When it comes to quality and value, Costco is a haven not only for home cooks but also for professional chefs. While many flock to Costco for bulk items and essentials, chefs often know the real gems hiding in plain sight—high-quality ingredients that can elevate any recipe.
Here, we dive into seven Costco finds that chefs swear by for their flavor, versatility, and unbeatable quality.
1. Kirkland 100% Italian Extra Virgin Olive Oil $25.99 / 2 liters
This 100% Italian Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Kirkland is a go-to for chefs who appreciate authentic, robust flavor. Made with Italian olives, it’s ideal for dressings, marinades, and finishing touches that benefit from a smooth, fruity taste.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 120 per tbsp
- Fats: 14g (2g saturated)
- Carbs: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 0g
Ingredients
100% Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Preparation Instructions
Use as a finishing oil for salads, pastas, and grilled meats, or incorporate it into dressings and marinades to elevate flavor profiles.
2. Costco Rotisserie Chickens $4.99 / 3 lbs
Costco’s rotisserie chicken has garnered a cult following. Juicy, perfectly seasoned, and ready to serve, it’s an unbeatable time-saver and flavor-booster for countless dishes, from salads to soups.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 140 per serving (3 oz)
- Fats: 7g
- Carbs: 0g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Protein: 19g
Ingredients
Whole chicken, salt, seasonings (varies by batch).
Preparation Instructions
Serve as-is or shred for tacos, salads, or casseroles. Use the bones for a rich, homemade stock.
3. Kirkland Pure Vanilla Extract $26.99 / 16 oz
Known for its rich and genuine flavor, Kirkland’s Pure Vanilla Extract is a favorite among bakers and pastry chefs alike. This high-quality extract adds depth to sweets, baked goods, and even savory dishes.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 12 per tsp
- Fats: 0g
- Carbs: 1g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 0g
Ingredients
Vanilla bean extractives in water, alcohol.
Preparation Instructions
Add to cookies, cakes, and frostings for a deep vanilla flavor, or splash into coffee for a gourmet twist.
4. King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour $7.99 / 10 lbs
King Arthur is a staple brand in professional kitchens, and Costco’s bulk option is perfect for serious bakers. Known for consistency and quality, this flour performs exceptionally in everything from bread to cakes.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 110 per 1/4 cup
- Fats: 0g
- Carbs: 23g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 3g
Ingredients
Unbleached wheat flour, malted barley flour.
Preparation Instructions
Use as you would any all-purpose flour in baking, cooking, and bread-making. For best results, store in a cool, dry place.
5. Kirkland Organic Cane Sugar $8.79 / 10 lbs
Kirkland’s Organic Cane Sugar is prized for its natural sweetness and purity. It’s a staple for chefs looking to avoid processed sugars while still achieving a rich, caramelized flavor in their desserts and baked goods.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 15 per tsp
- Fats: 0g
- Carbs: 4g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 0g
Ingredients
Organic cane sugar.
Preparation Instructions
Ideal for baking, desserts, and beverages, or as a sweetener in marinades and sauces.
6. Costco Bakery Buttery Croissants $5.99 / 12 count
Costco’s buttery, flaky croissants rival those found at bakeries. Light, airy, and perfectly baked, these croissants are great for breakfast or as a foundation for gourmet sandwiches.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 300 per croissant
- Fats: 17g (10g saturated)
- Carbs: 30g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 6g
Ingredients
Wheat flour, butter, eggs, water, sugar, salt, yeast.
Preparation Instructions
Enjoy fresh, slice for sandwiches, or toast slightly for added crispiness. Use in breakfast bakes or as the base for delicious croissant sandwiches.
7. Royal Basmati Rice $16.99 / 20 lbs
Royal Basmati Rice, sourced from the Himalayas, has an aromatic quality that chefs love. Perfect for a variety of dishes, its long grains and distinct aroma elevate any meal, from pilafs to curries.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 160 per 1/4 cup uncooked
- Fats: 0g
- Carbs: 35g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 3g
Ingredients
Basmati rice.
Preparation Instructions
Rinse the rice thoroughly, then cook 1 cup of rice with 1.5 cups of water. Simmer on low until water is absorbed, fluff, and serve as a side or as a base for curries and stir-fries.
Conclusion
These overlooked Costco finds have the quality and flavor that professional chefs love, all while being budget-friendly. Next time you’re at Costco, consider adding these chef-approved essentials to your cart to elevate your own kitchen creations!
