Walmart GoodCook Meat Chopper Review & Delicious Recipes
Are you tired of struggling to crumble ground meat with a fork or spatula? Do you want a faster, more efficient way to prepare ingredients for your favorite recipes? The GoodCook Meat Chopper, widely available at Walmart and other retailers, promises to simplify your ground meat preparation. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the features, performance, and value of the GoodCook Meat Chopper. We’ll also explore delicious recipes that will showcase its versatility and help you get the most out of this handy kitchen gadget.
## GoodCook Meat Chopper: An Overview
The GoodCook Meat Chopper is a simple, yet effective tool designed to break up ground meat quickly and evenly. Its primary function is to make crumbling cooked ground beef, turkey, chicken, or sausage a breeze. This tool is designed to eliminate the tedious and sometimes messy process of using a spatula or fork, making meal preparation faster and more efficient.
**Key Features:**
* **Design:** The GoodCook Meat Chopper typically features a handle connected to a chopping head with angled blades or fins. This design allows you to press down and twist, effectively breaking up the meat as you go.
* **Material:** Most models are made from durable, heat-resistant nylon or a similar plastic material. This ensures that the chopper can withstand high temperatures and repeated use without warping or melting.
* **Ergonomics:** The handle is usually ergonomically designed for a comfortable and secure grip, reducing hand fatigue during extended use.
* **Easy to Clean:** The chopper is generally dishwasher-safe, making cleanup quick and easy.
* **Affordability:** One of the biggest draws of the GoodCook Meat Chopper is its affordable price point. It’s a budget-friendly tool that won’t break the bank.
## In-Depth Review: Performance and Usability
To thoroughly evaluate the GoodCook Meat Chopper, we assessed its performance across several key areas:
**1. Crumbling Efficiency:**
* **Ground Beef:** The GoodCook Meat Chopper excelled at crumbling ground beef. With a few simple presses and twists, the meat was evenly broken down into small, uniform pieces. It significantly reduced the time and effort compared to using a spatula.
* **Ground Turkey and Chicken:** Similarly, the chopper performed well with ground turkey and chicken. The angled blades effectively separated the meat without causing it to clump together.
* **Ground Sausage:** For ground sausage, the chopper proved especially useful in breaking up larger clumps and ensuring even distribution of seasonings.
**2. Ease of Use:**
The GoodCook Meat Chopper is incredibly easy to use. Simply place it in the pan with the cooked ground meat and press down firmly while twisting. The ergonomic handle provides a comfortable grip, even for extended use. The lightweight design also contributes to its user-friendliness.
**3. Cleaning and Maintenance:**
Cleaning the GoodCook Meat Chopper is a breeze. It’s dishwasher-safe, so you can simply toss it in with your other dishes. Alternatively, you can wash it by hand with soap and water. The non-stick surface prevents food from clinging, making cleanup even easier.
**4. Durability:**
While the GoodCook Meat Chopper is made from durable materials, it’s important to note that it’s not indestructible. Avoid using excessive force or applying it to extremely hard or frozen foods, as this could potentially damage the blades. However, with proper care and reasonable use, the chopper should last for a considerable time.
**5. Value for Money:**
Considering its affordability and performance, the GoodCook Meat Chopper offers excellent value for money. It’s a simple, yet effective tool that can significantly streamline your cooking process. If you frequently cook with ground meat, this chopper is a worthwhile investment.
## Pros and Cons
To provide a balanced perspective, let’s summarize the pros and cons of the GoodCook Meat Chopper:
**Pros:**
* Affordable
* Efficiently crumbles ground meat
* Easy to use
* Dishwasher-safe
* Durable (with proper care)
* Ergonomic handle
**Cons:**
* May not be suitable for extremely hard or frozen foods
* Plastic construction may not be as durable as metal alternatives
## Alternative Meat Choppers
While the GoodCook Meat Chopper is a solid choice, several alternative meat choppers are available on the market. Here’s a brief overview of some popular options:
* **OXO Good Grips Ground Meat Chopper:** This chopper features a similar design to the GoodCook model but with a stainless-steel head for added durability. It’s slightly more expensive but offers improved longevity.
* **Pampered Chef Mix ‘N Chop:** This chopper has a unique pinwheel design that effectively breaks up ground meat and other ingredients. It’s a versatile tool that can also be used for mixing dough and chopping vegetables.
* **KitchenAid Meat Grinder Attachment:** For those who prefer a more automated solution, the KitchenAid Meat Grinder Attachment can grind meat directly from the source. However, this is a significantly more expensive option.
