Cheap cuts: How to get the most from meat

Good Food team

loading...

Stretch meat a little further by choosing a budget cut. We show you which cuts of pork, beef and lamb will offer value for money

Although the pricier cuts of meat tend to have a more tender texture, are more lean in composition and take less time to cook; cheaper cuts are also a great option when you're working with a budget. When cooked correctly, they can yield just as high quality and flavoursome results.

Here we break down how to choose the more budget-friendly cuts of beef, lamb and pork to make your money go further. Next discover our budget family chicken recipes, budget meals you can make with mince, and even more budget recipes. Find out how to cook steak.

What is the best way to cook cheap cuts of meat?

Slow cooking tends to be the best cooking method for tenderising these less expensive meats as it allows tissue to break down and fat to melt which will augment the flavour. Grilling and BBQing are also good options, too. Try our budget barbecue recipes and budget slow cooker recipes for more inspiration.

Beef

Cuts like brisket, skirt and shin are thrifty choices but offer plenty of rich flavour.

Cheap cuts: How to buy beef

Lamb

Get to know the best butchers cuts and enjoy lamb at a lower cost.

Cheap cuts: How to buy lamb

Pork

Discover the cuts of pork that offer you the best value for money and are too delicious to be overlooked.

Cheap cuts: How to buy pork

We have lots of cheap cut recipes for you to try too.

Comments, questions and tips

Choose the type of message you'd like to post

CommentQuestionTip

Get 3 months of Good Food All Access

Get 3 months of Good Food All Access for just £6. Find triple-tested recipes that take the stress out of deciding what to cook, spend less time planning, and more time enjoying the season.

Subscribe now