How to Choose the Right Cut of Meat for Any Occasion

Choosing the right cut of meat can make the difference between a good meal and a great one. At TN Craft Butcher, we help customers every day who ask the same question: “What cut should I buy?”

This guide breaks it down simply—so whether you’re cooking a quick dinner, firing up the grill, or planning a special event, you’ll know exactly what to choose.

If you’ve ever searched “what cut of meat should I buy?” or “best cut for grilling or smoking”, this guide is for you.

Weeknight Meals vs. Special Occasions

For everyday cooking, you want cuts that are:

• Easy to prepare

• Forgiving if overcooked

• Flavorful without a long cook time

Great options include:

• Ground beef or ground pork

• Chicken breasts or thighs

• Pork chops

For special occasions, premium cuts shine:

• Ribeye or filet

• Specialty pork cuts

• Duck or exotic selections

Explore premium options on our beef, pork, and exotic meats pages.

Grilling vs. Smoking vs. Roasting

Different cooking methods require different cuts.

For grilling:
Choose cuts that cook quickly and handle high heat well:

• Ribeye

• New York strip

• Pork chops

• Chicken thighs

For smoking:
Look for cuts with more connective tissue that benefit from low and slow cooking:

• Brisket

• Pork shoulder

• Ribs

For roasting or oven cooking:
Roasts and whole cuts work best for steady heat and longer cook times.

Need inspiration? Check out our Best Meats for Grilling guide and talk with our butchers for personalized recommendations.

Cooking for Two vs. Feeding a Crowd

Smaller cuts are ideal when cooking for just a few people:

• Individual steaks

• Chicken portions

• Smaller pork cuts

When feeding a group, larger cuts or trays make life easier:

• Pork shoulders

• Bulk chicken

• Mixed meat trays

For stress-free events, our catering services offer curated options designed for groups.

Ask Your Butcher — That’s the Advantage

One of the biggest benefits of shopping at a butcher shop is guidance. Our team doesn’t just sell meat—we help you choose the right cut for your goal, your budget, and your cooking method.

Stop by, enjoy the atmosphere, and don’t hesitate to ask questions while browsing or attending events.