The Hunt for Bargains

Costco is a treasure trove for shoppers looking to score deals on everything from frozen delights to fresh bakery goods, not to mention their unbeatable meat department bargains. Among the gems is the New York strip steak, a personal favorite for many, including myself, available at prices that put competitors like Whole Foods Market to shame. In Brooklyn, N.Y., for instance, Costco offers this exquisite cut for as low as $11.99 per pound—a stark contrast to the double or more you'd pay elsewhere.

A Cut Above: The DIY Steak Hack

For those looking to stretch their dollar even further, a simple yet effective hack exists: buy a whole strip loin and cut it into steaks yourself. This approach is not only cost-effective but also surprisingly straightforward. Inspired by Anthony Bartleson, or "Meat Dad" on Instagram, a self-taught butcher with 20 years of experience, I decided to give this method a try. By purchasing a whole loin and slicing it into individual steaks, you can save a significant amount of money while stocking up on high-quality meat.

Step-by-Step to Steak Success

The process begins with selecting a whole beef loin, which, despite its initial higher price tag, offers a greater return on investment in the long run. For example, a 15.5-pound loin at $9.99 per pound can yield substantial savings compared to pre-cut options. The real magic happens in the kitchen, where with gloves, a sharp knife, and a bit of patience, you can transform this large piece of meat into beautifully cut steaks, customized to your preferred thickness. In less than 30 minutes, I transformed my purchase into 12 steaks, ready for cooking or freezing.

Ensuring Quality and Safety

Beyond the savings, cutting your own steaks at home has additional benefits, including food safety. Pre-cut steaks at Costco are often "blade tenderized," a process that has raised concerns about bacterial contamination among some shoppers. By slicing your own steaks from a whole loin, which is not subjected to this process, you can avoid such risks and enjoy your meat with peace of mind, cooking it to your desired level of doneness without worry.

Maximizing Your Meaty Investment

After the steaks are cut, proper storage is key to preserving their freshness. Vacuum sealing is ideal, but tightly wrapped plastic and a sealed freezer bag can also do the trick. This method not only ensures a supply of high-quality steaks for future meals but also allows you to control portion sizes and cut specifications, making it a smart choice for savvy shoppers and food safety-conscious consumers alike.

By taking a hands-on approach to your meat purchases at Costco, you can enjoy premium New York strip steaks at a fraction of the cost, all while ensuring the best in taste and safety. So, grab that knife and get ready to transform your shopping and cooking experience—one steak at a time.