Custom meat bundles are a cost-effective and convenient way to buy high-quality meat in bulk while tailoring the selection to your preferences. Instead of picking individual cuts, these bundles offer a mix of premium and everyday options like steaks, roasts, and ground beef. Here’s why they’re worth considering:
- Save money: Bundles can cut costs by 15-20% compared to retail prices, with some cuts discounted as much as $16 per pound.
- Personalized selection: Choose cuts, packaging, and quantities that match your cooking habits and family size.
- Longer storage life: Vacuum-sealed packaging extends shelf life and locks in flavor.
- Convenience: Stock your freezer to reduce shopping trips and simplify meal planning.
Wild Country Meats, a USDA-inspected provider, offers beef, pork, lamb, buffalo, goat, and chicken, alongside specialty items like bacon, sausages, and snack sticks. Orders can be customized with their Easy Order Form, and flexible pickup or delivery options make the process seamless. Whether you’re buying for yourself or splitting a bulk order with others, this guide helps you maximize savings and minimize waste.
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Types of Meat and Cuts Available
Understanding your meat options makes it easier to create a custom bundle that fits your cooking habits and family preferences. At Wild Country Meats, we offer a wide range of proteins, from the classics like beef and pork to more distinctive choices such as lamb, buffalo, goat, and chicken. There’s something to satisfy every palate.
Main Meat Types: Beef, Pork, and More
Beef is a cornerstone of many custom bundles, celebrated for its rich flavor and marbling. Whether you’re planning a special meal with premium steaks or stocking up on versatile ground beef for everyday dishes, our selection is sure to elevate your cooking.
Pork is incredibly versatile, offering a variety of cuts to suit different recipes. Tenderloin cuts like pork chops are great for quick meals, while belly cuts are perfect for making bacon. For slow-cooking enthusiasts, shoulder cuts like pork butt are ideal for braising or smoking. And, of course, baby back ribs are a grilling favorite.
Lamb is a leaner option with a mild, tender flavor. Sourced from sheep under 12 months old, lamb delivers a delicate texture that works equally well for fast grilling or slow roasting.
Buffalo offers a lean red meat alternative with a distinct taste. Goat meat (sometimes referred to as mutton) is also naturally lean and tender, with a unique flavor that shines in a variety of global cuisines. Meanwhile, chicken remains a household staple, known for its high protein content, low fat, and ability to adapt to nearly any recipe.
| Meat Type | Key Characteristics | Best Cooking Methods |
|---|---|---|
| Beef | Bold flavor, firm texture, excellent marbling | Grilling, roasting, braising, smoking |
| Pork | Wide variety of lean and fatty cuts | Depends on the cut (grilling, smoking, braising, etc.) |
| Lamb | Lean, tender, mild flavor | Grilling, roasting, braising |
| Buffalo | Leaner than beef, distinctive taste | Grilling, roasting |
| Chicken | High protein, low fat, very versatile | Works with all cooking methods |
Specialty Cuts and Products
Wild Country Meats doesn’t stop at traditional cuts; we also offer specialty items to bring variety and convenience to your bundle.
Our beef jerky comes in an array of flavors, including Original, Teriyaki, Honey Sriracha, Dill Pickle, Jalapeño, and Alex’s 1974 Classic. These shelf-stable snacks are perfect for busy days or outdoor adventures, providing a tasty and portable protein option.
Snack sticks are another convenient choice, available in flavors like Original, Honey BBQ, and Jalapeño Cheddar. They’re great for school lunches, road trips, or simply a quick bite between meals.
Bacon is a standout product, beloved for its bold flavor and versatility. Whether you’re cooking breakfast or adding a smoky touch to a dish, our bacon selection showcases how traditional cuts can be elevated with thoughtful preparation and seasoning.
Sausages bring even more variety to the table. From classic bratwurst to other freshly prepared options, our sausages are made using traditional smoking and curing methods to deliver rich, satisfying flavors.
How to Build Your Custom Bundle
Creating the ideal custom meat bundle takes a bit of planning. It’s all about balancing your family’s preferences, cooking habits, and storage capacity to make sure you get the most out of your purchase. The goal? To match your selections with how you cook and eat.
Choosing Cuts and Quantities
Start by considering your preferred cooking methods. Different cuts shine with specific techniques. For instance, if grilling is your thing, go for cuts with good marbling that can handle high heat. If slow cooking is more your style, opt for cuts like chuck, brisket, or roasts that become tender with low-and-slow preparation.
"We’ll ask about factors such as your preferred cooking method, price point, fat content, and number of servings to make sure you leave with the right cut." – Goodstock By Nolan Ryan Meat
Your budget will also play a role. Premium cuts are more expensive because they make up a smaller portion of the animal. To stretch your dollar, mix in versatile everyday options like ground beef alongside a few premium steaks for special occasions.
