How To Order Ground Beef At Costco For The Cheapest Outcome

If saving money on groceries is your goal, Costco's got a little-known hack that's worth asking about: the chub of ground beef. Among the warehouse retailer's famously cost-effective offerings — yes, even its hot dogs are still only $1.50 decades later — this 10-pound tube of ground beef could be your new secret to getting lower prices at the meat counter. 

Unlike the pre-packaged trays of ground beef, the chub is typically priced less per-pound and offers a lean, high-quality grind that's perfect for bulk cooking. As for the name, "chub" simply refers to its tube-like packaging, so don't let that deter you — it's the same fresh ground beef you'd expect from Costco, just in a more cost-effective format. 

However, there's a bit of an extra step required here, as you won't likely find these chubs out in the open. They're typically tucked behind the counter in the meat department, so you'll need to ask an employee there to grab one for you. Once home, portion the meat into freezer bags for convenience and longer-term storage (properly stored in airtight containers, ground beef lasts around three months in the freezer). And if you're planning to refrigerate some, you'll want to know that raw ground beef lasts only about a couple of days in the fridge.

The chub's lean grind — 92% to 96% — makes it perfect for hearty, everyday meals like chili, meat sauce for pasta, or Sloppy Joes. It's a budget-friendly option that's especially well-suited to meal preppers and home cooks who are ready to stretch their grocery dollars without sacrificing much at all on quality. For large families or those planning ahead, the chub offers serious value. (While you're making the most of your Costco runs, make sure you're not overspending on pizza by the slice — every dollar saved counts when you're planning meals on a budget.)

That said, chubs might not be your best bet for absolutely everything. Planning a backyard burger night? Skip it. The lean meat won't give you the juicy patties that a classic 80/20 blend does. And if you're set on organic or grass-fed beef, this isn't the option for you, as those features are currently only found in Costco's pre-packaged ground beef. 

In the end, though, the chub is a win for almost anyone looking to save money and willing to put in a little extra effort. Just be sure to politely ask the butcher for some help on your next Costco run and let the savings roll in.