9 Meats To Avoid And 9 To Buy At Walmart

Navigating the meat aisle at Walmart can be daunting. With a variety of options, it helps to know which meats offer the best value and flavor, and which ones to skip for quality reasons. This guide provides insights into which meats at Walmart deserve a place in your cart and which you might want to pass on.

1. Great Value Ground Beef (73/27 Fat Blend)

It’s a budget-friendly choice, but Great Value’s 73/27 ground beef can be a greasy endeavor. When cooked, much of it leaches away in the pan, leaving less than expected.

The texture can turn mushy, lacking the firm bite you might crave in a good burger. This higher-fat blend means it’s not ideal for recipes requiring structure.

If you’re counting on volume and quality, consider spending a little extra on a leaner mix. Opting for a higher-quality cut can make all the difference in your culinary creations.

2. Pre-Seasoned Chicken Breasts

The convenience of pre-seasoned chicken can be tempting, but beware of an artificial taste lurking beneath the surface. Walmart’s option tends to be overly salty, masking the natural taste of the chicken itself.

This seasoning can sometimes cover up less-than-stellar quality meat. Cooking these can leave you with an unbalanced flavor profile.

For a more authentic experience, consider seasoning fresh chicken yourself, allowing the true flavors to shine. This control in the kitchen ensures a meal that aligns perfectly with your taste buds.

3. Frozen Salisbury Steak Dinners

Frozen Salisbury steak dinners may offer convenience, but they often fall short in quality. These meals frequently contain more filler than actual meat, leading to a lackluster bite.

The sodium and additives are typically high, making them a less healthy option. While the allure of a quick meal is there, the taste can be underwhelming.

If you value flavor and nutrition, consider making Salisbury steak from scratch. Homemade options can provide a richer taste and healthier profile, aligning better with dietary goals.

4. Great Value Meatballs (Frozen)

Frozen meatballs can save time, but Great Value’s version might not satisfy. They tend to be dense and dry, lacking the juiciness that makes meatballs so appealing.

The overly processed nature is evident, often missing the tender texture one hopes for. When quality matters, fresh meatballs or a premium brand can elevate your dishes.

Investing a bit more can result in a meal that’s not only more flavorful but also more enjoyable. Your spaghetti and meatball night deserves ingredients that make it memorable.

5. Stuffed Pork Chops (Pre-Made)

Pre-made stuffed pork chops offer ease but often disappoint in execution. The stuffing can become soggy or rubbery during cooking, detracting from the overall dish.

The pork itself is typically thin, overcooking easily and losing juiciness. A homemade approach allows for thicker cuts and stuffing tailored to your preferences.

For those who enjoy a tender and flavorful dish, making stuffed pork chops from scratch can be a rewarding endeavor. The control over ingredients ensures a far superior dining experience.

6. Beef Liver (Frozen Packs)

While affordable, Walmart’s frozen beef liver may not be the value you expect. The metallic taste is a common complaint, alongside a texture that’s not always pleasant.

For those who enjoy liver, a fresh variety tends to offer a better flavor profile. The off-putting texture in the frozen packs can be a deterrent.

Exploring fresh options or different preparations can yield a more satisfying experience. When quality matters, these nuances become significant in choosing the right cut.

7. Great Value Cooked Ham

Great Value’s cooked ham might be easy on the wallet, but it often lacks the depth of flavor true ham lovers seek. Watery and overly salty, it can feel more like processed meat than quality ham.

If you’re crafting a meal where ham is the star, this might not be the best choice. The resemblance to authentic ham is minimal.

Spending a little extra on a higher-quality brand can enhance your culinary creations, providing a richer and more satisfying taste that makes any dish stand out.

8. Walmart Brand Turkey Bacon

Turkey bacon promises a healthier alternative, but Walmart’s version might leave you wanting more. The lack of crispness and flavor often results in a cardboard-like experience.

For those seeking the perfect bacon replacement, exploring other brands can offer better texture and taste. The pale appearance often matches its underwhelming profile.

Investing in a premium option ensures a satisfying crunch and savory flavor, bringing joy to every breakfast plate. When it comes to bacon, compromising on quality is seldom rewarding.

9. Beef Stew Meat (Value Packs)

Walmart’s beef stew meat might come at a value price, but the mix of cuts presents challenges. Uneven cooking is common, with some pieces remaining tough even after slow cooking.

For a truly satisfying stew, selecting higher-quality cuts ensures consistency in tenderness and taste. The effort to choose wisely pays off in the final dish.

