How to Store and Cook Beef from a Whole or Half Cow Purchase
Buying a whole or half cow is a smart way to get high-quality, locally raised beef at a great value. But once you have hundreds of pounds of beef delivered, you might wonder: How do I store it all? And what’s the best way to cook it?
At Crown H Cattle Company, we provide custom-cut beef shares so you get the best cuts for your needs, packaged and ready to store. Whether you're a first-time bulk beef buyer or a seasoned pro, this guide will help you store, organize, and cook your grass-fed, grain-finished Belted Galloway beef like a pro.
How to Store Your Beef for Maximum Freshness
1. Organize Your Freezer Efficiently
A half or whole cow can take up a lot of space, so proper organization is key. Here’s how to maximize your freezer space:
✅ Use a chest freezer – A 16-21 cubic foot freezer can hold a half cow, while a whole cow needs about 26+ cubic feet.
✅ Sort by cut – Keep steaks, roasts, and ground beef in separate sections for easy access.
✅ Label everything – Even though our beef comes vacuum-sealed and labeled, using bins or dividers helps keep your freezer organized.
2. Store Beef Properly for Long-Term Quality
Our beef is vacuum-sealed and flash-frozen for maximum freshness. Here’s how long you can safely store different cuts:
🥩 Steaks & roasts: Up to 12 months
🥩 Ground beef: Up to 6-12 months
🥩 Organs & specialty cuts: Best within 6 months
Pro tip: If you’re using freezer paper, double-wrap for extra protection against freezer burn.
How to Cook Different Cuts of Beef
One of the best parts of buying a whole or half cow is the variety of cuts you get. Here’s how to cook them for the best flavor and tenderness.
1. Cooking Steaks: Quick & Flavorful
For premium steaks like Ribeye, Filet Mignon, or New York Strip:
🔥 Grill or pan-sear on high heat for a crisp crust.
🥩 Cook to medium-rare (130-135°F) for the best flavor.
🧈 Rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to keep juices in.
For leaner steaks like Sirloin or Round Steak:
🔥 Marinate before grilling for extra tenderness.
🥩 Cook to medium (140-145°F) to avoid dryness.
2. Roasts: Slow & Tender
For cuts like Chuck Roast, Brisket, or Rump Roast:
🍲 Slow cook in a crockpot or braise for melt-in-your-mouth texture.
🔥 Cook at 275-300°F for several hours to break down connective tissue.
🥕 Pair with root vegetables & herbs for deep, rich flavors.
3. Ground Beef: Versatile & Easy
Our grass-fed, grain-finished ground beef is rich in flavor and perfect for:
🍔 Burgers & meatballs – Keep it simple with salt, pepper, and a hot skillet.
🌮 Tacos & chili – Brown it with onions, garlic, and spices for bold flavors.
🥘 Casseroles & pasta sauces – A hearty staple for quick family meals.
4. Specialty Cuts: Hidden Gems
Buying a beef share means you’ll get cuts you may not be familiar with—but they’re delicious when cooked right!
🥩 Short Ribs – Braise for 3+ hours until fall-off-the-bone tender.
🥩 Oxtail – Slow cook for a rich, hearty stew.
🥩 Beef Shank – Perfect for osso buco or bone broth.
Final Tips for Storing & Cooking Bulk Beef
✅ Plan meals ahead – Take out what you need the night before to thaw in the fridge.
✅ Invest in a vacuum sealer – Helps extend shelf life if you repackage.
✅ Experiment with different cooking methods – Not every cut is a steak, but every cut can be delicious!
By buying beef in bulk, you get premium farm-raised beef at a better price, plus the convenience of always having quality meat on hand.
Ready to fill your freezer with premium beef?
Buying a quarter, half, or whole cow means better quality, better taste, and more savings. Get started today with Crown H Cattle Company and enjoy farm-fresh beef year-round!