Costco is one of my favorite places to shop, especially for food. Beyond the bulk basics and well-known staples, there are so many underrated foods that deserve more attention. Over time, I’ve found a handful of items that I always buy because they’re just that good.
I don’t like to run out of them and always keep them on hand—whether it’s for quick meals, snacks, or last-minute entertaining. These are the Costco foods I rely on again and again- I always have them at home “just in case.”
BelGioioso Burrata
This burrata is creamy, rich, and so delicious. I pair it with tomatoes, olive oil, and balsamic glaze for an easy appetizer. This is permanently on my shopping list, I pick up a tub every time I go to Costco.
Just Bare Lightly Breaded Chicken Chunks
These chicken chunks are a family favorite. They’re crispy, tender, and taste just like restaurant nuggets. I air-fry them for a quick meal and serve them with dipping sauces or over salads.
Prawn Hacao
Beware, once you try these prawn hacao, you’ll be hooked. They steam up perfectly and make a great appetizer or light meal. They remind me of restaurant-quality dim sum.
Beetology Organic Beets
These pre-cooked beets save so much time. I use them in salads or as a side dish. My favorite way to prepare them is to roast them with apples. They’re naturally sweet and earthy, and I love that they’re organic.
Kirkland Signature Grain and Celery Salad
This salad is one of my favorite ready-to-eat items. It’s light, refreshing, and full of texture from the grains and celery. It’s also a great carb alternative without being carb heavy—perfect for when I want something hearty but lighter than rice or pasta. It makes a healthier side dish.
Kirkland Signature Raspberry-Filled Sugar Cookies
These cookies are dangerously good. They’re soft, buttery, and filled with sweet raspberry jam. They are kind of a hybrid between a cake, jelly donut and sugar cookies- you’ve got to try it to know what I’m talking about!
Cotton Candy Grapes
Whenever these are in season, I have to buy them. They’re naturally sweet and taste just like candy, but they’re 100% fruit. My kids love them! They make the perfect after school snack.
Organic Caesar Salad Bag Kit
This Caesar salad kit is my husband’s favorite. It’s our go-to for quick lunches or sides. It comes with crisp romaine, Parmesan, croutons, and creamy dressing. I often add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a full meal.
Kirkland Birria Tacos
Costco’s beef birria tacos are my son’s favorite in the prepared meal kit section. The tacos are delicious and the consommé for dipping makes them taste like they came from a restaurant. They’re so easy to prepare, just air fry them. It’s perfect for lazy dinners.
Kirkland Signature Shredded Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese
Costco’s shredded Parmigiano Reggiano cheese is aged and full of flavor. I sprinkle it on pasta, salads, and soups. I always have a tub in my fridge for “just in case.”
Kirkland Signature Basil Pesto
This pesto is imported from Italy and tastes like something straight out of a restaurant. It’s packed with basil, Parmesan, and pine nuts, and I use it on everything—pasta, sandwiches, grilled chicken, and even as a dip for bread.
Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon
This smoked salmon is one of the best deals at Costco. I use it for bagels with cream cheese, in salads, or on charcuterie boards. It feels like a luxury item without the luxury price.
Rao’s Marinara Sauce
This sauce is a staple in my kitchen. It’s rich, flavorful, and made with simple ingredients. I use it for pasta, pizza, or even as a dipping sauce for breadsticks. It tastes homemade every time.
Kirkland Signature Organic Maple Syrup
This maple syrup is pure, smooth, and delicious. I use it for pancakes, waffles, and baking, but also in marinades and glazes. It’s one of those pantry staples I never run out of—and honestly, you can’t beat the price for the quality and quantity you get.
Guacamole Singles
It’s always a waste to open a big tub of guacamole and not finish it before it turns brown. These guacamole singles solve that problem perfectly. Each cup is the right size for one meal—whether it’s guac with chips, tacos, or a quick snack. They taste fresh and help cut down on food waste while keeping portion sizes just right.
Ling Ling Potstickers
These potstickers are a freezer staple for me. They’re filled with pork and vegetables and come with a tasty dipping sauce. I pan-fry them for a crispy texture or steam them for a softer bite.
Mayorga Organic Chia Seeds
I use these chia seeds in smoothies, yogurt, and oatmeal. They’re packed with nutrients and last forever. Sometimes I make chia pudding for an easy, healthy breakfast. Costco consistently has the lowest prices on chia seeds, making it the best place to stock up on this superfood.
Kirkland Signature Jasmine Rice
This jasmine rice is fragrant, fluffy, and cooks perfectly every time. I use it for stir-fries, curries, and meal prep. It’s a staple in my pantry, and Costco’s price on this rice is unbeatable compared to grocery stores.
Seeds of Change Organic Quinoa and Brown Rice
These microwaveable pouches are a lifesaver when I need a quick side dish. The blend of quinoa and brown rice is delicious, and I love that it’s ready in just a few minutes.
Kirkland Signature Almond Milk
I never want to run out of almond milk. This almond milk is perfect because it’s shelf-stable. I use it for coffee and smoothies.
Kirkland Signature Organic Hummus Singles
I love these single-serve hummus cups for snacking. They’re great with veggies, pita chips, or wraps. The portion size is perfect, and they stay fresh longer than a big tub.
Kirkland Signature Organic Quinoa
I always keep a bag of this quinoa in my pantry. It’s organic, cooks quickly, and works as a base for bowls, salads, or side dishes. It’s healthy, filling, and super versatile.
Kirkland Signature Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
This olive oil is one of the best values at Costco. It’s cold-pressed, rich, and flavorful. I use it for cooking, salad dressings, and dipping bread. The quality rivals much pricier brands.