Simpson's Meats Blog
How Much Meat Do You Get From a Cow: A Comprehensive Guide
How Much Meat Do You Get From a Cow? If you’re considering freezer beef for the first time — or comparing a half cow vs. buying individual cuts — one of the most common questions we hear is simple: How much meat do you actually get from a cow? The short answer: less than most people expect, but more than enough to stock your freezer with high‑quality Angus steak, roasts, and ground beef for months. Below, we’ll break down realistic beef yields, explain what affects your final take‑home weight, and help you decide whether a whole cow or half cow is the right fit for your freezer. Live Weight vs. Take‑Home Meat (Why the Numbers Change) A live steer weighs far more than the beef that ends up in your freezer. That’s because several steps happen between the pasture and your packaged cuts. Here’s a realistic breakdown: Live weight: ~1,100–1,300 lbs Hanging (carcass) weight: ~60–62% of live weight Final take‑home beef: ~36–43% of live weight Once the hide, head, organs, bones, excess fat, and moisture loss are removed, the final packaged beef weight is significantly lower — but what remains is the good stuff. How Much Meat Do You Get From a Whole Cow? From an average Angus steer, you can expect approximately: 400–430 lbs of packaged beef from a whole cow That beef typically includes a mix of: Premium Angus steak cuts (Ribeye, New York Strip, Sirloin, Filet) Roasts (Chuck, Tri-Tip, Brisket) Short ribs, Stew Meat, and specialty cuts A large portion of Ground Beef For many families, a whole cow provides enough beef for 12–18 months, depending on household size and consumption habits. How Much Meat Do You Get From a Half Cow? A half cow is the most popular freezer beef option for households that want bulk savings without needing commercial freezer space. On average, a half cow yields: 190–220 lbs of beef, fully packaged and frozen This typically breaks down to: 60–70 lbs of steaks 40–60 lbs of roasts and other cuts 90–110 lbs of ground beef A half cow comfortably feeds a family of four for 6–9 months. Why Ground Beef Makes Up a Large Portion Many customers are surprised by how much ground beef comes from a cow — and that’s a good thing. Ground beef is made from trim produced while cutting steaks and roasts. Rather than waste high‑quality beef, it’s ground and packaged, making it one of the most versatile and valuable items in your freezer. From burgers and tacos to meatloaf and weeknight dinners, ground beef is usually the first thing customers reorder. What Affects Your Final Beef Yield? Several factors influence exactly how much meat you’ll receive: Animal size and breed – Angus cattle are known for excellent yield and marbling Cut preferences – Steak thickness, and roast sizes Fat trimming level – Leaner trimming slightly reduces total weight At Simpson’s Meats, we focus on consistency, careful trimming, and cuts that maximize both flavor and value. Is Freezer Beef Worth It? For most customers, the answer is a clear yes. Buying freezer beef allows you to: Lock in pricing against grocery store inflation Stock your freezer with premium Angus steak and roasts Get a reliable supply of high‑quality ground beef Know exactly where your beef comes from When you break it down per pound, freezer beef is often more economical than buying comparable cuts individually at retail. How Much Freezer Space Do You Need? As a general rule: Half cow: 8–10 cubic feet of freezer space Whole cow: 16–20 cubic feet of freezer space A standard chest freezer works perfectly for most half‑cow orders. Order Freezer Beef from Simpson’s Meats If you’re ready to fill your freezer with premium beef, Simpson’s Meats offers carefully raised, expertly butchered freezer beef shipped directly to your door. Whether you’re choosing a half cow or a whole cow, you’ll receive a balanced selection of Angus steak, roasts, and ground beef — all vacuum‑sealed and ready for the freezer. 👉 If you have any other questions, please give us a call! Frequently Asked Questions About Freezer Beef How much meat do you get from a cow? From an average Angus steer, you’ll take home about 400–430 pounds of packaged beef from a whole cow and 190–220 pounds from a half cow. Final weight varies based on animal size and cut preferences. How much ground beef comes from a cow? Ground beef typically makes up 40–50% of the total take-home weight. This includes trim from steaks and roasts and is one of the most versatile cuts in your freezer. Is freezer beef cheaper than buying beef at the grocery store? In most cases, yes. Freezer beef offers better value per pound compared to buying individual Angus steak cuts and ground beef at retail, while also locking in pricing. How much freezer space do I need for freezer beef? Plan for 8–10 cubic feet of freezer space for a half cow and 16–20 cubic feet for a whole cow. A standard chest freezer is usually sufficient for a half cow. What cuts come with a half cow? A half cow includes a balanced mix of Angus steaks, roasts, short ribs, stew meat, and ground beef. Exact cuts depend on how the cow is split and your cut selections. How long will freezer beef last? When vacuum-sealed and kept frozen at 0°F, freezer beef will maintain quality for 12 months or longer, with ground beef typically best within 9–12 months.