Marbling and fat content are key to flavor and tenderness. Cuts with more marbling work well with high-heat cooking, while leaner cuts may be better suited for other methods. Think about your family’s preferences for texture and richness when making your choices.
The size of your household and how often you eat meat will determine how much to order. For example, a household of two eating meat 4–5 times a week might go through about 3 pounds weekly – roughly 150 pounds a year if you plan for 50 weeks. Adjust these numbers based on your actual consumption.
If you’re choosing bone-in cuts, remember they require different calculations. Bone-in options add flavor and cook more evenly but may require larger quantities to account for the bone weight.
| Household Size | Boneless Meat per Meal | Bone-in Meat per Meal |
|---|---|---|
| Individuals | 5–7 oz | 9–12 oz |
| Couples | 10–14 oz | 18–25 oz |
| Families (4 people) | 1.3–1.8 lbs | 2.2–3.1 lbs |
| Larger Families (6 people) | 2–2.7 lbs | 3.3–4.6 lbs |
Thicker steaks are also worth considering – they sear better without overcooking. Don’t forget to save bones for broth or experiment with organ meats for variety.
Once you’ve decided on your cuts and quantities, it’s time to think about how to package and store your selections.
Packaging and Storage Options
How you package your meat plays a big role in maintaining freshness and quality. Wild Country Meats offers several options based on your storage needs:
- Vacuum-Sealed Packaging: This method removes air, extending shelf life and preventing freezer burn. Vacuum-sealed beef can last 12–18 months in the freezer without losing quality.
- Butcher Paper: This breathable option prevents drying and is perfect for short-term storage of a few months.
- Shrink Wrap: A tight-fitting plastic film that conforms to the meat’s shape, shrink wrap protects against contaminants and is often a budget-friendly choice for shorter storage periods.
Before freezing, make sure you have enough freezer space. A good rule of thumb is to allow 1 cubic foot of freezer space for every 35–40 pounds of meat. Oddly shaped cuts may need extra room, so it’s better to overestimate. Dividing bulk purchases into portion-sized packs can simplify meal prep later.
Keep in mind that cooking causes shrinkage. Beef, lamb, and pork lose about 20–25% of their weight during cooking, while poultry loses 15–20%, and ground meat can lose 25–30%. Label and date your packages to track freshness. For example, vacuum-sealed beef can maintain quality for up to 18 months, but standard frozen beef is best used within 9–12 months, and ground beef should be consumed within 3–4 months.
Once your bundle is packed and ready, plan how you’ll get it home.
Delivery and Pickup Options
Now that your custom bundle is ready, Wild Country Meats makes it easy to get your order with flexible delivery and pickup options:
- In-Store Pickup: Available at both Hominy and Cleveland, Oklahoma locations. The Cleveland store even offers a drive-thru service, making it convenient to pick up larger orders without leaving your car.
- Local Delivery: For a small fee, delivery is available within a 50-mile radius, covering cities like Tulsa, Broken Arrow, and Stillwater. This is especially helpful for transporting larger orders, such as quarters or sides of beef.
Make sure to coordinate your pickup or delivery timing so you can transfer your meat to proper storage right away.
"Custom meats are great because it allows you to purchase meats in bulk at a discounted rate while choosing your cuts, flavors, and packaging. You can choose to get what you like to eat and cook so you’re less likely to waste product or pay for something you aren’t going to use." – New Roots Farm
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How to Place Your Order
Once you’ve planned your custom bundle, completing your order is straightforward. Just like your bundle, the ordering process is designed to be simple and efficient.
Using the Easy Order Form
The Easy Order Form makes ordering hassle-free. You can browse by category or use the search bar to quickly find specific items, whether you’re after premium steaks or ground beef for your bundle. Add items to your order by specifying the quantity and clicking "Add". You can build your order piece by piece or choose from pre-designed packs for added savings.
When it comes to payment, there are multiple options. You can pay instantly online with a credit card or gift card. If you’re using EBT benefits, you can place your order online and pay in person when picking up eligible items. EBT orders automatically exclude sales tax and are accepted for both pickup and delivery.
For delivery, Wild Country Meats offers a $5 delivery service for orders over $150 within a 50-mile radius of their Cleveland, Oklahoma location. This includes cities like Tulsa, Broken Arrow, Glenpool, Bartlesville, and Stillwater.
Order timelines depend on what you’re purchasing. Fresh cut meat orders are typically ready in 4-5 days, while larger orders like sides of beef, half hogs, or big custom bundles may take 5-7 days. If you’re adding deli items, they’ll be freshly sliced when your entire order is prepared. You’ll receive an email notification with pickup or shipping details, so there’s no need to follow up by phone.
