We’re having loyal Costco shoppers share their grocery lists with us. Here are their favorite things to buy there.

We're having loyal Costco shoppers share their grocery lists with us. Here are their favorite things to buy there.


  • Business Insider had 31 Costco shoppers share the items they frequently buy from the popular chain.
  • Certain staple ingredients — like vanilla extract, rice, and coffee — are worth buying in bulk. 
  • Shoppers can find especially good deals on name-brand classics, like Dave’s Killer Bread.

As the third-largest retailer in the US, Costco consistently aims to keep its millions of cardholders coming back for discounts and bulk buys. 

Costco, a leading retailer in customer satisfaction, regularly stocks its shelves with produce, snacks, frozen meals, and more. The store attracts shoppers from all walks of life, from nutritionists to chefs to athletes, and everyone has a unique shopping list.

BI had 31 dedicated shoppers share what they snag on their Costco runs — here’s what they said.

This story was originally published in September 2021 and most recently updated on October 3, 2024. Product availability may vary by location.

Abigail Abesamis Demarest has shopped at Costco for over 10 years and likes to buy certain ingredients in bulk

She uses these frozen-berry blends in her smoothies


berry blend.JPG

Frozen berries make smoothies refreshingly cold.

Abigail Abesamis Demarest



Using frozen berries instead of ice makes smoothies cold and refreshing without watering them down.

This 4-pound bag of fruit comes with raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries. 

Demarest mixes it with almond butter, almond milk, chia seeds, and cacao powder for a morning drink.

Buying salmon in bulk can be cheaper in the long run


packs of salmon in blue package wrapped in plastic

Salmon filets freeze well.

Abigail Abesamis Demarest



Costco sells huge slabs of Atlantic salmon.

Demarest often pairs baked filets with brown rice and veggies, like spinach or broccoli. 

This large piece can be divided into several servings, and you can freeze leftover filets to make them last longer.

These prepackaged Starbucks frappuccinos are an easy, on-the-go coffee option


purple packs of starbuck frappuccinos stacked at costco

These Starbucks frappuccinos are a great price at Costco.

Abigail Abesamis Demarest



These Starbucks frappuccinos are tasty, and buying them in bulk makes sense.

Demarest will often wait to snag these until there’s a manufacturer’s coupon to make them even cheaper. 

Read Abigail Abesamis Demarest’s full Costco shopping list: I’ve shopped at Costco for over 10 years. Here are the 15 products I always buy in bulk.

Solo shopper Alicia Diaz lives in New York with 2 roommates but finds ways to make her Costco membership worth it

This 5-pack of Crest 3D White toothpaste can last Diaz and her roommates months


blue and silver packs of crest 3d white at costco

The Crest toothpaste is an economical buy.

Alicia Diaz



Although one person can finish a normal tube of toothpaste in just a couple of months, the Crest 3D White bulk pack can last for six to eight months, even when shared.

Diaz said that since she shares a bathroom, it’s more cost-effective to buy this toiletry in bulk.

These Kirkland Signature leggings are one of Diaz’s favorite buys


Hands holding black costco leggings in front of a pile of clothes

These leggings come in multiple colors.

Alicia Diaz



These comfy leggings come in several colors.

Diaz bought these leggings on a whim and was blown away, picking up three more the next time she went shopping.

As a Lululemon fan, she said this cheaper Costco alternative is comparable to the name brand. 

These individually portioned packets of Yakisoba make for an easy dinner


costco solo shopper

These Yakisoba packets are ready after just minutes in the microwave.

Alicia Diaz for Insider



Frozen and portioned meals are great Costco buys for solo shoppers since they have a much longer shelf life.

Each box of Yakisoba contains six packets of noodles mixed with sauce and an array of stir-fry vegetables.

Diaz will often finish cooking the noodles in a pan with chicken.

Read Alicia Diaz’s full Costco shopping list: I’m a solo shopper at Costco. Here are the 15 things I always buy that make my membership worth it.

