Abstract: An apparatus and method for improving coffee grounds usage wherein a removable insert means is provided for confining coffee grounds within a substantially annular area of a coffee grounds receptacle. In an alternative embodiment, a coffee grounds receptacle for a coffee maker is provided, having an inner spacer means whereby coffee grounds are confined to an annular area between the inner spacer means and the outer wall of the receptacle. In each of the embodiments, the insert means or the coffee grounds receptacle is provided with an aperture means for accommodating a tube conveying rising hot liquid to an area above the coffee grounds, and further includes a plug for the aperture means so that the insert or coffee grounds receptacle is adapted to be used in a drip-type coffee maker.