If you’re looking for ways to save money on meals without sacrificing taste, you might be overlooking a simple option: Costco. Known for its bulk buys and value, Costco also has some hidden gems in its grocery aisles that deliver restaurant-quality taste at a fraction of the price. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, these Costco foods offer a delicious, budget-friendly way to skip the restaurant lines and enjoy great meals right at home.
Here are six Costco food finds that taste so good, you might forget all about your favorite takeout spots.
1. Kirkland Signature Rotisserie Chicken ($5.84)
Costco’s rotisserie chicken is a true crowd-pleaser—and it’s easy to see why. For under $6, you get a large, juicy, perfectly seasoned bird that’s ready to serve straight from the store. This chicken is versatile, whether you’re enjoying it as a main dish, adding it to salads, or incorporating it into other recipes throughout the week.
At many restaurants, a similar roast chicken dish could set you back $15 or more. With Costco’s rotisserie chicken, you’re paying just about $0.73 per serving if you carve out eight servings—a great value for such a flavorful meal. With a bit of meal planning, this chicken can stretch to cover several meals, helping you keep your food budget low while still enjoying quality and convenience.
2. Kirkland Signature Chicken Alfredo with Penne Pasta ($21.79)
Sometimes, a hearty pasta dinner is all you need after a long day. Costco’s Chicken Alfredo with Penne Pasta is ideal for those evenings when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. With generous portions of tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta, this meal is ready to pop in the oven, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
Each package serves about 12 portions, which comes to roughly $1.81 per meal. When you consider the time saved and the rich, creamy taste, this is a solid alternative to dining out. Plus, any leftovers reheat beautifully, so you can enjoy the flavors of restaurant-style pasta even on your busiest days.
3. Crazy Cuizine Mandarin Orange Chicken ($19.29)
For fans of Asian takeout, Costco’s Crazy Cuizine Mandarin Orange Chicken is a must-try. This meal is made with high-quality chicken breast, perfectly breaded and served with a tangy orange sauce that rivals many restaurant versions. You can prepare this dish in just 20 minutes, whether in the oven, on the stovetop, or in an air fryer, making it an ideal choice for those craving quick, flavorful meals.
With 66 ounces in each package, you’ll get approximately 13 servings, which brings the cost to about $1.48 per meal. This option is a delicious and convenient way to satisfy your craving for takeout-style orange chicken while sticking to a budget.
4. Creamy Italian Salad Kit ($9.35)
Salads are a healthy and refreshing option, but restaurant salads can sometimes be lackluster—and overpriced. Costco’s Creamy Italian Salad Kit offers a tasty, colorful, and crunchy alternative, complete with a tangy dressing and all the mix-ins you need for a perfect salad. You can serve this salad as a side with your favorite meals or make it the star of a light lunch.
Each kit contains 22 ounces of fresh ingredients, yielding around nine servings. This makes the cost per serving just about $1.04, far cheaper than a typical restaurant salad. You get all the flavor, texture, and satisfaction of a restaurant salad without the hefty price tag.
5. Chips, Salsa, and Guacamole ($26.88)
Taco nights are always a hit, and Costco’s selection of chips, salsa, and guacamole can elevate any meal. While nothing beats fresh tableside guac at your favorite Mexican spot, Costco’s options are a close runner-up in taste and quality. Some standout picks include:
- Garden Fresh Organic Jack’s Salsa ($7.01 for 48 servings)
- Good Foods Organic Chunky Guacamole ($12.86 for 26 servings)
- Kirkland Signature Organic Tortilla Chips ($7.01 for 40 servings)
With these three essentials, you’re looking at around $0.82 per serving for a generous portion of chips, salsa, and guac. This trio is perfect for a casual family night, or you could even share it at a gathering or a DIY taco bar at home.
6. Bakery Treats: Muffins, Cakes, and Cookies ($11.69 – $21.05)
No meal is complete without a little something sweet, and Costco’s bakery section offers some decadent treats that rival those at your favorite dessert spot. Here are a few standouts:
- Kirkland Signature Muffins: Blueberry and Double Chocolate ($11.69 for 12 muffins)
- Kirkland Signature Cookies: Chocolate Chunk, Double Nut, and Oatmeal ($11.69 for 24 cookies)
- Kirkland Signature Tuxedo Chocolate Mousse Cake ($21.05 for 12 servings)
At less than $1 per muffin, about $0.49 per cookie, or $1.75 per slice of Tuxedo Cake, these desserts are budget-friendly and indulgent. Whether you’re looking to satisfy a sweet craving or serve dessert at a dinner gathering, Costco’s bakery treats are a satisfying and affordable choice.
The Bottom Line: Restaurant-Quality Meals at Home
Imagine building a complete meal with Costco’s offerings: start with the rotisserie chicken, add a fresh side of Creamy Italian Salad, include chips, salsa, and guacamole for extra flavor, and finish with a slice of Tuxedo Chocolate Mousse Cake. Each serving would cost just around $4.34—less than most fast-food meals, yet packed with fresher, high-quality ingredients.
Dining out has its charm, but with these Costco finds, you can get that restaurant experience without the restaurant bill. Enjoying quality food at home not only helps you save money but also offers more control over ingredients and portions. So next time you’re at Costco, keep an eye out for these delicious options that can turn any dinner into an affordable, restaurant-style experience.