Lisa Tanner feeds her family of 12 by buying items in bulk at the wholesale chain

These packages of Orville Redenbacher’s popcorn kernels make for a cheap and delicious snack


jugs of popcorn kernels in orange boxes on shelf at costco

Popcorn is a customizable snack.

Lisa Tanner



This 8-pound jug of kernels will last Tanner about a month. 

She’ll usually prepare two large batches multiple times a week as a ready-to-eat snack for her 10 kids, popping the kernels with oil in a pan over medium heat.

You can eat as is or add your choice of toppings, like butter and salt. 

Rice is a versatile and inexpensive side dish


white and purple bags of Jasmine Rice stacked together at costco

You can make rice in the Instant Pot.

Lisa Tanner



Tanner also grabs a 25-pound bag of Thai Hom Mali jasmine rice.

She often prepares it in the Instant Pot to serve alongside meals like hamburger bowls, fried rice, and casserole.

Kirkland Signature sliced ham is a great deal and can work in a number of meals


packets of sliced ham in freezer in costco with price tag above it

The packs of sliced ham are good for more than just sandwiches.

Lisa Tanner



She also buys two-packs of uncured extra-lean ham.

Although ham works great in sandwiches, Tanner will also add this ingredient to dishes like fried rice, quesadillas, scrambled eggs, and baked potatoes. 

Read Lisa Tanner’s full Costco shopping list: I’m a mom of 10 who’s shopped at Costco for almost 20 years. Here are 20 things I always buy in bulk.

Tara Zeller drives 4 hours for each Costco trip

This FoodSaver has saved Zeller hundreds of dollars and makes her big hauls worth it


white and green box of FoodSaver at costco

The FoodSaver helps preserve frozen foods.

Tara Zeller



Zeller uses the FoodSaver to ensure her frozen food lasts longer and doesn’t get freezer burn, saving her up to hundreds of dollars since she can preserve her bulk buys.

Simply portion the food into your ideal serving, then seal and store it in the freezer for easy future meals.

These packs of souvlaki make for an easy dinner protein


black and orange backs of stacked Chicken Souvlaki at costco

You can cook these souvlaki skewers on the grill.

Tara Zeller



These Greek-style souvlaki skewers are available in chicken or pork varieties.

Zeller will often grill some of the skewers and pair them with a side salad for dinner, then freeze the rest to whip up at a later date.

This shopper also picks up a large jug of Kirkland Signature maple syrup


beige jugs of Maple Syrup on a shelf at costco

This large jug of maple syrup can last for a while.

Tara Zeller



Costco sells large bottles of pure, organic maple syrup. 

The breakfast staple works great on top of pancakes, waffles, and French toast, plus it’ll last for a while. 

Read Tara Zeller’s full Costco shopping list: I drive 4 hours and spend $500 for every Costco trip. Here are 16 things I always stock up on.

Majed Kassis runs the popular @CostcoBuys Instagram account, which has over 1 million followers

Costco sells premade street-taco kits that are easy to assemble


hand holding costco chicken street taco kit

These Costco taco kits serve three to four people.

Majed Kassis



These ready-made kits include taco essentials — 12 flour tortillas, chicken, cheese, lime slices, salsa, and cilantro-lime crema.

Each pack can feed about three to four people.

They’re a hit among Kassis’ family and ideal for when you don’t want to cook.

These cinnamon pull-a-parts make for a delicious dessert or breakfast


costco pull apart cinnamon rolls with white frosting in clear and silver packaging

Costco’s cinnamon buns taste great when warmed.

Majed Kassis



Found in Costco’s bakery section, these cinnamon treats are a delicious buy. 

Each pack of 12 comes topped with tasty cream-cheese icing. 

Kassis pops them in the microwave for 20 seconds to warm them and make them melty.

Just Bare’s breaded chicken-breast chunks are a hit among kids and adults alike


costco just bare chicken chunks in green and white bag

These chicken nuggets came out great in the air fryer.