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How Many Steaks Are in a Half Cow? The Breakdown
How Many Steaks Are in a Half Cow? Buying a half cow is one of the best ways to stock your freezer with high-quality beef, but one of the first questions people ask is simple: how many steaks do you actually get? The short answer is: plenty. The longer answer depends on how the beef is cut and how thick you like your steaks. Below is a realistic breakdown of what you can expect when you purchase a half cow from Simpson’s Meats. What Comes From a Half Cow? A half cow typically yields around 200 pounds of packaged beef after processing. From that total, roughly 80–90 pounds will be steaks and roasts, with the rest made up of ground beef, brisket, short ribs, stew meat, and other versatile cuts. Most customers receive approximately 30–40 individual steaks. The exact number depends on steak thickness and how certain cuts are allocated during processing. Common Steak Cuts in a Half Cow While every animal is different, a typical half cow includes a mix of premium and everyday steak cuts, such as: Ribeye Steaks New York Strip Steaks Filet Mignon Sirloin Steaks Flank Steak Skirt Steak Flat Iron or Tri-Tip (depending on cutting preferences) You can choose thicker steaks, which results in fewer total pieces, or thinner cuts if you prefer more individual portions. Our butchers cut everything to order, so your half cow is tailored to how you actually cook. Can You Customize the Cuts? Yes. One of the biggest advantages of buying a half cow is customization. You can decide: Steak thickness How many roasts versus steaks How much beef is turned into ground beef Package sizes that fit your household If you grill often, you may want to prioritize ribeyes and strips. If you rely more on slow cooking or meal prep, you might opt for additional roasts and ground beef. The final mix is up to you. How Much Freezer Space Do You Need? A half cow requires about 8–10 cubic feet of freezer space. A standard chest freezer works well and allows you to organize beef by cut. All beef is vacuum sealed, which helps maximize freezer space, prevents freezer burn, and keeps everything fresh for long-term storage. Why Buy a Half Cow? Customers choose a half cow for several reasons: Better quality: Beef is responsibly raised and hand-cut by real butchers Cost savings: Buying in bulk lowers the average cost per pound Consistency: You know where your beef comes from and how it was processed Convenience: A well-stocked freezer means fewer trips to the store For families, frequent home cooks, or anyone tired of inconsistent grocery store beef, a half cow is a practical long-term solution. Frequently Asked Questions How many steaks are in a half cow? Most customers receive 30–40 steaks, depending on steak thickness and cutting preferences. What types of steaks will I get? Common cuts include ribeye, New York strip, filet mignon, sirloin, flank, and skirt steak. Some specialty cuts may vary depending on the animal and your preferences. Can I choose how thick my steaks are? Yes. Steak thickness is customizable. Thicker steaks mean fewer total steaks, while thinner cuts increase the number of individual portions. How much freezer space do I need? Plan for 8–10 cubic feet of freezer space. A chest freezer is ideal for storing a half cow. Is a half cow worth it? If you value quality, consistency, and long-term savings, buying a half cow is often more cost-effective than purchasing individual cuts at retail prices. How long will the beef last in the freezer? When vacuum sealed and kept at a consistent freezer temperature, beef can maintain quality for 12 months or longer. Final Thoughts So, how many steaks are in a half cow? For most customers, the answer is 30–40 high-quality steaks, plus a wide variety of other cuts that make meal planning easy. If you’re looking for better beef, more control over your cuts, and a freezer full of reliable options, a half cow from Simpson’s Meats delivers on all three.
