I filled the holder right to the top and had a half pound extra. I started to crank with one hand and guide the casing with the other (now that was a first as opposed to two people working). I emptied the holder plus adding the extra and finished in under 10 minutes. I had been using a stand mixer with the stuffer attachment, no more, I've found the ultimate answer and replacement. It's all stainless steel, so the parts, that can, go in the dish washer. There is a silicone gasket around the push plate, be sure to take that off, it can still go in the washer.