Majed Kassis



Kassis compared a 4-pound bag of these boneless chicken bites to Chick-fil-A’s nuggets. 

She said they turn out wonderfully crispy in the air fryer and work well as protein on a salad.

Read Majed Kassis’ full Costco shopping list: I run a Costco fan account with over 390,000 followers. Here are 12 of my favorite recent purchases.

Nutritionist Candace Nelson buys certain foods in bulk to whip up simple, wholesome dishes

Mandarins are an easy snack and chock-full of vitamin C


mandarins in a red net bag with a blue label

Mandarins can last for a while in the fridge.

Candace Nelson



Nelson will place a handful of mandarins in the fruit bowl each morning to set out as a snack. 

The easy-peel fruit is a great source of vitamin C and can last for several weeks in the fridge. 

Kirkland Signature mixed-nut butter doesn’t contain any added sugar or salt


costco mixed nut butter on a white counter next to bags of frozen blueberries and riced cauliflower

Mixed-nut butter is a great source of healthy fats.

Candace Nelson



This wholesome mixed-nut butter combines almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, and flax seeds to make a delicious spread that you can add to snacks or meals.

Nuts are a great, wholesome source of fats — a food group that should ideally make up 20% to 35% of your daily calories.

Particularly, omega-3 fatty acids found in many nuts and seeds are good for heart health.

Snag a 2-pack of Dave’s Killer Bread at Costco


dave's killer bread in green and black clear bag

You can make several meals with Dave’s Killer Bread.

Candace Nelson



With both 5 grams of fiber and protein per serving, Dave’s Killer Bread is great for sandwiches and toast. 

Nelson will often toast the bread and top it with nut butter and sliced bananas. 

Read Candace Nelson’s full Costco shopping list: I’m a nutritionist who shops at Costco for 2. Here are 14 things I always buy in bulk.

Salma Hamze shops at Costco for just her and her mom

This shopper buys a bulk tub of Folgers’ classic roast to make drip coffee


displays of red bulk folgers coffee at costco

This large package of coffee can last a while.

Salma Hamze



This 51-ounce tub of ground coffee lasts a while.

Hamze uses it to make drip coffee, though it can also be brewed with a machine or French press.

Costco sells large bags of white-cheddar Hippeas


boxes of bags of yellow bulk hippeas at costco

Hippeas are a good potato-chip replacement.

Salma Hamze



Hamze is a big fan of the bulk-sized bag of Hippeas — organic chickpea puffs.

She buys two bags at a time and enjoys this snack as a replacement for potato chips.

Taylor Farms’ salad kits make lunch or dinner easy


hand holding a bag of costco's organic mediterranean salad mix

The Mediterranean salad kit is a good option.

Salma Hamze



These premade salad kits come with everything you need for a tasty serving of veggies, including dressing and toppings. 

The Mediterranean salad kit is Hamze’s favorite.

Read Salma Hamze’s full Costco shopping list: I shop at Costco for my family of 2. Here are 10 things I always stock up on.

Dana Engelbert drives 3 hours — 140 miles roundtrip — to buy her groceries in bulk

Kirkland Signature organic applesauce pouches are a great snack for kids


box of bulk applesauce pouches at costco

Each box of Kirkland Signature applesauce comes with 24 pouches.

Dana Engelbert



Engelbert buys these applesauce pouches as a wholesome snack for her kids.

Coming in a large box of 24 pouches, they are organic, gluten-free, and added-sugar-free.

Costco sells packs of hand-pulled rotisserie chicken breast


bulk package of shredded rotisserie chicken at costco

This pulled chicken breast is great for quick meals.

Dana Engelbert



The wholesale chain’s rotisserie chicken is a beloved staple, but Engelbert often picks up this pack of hand-pulled breast instead. 

It’s a versatile meat option that can be added to salads, enchiladas, and more.  

