The Nutritional Breakdown of 85/15 Ground Beef: Everything You Need to Know

Introduction

Ground beef is commonly used in a variety of dishes, from burgers to tacos to spaghetti sauce. However, not all ground beef is created equal. One term that you may see on packages of ground beef is “85/15.” In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what this term means and what the nutritional breakdown of 85/15 ground beef is.

What is 85/15 Ground Beef?

85/15 ground beef, also known as “ground chuck,” is a type of ground beef that contains 85% lean meat and 15% fat. This ratio is often used in recipes that call for a higher fat content, as the fat can add flavor and moisture to the dish.

Nutritional Breakdown

When it comes to the nutritional breakdown of 85/15 ground beef, the key thing to keep in mind is that it’s high in both protein and fat. Here’s a closer look at the numbers:

– A 4-ounce serving of 85/15 ground beef contains approximately 280 calories.
– Of those 280 calories, roughly 200 come from fat, while the rest come from protein.
– This same serving size contains about 18 grams of fat, 10 of which are saturated.
– It also contains about 26 grams of protein.

Benefits and Drawbacks

There are benefits and drawbacks to choosing 85/15 ground beef over other types. Here are a few to consider:

Benefits:
– The fat in 85/15 ground beef can add flavor and moisture to dishes.
– It’s often more affordable than leaner types of ground beef.
– It can be a good source of protein.

Drawbacks:
– 85/15 ground beef is high in saturated fat, which can contribute to heart disease and other health issues.
– If you’re counting calories or trying to watch your fat intake, 85/15 ground beef may not be the best choice.

Ways to Incorporate 85/15 Ground Beef

If you do choose to use 85/15 ground beef in your recipes, there are plenty of ways to incorporate it. Here are a few ideas:

– Use it in meatballs or meatloaf.
– Brown it and add it to spaghetti sauce or chili.
– Make burgers or sliders.
– Use it in tacos or burritos.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 85/15 ground beef is a type of ground beef that contains 85% lean meat and 15% fat. It can be a good choice for recipes that call for a higher fat content, but it’s important to keep in mind the nutritional breakdown and consider the benefits and drawbacks. There are plenty of ways to incorporate 85/15 ground beef into your cooking, so give it a try and enjoy!