assortment of meats

Custom Processing

Give us a call or contact us today to get started! For more information on food safety visit www.foodsafety.gov.

Retail Cuts

For more information on food safety visit www.foodsafety.gov.

Woman chooses slice of ham at store
cheese blocks whole and cut up

Cheese

For more information on food safety visit www.foodsafety.gov.

Special Order

We can order just about anything you want and also offer a few options for cooked products as well such as roast beef, smoked prime rib, beef ribs, pulled pork, pulled beef, or meat and cheese trays. Special orders are available on a case-by-case basis.

For more information on food safety visit www.foodsafety.gov.

Meat department in a supermarket
colorful hoodies and t shirts hanging

Gear

Why Does My Beef Turn Out Tough Even When I Cook It Carefully?

Beef can turn out tough when the selected cut is prepared using a cooking method that does not suit its muscle structure, connective tissue, or fat content. Cooking time and temperature also influence tenderness, but choosing the appropriate cut is an important starting point. Cuts such as ribeye and tenderloin are generally suited to quicker cooking methods, including grilling and pan-searing. Chuck roasts and certain other hardworking muscles contain more connective tissue and typically benefit from slower cooking with moisture.

Overcooking a tender steak can cause it to become dry and chewy, while cooking a chuck roast too quickly may leave it firm and difficult to slice. Allowing meat to rest after cooking and cutting against the grain can also improve the eating experience. When shopping for beef, consider the intended recipe before selecting a cut. Understanding the differences between steaks, roasts, and other available options helps reduce cooking frustrations and makes it easier to prepare satisfying meals.

What Should I Do If I Cannot Find the Meat Cuts I Need for a Special Event?

Finding the right meat cuts for a special event can be challenging when standard retail selections do not match the required quantity, preparation style, or menu. Larger gatherings may require specific roast sizes, specialty cuts, or prepared products that are not routinely stocked. Planning ahead is the most effective way to address these limitations. Customers should determine the number of guests, preferred menu, approximate serving sizes, and whether the meat will be prepared at home or served ready to eat.

Specialty orders may include larger beef or pork cuts, smoked products, sliced roast beef, or meat and cheese trays, depending on availability and processing requirements. Some items require additional preparation time, making advance arrangements important. Midwestern Meat Locker offers special-order options for weddings, birthdays, graduations, reunions, and other gatherings. Confirming product availability, order quantities, preparation details, and pickup arrangements before the event helps reduce last-minute complications and ensures the selected products suit the occasion.