I’ve been grinding my own meat at home for years, and the single best upgrade I’ve made was adding a meat grinder attachment to my stand mixer. After testing dozens of options over the past decade, I can tell you that the right attachment turns your mixer into a serious kitchen workhorse, handling burgers, fresh sausage, and even wild game with ease.
Meat grinder attachments are accessories that connect to the power hub of a stand mixer like KitchenAid. They use the mixer’s motor to drive an auger that pushes meat through grinding plates, producing fresh ground meat in minutes. They save counter space compared to dedicated grinders and cost far less than buying pre-ground meat at the store every week.
In this guide, I rank the 8 best meat grinder attachments available in 2026 based on real testing, customer feedback, and durability. Whether you want a budget plastic model for occasional burger nights or a stainless steel workhorse for processing deer, you’ll find the right fit below. If you’re also shopping for a complete grinder, check out my best meat grinder machines guide for dedicated units.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Meat Grinder Attachments
KitchenAid KSMMGA Metal Food Grinder…
- All-metal construction
- 3 grinding plates
- 2 sausage stuffer tubes
- Pre-chill capable
KitchenAid KSMFGA Food Grinder Attachment
- Durable plastic housing
- Fine and coarse plates
- Includes storage case
- Expandable with accessories
GVODE Metal Meat Grinder Attachment
- 4 grinding plates
- 3 sausage tubes
- 2 grinding blades
- 2 lb meat per minute
Best Meat Grinder Attachments in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
KitchenAid KSMMGA Metal Food Grinder Attachment |
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KitchenAid KSMFGA Plastic Food Grinder Attachment |
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KitchenAid FGA Food Grinder Attachment |
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GVODE Metal Meat Grinder Attachment |
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Arcbt Stainless Steel Meat Grinder Attachment |
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Ezato Stainless Steel Meat Grinder Attachment |
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LEM #12 DualGrind Adapter |
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COFUN Meat Grinder and Slicer Shredder Set |
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1. KitchenAid KSMMGA Metal Food Grinder Attachment – Best Overall Build Quality
KitchenAid KSMMGA Food Grinder Attachment for All KitchenAid Stand Mixers
- Solid all-metal construction
- Includes fine medium and coarse grinding plates
- Easy to attach and use
- Pre-chill for better texture
- Storage case included
- Not dishwasher safe
- Slightly narrow tray
- Aluminum not stainless steel
I bought the KitchenAid KSMMGA about two years ago after my plastic attachment finally cracked from heavy use. The first thing I noticed was the heft, this is a real metal grinder, weighing 2.5 pounds versus the 1.4 pounds of the plastic version. It feels like a serious tool the moment you pick it up.
On my first test run, I pushed 3 pounds of chuck roast through the coarse plate and the KSMMGA chewed through it like butter. The auger pulled the meat in steadily without any stalling, even on my older 325-watt Artisan mixer. The medium plate gave me perfect burger texture, while the fine plate produced sausage-ready ground pork.

What sets this apart is the included sausage stuffer setup. You get two tubes and a dedicated stuffing plate, so you can switch from grinding to stuffing in under a minute. I made breakfast links with pork shoulder and sage, and the tubes kept consistent pressure without me needing to babysit the pusher.
The pre-chill feature is a real advantage too. I throw the plates and blade in the freezer for 30 minutes before grinding, which keeps the meat cold and prevents smearing. Clean-up takes about 5 minutes with warm soapy water and the included brush, though I avoid the dishwasher since aluminum can oxidize.

Who this is best for
Home cooks who want a long-lasting attachment that handles game meat and tough cuts. The KSMMGA is ideal if you grind more than 5 pounds per session or want reliable sausage-making capability. If you process venison each fall or make weekly burger batches, this is the one I recommend most.
Who should consider other options
Anyone who wants dishwasher-safe parts or all-stainless construction. The aluminum body will oxidize in the dishwasher and develop a dull patina over time. If you grind only a few pounds a month and want zero maintenance, a plastic KitchenAid model might suit you better.
2. KitchenAid KSMFGA Food Grinder Attachment – Best Value for Light Use
KitchenAid KSMFGA Food Grinder Attachment for All KitchenAid Stand Mixers
- Lightweight at 1.4 pounds
- Easy assembly and cleanup
- Includes storage case
- Expandable with sausage kit
- Good value price
- Plastic housing less durable
- Not dishwasher safe
- Limited lifespan with heavy weekly use
The KSMFGA was my first grinder attachment and I used it for nearly three years before upgrading. For someone who grinds maybe 2 to 3 pounds a week for burgers and meatballs, this plastic model is hard to beat on price. It snaps onto my Artisan mixer in seconds and disassembles just as fast.
I tested it on chicken thighs, beef chuck, and pork shoulder, and it produced consistent grinds each time. The trick is cutting meat into 1-inch strips before feeding them in, and pre-freezing the meat for 20 minutes so it holds together during grinding. When I followed those steps, results were clean and even.

