What Is a Cut Sheet?
A cut sheet is the form you fill out — or we help you fill out — that tells the processor exactly how to cut and package your beef. Your cuts, your thickness, your package sizes. It’s the difference between getting exactly what you want and getting the default that works for everyone.
The Key Decisions
Steak Thickness
Most cut sheets ask how thick you want your steaks cut. The default is usually 3/4 inch to 1 inch. We recommend 1 inch minimum, and 1.25 inches if you like a thick steak. Thin steaks cook faster than most people can react to — it’s too easy to overcook them.
Package Size (Ground Beef)
Your ground beef can be packaged in 1 lb or 2 lb packages. For families of 2, go with 1 lb. For families of 4+, 2 lb packages are more practical. Most recipes call for 1–1.5 lbs, so 1 lb packages give you more flexibility.
Roast Size
Roasts are typically cut in 2–4 lb sections. Larger roasts feed more people but take more planning. We suggest 2.5–3 lb roasts for most families — manageable in a slow cooker and feeds 4–5 people comfortably.
What Goes to Ground
Cuts that don’t fit neatly into steaks or roasts (trim, some round cuts, etc.) go into your ground beef. The more cuts you take as roasts, the less ground you’ll have and vice versa. Most people underestimate how much ground beef they go through — it’s worth having a generous supply.
Simple First-Timer Recommendation
If you’re not sure what to ask for, here’s a solid default for a half cow:
- Ribeye steaks, 1-inch thick, 2 per package
- New York Strips, 1-inch thick, 2 per package
- 1 brisket (flat)
- 2–3 chuck roasts (2.5 lb each)
- Ground beef in 1 lb packages
- Short ribs if available
- Request soup bones — they’re often free or very cheap and most people overlook them
We’re always available to help you think through your cut sheet before you submit it. Email us at backacresfarmtn@gmail.com.