The Best Ground Coffee for Espresso Machines in 2025

That morning ritual. The rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling your kitchen. The satisfying sound of your espresso machine working its magic. There's nothing quite like it! But to get that perfect, cafe quality espresso at home, you need the right fuel for your machine. And that, my friend, starts with the coffee itself.

We know the world of coffee can be a little overwhelming. So many brands, roasts, and grinds to choose from! But don't you worry. We've done the hard work for you and put together a list of the best ground coffee for espresso machines in 2025. Get ready to pull your best shot yet!

What to Look for in Ground Coffee for Your Espresso Machine

Before we jump into our top picks, let's talk about what makes a ground coffee great for espresso. It's not as simple as grabbing any bag off the shelf! Here's what you need to keep in mind:

• Grind Size: This is a big one. For the best ground coffee for espresso machines, you need a fine, consistent grind. Think somewhere between powdered sugar and table salt. If the grind is too coarse, your espresso will be weak and under extracted. If it's too fine, it will be bitter and over extracted.

• Roast Level: Traditionally, espresso blends use a medium to dark roast. This creates that classic, rich, and bold flavor we all know and love. However, lighter roasts are becoming more popular, offering a more complex and nuanced flavor profile. It really comes down to personal preference!

• Freshness: Coffee is at its best when it's fresh. Always check the roasting date on the bag. The closer you are to that date, the better your espresso will taste.

Our Top Picks for the Best Ground Coffee for Espresso Machines in 2025

And now, the moment you've been waiting for! Here are our top picks for the best ground coffee for espresso machines in 2025:

1. Via Guatemala Mayan Jaguar - Dark Roast

For a truly authentic Guatemalan espresso experience, our Mayan Jaguar dark roast is the perfect choice. The dark roast brings out the deep, rich flavors of the beans, creating a classic espresso that's both bold and smooth.

Pros:

• Rich, bold, and full bodied with notes of dark chocolate and a hint of smoke

• Sustainably sourced from the highlands of Guatemala

• Available on our website and on Amazon for your convenience!

Cons:

• We're a little biased, but we can't think of any!

2. Lavazza Espresso Italiano

A true classic, Lavazza is a go to for many espresso lovers. Their Espresso Italiano blend is a great all rounder, perfect for lattes, cappuccinos, or a simple, straight shot.

Pros:

• Consistent, reliable flavor

• Smooth and well balanced

• Widely available and affordable

Cons:

• Some may find the flavor a bit too traditional

3. Illy Classico Espresso Ground Coffee

If you're looking for a premium Italian espresso experience, Illy is the way to go. Their iconic silver and red can is a sign of quality, and the coffee inside does not disappoint.

Pros:

• Rich, smooth, and full bodied

• Complex flavor with notes of caramel and chocolate

• Pressurized can keeps the coffee fresh

Cons:

• On the pricier side

4. Stumptown Hair Bender

For those who enjoy a more modern, third wave espresso, Stumptown's Hair Bender is an excellent choice. This is a complex and flavorful blend that will keep you coming back for more.

Pros:

• Complex flavor profile with notes of cherry, toffee, and fudge

• Sustainably sourced

• A favorite among coffee connoisseurs

Cons:

• The complex flavor may not be for everyone

5. Kicking Horse Coffee, 454 Horse Power

If you need a coffee with a serious kick, look no further than Kicking Horse. Their 454 Horse Power blend is a dark roast with a bold, intense flavor.

Pros:

• Rich, dark, and chocolaty

• Organic and Fair Trade certified

• Perfect for those who like a strong cup of coffee

Cons:

• The intense flavor can be overpowering for some

Tips for Pulling the Perfect Espresso Shot

Now that you've got the best ground coffee for espresso machines, it's time to pull the perfect shot. Here are a few tips to help you out:

• Dose correctly: Use a scale to measure your coffee. A good starting point for a double shot is 18-20 grams.

• Tamp evenly: Apply firm, even pressure when you tamp the coffee grounds. This will ensure an even extraction.

• Time your shot: A good shot of espresso should take between 25-30 seconds to pull. If it's too fast, your grind is too coarse. If it's too slow, your grind is too fine.

• Keep it clean: Make sure to clean your espresso machine regularly. A clean machine makes better tasting coffee!

The Final Drip

And there you have it! Everything you need to know to choose the best ground coffee for your espresso machine and pull the perfect shot. Happy brewing!