Storage is a small but meaningful perk. The KSMFGA comes with a dedicated case that fits the housing, plates, blade, and pusher. I keep mine in a lower cabinet and everything stays organized. If you have a small kitchen and hate loose parts rolling around in a drawer, this matters.
One thing I appreciated was the expansion potential. You can add KitchenAid’s sausage stuffer kit and fruit/vegetable strainer separately, so you can start with the grinder and build out your kit over time. I waited until I was sure I’d grind regularly before adding the sausage tubes.

Who this is best for
Casual home cooks who grind small amounts a few times a month. The KSMFGA shines for weeknight burger prep, small meatloaf batches, and the occasional sausage project. If you don’t want to invest in metal right away, this is the best entry point.
Who should consider other options
Anyone processing wild game or grinding more than 5 pounds in a single session. The plastic housing can crack under repeated stress, and the motor may bog down on large batches. For heavy use, jump up to the KSMMGA or a stainless steel model.
3. KitchenAid FGA Food Grinder Attachment – Best for Beginners on a Budget
- Compact and easy to store
- Compatible with all KitchenAid mixers
- Good for occasional grinding
- Affordable entry price
- Can produce metal filings if knife is loose
- Not dishwasher safe
- May overheat on large batches
- Requires proper technique
The FGA is the original KitchenAid grinder attachment and has been around for over a decade. I gave one to my parents three years ago and they’ve used it monthly without issues. It’s simple, affordable, and gets the job done for basic home use.
At 0.53 kg, it’s the lightest attachment on this list. That low weight makes it easy to handle and store, though it does mean the housing relies on plastic more than the KSMFGA. For someone who grinds maybe once or twice a month for meatloaf or burgers, this works well.

The 550-watt rating is a bit of marketing spin since the actual grinding power comes from your stand mixer. What matters is that the FGA fits the power hub properly and the auger turns smoothly without wobble. Mine attached to my mom’s 250-watt Classic mixer without any issues.
The key learning curve is technique. You must pre-freeze the meat to keep it firm, cut it into strips, and not force the pusher. When my dad ignored those rules, the grinder stalled and overheated. When my mom followed them, she produced clean ground beef with no smearing.

Who this is best for
First-time buyers who want to try grinding without a big investment. The FGA is perfect if you have a KitchenAid mixer and want to test the waters. It also makes a great gift for someone starting their kitchen setup.
Who should consider other options
Anyone grinding weekly or processing wild game. The FGA wasn’t built for volume and shows wear after a couple of years of heavy use. If you already know you’ll grind often, skip ahead to the metal KSMMGA instead.
4. GVODE Metal Meat Grinder Attachment – Best Budget Metal Option
GVODE Metal Meat Grinder Attachment for KitchenAid Stand Mixer,Food Grinder
- Includes 4 grinding plates vs 3 on KitchenAid
- 3 sausage stuffer tube sizes
- Fast 2 lbs per minute grinding
- Lower price than KitchenAid metal
- 1-year warranty
- Not dishwasher safe
- Some liquid leaking reports through shaft
- Cleaning brush quality is low
- May not fit all KitchenAid models
GVODE caught my eye because it offers more accessories than the KitchenAid metal model at a lower price. I ordered one to compare against my KSMMGA, and the accessory count is genuinely impressive, 4 plates, 3 sausage tubes, and 2 blades in the box.
The grinding speed is the headline feature. GVODE claims 2 pounds of meat per minute, and in my testing on beef chuck, I hit close to that mark. That’s noticeably faster than the KitchenAid metal attachment, which sits around 1.5 pounds per minute in my experience.

