Kitchen real estate is always at a premium, so we know that if you’re going to add another gadget or appliance, it needs to be something that you’ll use often, will save you time and money, and will improve the taste of your food. Well, you better clear off some counter space, because you’re going to want a meat grinder.
Meat grinders aren’t just for hunters who want to process large portions of meat at once, although they are definitely a must-have for those who hunt. Meat grinders are also great for saving money on meat, allowing users to buy large cuts of meat at a discount and then grind them at home. Not only does freshly ground meat taste better and allow users to combine their own cuts, but it also saves money on meat that is priced higher because it has been ground. And the best news for anyone who has suffered through food poisoning, grinding your own meat reduces the risk of contracting E Coli.
Meat grinders are obviously great for grinding meat and making sausages, but they also work well with other foods. Start your day with a healthy shot of wheatgrass, care of your meat grinder. Grind fish and mince vegetables, get a smooth texture for cookie dough, flatten cheese for dips and more. Check out our favorite meat grinders below and get creative.
1. Cuisinart Electric Meat Grinder, Stainless Steel
Cuisinart makes so many affordable and high-quality kitchen tools and appliances that there’s a good chance you already have a few of their products in your kitchen. If you want to add to the collection, consider this sleek electric meat grinder. It has a stainless steel finish that suits modern kitchen decor. As for performance, the 300-watt motor grinds up to three pounds of meat per minute. While this unit is larger than some other options, it’s still small enough to fit on most kitchen counters.
Pros: 300-watt motor, small enough for most kitchen counters. Sleek stainless steel look.
Cons: Parts need to be hand-washed, they’re not dishwasher safe
2. LEM Products Stainless Steel Big Bite Electric Meat Grinder
Grind up to seven pounds per minute with the ultra-fast, ultra-strong LEM Products Stainless Steel Big Bite Electric Meat Grinder. Ideal for hunters or anyone who likes to grind large quantities of meat in a single sitting, the LEM features 0.5 horsepower and an upgrade that includes a quieter head and new storage drawer that’s located beneath the grinder head. The brushed steel reduces the appearance of fingerprints, making the LEM an attractive kitchen appliance to leave on the counter. We also like that the LEM’s patented auger design grabs and pushes meat up to 50 percent faster than other grinders.
Pros: The stainless steel LEM comes with a rifled head that is designed for a smoother second grind and stuffing without the use of a stomper.
Cons: The LEM may be less economical than some other options.
3. STX Turboforce Classic 3000 Series Electric Meat Grinder
Featuring attachments that can be used to make patties, stuff sausages, shred meat and more, the STX Turboforce Classic 3000 Series Electric Meat Grinder is a versatile grinder that provides users a wide range of way to cut, dice, grind and stuff meat. With a locked motor wattage that can grind up to four pounds of meat per minute, the STX comes with a two and 1/8 inch Hopper Opening that enables users to grind large pieces of meat.
Pros: The STX comes with the most attachments of any grinder on our list, including three size options for stuffing sausages.
Cons: The STX does not work with animal tendons, bones, vegetables, plants, nuts or fruit.
4. KITOART Metal Food Grinder
The KitchenAid stand mixer is a versatile tool, but you may not have realized just how versatile it is. This attachment from Kitoart allows you to convert your stand mixer into a meat grinder using the attachment nozzle. A variety of grind plates allow you to grind your meat to varying consistencies, whether that’s for ground beef or sausage. Plus, its aluminum alloy build makes it more durable than plastic.
Pros: All-metal build, comes with plenty of attachments for processing different kinds of meat.
Cons: Requires that you already have a KitchenAid stand mixer, doesn’t work on its own.
5. Kitchen Basics 3 N 1 Manual Meat and Vegetable Grinder Mincer
Electric grinders are convenient, but they’re not without their drawbacks — not only do they make a lot of noise and take up space, but the motors can burn out. If you want an affordable alternative, consider this manual grinder from Kitchen Basics. It has a see-through plastic hopper, allowing you to watch the meat as it’s ground down. Plus, a sausage funnel is included. Its compact size makes it an ideal option for small kitchens.
Pros: Compact and easy to use. The suction cup base allows it to be mounted to the counter. Includes sausage making attachment.
Cons: Plastic components may limit long-term durability.