Combat seasonal stuffiness with these bulk packs of allergy pills and nasal sprays


displays of allergy medication at costco

You can stock up on allergy medication at Costco.

Dana Engelbert



You can snag bulk packs of allergy pills and nasal spray from name brands — like Zyrtec and Flonase — at Costco.

Just make sure to check the expiration date and use them in time.

Read Dana Engelbert’s full Costco shopping list: I drive 3 hours to shop at Costco. Here are 21 things that make the 140-mile trip worth it.

Gemma Acheampong’s a Ghanaian track-and-field Olympian and semi-professional athlete who shops at Costco

This athlete opts for Kirkland Signature frozen salmon


black and white bags of frozen salmon costco

Each bag of frozen salmon is 3 pounds.

Gemma Acheampong



Each 3-pound bag of Atlantic salmon contains individually wrapped pieces of fish.

Acheampong said she used to buy fresh salmon, but realized she would end up freezing most of it and started buying these packs instead. 

She’ll often bake a filet with a marinade and serve it with vegetables for an easy meal.

Grapes are quite affordable at Costco


stacks of Grapes in clear packages at Costco

You can freeze grapes for a quick, refreshing snack.

Gemma Acheampong



Costco sells 4-pound packages of green and black seedless grapes. 

Acheampong will often freeze them to have as a crisp, refreshing snack during the summer months. 

The grocery chain also sells green tea in bulk


green stacked boxes of Green tea at Costco

Green tea is rich in antioxidants.

Gemma Acheampong



Green tea is naturally caffeinated and rich in antioxidants.

Acheampong may drink between three to four cups of tea daily, so she grabs these bulk packs of 100 bags from Costco.

Read Gemma Acheampong’s full Costco shopping list: I’m an Olympian and semi-professional athlete. Here are 16 things I always buy at Costco for myself.

Lizzy Briskin is a trained chef who likes to buy certain staple ingredients in bulk

Pure vanilla extract is a great deal at Costco


A hand holding a bottle of vanilla extract in costco

Vanilla extract can be a bit pricey.

Lizzy Briskin



Pure vanilla extract can be a pricey ingredient, but Costco shoppers can snag a 16-ounce bottle.

You can use vanilla in various baked goods and breakfasts, from cookies and cakes to French toast and pancakes.

Sauerkraut is a great source of probiotics


A hand holding a container of Sauerkraut at Costco

Sauerkraut can add a tangy kick to sandwiches.

Lizzy Briskin



Chock-full of natural probiotics to keep your gut healthy, sauerkraut can make a delicious addition to sandwiches or salads.

Plus, the ingredient, which comes in a 50-ounce container, can last for months sealed in the fridge.

Costco sells large bags of quinoa for a reasonable price


A bag of quinoa on the shelf on Costco

Quinoa is a trendy grain.

Lizzy Briskin



A wholesome staple to keep in your kitchen, quinoa is full of plant-based protein and fiber.

Although the trendy grain can be quite pricey at other stores, you can snag a bag that’s over 4 pounds at Costco. 

Pair the ingredient with protein and veggies for dinner or use it to bulk up a salad.

Read Lizzy Briskin’s full Costco shopping list: I’m a chef who shops at Costco. Here are my 12 favorite things to buy.

Costco shopper Jordan Kuntz lives on the road full-time in a 27-foot RV

Rao’s marinara sauce is a delicious, high-quality option


Rao's sauce display  at Costco

Rao’s sauce is a good jarred option.

Jordan Kuntz



This shopper thinks Rao’s red sauce is worth the higher price tag, and even celebrity chef Ina Garten has given this jarred option her seal of approval.

You can find a great deal on packs of two 28-ounce jars at Costco.

Add this sauce to a variety of pasta dishes or meat entrées. 

Canned salmon is a great staple that doesn’t need to be refrigerated


Wild Alaska Pink Salmon Kirkland

Canned salmon is cheaper than the fresh alternative.

