If you’re a Costco regular, you already know the bulk retailer is more than just savings—it’s a culinary treasure trove that rivals restaurant quality without breaking the bank.
From hearty dinners to delicious desserts, these six Costco food items deliver flavors and quality that are better than most eateries, all for a fraction of the cost. Let’s dive into these standout finds that elevate any meal at home.
1. Creamy Italian Salad $3.99/11 Oz
A classic Italian salad that’s packed with flavor, featuring fresh greens, savory toppings, and a creamy dressing that brings it all together. Perfect as a side or a light main dish.
Nutrition Facts:
Calories: 120 per serving
Fat: 10g
Carbs: 7g
Protein: 2g
Ingredients:
Mixed greens (romaine, iceberg)
Grape tomatoes
Shredded mozzarella
Italian dressing (canola oil, vinegar, garlic, herbs)
Prep/Serving Suggestion:
Toss well and serve chilled. Add grilled chicken or croutons for an added crunch and protein boost.
2. Crazy Cuizine Mandarin Orange Chicken $19.27/66 Oz
This Mandarin Orange Chicken is a flavor-packed meal with crispy breaded chicken coated in a zesty mandarin orange sauce. It’s perfect for an easy, restaurant-style dinner at home.
Nutrition Facts:
Calories: 290 per serving
Fat: 9g
Carbs: 37g
Protein: 15g
Ingredients:
Breaded chicken breast
Mandarin orange sauce (sugar, soy sauce, orange juice concentrate, vinegar)
Prep/Serving Suggestion:
Bake or air fry the chicken until golden, then toss in the heated sauce. Serve over rice with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
3. Kirkland Signature Chicken Alfredo with Penne Pasta $21.79
Costco’s Chicken Alfredo offers tender penne pasta coated in a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce with savory chunks of grilled chicken. This hearty dish is a crowd-pleaser that feels like dining out.
Nutrition Facts:
Calories: 350 per serving
Fat: 18g
Carbs: 27g
Protein: 22g
Ingredients:
Grilled chicken breast
Penne pasta
Alfredo sauce (cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, butter)
Prep/Serving Suggestion:
Bake in the oven until bubbling and slightly golden. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve with garlic bread for a restaurant-style experience.
4. Kirkland Signature Rotisserie Chicken $5.84
Costco’s rotisserie chicken is a best-seller for a reason: juicy, perfectly seasoned, and incredibly affordable. Ideal for quick meals or as an ingredient for other dishes.
Nutrition Facts:
Calories: 140 per 3 oz serving
Fat: 7g
Carbs: 0g
Protein: 19g
Ingredients:
Whole chicken
Seasoning blend (salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika)
Prep/Serving Suggestion:
Enjoy hot off the bone, shred for salads or wraps, or add to soups and casseroles for an easy protein boost.
5. Chips, Salsa, and Guacamole Combo $26.88
This trio is a must-have for gatherings or family snacking. It includes crunchy tortilla chips, zesty salsa, and creamy guacamole, all made with high-quality ingredients.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
Chips: 150 calories, 8g fat
Salsa: 10 calories, 0g fat
Guacamole: 60 calories, 5g fat
Ingredients:
Tortilla chips (corn, oil, salt)
Salsa (tomatoes, onions, cilantro, peppers)
Guacamole (avocado, lime, salt, cilantro)
Prep/Serving Suggestion:
Serve as a snack platter or pair with tacos and quesadillas. Try layering for nachos, adding cheese, black beans, and jalapeños before baking.
6. Muffins, Cakes, and Cookies $11.69 to $21.05
Costco’s bakery section offers a variety of muffins, cakes, and cookies that are a step above typical store-bought options. Made with quality ingredients, these treats are fresh, moist, and perfect for any dessert lover.
Nutrition Facts (average per serving):
Muffins: 600 calories
Cakes: 240 calories
Cookies: 160 calories
Ingredients:
Muffins (flour, sugar, eggs, butter)
Cakes (flour, sugar, cocoa, milk, eggs)
Cookies (flour, butter, sugar, chocolate chips)
Prep/Serving Suggestion:
Enjoy them fresh or freeze for later. Warm cookies slightly for that “fresh out of the oven” taste or serve cake slices with a scoop of ice cream.
Conclusion
With these six Costco gems, you’ll have no trouble replicating the quality (and satisfaction) of restaurant meals in the comfort of your home. From salads to main courses and even desserts, Costco’s food selection proves that dining well doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.