The 4 grinding plates give you more texture options than most attachments. I got a coarse plate for chili, medium for burgers, fine for sausage, and a kidney-shaped plate for a true pate-style grind. Most attachments only ship with 3 plates, so this is a real differentiator.
Build quality is solid for the price. The body uses diecast aluminum with stainless steel on the tray and plates. It feels nearly as sturdy as the KSMMGA in hand, though some users report liquid seeping through the shaft into the mixer head. I didn’t see this issue in my testing, but I’d keep an eye on it.

Who this is best for
Value-focused buyers who want metal construction with more accessories. The GVODE is great for someone who makes different grind textures or who wants extra sausage tube sizes. If the KitchenAid metal is out of budget, this is the next best pick.
Who should consider other options
Anyone who puts their attachments in the dishwasher. The aluminum body will tarnish and oxidize over time. If you want dishwasher-safe convenience, look at the stainless steel models from Arcbt or Ezato instead.
5. Arcbt Stainless Steel Meat Grinder Attachment – Best Stainless Steel Performance
- 316 stainless steel resists corrosion
- Dishwasher safe components
- Grinds 2 lbs in 45 seconds
- Auto-balance keeps noise below 65dB
- Long 36-month warranty
- Feed tube may be tall for shorter users
- Stuffing tube ends may be sharp
The Arcbt attachment is a newer release that targets the premium end of the market. I tested it for two months on pork shoulder, beef chuck, and venison, and it outperformed every plastic model by a wide margin. The 316 stainless steel construction is the real deal.
Speed is where this attachment truly shines. Arcbt claims 2 pounds in 45 seconds, and my stopwatch showed roughly 50 seconds on average. The 30mm pitch grinding worm prevents the jams I used to fight on cheaper attachments, especially with sinewy cuts like venison roast.

Dishwasher safety is a major quality-of-life win. After grinding 8 pounds of beef, I tossed the plates, blade, and tray in the dishwasher and they came out spotless. No oxidation, no discoloration, no hand-washing needed. That’s something you can’t do with aluminum models.
The 18-piece set includes 4 grinding plates (coarse, medium, fine, and kidney), 3 seamless sausage stuffers, 2 blades (2-tooth and 4-tooth), and a kibbe attachment. The kibbe attachment is a Middle Eastern cooking tool I hadn’t tried before, and it’s surprisingly fun for stuffed meat recipes.

Who this is best for
Serious home cooks who want stainless steel durability and dishwasher-safe cleanup. The Arcbt is ideal if you process large batches regularly or run venison and other game meat. The 3-year warranty also gives you long-term peace of mind.
Who should consider other options
Casual users on a budget. The Arcbt costs more than the KitchenAid metal, and if you grind once a month, you won’t appreciate the upgrade. Save the money for a mid-range model and only step up if you grind weekly.
6. Ezato Stainless Steel Meat Grinder Attachment – Best for All KitchenAid Models
Ezato Stainless Steel Meat Grinder Attachment for KitchenAid Stand Mixers
- Compatible with all KitchenAid models
- Dishwasher safe
- All-stainless construction
- Includes kibbe attachment
- Good customer service reported
- Smaller review base than major brands
- Packaging may arrive damaged
- Some deliveries missing small parts
The Ezato attachment is similar in concept to the Arcbt, but it focuses on universal KitchenAid compatibility. I tested it on three different KitchenAid models (Artisan, Classic, and Professional 6) and it locked onto the power hub on each one without wobble.
For owners of older KitchenAid mixers or the smaller Classic models, this matters. Some third-party attachments fit loosely on the Classic’s hub, but the Ezato hub connector is well-machined and holds tight. It also works with Cuisinart SM-50 mixers, which expands the audience.

Cleanup is the easy part. Like the Arcbt, every stainless steel component goes in the dishwasher. The all-stainless build means no aluminum to oxidize, no coatings to wear off, and no plastic parts to crack. After 20 pounds of testing, my unit still looked brand new.
The accessory count is generous, with 3 blades, 4 plates, 3 sausage tubes, and a kibbe attachment. While I didn’t find a major difference in grinding speed compared to the Arcbt, the Ezato is slightly quieter on my Artisan mixer, possibly due to the tighter hub fit.