Jordan Kuntz



Canned salmon is a convenient source of protein that doesn’t need to be refrigerated, so it’s perfect for camping or road trips.

Kuntz drains the ingredient and serves it with mayo, onion, jalapeño, salt, and lemon juice.

Seeds of Change’s microwavable quinoa-and-brown-rice packs make for an easy side


Seeds of Change quinoa and brown rice  at Costco

These pouches of quinoa and rice are ready in 90 seconds.

Jordan Kuntz



This microwavable pack of grains is wholesome and ready in just 90 seconds.

Add it as a side with a protein-heavy dinner, or use it as the base for a rice bowl.

Read Jordan Kuntz’s full Costco shopping list: I live on the road full-time in a 27-foot RV. Here are the 15 things I always buy at Costco.

Olivia Yi runs the recipe blog Costco Kitchen and regularly shops at the retailer  

Pesto is a tasty ingredient that you can add to a variety of plates


hand holding jar of bright green costco pesto

Pesto is great on pasta.

Olivia Yi



Yi wrote that Costco’s pesto — made with Genovese basil and pine nuts — is one of the best store-bought options.

You can sauté veggies and meat in it or add a few spoonfuls to a bowl of pasta

The Kerrygold Pure Irish Butter is a quality staple


hand holding gold package of kerrygold irish butter

Butter is an important ingredient in many dishes.

Olivia Yi



Available in both salted and unsalted options, this high-quality butter is worth the higher price tag, according to the shopper. 

This rich and creamy butter works well slathered on bread or used in decadent dishes. 

You can freeze Parmigiano-Reggiano to make it last longer


A hand holding a block of Kirkland parmigiano reggiano in the cheese section

Parmigiano Reggiano is great on several pasta dishes.

Olivia Yi



The Kirkland Signature Parmigiano-Reggiano is aged over 24 months and boasts nutty and salty undertones.

Yi recommends adding it to pasta dishes or cheese plates and then tossing the leftover rinds into soup. 

To boost the ingredient’s shelf life, Yi cuts the cheese into chunks and freezes what she won’t use right away.

Read Olivia Yi’s full Costco shopping list: I create easy Costco recipes for over 33,000 followers. Here are 15 of my favorite things to buy.

Personal trainer Rachel MacPherson shops for her family of 6 at Costco

The Pom whole-grain tortillas are a versatile carb


Whole-grain tortillas at Costco

The Pom whole-grain tortillas are a great base for several meals.

Rachel MacPherson



Costco sells packs of Pom’s tortillas, which come with 15 whole-grain shells.

This wholesome ingredient can serve as the base for many meals, like wraps, homemade enchiladas, and quesadillas. 

Snag top sirloin steak at a reasonable price


Costco top sirloin display

Sirloin is a lean cut of steak.

Rachel MacPherson



Costco sells high-quality meat for fair prices, like this lean top sirloin.

MacPherson uses it to make steakhouse-style salads and sometimes enjoys leftovers as a side for scrambled eggs.

Salsa is great to have on hand to add to a variety of dishes 


fresh salsa display at costco

Salsa is a flavorful dip.

Rachel MacPherson



Garden Fresh’s salsa sports a lively flavor profile that works with several dishes, like omelets, nachos, and baked potatoes.

MacPherson also recommended pairing it with Kirkland Signature tortilla chips. 

Read Rachel MacPherson’s full Costco shopping list: I’m a personal trainer who shops for a family of 6 at Costco. Here are 21 things I always stock up on.

Chelsea Schnyer’s a bartender who shops at the chain for her bar on wheels

Cranberry juice is a popular cocktail ingredient


two bottles of cranberry juice in a cart at costco

Vodka cranberries are popular cocktails.

Chelsea Schnyer



Schnyer grabs this Ocean Spray cranberry juice from Costco to make cocktails and mocktails.

Shoppers can grab a pack of two 96-ounce bottles.

This shopper always picks up limes at Costco


bag of limes at costco

Limes are a versatile ingredient.