By opting for better-sourced meat, your stews can achieve the hearty and comforting flavors they deserve, leaving no room for disappointment at the dinner table.

10. Marketside Rotisserie Chicken

The Marketside rotisserie chicken at Walmart is a popular choice for its convenience and flavor. Juicy and tender, it’s a budget-friendly option that’s surprisingly satisfying.

The crispy skin adds an inviting texture, making it perfect for a quick meal or family dinner. Its ready-to-eat nature simplifies meal planning.

For those looking to save time without sacrificing taste, this chicken is a go-to. The combination of affordability and flavor makes it a standout choice in the poultry aisle.

11. Angus USDA Choice Ribeye Steaks

Walmart’s Angus USDA Choice ribeye steaks bring a taste of steakhouse quality to your home. Known for great marbling, these steaks offer rich flavor at a reasonable price.

Perfect for steak night, they deliver on taste and tenderness without the butcher shop markup. Grilled or pan-seared, the experience is elevated.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging, these ribeyes provide an attainable luxury. Their quality ensures an impressive meal that satisfies carnivorous cravings.

12. Fresh Chicken Thighs (Bone-In, Skin-On)

Packed with flavor and moisture, Walmart’s chicken thighs are a versatile choice for any meal. The bone-in, skin-on variety ensures both taste and juiciness.

Whether roasted, grilled, or braised, these thighs maintain their succulence, making them a favorite for both simplicity and flavor.

For the budget-conscious cook, they offer exceptional value, allowing for creative culinary exploration without breaking the bank. This choice is perfect for enhancing everyday meals with robust taste.

13. All-Natural Pork Tenderloin

Walmart’s all-natural pork tenderloin stands out for its leanness and ease of cooking. Known for being tender, it’s a great option for quick and flavorful meals.

Avoiding pre-marinated versions ensures you can infuse it with your preferred flavors, making it versatile for various cuisines.

For those seeking a reliable and healthy protein, this tenderloin is a winner. Its adaptability in recipes and natural taste make it a kitchen staple for delicious, home-cooked dinners.

14. Great Value Ground Turkey (93/7)

The Great Value ground turkey at 93/7 offers a lean option that’s both versatile and affordable. Ideal for a range of dishes, from burgers to tacos, it adapts well to various recipes.

Its quality pleasantly surprises, providing a hearty yet healthy alternative to ground beef without sacrificing taste.

A staple for those focused on nutrition, this ground turkey proves that affordable doesn’t mean compromising on quality. It’s a smart choice for health-conscious cooks seeking flavor and value.

15. Marketside Hickory Smoked Bacon

Walmart’s hickory smoked bacon from Marketside delivers smoky and savory notes that rival name brands. Known for its crispiness, it adds a satisfying element to breakfast dishes.

The flavor depth is noteworthy, combining well with eggs, pancakes, or as a salad topping.

Choosing this bacon means enjoying premium taste without the premium price, making it a favorite for bacon enthusiasts. Its quality elevates any meal, offering consistent satisfaction with every bite.

16. USDA Choice Chuck Roast

The USDA Choice chuck roast from Walmart is perfect for slow-cooked dishes, offering just the right amount of marbling. This balance ensures it stays juicy without excessive fat.

For those who appreciate tender and flavorful meals, this roast is a dependable choice. The slow cooking process enhances its rich taste.

As a staple for comforting dishes, it brings warmth to any dining experience. Investing in quality meat ensures each meal is memorable and satisfying.

17. Frozen Salmon Portions (Wild-Caught, Skin-On)

Walmart’s frozen salmon portions are a convenient choice for quick, healthy dinners. Opting for wild-caught ensures better taste and texture compared to farm-raised options.

The skin-on feature adds flavor and helps retain moisture during cooking, making it a favorite for seafood lovers.

Affordable and well-portioned, these salmon pieces are ideal for balanced meals. Their quality aligns with health-conscious lifestyles, offering a nutritious and delicious seafood option.

18. Chicken Drumsticks (Value Pack)

The value pack of chicken drumsticks at Walmart is a cost-effective option for family meals. Known for their kid-friendly appeal, they’re easy to prepare in various ways.

Grilling, baking, or air frying with bold seasonings brings out their savory qualities, making them a hit at any gathering.

These drumsticks offer an approachable and flavorful way to enjoy chicken, ensuring satisfaction for both kids and adults. Their affordability makes them a staple for budget-conscious households.