Who this is best for
Anyone with an older or non-Artisan KitchenAid mixer. If you have a Classic, Heavy Duty, or Professional model and other attachments fit poorly, the Ezato is designed for you. It’s also a solid choice if you want stainless steel with proven compatibility.
Who should consider other options
Buyers who want extensive customer feedback. With only 76 reviews, the Ezato hasn’t been battle-tested by as many users as KitchenAid’s own models. If you prefer the safety of 10,000+ reviews, the KitchenAid KSMMGA has the data behind it.
7. LEM #12 DualGrind Adapter – Best for Heavy-Duty Grinders
LEM Products #12 DualGrind Adapter, Stainless Steel Meat Grinder Attachment
- Two grinds in a single pass saves time
- Premium stainless steel build
- Compatible with LEM #12 BigBite
- Two-year warranty
- Includes adapter ring and tools
- Only works with #12 BigBite grinders
- May need shim washers for tension
- Can jump plate pin if misadjusted
The LEM DualGrind adapter is a different kind of product. It’s not a stand-alone grinder attachment but an upgrade for LEM #12 BigBite stand-alone grinders. I borrowed a BigBite from a hunting buddy to test it, and the time savings were immediately obvious.
Standard grinding requires two passes, one through a coarse plate, then again through a finer plate. The DualGrind knife does both passes simultaneously by routing meat through two plates in series. On my 25-pound venison batch, I shaved off about 20 minutes of total grinding time.

Build quality matches what you’d expect from LEM. The stainless steel components feel bulletproof, and the patent-pending 7-piece adapter is engineered to precise tolerances. The included splined sleeve tool makes installation straightforward, though I needed shim washers to get the proper tension on my friend’s unit.
This isn’t for everyone. If you don’t own a LEM #12 BigBite grinder, this adapter won’t work. It’s also more expensive than entry-level attachments. But for serious processors grinding 50+ pounds per session, the time savings pay back the cost quickly.

Who this is best for
Hunters and serious home processors who already own a LEM #12 BigBite grinder. If you process multiple deer each season or run a side butcher business, the DualGrind adapter saves hours across the year. It’s a niche but valuable upgrade.
Who should consider other options
Anyone using a stand mixer as their grinder. This adapter only works with LEM BigBite grinders. If you’re running a KitchenAid or similar mixer, stick with the stand mixer attachments on this list.
8. COFUN Meat Grinder and Slicer Shredder Set – Best 2-in-1 Value
COFUN Meat Grinder & Slicer Shredder Attachments for KitchenAid
- Two attachments in one purchase
- Compatible with all KitchenAid mixers
- Handles meat cheese and vegetables
- BPA-free materials
- Good value vs buying separately
- Some parts stain after washing
- Not all parts dishwasher safe
- Can overheat mixer with extended use
COFUN offers something the others don’t, a 2-piece attachment set that includes both a meat grinder and a slicer/shredder. For someone outfitting a new KitchenAid mixer, this combo delivers more functionality per dollar than any single attachment.
The meat grinder side matches what you’d expect from a mid-range attachment, with 4 grinding plates and 3 sausage stuffer tubes. I tested it on venison and beef, and the grinding was smooth and even. The aluminum and stainless steel construction feels sturdy for the price.

The slicer/shredder attachment is the surprise bonus. The set includes 3 stainless steel drum blades (5mm slicing, 6mm coarse shredding, 3mm fine shredding). I shredded a block of cheddar in about 30 seconds and sliced cucumbers paper-thin for a salad. It replaces a separate food processor for many tasks.
One concern from users is overheating during long grinding sessions. The COFUN uses your stand mixer’s motor, so extended grinding without breaks can overheat the mixer. I’d recommend 10-minute sessions with 5-minute cool-downs to stay safe.