Chelsea Schnyer



Limes are a common ingredient in many cocktails, from the base of a margarita to the garnish on a Long Island iced tea.

So Schnyer makes sure to grab at least three bags each trip.

These infused ice cubes are a fun drink addition 


Hand holding  colorful red and orange package of old fashioned infused ice cubes at costco

These infused ice cubes are an interesting buy.

Chelsea Schnyer



These Herb and Lou’s infused ice cubes are the perfect addition to an old fashioned that won’t water it down. 

Each box comes with 12 ice cubes.

Read Chelsea Schnyer’s full Costco shopping list: I’m a bartender who shops at Costco. Here are 12 things I always buy for my bar on wheels.

Solo shopper Savannah J. Frierson budgets on each Costco run 

These affordable croissants are massive


Costco croissants in clear package in cart

This pack of croissants comes in handy at breakfast time.

Savannah J. Frierson



Frierson said these croissants may have been the reason she got a Costco membership in the first place.

They’re massive, fluffy, and buttery, making for a great breakfast or sandwich base. 

Make dinner easy with the Kirkland Signature stuffed bell peppers


Costco stuff bell peppers in clear container in cart

Simply pop these stuffed bell peppers in the oven.

Savannah J. Frierson



Costco sells stuffed peppers with ground beef and rice. 

Simply pop these in the oven and serve alongside dinner rolls for an easy weeknight meal. 

The Kirkland Signature thick-sliced bacon can last a while 


Costco thick sliced bacon in white cart

Kirkland Signature thick-sliced bacon comes in two packs.

Savannah J. Frierson



This pack of bacon is separated into two 1-½-pound portions, so you can freeze one while you use the other. 

Fry up a few strips to serve alongside eggs, or add a few pieces to a BLT. 

Read Savannah J. Frierson’s full Costco shopping list: I’m a solo shopper at Costco who tries to stick to a $50 budget. Here are 14 things I love to buy.

Gabriella Sorrento said she lost 40 pounds with the help of these Costco swaps

Plantain chips are an easy snack


hand holding a bag of barnana plantain chips from costco

Barnana’s plantain chips are slightly sweet and salty.

Gabriella Sorrento



Sorrento said that instead of cutting out snacks on her weight-loss journey, she found ones that work with her lifestyle, like Barnana’s organic plantain chips. 

They’re both salty and crunchy.

For a versatile spread, snag Good Foods avocado mash


hand holding box of avocado mash at costco

You can add Good Foods’ avocado mash to a sandwich.

Gabriella Sorrento



Packed with healthy fats, this avocado dip is great for snacking or adding to a sandwich. 

It pairs well with tortilla chips or veggies.

Siete tortilla chips are grain-free and tasty


hand holding bag of tortilla chips at costco

Siete’s tortilla chips are made with wholesome ingredients.

Gabriella Sorrento



This grain-free swap for normal tortilla chips is made with cassava flour, avocado oil, coconut flour, chia seeds, and salt.

You can pair it with salsa or guacamole for an easy snack.

Read Gabriella Sorrento’s full Costco shopping list: I lost 40 pounds. Here are 12 Costco products that helped me lose the weight and keep it off.

Elizabeth Blasi also said she lost 40 pounds by following the keto diet and buying some Costco staples

Kirkland Signature almond flour is a keto staple


Costco Kirkland almond flour

Almond flour works great as breading.

Elizabeth Blasi



You can grab a 3-pound bag of almond flour at Costco.

Blasi wrote that the ingredient was one of the reasons she was able to “sustain a strict keto diet for an extended period.”

It’s versatile and can be used as a flour substitute in baking or as breading in savory dishes. 

Blasi uses coconut oil in a lot of her cooking


Kirkland organic virgin coconut oil

You can use coconut oil in cooking or baking.

Elizabeth Blasi



Coconut oil is a helpful staple to cook with since it has a smoke point of 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

She said she’d use the ingredient to make fat bombs, which can increase your macros and satisfy a sweet tooth.

