When it comes to shopping smart at Costco, there are plenty of hidden gems that pack great value without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for snacks, ingredients to elevate your dishes, or pantry staples, here are ten must-have Costco groceries under $15 that experts swear by!
1. String Cheese $10.79/60 oz
String cheese is a protein-packed snack that’s perfect for on-the-go, lunchboxes, or afternoon cravings. This Costco pack is a great deal, providing a large quantity for a great price.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories per serving: 80
- Fats: 6g
- Carbs: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 7g
Ingredients
Pasteurized milk, cheese cultures, salt, enzymes.
Preparation Instructions
Enjoy cold straight from the fridge as a quick snack or pair it with crackers and fruit for a balanced mini-meal.
2. Mixed Nuts $12.99/40 oz
Costco’s mixed nuts are a versatile and healthy snack option. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, they’re perfect for snacking, adding to salads, or incorporating into homemade trail mix.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories per serving: 170
- Fats: 15g
- Carbs: 6g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 5g
Ingredients
Cashews, almonds, pistachios, pecans, hazelnuts, peanut oil, salt.
Preparation Instructions
Eat as-is or toss them into yogurt, oatmeal, or salads for added crunch and nutrition.
3. Kalamata Olives $9.49/33.8 oz
These rich, flavorful olives are a Mediterranean staple, great for antipasto platters, salads, or as a topping for pizzas and pastas.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories per serving: 45
- Fats: 5g
- Carbs: 0g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 0g
Ingredients
Kalamata olives, water, sea salt, wine vinegar.
Preparation Instructions
Drain and serve whole with cheese, crackers, and meats, or chop them up for a tapenade.
4. Pumpkin Seeds $8.99/22 oz
Pumpkin seeds are a nutrient powerhouse, offering a good dose of healthy fats, magnesium, and protein. They’re perfect for snacking or adding to smoothies, salads, and baking.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories per serving: 180
- Fats: 15g
- Carbs: 3g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 9g
Ingredients
Raw pumpkin seeds.
Preparation Instructions
Enjoy raw or roast them with a sprinkle of salt and seasoning for an extra crunch.
5. Fresh Tomatoes $5.99/48 oz
Fresh tomatoes are a kitchen staple, perfect for salads, sauces, and salsas. Costco offers large quantities at a great price, ideal for meal prep and bulk cooking.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories per serving: 22
- Fats: 0g
- Carbs: 5g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 1g
Ingredients
Fresh tomatoes.
Preparation Instructions
Slice for salads or sandwiches, or use them in homemade pasta sauces and salsas.
6. Pure Vanilla Extract $14.99/16 oz
Costco’s vanilla extract is a baker’s best friend. Made from real vanilla beans, it enhances the flavor of baked goods, desserts, and even coffee.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories per serving: 12
- Fats: 0g
- Carbs: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 0g
Ingredients
Vanilla bean extractives in water, alcohol.
Preparation Instructions
Add a teaspoon to baked goods, pancakes, coffee, or smoothies for a rich, fragrant boost.
7. Organic Peanut Butter $9.79/56 oz (2 jars)
This peanut butter is made with just peanuts and a pinch of salt, making it a healthy and versatile option. It’s perfect for spreading on toast, adding to smoothies, or enjoying by the spoonful.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories per serving: 190
- Fats: 16g
- Carbs: 6g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 8g
Ingredients
Dry roasted organic peanuts, sea salt.
Preparation Instructions
Stir well and use on sandwiches, in smoothies, or as a dip for fruits and veggies.
8. Wild-Caught Sardines $9.49/25 oz
Packed with omega-3s, calcium, and protein, sardines are a nutrient-dense food. They’re perfect for adding to salads, toast, or pasta dishes.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories per serving: 90
- Fats: 4g
- Carbs: 0g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 12g
Ingredients
Sardines, olive oil, salt.
Preparation Instructions
Serve on toast with a squeeze of lemon, or add them to salads and pasta for a Mediterranean twist.
9. Frozen Organic Berries $10.99/48 oz
Frozen organic berries are a versatile staple for smoothies, desserts, and breakfast bowls. Packed with antioxidants, they’re a healthy and convenient option year-round.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories per serving: 70
- Fats: 0g
- Carbs: 16g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 1g
Ingredients
Organic strawberries, organic blueberries, organic raspberries.
Preparation Instructions
Add to smoothies, oatmeal, or yogurt bowls for a refreshing and healthy kick.
10. Pure Maple Syrup $13.49/32 oz
Costco’s pure maple syrup is a must-have for breakfast lovers. It’s a natural sweetener that pairs perfectly with pancakes, waffles, and even savory dishes like roasted vegetables.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories per serving: 210
- Fats: 0g
- Carbs: 53g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 53g
- Protein: 0g
Ingredients
Pure maple syrup.
Preparation Instructions
Drizzle over pancakes, waffles, or use as a sweetener in baking and marinades.
These ten Costco groceries offer great value under $15, making them perfect additions to your shopping list. Whether you’re stocking up on pantry essentials or looking for healthy snacks, these items provide nutrition and versatility without breaking the bank!