## Delicious Recipes Using the GoodCook Meat Chopper
Now that you know all about the GoodCook Meat Chopper, let’s explore some delicious recipes that will put it to good use. These recipes highlight the versatility of ground meat and the convenience of using a meat chopper.
### Recipe 1: Classic Spaghetti Bolognese
This classic Italian dish is a family favorite and a perfect way to showcase the GoodCook Meat Chopper.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound ground beef
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 carrot, chopped
* 1 celery stalk, chopped
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1 teaspoon dried basil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 pound spaghetti
* Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
**Instructions:**
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and use the GoodCook Meat Chopper to break it up into small pieces. Cook until browned, then drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a richer flavor.
4. While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to package directions.
5. Drain the spaghetti and serve topped with the Bolognese sauce and grated Parmesan cheese.
### Recipe 2: Taco Tuesday Fiesta
Tacos are a versatile and customizable meal that’s perfect for a casual weeknight dinner. The GoodCook Meat Chopper makes preparing the ground beef filling quick and easy.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound ground beef
* 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
* 1/2 cup water
* 12 taco shells
* Shredded lettuce
* Chopped tomatoes
* Shredded cheese
* Sour cream
* Salsa
* Guacamole (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Use the GoodCook Meat Chopper to break it up into small pieces. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-10 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed.
3. Warm the taco shells according to package directions.
4. Fill each taco shell with the seasoned ground beef, shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, and guacamole (if desired).
### Recipe 3: Shepherd’s Pie with a Twist
This comforting classic gets a flavorful update with the use of ground lamb and a sweet potato topping. The GoodCook Meat Chopper ensures that the lamb is evenly crumbled for a perfect filling.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound ground lamb
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 carrot, chopped
* 1 celery stalk, chopped
* 1 cup frozen peas
* 1 cup frozen corn
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/2 cup beef broth
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
* 1/4 cup milk
* 2 tablespoons butter
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground lamb and use the GoodCook Meat Chopper to break it up into small pieces. Cook until browned, then drain off any excess grease.
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the frozen peas, frozen corn, dried thyme, beef broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
5. While the filling is simmering, boil the sweet potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with the milk, butter, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour the lamb filling into a baking dish and spread the mashed sweet potatoes evenly over the top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.
### Recipe 4: Quick and Easy Chili
Chili is a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cold day. The GoodCook Meat Chopper makes browning the ground beef a breeze, allowing you to focus on the other flavorful ingredients.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound ground beef
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 tablespoon chili powder
* 1 teaspoon cumin
* 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped onions for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and use the GoodCook Meat Chopper to break it up into small pieces. Cook until browned, then drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour for a richer flavor.
4. Serve the chili topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped onions.
### Recipe 5: Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a colorful and flavorful dish that’s packed with nutrients. The GoodCook Meat Chopper helps to ensure that the ground beef is evenly distributed throughout the filling.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 bell peppers (any color)
* 1 pound ground beef
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup cooked rice
* 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Shredded mozzarella cheese
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and use the GoodCook Meat Chopper to break it up into small pieces. Cook until browned, then drain off any excess grease.
4. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, 1/2 cup of the tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
6. Fill each bell pepper with the ground beef mixture.
7. Place the stuffed bell peppers in a baking dish and pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top.
8. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the bell peppers are tender.
9. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
## Tips for Using the GoodCook Meat Chopper
* **Use a non-stick skillet:** This will prevent the meat from sticking to the pan and make it easier to crumble with the chopper.
* **Don’t overcrowd the pan:** Cook the ground meat in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
* **Apply even pressure:** Press down firmly on the chopper and twist it to break up the meat into small pieces.
* **Clean the chopper immediately after use:** This will prevent food from drying and sticking to the blades.
* **Store the chopper in a safe place:** Keep it away from sharp objects to prevent damage.
## Conclusion
The GoodCook Meat Chopper is a valuable addition to any kitchen. Its affordability, ease of use, and efficiency make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who frequently cooks with ground meat. While it may not be as durable as some higher-end models, its performance and value for money are hard to beat. From classic Spaghetti Bolognese to flavorful Taco Tuesday feasts, this simple tool can significantly streamline your meal preparation process. So, if you’re looking for a faster, easier way to crumble ground meat, the GoodCook Meat Chopper is definitely worth considering. Head to your local Walmart or other retailer and give it a try – you might be surprised at how much time and effort it can save you in the kitchen!