Canned chicken is versatile and high in protein


Costco canned chicken breast

Canned chicken is convenient.

Elizabeth Blasi



Chicken is a versatile source of protein to keep on hand. Blasi would use it in homemade pizza crust or in “avocado boats.”

Read Elizabeth Blasi’s full Costco shopping list: I lost 40 pounds in a year on the keto diet. Here are my 12 favorite Costco buys that helped me meet my goals.

Alana Al-Hatlani is a baker and her boyfriend is a chef  — so they snag several foods from the wholesale chain

Prosciutto is available for a good price at Costco


black and clear pack of prosciutto at Costco

Prosciutto can be quite expensive at other stores.

Alana Al-Hatlani



Al-Hatlani said they often use the salty, cured pork as a replacement for bacon in several meals, like pasta or eggs Benedict.

Shoppers can snag the meat from the chain in two 6-ounce packs.

This shopper likes to snack on Theo’s organic double-chocolate cookie bites


Fair Trader dark-chocolate cookie bites in pink and white bag

These cookie bites are wonderfully crunchy.

Alana Al-Hatlani



Perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth, these dark-chocolate-covered cookie-dough bites are crunchy and tasty without being overly sugary.

You can snag a 21-ounce bag at Costco.

Mama Lil’s spicy pickled peppers are a versatile ingredient and offer lots of flavor


box with jars of mama lil's peppers at costco

Mama Lil’s peppers aren’t too spicy.

Alana Al-Hatlani



These Hungarian “Goathorn” peppers are soaked in a sweet brine of vinegar, sugar, garlic, maple syrup, fennel seed, and salt.

They’re vinegary but not too salty, making them a great addition to foods like pizza or biscuits.

Read Alana Al-Hatlani’s full Costco shopping list: I’m a professional baker and my boyfriend is a chef. Here are 13 of our favorite things to buy at Costco.

Culinary judge Meredith Ochs prepares for the holidays by getting her essentials from the warehouse

Fresh Ocean Spray cranberries are perfect to bake with


blue, white, and red boxes of bags of ocean spray cranberries at costco

The Ocean Spray cranberries can be frozen and used later.

Meredith Ochs



Ochs loves fresh produce, so she gets excited when the 2-pound bags of Ocean Spray cranberries hit store shelves.

She grabs two and freezes one since they keep beautifully in the freezer. She can then bake cranberry-crumb cake any time of year.

Pom Wonderful pomegranates can dress up dining tables and elegant dishes


Pomegranates at Costco

Pom Wonderful pomegranates are a juicy, delicious snack.

Meredith Ochs



To Ochs, fresh pomegranates are beautiful both inside and out. Their blush skin is part of autumn’s palette, and their round shape makes them look like natural ornaments.

Inside, pomegranates are packed with juicy arils that add a ruby-red color and tart flavor to salads, dips, and desserts.

To eat, score the peel with a knife and gently break them up by hand in a big bowl of water. The ready-to-eat arils will sink to the bottom.

Kirkland Signature praline pecans are a good addition to breakfast, lunch, and dinner dishes


clear and gold containers of praline pecans stocked at Costco

Kirkland Signature pecans can be eaten as a snack or sprinkled on top of a casserole.

Meredith Ochs



Kirkland Signature praline pecans are a Costco favorite. Ochs buys them during the holidays to add sweetness and crunch to various dishes.

Pecans have a distinct buttery, slightly woody taste that’s enhanced by the sugary praline coating.

She likes to crumble them over a Thanksgiving sweet-potato casserole, toss them into salads with goat cheese, and top pancakes with them for a decadent breakfast. They’re also great on a cheese plate.

Read Meredith Ochs’ full shopping list: I’m a culinary judge who shops at Costco for the holidays. Here are 10 things I recommend buying.