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Mastering Beef for Cool-Weather Comfort
Discover the best beef cuts for braising vs. slow cooking, with tips to make flavorful crockpot and comfort meals this fall and winter.
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Seasonal Grilling Guide: Best Meats for Summer BBQs
Fire up the grill with our guide to the best meats for summer BBQs—juicy steaks, tender ribs, and easy grilling ideas everyone will love.
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Top 5 Cuts for Meal Prepping with Beef
Meal prepping with beef doesn’t have to be boring. From slow-cooked chuck roast to marinated flank steak, discover the five best cuts to save time, add flavor, and keep your week delicious.
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What Is a Denver Steak? A Butcher's Favorite You Need to Try
Where Does Denver Steak Come From? The Denver steak is a relatively recent discovery in the world of butchery, but it’s quickly become a hidden gem for steak lovers. It comes from the chuck primal, specifically the underblade portion—a hardworking area of the cow that’s surprisingly well-marbled and flavorful when cut just right. Despite being from the shoulder (a tougher area overall), the Denver steak is cut across the grain, resulting in a tender, rich bite—especially when cooked properly. How to Cook a Denver Steak Denver steaks are versatile and packed with flavor, making them ideal for a variety of cooking methods. Here's how to make the most of them: 🔥 Grilled Denver Steak Best for: Smoky char and bold flavor Bring the steak to room temperature. Season generously with Simpson’s Appalachian Sea Salt & Pepper. Grill over high heat for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare (internal temp: ~130°F). Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain. Pro Tip: Because Denver steak is well-marbled, it benefits from a hard sear but doesn’t need long on the grill. 🛁 Sous Vide Denver Steak Best for: Precision cooking and maximum juiciness Season steak and vacuum seal or place in a zip-top bag using the water displacement method. Sous vide at 130°F for 2 hours for medium-rare. Remove and pat dry thoroughly. Finish with a hard sear in a hot skillet (cast iron preferred) for 60–90 seconds per side. Pro Tip: Sous vide is ideal for keeping Denver steak perfectly cooked edge to edge. 🍳 Skillet-Seared Denver Steak Best for: Weeknight convenience with restaurant-quality results Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high until just smoking. Add a high-heat oil (like avocado or canola). Sear steak for 3–4 minutes per side. Add butter, garlic, and fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) in the last minute to baste. Rest, then slice against the grain. Pro Tip: Don't crowd the pan. A single steak per skillet yields the best crust. 🍽️ Meal Recommendation: Denver Steak with Chimichurri & Roasted Sweet Potatoes For a show-stopping meal, pair your grilled or skillet-seared Denver steak with a zesty chimichurri sauce and roasted sweet potatoes. The bright, herby chimichurri cuts through the richness of the steak. Sweet potatoes add earthy balance. Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh arugula salad. Bonus: This dish is naturally gluten-free and easy to scale up for a crowd. Ready to Try Denver Steak? Whether you're firing up the grill or breaking out the cast iron, Denver steak is an affordable, flavorful cut that deserves a spot in your rotation. And when you source it from Simpson’s Meats, you’re getting premium-quality beef from farms that care. Order our expertly butchered Denver steaks today—and discover your new favorite cu
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Freezer Beef: How to Stock Up with Quality