For any special processing requirements, you can contact Wild Country Meats directly. Keep in mind that all sales are final, so double-check your order before completing it.
Processing and Quality Control
After placing your order, Wild Country Meats follows strict processing and quality control measures to ensure top-notch products. Their USDA-inspected processing system guarantees that all meat meets federal safety and quality standards. This also provides complete traceability for every order.
A detailed tag numbering system is used to track meat throughout the process. Each animal is tagged, photographed, and inventoried, ensuring that the meat you receive comes from the specific animal you provided. This is especially reassuring for custom processing orders where customers want to know the exact source of their meat.
The company also emphasizes vacuum packaging quality, with a commitment that 80% of vacuum-sealed packages will maintain their seal. If any packages lose their vacuum during storage, they’ll reseal them at no charge, showcasing their dedication to product quality.
For pickup orders, you can collect your meat from the Cleveland, Oklahoma store. The drive-thru service is especially convenient for larger orders like quarters, sides, or substantial custom bundles.
Delivery logistics are carefully managed to ensure your meat stays fresh. Someone must be available to receive perishable deliveries, or you’ll need to provide access to a cooler or freezer with enough space. Deliveries are scheduled between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM to maintain proper handling of temperature-sensitive items.
The processing timeline includes proper aging and preparation. Delivery orders typically take 5-7 days, which accounts for processing and scheduling. This ensures your meat reaches you in peak condition.
For non-perishable items like jerky, snack sticks, and seasonings, shipping is available through the US Postal Service. You’ll receive an email confirmation with tracking details once these items are shipped.
Wild Country Meats’ systematic approach ensures every order meets their high standards, from processing to delivery.
How to Get the Best Value
When it comes to getting the most out of your meat purchases, timing your order, selecting the right quantity, and splitting costs can make all the difference. For instance, Wild Country Meats offers sides of beef for $1,049, which can save you hundreds compared to buying individual cuts at retail prices.
The secret to stretching your dollar lies in bulk purchasing. While the cost of ground beef might be on par with grocery store prices, the savings on premium cuts – like ribeye, which can cost $14.49 per pound or more at the store – are where the real value shines through.
Now let’s dive into how sharing orders can help you save even more.
Sharing Orders with Others
Splitting a quarter or side of beef with friends or family is a practical way to enjoy high-quality meat at wholesale prices. For reference, a quarter cow typically provides 100–150 pounds of meat, while a half cow yields 160–200 pounds. Since these quantities often surpass what one household can consume, sharing becomes a smart choice.
The financial perks are undeniable. One example showed a family paying just $6.95 per pound for all cuts, including premium options like bone-in ribeye that would normally retail for $14.49 per pound. Dan Kaplan from Heartstone Farm explains it well:
"When you buy a Beef Share, you’re saving on every meal…That’s because our Beef Shares come out to about 25% below the cost of buying cuts individually."
Coordinate with others who have similar preferences for cuts and enough freezer space. For example, while a family of four might consume around 800 pounds of meat annually, even a smaller share can supplement their supply significantly. Keep in mind that the take-home weight is usually 60–65% of the hanging weight.
Before placing an order, agree on cut preferences and how costs will be split. Some may prefer ground beef and roasts, while others might want more steaks. With Wild Country Meats’ custom processing options, you can specify cutting instructions, so discussing preferences upfront helps avoid disagreements later.
Storage is another important factor. Make sure everyone involved has enough freezer space for their portion. If freezer space is tight, investing in a chest or stand-up freezer can quickly pay off through the savings bulk purchases offer.
Once you’ve mastered sharing, timing your orders around seasonal deals can amplify your savings.
Finding Seasonal Deals
Planning your meat purchases around seasonal promotions can lead to even greater savings. Many processors run holiday specials or offer discounts for first-time customers.
For example, first-time buyers might find deals like "$20 off your first order" on purchases over $175, with the discount applied automatically at checkout. These promotions often come with expiration dates, so acting quickly is key.
Subscription services are another way to save. Some farms offer ongoing perks like 5% off every order and bonus items for subscribers. Although Wild Country Meats doesn’t require subscriptions, staying in touch with them can keep you informed about seasonal deals and special offers.
Seasonal availability affects both price and quality. Wild Country Meats ages their beef for at least 21 days, and their grass-fed, grain-finished cattle reach peak quality at specific times of the year. Knowing these cycles can help you plan your orders for the best combination of flavor and cost.
Stay connected by signing up for newsletters or following your favorite processors on social media. Many deals are time-sensitive and exclusive to those who keep up with updates.
