There’s something about Costco, isn’t there? As a long-time member and parent who’s pretty much explored every expansive aisle, I can wholeheartedly attest that it’s not merely a store it’s bulk-buying nirvana. The excitement of finding remarkable value and cannot-live-without-ems is unmatched. And when other shoppers ask what the best products are to purchase, I just can’t resist giving my opinions.
Costco has transformed the way families handle weekly grocery shopping, providing unbeatable prices on bulk buys that simplify life and create more delectable meals. Although specialty retailers such as Trader Joe’s remain my favorites for specialty items, Costco is now my first stop for everything from household supplies to family favorite pantry staples and premium protein snack options.
If you wish to get the most from your membership and feel that great “why didn’t I buy more?!” sensation with each trip, you’ve arrived at the right destination. Below are 14 Costco products that balance quality and affordability, sure to become household staples.
1. The Iconic Rotisserie Chicken
The $4.99 rotisserie chicken is Costco’s crown jewel. More than just a meal, it’s a phenomenon. Despite inflation, Costco has maintained this price since 2009, highlighting its strategy to boost membership and sales.
Strategically positioned at the rear of the store, these golden brown birds guide customers on a path by delicious goodies before they can get to the prize. Over 100 million sold every year since 2020, its fame is undisputed. Enjoy it straight from the container, shred it for tacos, salads, soups, or sandwiches it’s the weeknight hero.
2. The Iconic $1.50 Hot Dog & Soda Combo
Costco’s hot dog and soda is the stuff of legend. It has cost $1.50 since the 1980s, and remains an affordable guilty pleasure. The history behind the bargain is an interesting one: co-founder Jim Sinegal notoriously refused to increase the price, leading Costco to construct special hot dog factories in order to keep it intact.
While the soda temporarily switched to Pepsi in 2013, Coke is coming back in 2025. This pairing isn’t a meal; it’s an old-school Costco experience, great for fuelling up after browsing the aisles.
3. Just Bare Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Chunks
These lightly breaded chicken pieces are a household favorite. They’re an easy way to move away from traditional nuggets and transition kids to actual chicken without hassle.
Made famous in January 2021 by social media comparisons with Chick-fil-A nuggets, they’re usually sold out because of high demand. Ideal in wraps, bowls with grains and vegetables, or stir-fries, the chicken pieces are convenient, easy to use, and always delicious. One four-pound container is priced at about $17.99.
4. Kirkland Signature Italian Sausage and Beef Lasagna
This ready-to-eat, comforting lasagna serves a crowd at three pounds per package, commonly packaged for slightly more than $21. Redditors rave about its near-homemade flavor.
With only seven grams of sugar per serving, it’s a cozy, homemade-style option for when you don’t want to cook. Heat and serve a filling meal with little effort.
5. Kirkland Signature Three Berry Blend
Frozen fruit is something that every freezer needs to have, and this three-berry mix blackberries, raspberries, and blueberries is ideal for smoothies, desserts, or as a topping.
Unlike fresh berries, this four-pound package remains fresh and ready to use at any time of the year. Without additives or preservatives, it’s a pure natural and easy way to get some extra fruit into your lifestyle.
6. Au Pain Doré Frozen Butter Croissants
These Montreal-style croissants turn breakfast or brunch into something special with their buttery, flaky goodness. Though Costco’s Kirkland brand has a version, Au Pain Doré croissants provide a richer, more bakery-like experience.
Tip: egg wash and air fry them for a crispy golden-brown outside and light, tender inside. Perfect for brunch or daily indulgence.
7. Organic Creamy Peanut Butter
Kirkland Signature Organic Creamy Peanut Butter is a pantry MVP. With only roasted organic peanuts and a hint of sea salt, it provides rich flavor and smooth texture, great for spreads, smoothies, or snacks directly from the jar.
A two-count 28-ounce package is priced at approximately $12.86, offering an unbeatable value for a great product that will soon be a household favorite.
8. Kirkland Signature Bagels
Costco bagels provide convenience at no sacrifice of quality. Boiled in water for a chewy center and crunchy outside, they are the equal of specialty bakery bagels.
The plain bagel is traditional, but add some parmesan flavor to it. Ideal for breakfast sandwiches or with cream cheese, these dozen-counts are both flavorful and worthwhile.
9. Wildbrine Kimchi
Wildbrine Kimchi is a probiotic-rich, zesty, and all-purpose addition to any meal. Beyond Korean cuisine, it complements scrambled eggs, rice bowls, grilled meats, and even tacos, adding flavor and health benefits to the gut.
This innovative product shows Costco’s dedication to high-quality, health-oriented products that turn everyday cooking into a taste adventure.
10. Siete Almond Flour Tortillas
These grain-free tortillas are ideal for health-conscious consumers, particularly in markets such as Los Angeles, Austin, and Hawaii. Comprised of simple, high-quality ingredients, they provide authentic taste, fulfilling texture, and digestive ease.
Perfect for quesadillas, wraps, or gluten-free substitutes, these tortillas enhance daily meals without compromising taste or well-being.
11. Kirkland Signature Organic Chicken Stock
A rich, full-flavored chicken broth is a kitchen staple, and Kirkland’s organic option provides just that. Crafted from plain vegetables and spices, it adds soups, sauces, pastas, and rice with dimension and home-cooked flavor.
Found in multi-count packs, it keeps your pantry supplied with this time-saving kitchen secret that elevates mundane meals into something memorable.
12. Trubar Protein Bars
Trubar Protein Bars are rich, indulgent, and protein-loaded, coming in cookie dough and donut flavors. Woman-owned and carefully developed, they are a guilt-free treat for your body while also nourishing it.
For just $24.87 per 14 bars, Costco makes it simple to get a quantity of high-quality, easy-to-use snacks ideal for pre- or post-workout, or as a mid-day boost.
13. Wild Alaskan Salmon Burgers
These salmon burgers are a speedy, protein-based, healthy addition to any meal. They contain 20 grams of protein per burger, making them perfect for lunches or dinners.
Grill, pan, or oven-cook them and serve on buns, over salads, or as a side dish with vegetables. The 12-count package size for $22.22 is a great value for such a high-quality, wild-caught product.
14. Kirkland Signature Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
A household favorite, this olive oil is praised for its taste, scent, and affordability. Featuring two liters of organic, premium oil, it’s great for sautéing, roasting, salads, and dressings.
Its texture, flavor, and unbeatable price point make it an absolute must-have in your pantry, adding depth to each dish while continuing to solidify the reasons why Costco is the best place for quality and value.
Costco’s shelves are overflowing with riches from bulk purchases that supply the backbone of family dinners to specialty products that inspire culinary ingenuity. Each trip is an opportunity to uncover a surprise that will cause you to say, “Why didn’t I purchase more?!” So take your cart, browse with an open heart, and let these 14 items revolutionize your shopping experience. Happy stocking and happy dining!