When it comes to feeding your family, convenience and quality should go hand in hand. That’s why stocking your freezer with premium, farm-raised beef from Simpson’s Meats is a smart and satisfying choice. Whether you’re planning quick weeknight meals or preparing for a weekend cookout, having a variety of cuts ready to go makes mealtime easier and more enjoyable. What is Freezer Beef and Where Does the Name Come From? The term freezer beef refers to beef that’s purchased in bulk — typically a quarter, half, or whole cow — and stored in a freezer for long-term use. The name comes from the idea that instead of buying individual cuts at the grocery store, you’re stocking your freezer with a variety of high-quality cuts, all prepared and packaged for convenient use. Freezer beef allows you to enjoy farm-to-table quality at home, ensuring that you always have a selection of steaks, roasts, ground beef, and other cuts ready to cook. It’s a cost-effective and convenient way to keep your family well-fed with premium beef raised without added hormones or antibiotics. Why Freezer Beef? Buying freezer beef means you’re investing in high-quality, locally raised beef that’s always available when you need it. No last-minute trips to the store or settling for less-than-premium cuts. With Simpson’s Meats, you’ll receive hand-cut, farm-to-table beef straight from our trusted farms — ensuring that every bite is tender, flavorful, and responsibly raised. Benefits of Stocking Your Freezer with Beef ✅ Convenience: Skip the grocery store and save time by having a selection of cuts ready to cook.✅ Cost Savings: Buying in bulk often means a lower cost per pound, helping you save money over time.✅ Consistent Quality: Our cattle are raised without added hormones or antibiotics, ensuring that every cut meets our high standards.✅ Versatility: From quick ground beef tacos to a slow-cooked roast, you’ll have everything you need to create a variety of meals. What’s Included in Our Freezer Beef Options At Simpson’s Meats, we offer a range of freezer beef options to suit your family’s needs, including: 1/4 Cow Bundle – Perfect for smaller families or those just starting with freezer beef. 1/2 Cow Bundle – A balanced mix of steaks, roasts, and ground beef for versatile meal planning. Whole Cow Bundle – Ideal for larger families or those who want to stock up for the long haul. Each bundle includes a thoughtfully curated selection of cuts — from juicy ribeyes and tender filets to savory ground beef — so you’ll have a well-rounded supply of premium Angus beef at your fingertips. How to Store and Use Freezer Beef To keep your beef fresh and flavorful, store it in a deep freezer at or below 0°F. Properly sealed vacuum packaging helps preserve the taste and texture, giving you high-quality beef for months to come. When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw your cut in the refrigerator overnight, and you’re good to go! Order Your Freezer Beef Today Make mealtime easier and more delicious with freezer beef from Simpson’s Meats. Stock your freezer with premium cuts, enjoy the convenience of always having quality beef on hand, and take the stress out of meal planning. Place your order today and experience the difference that farm-raised beef makes!
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Beef Tallow 101: How to Cook, Use, and Elevate Your Dishes
Discover the benefits of beef tallow and how to cook, use, and elevate your dishes with this nutrient-rich cooking fat. Learn tips, recipes, and creative uses beyond the kitchen!
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Buy Steak Online: The Ultimate Guide to Premium Quality Meat Delivered to Your Door
Why You Should Buy Steak Online In today’s fast-paced world, convenience is king. And when it comes to sourcing high-quality steak, more people are choosing to buy steak online rather than settling for what’s available at their local grocery store. Whether you’re a steak connoisseur, a home chef looking to impress, or just someone who loves a good meal, ordering steak online ensures that you get premium cuts, delivered fresh, and straight to your doorstep. 1. A Wider Selection of Premium Cuts One of the biggest advantages of purchasing steak online is the unmatched variety. Most grocery stores offer a limited selection, often missing out on specialty cuts like Denver steak, picanha, tri-tip, or dry-aged ribeye. When you buy steak online, you gain access to a wider range of premium, hand-selected cuts, sourced from top-quality farms. 