Costco is a go-to destination for high-quality meats, bulk savings, and excellent customer service, but not all products deliver the same value.
Knowing which meats are worth your money and which ones to avoid can help you make smarter purchasing decisions. This guide highlights the 9 best meats to buy at Costco and 5 that are better left on the shelf, so you can save both time and money.
9 Must-Buys at Costco
1. Brisket ($6.99/lb)
Costco’s brisket offers excellent marbling and flavor at a competitive price. It’s ideal for smoking, slow-cooking, or even making BBQ classics like pulled brisket sandwiches.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 250 per serving
- Fat: 21g
- Carbs: 0g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 17g
Ingredients: 100% beef
Preparation Instructions: Slow-cook or smoke over low heat for 8-12 hours until tender.
2. Lamb Chops ($11.99/lb)
Costco’s lamb chops are premium cuts with rich flavor and perfect for grilling or roasting.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 280 per serving
- Fat: 23g
- Carbs: 0g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 20g
Ingredients: Lamb
Preparation Instructions: Grill on medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
3. Boneless Leg of Lamb ($5.99/lb)
This tender and flavorful boneless leg of lamb is great for roasting, making it a cost-effective choice for family dinners or holiday meals.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 240 per serving
- Fat: 15g
- Carbs: 0g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 22g
Ingredients: Lamb
Preparation Instructions: Roast in the oven at 375°F for 1.5-2 hours until internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare.
4. Pork Loin ($1.99/lb)
Costco’s pork loin is versatile and economical, perfect for grilling, roasting, or cutting into chops.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 200 per serving
- Fat: 10g
- Carbs: 0g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 24g
Ingredients: Pork
Preparation Instructions: Season and roast at 375°F for 1.5-2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
5. Beef Tenderloin ($19.99/lb)
Known for its tenderness, this cut is a favorite for special occasions and is perfect for roasting or grilling.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 190 per serving
- Fat: 8g
- Carbs: 0g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 26g
Ingredients: Beef
Preparation Instructions: Sear over high heat, then roast at 425°F for 20-30 minutes until internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare.
6. Rib Roast ($15.99/lb)
Costco’s rib roast is perfect for holidays or large family gatherings. Its rich flavor and marbling make it a standout at any table.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Fat: 26g
- Carbs: 0g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 22g
Ingredients: Beef
Preparation Instructions: Roast at 350°F for 2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare.
7. Rack of Lamb ($14.99/lb)
This elegant cut is tender and perfect for grilling or roasting, ideal for gourmet meals at home.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 300 per serving
- Fat: 24g
- Carbs: 0g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 21g
Ingredients: Lamb
Preparation Instructions: Roast at 400°F for 25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
8. Japanese Wagyu Beef ($99.99/lb)
Known for its unmatched marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture, this splurge-worthy cut is a must-try for any steak lover.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Fat: 30g
- Carbs: 0g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 20g
Ingredients: Japanese Wagyu beef
Preparation Instructions: Sear over high heat for 2-3 minutes per side to preserve the natural flavors and marbling.
9. Ground Beef ($4.99/lb for 85/15 blend)
Costco’s ground beef offers a great price for bulk packs, making it ideal for meal prepping or cooking for a large family.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 250 per serving
- Fat: 20g
- Carbs: 0g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 18g
Ingredients: 85% lean ground beef
Preparation Instructions: Use in burgers, meatballs, or tacos—cook thoroughly until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
5 Meats to Skip at Costco
1. Pre-Cut Steaks ($14.99/lb)
While convenient, pre-cut steaks at Costco can be more expensive and are often not as fresh as buying whole cuts.
Nutritional Facts: Varies by cut
Ingredients: Beef
Preparation Instructions: Cook as desired, but you’re likely better off buying whole cuts and slicing them yourself.
2. Chicken Thighs ($1.99/lb)
Though affordable, the quality of Costco’s chicken thighs has been inconsistent, with some customers reporting tough texture or bland flavor.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 200 per serving
- Fat: 12g
- Carbs: 0g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 22g
Ingredients: Chicken
Preparation Instructions: Bake, grill, or sauté until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
3. Chicken Breasts ($2.99/lb)
Chicken breasts at Costco can be overly large and prone to drying out, making them less desirable for those who prefer tender, juicy cuts.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 140 per serving
- Fat: 3g
- Carbs: 0g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 26g
Ingredients: Chicken
Preparation Instructions: Grill, bake, or sauté until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Stew Meat ($6.99/lb)
The quality of Costco’s stew meat can be hit-or-miss, often resulting in tough, chewy pieces that don’t break down well during slow cooking.
Nutritional Facts: Varies by cut
Ingredients: Beef
Preparation Instructions: Slow-cook for best results, but beware of inconsistent texture.
5. Chicken Wings ($2.99/lb)
While Costco’s chicken wings are priced competitively, they are often sold in overly large quantities, making them less ideal unless you’re feeding a crowd.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 170 per serving
- Fat: 10g
- Carbs: 0g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 18g
Ingredients: Chicken
Preparation Instructions: Fry or bake until crispy and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Final Thoughts
Shopping smart at Costco can save you money while delivering top-quality meat. By focusing on these 9 must-buys and avoiding the 5 less desirable options, you can enjoy delicious meals at unbeatable prices!