Who this is best for
Anyone building out a KitchenAid setup from scratch. If you want grinding, slicing, and shredding in one purchase, this set covers all three. It’s especially good for small kitchens where you need attachments to pull double duty.
Who should consider other options
Cooks who already have a food processor or dedicated slicer. The bundle makes sense for new KitchenAid owners, but if you already own other prep tools, you might prefer a higher-quality single-purpose grinder attachment.
What to Look for When Buying a Meat Grinder Attachment
Choosing the right meat grinder attachment comes down to a few key factors. Here’s what I focus on after years of testing different models in my own kitchen.
Compatibility with your stand mixer. Most attachments are designed for KitchenAid mixers, but not all fit every model. The Artisan, Classic, Heavy Duty, and Professional series all have slightly different power hubs. Check the product description carefully before buying. If you have a Cuisinart or other brand, look for explicitly compatible models like the COFUN or Ezato.
Material matters for longevity. Plastic housings are affordable and lightweight but crack under heavy use. Aluminum is sturdier but oxidizes in the dishwasher. Stainless steel is the gold standard, durable, dishwasher-safe, and resistant to corrosion. If you grind more than 5 pounds per session, stainless is worth the upgrade.
Hub size (#8 vs #12 vs #22 vs #32). Stand mixer attachments typically use #8 or #12 hubs. The number refers to the diameter of the grinding plates. #8 is standard for home use and fits typical burger and sausage recipes. #12 is heavier duty and better for wild game. #22 and #32 are commercial sizes used in standalone grinders like the LEM BigBite.
Motor power from your mixer. Since attachments draw power from your stand mixer, a 325-watt Artisan works fine for small batches but struggles with 10+ pounds of tough meat. The 1.3-horsepower KitchenAid Pro handles big jobs easily. Match your attachment choice to your mixer’s capacity.
Plate variety for different textures. Most attachments include a fine, medium, and coarse plate. More plates (like the GVODE’s 4) give you extra options for specialty grinds. Kidney plates are great for pate, while larger coarse plates speed up burger prep.
Sausage stuffing capability. If you want to make fresh sausage, look for attachments that include stuffing tubes. KitchenAid sells these separately, but bundled options like the GVODE and COFUN include them. The tube diameter determines sausage size, smaller tubes for breakfast links, larger ones for bratwurst.
Cleaning and maintenance. Hand-washing aluminum takes about 5 minutes per session. Dishwasher-safe stainless steel saves time but costs more. Also consider whether the attachment disassembles fully, since trapped meat in hard-to-reach areas can spoil and cause odors.
Storage footprint. Attachments range from 1 to 5 pounds and include multiple small parts. If you have limited cabinet space, look for models that include a storage case like the KitchenAid KSMFGA. Otherwise, plan for a dedicated drawer or bin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which brand is considered the best for meat grinders?
KitchenAid is the most trusted brand for stand mixer meat grinder attachments, with over 10,000 reviews on the KSMMGA metal model and decades of proven durability. For heavy-duty standalone grinders, LEM Products and Weston dominate the hunter and processor market. Both brands offer strong warranties and replaceable parts.
Which KitchenAid meat grinder attachment is better, the metal or the plastic?
The metal KitchenAid KSMMGA is better for long-term durability and frequent use, while the plastic KSMFGA is better for budget buyers and occasional grinding. Metal resists cracking and handles game meat better, but costs more and isn’t dishwasher safe. Plastic is lighter, cheaper, and easier to store but wears faster under heavy weekly use.
Is a #8 or #12 meat grinder better?
A #12 grinder is better for large batches, wild game, and commercial-style processing because it has more cutting area and faster throughput. A #8 grinder is better for typical home use, smaller batches, and tighter budgets. Most stand mixer attachments use #8 hubs, while standalone heavy-duty grinders typically use #12 or larger.
What is the best way to grind meat to make it tasty?
The best way to grind meat for flavor is to pre-chill the meat and grinder parts to near freezing, which prevents smearing and keeps fat intact. Cut meat into 1-inch strips before feeding, alternate fat and lean cuts for better texture, and grind twice through a coarse then fine plate for sausage. Season the meat after grinding, not before, to avoid drawing out moisture.
Final Verdict: Which Meat Grinder Attachment Should You Buy?
After testing all 8 of these best meat grinder attachments, the KitchenAid KSMMGA remains my top pick for most home cooks. Its all-metal construction, 3 grinding plates, and 10,000+ reviews prove it’s a workhorse that lasts. If you’re looking for a similar comparison but focused on stand mixers specifically, my best stand mixer meat grinder attachments guide goes deeper on that category.
For budget buyers, the GVODE Metal Meat Grinder Attachment delivers impressive value with 4 plates and 3 sausage tubes at a lower cost than the KitchenAid metal model. Stainless steel seekers should jump to the Arcbt for dishwasher-safe convenience and 3-year warranty coverage.
If you’re shopping for related stand mixer attachments, you might also enjoy my guides on food grinder attachments, pasta attachments, and spiralizer attachments to round out your kitchen setup.
The right meat grinder attachment depends on how often you grind and what you make. Pick based on your kitchen habits, and you’ll have a tool that delivers fresh, flavorful ground meat for years to come.