2. Superior Quality & Sourcing Many online butchers, including Simpson’s Meats, work directly with farmers who prioritize ethical and sustainable practices. This means you’re getting pasture-raised, antibiotic and hormone-free beef—a level of quality that’s difficult to guarantee with supermarket purchases. How Steak Genetics Impact Taste and Quality The genetics of the cattle play a major role in the flavor, tenderness, and marbling of the steak you buy. Certain breeds are known for their superior meat quality: Angus Beef – One of the most popular breeds, known for excellent marbling, which enhances juiciness and flavor. American Akaushi Wagyu Beef – Famous for its extraordinary marbling and buttery texture. This breed is prized for producing some of the most tender and flavorful steaks in the world. The right breed, combined with responsible farming practices, affects the way the steak tastes and cooks. Simpson’s Meats carefully selects beef from trusted farms to ensure you’re getting the best possible flavor and texture in every bite. 3. Freshness and Flash-Freezing Unlike store-bought steaks that may sit in refrigerators for days, online meat providers flash-freeze steaks at peak freshness, preserving flavor, texture, and nutrients. This process ensures that when you thaw and cook your steak, it tastes as fresh as the day it was cut. What to Look for When Buying Steak Online Not all online meat retailers are created equal. To make sure you’re getting the best quality steak, here are some key factors to consider: 1. Source & Transparency Look for an online butcher that clearly states where their beef comes from. A reputable provider will be transparent about: The ranch or farm the beef is sourced from. Whether it’s grass-fed or grain-fed. How the cattle are raised (hormone-free, free-range, etc.). 2. Aging Process The best online steak retailers offer either wet-aged or dry-aged beef, both of which enhance tenderness and flavor. Wet-aged steak is vacuum-sealed and aged in its own juices for a more subtle, natural beef flavor. Dry-aged steak is hung in a temperature-controlled environment for 21-45 days, intensifying its flavor and creating a richer, more tender bite. 3. Packaging & Shipping The right packaging is crucial for ensuring that your steak arrives fresh and safe. A high-quality provider will use: Vacuum-sealed packaging to maintain freshness. Insulated coolers with dry ice to keep the meat at the perfect temperature. Fast shipping options to ensure it arrives at your door in pristine condition. The Best Steaks to Buy Online When you decide to buy steak online, you want to choose the best cuts to suit your cooking style. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular steaks and their unique qualities: 1. Filet Mignon – The Ultimate Tender Cut Best for: Special occasions, romantic dinners Texture: Buttery soft Best cooking method: Pan-seared, sous vide, or grilled 2. Ribeye Steak – Rich, Juicy, and Flavorful Best for: Steak lovers who enjoy marbling and intense flavor Texture: Rich, tender, and juicy with a nice fat cap Best cooking method: Grilled, reverse-seared, or pan-fried 3. New York Strip Steak – A Perfect Balance of Flavor & Tenderness Best for: Classic steak dinners Texture: Slightly firmer than ribeye but still tender Best cooking method: Grilled or pan-seared with butter 4. T-Bone & Porterhouse – Two Steaks in One Best for: Those who can’t decide between filet mignon and New York strip Texture: Tender filet on one side, flavorful strip on the other Best cooking method: Grilled or broiled 5. Skirt & Flank Steak – Perfect for Marinating Best for: Tacos, fajitas, and stir-fries Texture: Lean, with a great chew when sliced against the grain Best cooking method: Grilled, pan-seared, or broiled 6. Smoked Meats – Perfect for Slow Cooking Tri-Tip: A flavorful and juicy cut, best when smoked or grilled over indirect heat. Brisket: Known for its rich, beefy flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture when slow-smoked for hours. Picanha: A favorite in Brazilian barbecue, featuring a beautiful fat cap that renders down for an incredible taste. Why Choose Simpson’s Meats to Buy Steak Online? At Simpson’s Meats, we take pride in offering high-quality, sustainably sourced beef, delivered straight to your door. When you choose us, you get: Premium beef from trusted farms. Hand-cut steaks by expert butchers. Flash-frozen freshness for superior taste. Fast & reliable shipping with insulated packaging. Order Your Premium Steak Today Skip the supermarket and experience the convenience of buying steak online. With superior quality, unmatched variety, and expert packaging, you can enjoy restaurant-quality steaks at home with just a few clicks. Order now from Simpson’s Meats and get the best steaks delivered fresh to your door! 🥩🚚🔥
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