Bulk Hamburger: Where to Buy, What to Know, and Why It Matters

Discover everything about bulk hamburger—best 80/20 ground beef prices, where to buy ground beef in bulk, and top co-op options near you.

 

Bulk hamburger is one of the most cost-effective ways to stock your freezer—and if you're ready to buy now, you can shop premium bulk hamburger meat from the Food and Meat Co-op here.

 

From classic burgers to casseroles, tacos, and meat sauces, hamburger meat is incredibly versatile—and when bought in bulk, it can also be more cost-effective and convenient. That’s why buying hamburgers in bulk has become such a popular option for families, meal preppers, and backyard grillers. 

 

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about bulk hamburger meat, including where to buy it, what to look for, how to store it, and what makes some bulk meat options better than others. We'll also spotlight premium options like the Food and Meat Co-op’s Cloud Burgers, Burger Patties, and Ground Sirloin, perfect for anyone looking to upgrade their burger game.

 

New to buying in bulk? Learn everything you need to know about bulk meat purchases in this step-by-step guide of How to Make a Bulk Meat Purchase.

What is Bulk Hamburger Meat?

Bulk hamburger meat refers to large quantities of ground beef purchased at once—typically in 5 lb, 10 lb, 20 lb, or even 40 lb packages. Unlike pre-portioned 1 lb grocery store packs, buying in bulk often means either getting a single large package (which can be separated and frozen at home) or pre-packaged frozen portions from a meat distributor or co-op.

 

The primary appeal of bulk hamburger meat is savings. Because you’re purchasing more at once, the per-pound cost is often significantly lower than grocery store prices. It's also a smart way to stay stocked up, especially if you cook frequently or want to avoid grocery store trips.

 

Where to Buy Bulk Hamburger Meat

If you're thinking about buying hamburgers in bulk, you'll want to consider where and how you're sourcing them. Not all bulk meat is created equal.

 

If you’ve ever searched online for “bulk ground beef near me” or “where to buy ground beef in bulk”, you know the options can be overwhelming. From warehouse clubs to butcher shops to online co-ops, there are multiple sources to consider:

 

1. The Food and Meat Co-op

One of the best options for high-quality, responsibly sourced bulk hamburger meat is the Food and Meat Co-op. Unlike grocery chains that focus on mass production, this co-op connects families directly to local farmers and producers through group-buying power. This allows them to offer premium meats at unbeatable prices.

 

They offer standout products for burger lovers:

• Cloud Burgers: These are pre-formed, flash-frozen 1/3 lb craft burgers made from quality ground beef. Known for their soft texture and ability to cook perfectly from frozen, Cloud Burgers are a revolutionary option for families looking for convenience without compromising quality.
• Natural Ground Sirloin Smash Burger Patties (32 ct): Made from premium 100% sirloin, these 5.6 oz patties are perfect for crisp, flavorful smash burgers and come conveniently bulk-packed for easy meal prep or grilling.
• Ground Sirloin: This premium option is leaner than standard hamburger meat but still juicy and flavorful—ideal for those who like to form their own patties or use ground beef in recipes that benefit from a finer grind and slightly leaner profile.

These options are not only convenient but also competitively priced, often coming in at a lower cost per pound than grocery store meat—even for higher-grade beef.

Want to see what the high-quality ground beef looks like from the Food and Meat Co-op? Watch this video here to see the unboxing of bulk hamburger.

 

2. Warehouse Clubs (Costco, Sam’s Club, BJ’s)

Warehouse clubs offer ground beef in larger packages, typically ranging from 5 to 10 pounds. While prices are better than traditional supermarkets, the meat is often conventionally raised and may not offer the same level of quality or sourcing transparency as co-ops.

 

3. Local Butchers and Meat Markets

Local butchers may offer discounts for bulk purchases or even custom grinds. This is a great option if you’re looking for very specific ratios or cuts (like brisket blends or grass-fed sirloin). However, these options can be pricier depending on your location.

 

4. Online Bulk Meat Suppliers

Some online retailers specialize in bulk meat orders and ship directly to your door. Keep in mind that shipping costs can be significant unless you're ordering large quantities or bundling your order with other meat products.

 

 

Understanding the 80/20 Ground Beef Ratio

One of the most common questions when buying hamburger meat is about fat content—specifically the 80/20 ratio.

• What does 80/20 mean? It means the ground beef is 80% lean meat and 20% fat.
• Why does it matter? The fat provides flavor and helps the meat stay juicy when cooking, especially in burgers.

If you’re grilling or pan-frying burgers, 80/20 is the go-to for most people. It delivers the perfect balance of flavor and moisture. Leaner blends, like 90/10 or 93/7, are great for dishes where you want to avoid excess grease, such as tacos, casseroles, or pasta sauces.

 

If you’re price shopping, knowing the 80/20 ground beef price can help you compare options apples-to-apples. On average, national grocery store prices for 80/20 range from $4.49–$5.99 per pound—but the Food and Meat Co-op often offers this or better pricing for higher-quality beef through bulk deals.

 

How Much Bulk Hamburger Meat Should You Buy?

How much to buy depends on your household size and freezer space. Here’s a general guideline:

• Small families (2-3 people): 10–20 lbs is a good starting point.
• Medium families (4–6 people): 20–40 lbs.
• Large families or meal preppers: 50+ lbs.

