a little care because of the extra fat. When you brown it in a pan, you’ll notice a lot of grease. It’s a good idea to drain that fat once the meat is cooked, or your dish might end up too oily.

If you’re making burgers, try not to press them down while they cook. That squeezes out the juices and makes them dry. Let them cook on one side, flip once, and give them time to finish.

Watch your heat, too. Since there’s more fat, it can cook fast and burn on the outside. Use medium heat, and don’t walk away. If you’re baking something like meatloaf, place it on a rack so the fat can drip off. Little changes like these make a big difference when cooking with fattier beef.

Nutritional Info of 70/30 Beef

70/30 ground beef has more calories and fat than leaner beef blends. In a 4-ounce serving, you might get around 300 to 350 calories, depending on how it’s cooked. Most of those calories come from fat especially saturated fat.

It still has a good amount of protein, usually around 17 to 19 grams per serving. But compared to something like 90/10 beef, it has a lot more fat and a lot fewer nutrients per bite.

If you’re watching your diet, it’s something to keep in mind. You can still enjoy it now and then, but portion size matters. Cooking methods like draining the grease or mixing it with vegetables can help cut back on the extra fat.

What Does 70/30 Taste Like Compared to Leaner Blends?

70/30 ground beef tastes richer and more flavorful than leaner beef. That extra fat adds a buttery, juicy quality that makes burgers and meatballs taste amazing. When you bite into it, the fat melts and keeps the meat tender.

Lean ground beef, like 90/10, can sometimes feel dry or a bit tough, especially if you cook it too long. But 70/30 stays soft and moist, even if you cook it well.

The texture is a bit creamier too. Some people say it feels almost silky compared to leaner meat. Plus, the fat helps carry spices and seasonings better, making your dish taste more intense and satisfying.

Can You Substitute 70/30 in Recipes?

You can swap 70/30 ground beef for leaner blends like 80/20 or 90/10, but it will change your dish a bit. With less fat, your food might turn out dryer or less juicy.

If you switch from 70/30 to a leaner option, you might need to add some oil or butter when cooking to keep things moist. Also, cook lean beef a little slower or at lower heat to stop it from drying out.

On the other hand, if you want to cut down on fat, swapping 70/30 for a leaner mix works great in sauces or casseroles where extra grease would be a problem.

So, yes, you can substitute but just be ready to tweak your cooking a little to get the best results.

Is 70/30 Ground Beef Healthy or Not?

70/30 ground beef isn’t the healthiest option because of its high fat content. That 30% fat means you’re getting more saturated fat and calories, which can add up fast if you eat it often.

That said, fat isn’t all bad. It helps your body absorb certain vitamins and gives meat its flavor. Eating 70/30 beef once in a while as part of a balanced diet is totally fine.

The key is moderation. If you’re watching your cholesterol or trying to lose weight, it’s better to stick with leaner options more often. Pairing fatty beef with lots of veggies and whole grains can help balance your meal.

So, enjoy 70/30 ground beef sometimes, but don’t make it your daily habit.

Conclusion

So, 70/30 ground beef is all about that juicy, rich flavor thanks to its higher fat content. It’s awesome for burgers, meatballs, and recipes where you want extra moisture and taste. But remember, that fat means it cooks differently and can get greasy if you’re not careful.

If you want to enjoy 70/30 beef, try draining the extra fat and balancing your meal with some veggies or whole grains. And don’t forget there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Pick the right ground beef for what you’re cooking and your health goals.

Got a favorite way to use 70/30 ground beef? Drop a comment and share your tips. Cooking is always better when we learn from each other!