Are you planning a special occasion or holiday dinner and looking for the perfect cut of beef? Look no further than Costco.
With their high-quality USDA Prime beef tenderloin, Costco offers a delicious and affordable option for your next meal. But how much does a whole beef tenderloin cost at Costco?
In this article, we’ll explore the various prices and options available at Costco, as well as compare them to other retailers. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, read on to learn more about this delectable cut of meat and how to get the best deal on it.
How Much Is A Whole Beef Tenderloin At Costco?
As of July 2020, a whole beef tenderloin from Costco costs $9.99 per pound. This price is for the entire tenderloin, which typically weighs between 5 and 6 pounds. This is a great deal compared to other retailers, where a whole beef tenderloin can cost between $7 and $50 per pound.
Costco also offers two price points for their Kirkland Signature beef tenderloins: $11.99/lb and $19.99/lb. Even the most expensive option at Costco is still significantly cheaper than what you would pay at a specialty butcher shop, where prices can range from $32-37 per pound.
If you’re looking to save even more money, ask Costco for their untrimmed beef tenderloins in the back. These are priced at $15.79 per pound, which is still a great deal compared to other retailers.
Costco’s Beef Tenderloin: A Cut Above The Rest
When it comes to beef tenderloin, Costco’s offering is truly a cut above the rest. Not only is their tenderloin priced competitively, but it is also of exceptional quality. Costco sources their beef from reputable suppliers and ensures that their meat is USDA Prime or Choice grade, which means that it has been inspected and approved for quality and safety.
In addition, Costco’s beef tenderloin is known for its tenderness and flavor. This is because the tenderloin muscle is not heavily used, which results in a very tender cut of meat. Furthermore, the marbling in the beef adds to its flavor and juiciness.
If you’re unsure about how to break down a whole beef tenderloin, don’t worry. Costco offers a variety of pre-cut options, including filet mignon steaks and chateaubriand roasts. However, if you’re feeling adventurous and want to try your hand at breaking down a whole tenderloin, there are plenty of resources available online to guide you through the process.
Understanding The Different Grades Of Beef
It’s important to understand the different grades of beef when shopping for a whole beef tenderloin at Costco or any other retailer. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) grades beef based on the amount of marbling, or fat, in the meat. The more marbling, the higher the grade of beef.
The highest grade of beef is Prime, which is typically only available at high-end restaurants or specialty butcher shops. Prime beef has the most marbling and is known for its tenderness and rich flavor. However, Costco does carry some Prime beef options, which is rare for grocery stores.
The next grade down is Choice, which is still high in quality but has less marbling than Prime. Choice cuts are still a great option for those looking for a high-quality beef tenderloin at Costco or another retailer.
The lowest grade of beef is Select, which has even less marbling than Choice. Select beef is typically leaner and tougher than higher grades, but can still be a good option for certain cuts of meat.
When shopping for a whole beef tenderloin at Costco, it’s important to understand the different grades of beef and choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. Keep in mind that even the lower grades of beef can still be delicious when cooked properly.
Comparing Costco’s Prices To Other Retailers
When it comes to buying a whole beef tenderloin, Costco is the place to go for the best deal. While the cost of a whole beef tenderloin can vary greatly depending on the retailer, Costco’s price of $9.99 per pound is hard to beat. For comparison, other retailers can charge anywhere from $7 to $50 per pound for a whole beef tenderloin.
Even when looking at Costco’s more expensive options, their Kirkland Signature beef tenderloins at $11.99/lb and $19.99/lb are still cheaper than what you would pay at a specialty butcher shop. These shops can charge upwards of $32-37 per pound for their beef tenderloins.
If you’re really looking to save money, Costco also offers untrimmed beef tenderloins for $15.79 per pound. While these may require a bit more work to trim down to your desired size and shape, they are still a great deal compared to other retailers.
It’s important to keep in mind that while price is certainly a factor, it’s not the only one to consider when buying meat. Quality is also important, and it’s worth paying attention to the color, texture, and packaging of the meat you’re considering. At Costco, you can usually find good-quality meat that meets these standards at a reasonable price.
Tips For Cooking And Serving A Whole Beef Tenderloin
Cooking a whole beef tenderloin can seem intimidating, but with the right tips and techniques, it can be a delicious and impressive centerpiece for any meal. Here are some tips for cooking and serving a whole beef tenderloin:
1. Season the tenderloin at least 4 hours before cooking with sea salt, black pepper, granulated garlic, and dried thyme. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and create a delicious crust when seared.
2. Tie the tenderloin along the whole piece to create a more uniform thickness throughout the whole tenderloin and help it cook more evenly. Use cooking twine to tie the tenderloin all along the whole length in 1-inch intervals. Make sure not to tie too tight where it starts cutting into meat.
3. Sear the tenderloin on all sides for about 3 to 5 minutes per side in a large cast-iron skillet with olive oil. This will create a flavorful crust on the outside of the meat.
4. Create a simple garlic and herb butter and slather it all over the seared beef. Insert your probe thermometer.
5. Cook the beef tenderloin at 425 degrees F. until the desired internal temperature is reached. This will only take about 20 to 25 minutes! Remember to use an oven-going meat thermometer to ensure that you cook your beef tenderloin to your desired level of doneness.
6. Let the beef tenderloin rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it juicier and more flavorful.
7. Serve your whole beef tenderloin with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
By following these tips, you can cook and serve a delicious and impressive whole beef tenderloin that is sure to impress your guests.
Is Buying A Whole Beef Tenderloin Worth The Investment?
When considering whether buying a whole beef tenderloin is worth the investment, it’s important to weigh the costs and benefits. While a whole beef tenderloin may seem like a big investment upfront, it can actually save you money in the long run.
Firstly, buying a whole beef tenderloin allows you to control the quality of the meat. You can choose the grade of beef that you prefer and inspect the meat for any imperfections or blemishes. Additionally, purchasing a whole tenderloin allows you to cut your own steaks and filets to your desired thickness, ensuring that you get the most out of your purchase.
Secondly, buying a whole beef tenderloin is more cost-effective than purchasing pre-cut steaks or filets. As mentioned earlier, a whole beef tenderloin at Costco costs $9.99 per pound, whereas pre-cut filets can cost up to $25 per pound. By purchasing a whole tenderloin and cutting it yourself, you can save money and get more bang for your buck.
Lastly, buying a whole beef tenderloin is perfect for special occasions or large gatherings. You can impress your guests with restaurant-quality steaks and filets without breaking the bank.