Buying in bulk doesn’t mean you need to use it all at once. Most people portion it out into freezer bags (1 lb or ½ lb portions) to use gradually. With proper vacuum sealing or airtight wrapping, ground beef can last in the freezer for up to 6 months.

 

Common Questions About Bulk Hamburger Meat

Is bulk hamburger meat safe to freeze?

Yes! In fact, freezing it right after purchase is ideal. You can extend its shelf life and retain freshness by vacuum sealing or using freezer-safe bags with as much air removed as possible.

 

How do I thaw frozen hamburger meat?

The safest way is in the refrigerator overnight. If you're short on time, you can also thaw it in cold water (sealed tightly) or use your microwave’s defrost setting.

 

What’s the best way to cook bulk hamburger meat?

Bulk ground beef can be cooked in large batches and used throughout the week. Browning it with onions and spices, then freezing in meal-size portions, can make weeknight cooking faster and easier.

 

How do I know if I’m getting good quality bulk beef?

Look for:

• Clear sourcing: Know where your meat comes from.
• Minimal processing: Avoid meat with fillers, additives, or preservatives.
• Color and texture: Fresh ground beef should be reddish-pink with a firm, consistent texture.

That’s why sourcing from a provider like Food and Meat Co-op is so appealing—they provide detailed sourcing info and pride themselves on clean, quality meat.

 

 

How Do You Make a Bulk Burger?

Making a bulk burger simply means preparing multiple burger patties at once—perfect for meal prep, parties, or freezing for later use. Here's how to do it:

Ingredients (for about 10–12 burgers):

• 3–4 lbs of bulk hamburger meat (80/20 ground beef is ideal)
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• Optional: garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce

Instructions:

1. Start with Cold Meat
   Keep your bulk ground beef cold before shaping—this helps the patties hold together better.
2. Season Evenly
   Place all the meat in a large mixing bowl and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings. Mix gently—don't overwork the meat or your burgers may get tough.
3. Portion the Patties
   Use a kitchen scale or measuring cup to form even-sized patties (about 1/3 to 1/2 lb each). A burger press can help make consistent shapes.
4. Shape the Patties
   Form patties that are about ¾ inch thick. Press a small dent in the center of each one with your thumb—this prevents them from puffing up during cooking.
5. Freeze or Cook Immediately

• • To Freeze: Lay patties flat on a baking sheet with parchment paper between layers, then freeze. Once solid, transfer to freezer bags.
  • To Cook: Grill or pan-fry on medium-high heat for about 4–5 minutes per side (or until internal temp hits 160°F).

Tip for Bulk Prep:

If you’re using bulk hamburger meat from a source like the Food and Meat Co-op, prep a double batch and freeze extras. You’ll always have a homemade burger ready to go!

 

What Are Beef Burger Patties?

Beef burger patties are round, flattened portions of ground beef that are typically seasoned and shaped to be cooked and served in a hamburger. They are the main component of a classic beef burger and can be grilled, pan-fried, broiled, or even cooked from frozen.

Key Features of Beef Burger Patties:

• Made from Ground Beef: Usually from an 80/20 blend (80% lean meat, 20% fat) for a juicy, flavorful result.
• Variety of Cuts: Patties can be made from different beef cuts—like chuck, sirloin, or brisket—each giving a different texture and taste.
• Pre-Made or Homemade: You can buy them pre-formed (like the Cloud Burgers from the Food and Meat Co-op) or make them yourself from bulk hamburger meat.
• Seasoning Optional: Some patties come pre-seasoned, while others are plain so you can customize flavors.

Common Uses:

• Grilled burgers for BBQs
• Pan-fried burgers for quick weeknight dinners
• Freezer meals when made in bulk
• Sliders or mini burgers for parties

Whether you're using premium ground sirloin to form your own or buying high-quality pre-made patties in bulk, beef burger patties are a versatile and delicious meal staple.

 

 

Why the Food and Meat Co-op Stands Out

If you’re still wondering where to buy ground beef in bulk or trying to find bulk ground beef near me, the Food and Meat Co-op checks every box:

• Group-buying power means better prices
• Locally sourced and farm-direct meats
• Vacuum-sealed, flash-frozen for peak freshness
• No subscription required—order only when you need it
• Pickup locations across multiple states (Utah, Idaho, Wyoming & Nevada)

Whether you’re after a flavorful grilling experience with their Cloud Burgers or want the versatility of ground sirloin for homemade patties and meals, their offerings cover all bases.

Get Started with Bulk Hamburger Meat

Bulk hamburger meat is an essential purchase for families who want to save time, save money, and eat better. From freezer meals to BBQs, burgers, and more, ground beef in bulk is the backbone of many American meals. And thanks to co-op services like the Food and Meat Co-op, you don’t have to settle for generic grocery store meat—you can enjoy high-quality, affordable options delivered in bulk.

 

If you're searching for the best 80/20 ground beef price or considering buying hamburgers in bulk, or trying to locate bulk ground beef near me, start with the Food and Meat Co-op. It’s not just a smarter way to shop—it’s a tastier, more trustworthy one too.

Explore Food and Meat Co-op’s full selection of bulk beef options here: FoodandMeatCoop.com.

 

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