Occasionally, processors offer clearance deals to move inventory quickly. While these require immediate action – like freezing or cooking the meat right away – they can offer substantial savings for buyers who are flexible. Always prioritize safety and buy from reputable sources like Wild Country Meats, which adheres to USDA inspection standards.
Want to take it a step further? Learning basic butchering skills can stretch your budget even more. Purchasing larger cuts and breaking them down yourself is often cheaper than buying pre-cut portions. Plus, making stock from bones or rendering fat from scraps ensures you use every part of your purchase.
Getting Started with Your Order
Ready to dive in? Wild Country Meats makes ordering simple, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned customer.
To get started, think about your household’s meat needs. A good guideline is to plan for about ¾ to 1 pound of meat per adult when meal prepping. For example, a dinner for two typically requires 1 pound of boneless meat, while taco night might only need about ¼ pound of ground beef per person. Kids usually eat about half as much as adults.
Next, consider your freezer space. Custom meat orders take up a lot of room – roughly one cubic foot of freezer space is needed for every 35 pounds of meat. If you’re ordering a Quarter of Beef or larger, you may need to upgrade your freezer to accommodate it.
Once you’ve figured out your consumption and storage needs, take a look at the ordering options. Wild Country Meats offers pre-designed packs that are convenient and budget-friendly. For instance, the Family Pack, priced at $149.99, provides a well-rounded selection, while the Quarter of Beef offers the best savings per pound. Not ready for a big commitment? You can start small with individual items like 80% hamburger at $6.29 per pound.
Need help choosing cuts? The team at Wild Country Meats is here to assist. As founder Chris Gabriel puts it:
"We don’t seek to satisfy our customers. We seek to amaze them."
Their staff can guide you through beef cut options and explain how bone weight impacts portion planning. They even have beef cuts charts to help you visualize your choices. Use their Easy Order Form to create a custom bundle tailored to your needs. If ground beef is your main focus, keep in mind that about half of a cow’s weight will return as ground meat. To get the most value, consider requesting bone-in cuts to reduce waste and ask for bones to be packaged separately for making stock.
With a 4.6/5 rating and glowing customer reviews praising their fresh, abundant meats and friendly service, Wild Country Meats stands out as a trusted, family-owned business with over 25 years of experience. Their USDA-inspected facilities guarantee quality, and they even offer delivery within 50 miles of their Oklahoma locations for added convenience.
Once you’ve planned your bundle and ensured you have enough storage, you’re ready to place your order. Reach out to their Hominy or Cleveland locations, or use the Easy Order Form online to enjoy top-quality meat at prices that beat retail.
FAQs
How do I choose the right amount and types of meat for my family when creating a custom meat bundle?
To figure out the right amount and types of meat for your family, start by estimating how much meat you usually go through. A practical guideline is around 0.5 pounds per adult per meal and 0.25 pounds per child per meal. Think about how often you prepare meat-based dishes and whether you like having leftovers for the next day.
Next, consider the cuts you enjoy the most. Are you into steaks, roasts, or ground meat? Also, decide between bone-in or boneless cuts, as this choice impacts portion sizes and cooking methods. If you’re planning to order in bulk, such as a quarter or half beef, remember that these typically come with a variety of cuts, including ground beef, steaks, and roasts. Many suppliers let you customize the mix to match your preferences.
By keeping these details in mind, you can put together a meat bundle that aligns with your family’s size, tastes, and cooking habits while also getting the most value for your purchase.
How can I store my custom meat bundle to keep it fresh longer?
To keep your custom meat bundle fresh, store it in the coldest part of your refrigerator, ensuring the temperature stays at or below 40°F. It’s best to place it on the bottom shelf to avoid any juices dripping onto other foods. For added protection, use airtight containers or wrap the meat tightly. This helps lock in moisture and reduces the chances of bacterial growth.
If you’re planning to store the meat for a longer period, freezing is the way to go. Keep your freezer at 0°F or below. Vacuum sealing or double-wrapping the meat with freezer-safe materials can help maintain its quality and extend its shelf life. These simple steps will keep your meat fresh and safe, ready for whenever you’re ready to enjoy it.
What are the advantages of including specialty cuts, snack sticks, or sausages in a custom meat bundle?
Including specialty cuts, snack sticks, or sausages in a custom meat bundle comes with plenty of perks. For starters, you get fresher, high-quality meats tailored to your preferences. Whether you’re planning to fire up the grill, try your hand at smoking, or just need options for everyday meals, customization lets you choose exactly what works for you – cut and portioned just the way you like.
Another big plus? Ordering in bulk through custom bundles can lead to noticeable cost savings compared to buying individual items. Plus, it’s a super convenient way to stock up on a variety of premium products. With your freezer stocked, you can skip extra trips to the store, plan meals more easily, and always have a diverse selection of meats ready to go.