Veronica Thatcher has worked at Costco for about 19 years, so she knows the best things to get for her family

The Crazy Cuizine Mandarin-orange chicken is delicious


The writer holds Crazy Cuizine Mandarin-orange chicken

The Crazy Cuizine orange chicken is sweet and tangy.

Veronica Thatcher



Crazy Cuizine Mandarin-orange chicken is a family favorite on Thatcher’s menu twice a month. Each pack contains lightly battered chicken breast and rib meat and a sweet and tangy orange sauce.

This meal is great for a quick, easy dinner in less than 20 minutes.

Each box contains 4 pounds of chicken with two packets of orange sauce.

She uses the Mission Carb Balance tortillas for wraps, mini pizzas, and more


The writer holds a package of Mission carb-balance flour tortillas

The Mission Carb Balance tortillas are perfect for tacos or wraps.

Veronica Thatcher



Mission Carb Balance tortillas are one of Thatcher’s favorite products and are versatile enough for mini pizzas, wraps, and countless other meals.

They contain 4 grams of net carbs and 0 grams of sugar per serving.

Read Veronica Thatcher’s full shopping list: I work at Costco and spend $100 a week there to feed my family of 4. Here are 10 things we love to buy.

Pro baker Molly Allen grabs her staple ingredients from the chain

Allen goes through a lot of butter at home


Yellow stack of unsalted butter on shelf at Costco

Kirkland Signature butter comes in a pack of four.

Molly Allen



Most of Allen’s baked goods, especially cookies, start with several sticks of butter.

She always uses unsalted butter for baking, and she can grab a big package at Costco for less money than if she bought smaller ones at the grocery store.

A pack of Kirkland Signature unsalted butter comes with four 1-pound boxes.

Allen uses the Kirkland Signature semisweet chocolate chips in a variety of ways


red and white bags of Kirkland chocolate chips at Costco

Kirkland Signature chocolate chips come in handy when baking.

Molly Allen



You can’t make chocolate-chip cookies without this key ingredient.

Allen likes to dip cookies, pretzel rods, and marshmallows in the melted chocolate chips for a fun, flavorful twist. 

She picks up a 4-½-pound bag of Kirkland Signature semisweet chocolate chips.

Read Molly Allen’s full shopping list: I’m a professional baker. Here are 9 staple ingredients I recommend stocking up on at Costco.

Janice Costa has curated a shopping list for people who hate cooking

The Fresh Additions individually portioned, cooked chicken breast is great for salads


Fresh Additions precooked chicken at Costco

Fresh Additions chicken-breast bites can go on salads or in a sandwich.

Janice Costa



Costa said the Fresh Additions pre-grilled chicken is a great ingredient to keep around to throw on top of bagged salad greens, put on a sandwich, or just heat and eat on its own.

She thinks it makes portion control easy and keeps a few packages in the fridge and freezes the rest.

The Happy Village organic frozen dark cherries are a great dessert


white and red bag of dark sweet cherries in red costco cart

The Happy Village frozen cherries are a great snack.

Janice Costa



For Costa, frozen fruit is a late-night snack that’s almost as good as ice cream.

Full of antioxidants, dark cherries are her favorite. She eats them right out of the bag but they’re also good on top of yogurt or salads or in a smoothie.

She’s also experimented with baking them into crescent rolls for a quick, simple dessert.

Costa dislikes fish but loves the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids


Omega-3 salmon oil supplements at Costco

Each Pure Alaska Omega salmon-oil tablet has omega-3 fatty acids.

Janice Costa



Costa isn’t a fan of fish but her doctor has recommended having it several times a week. 

The Pure Alaska Omega salmon oil is a great compromise since it gives her the nutritional benefits of omega-3 fatty acids — like improved heart health and reduced inflammation  — without making her house smell like fish.

Read Janice Costa’s full shopping list: I shop for just myself at Costco and hate cooking. Here are 15 things I love to buy there.

Solo shopper Karlin Krishnaswami looks for as many essentials as she can find

Red’s keto-friendly Egg’wiches with turkey sausage hit the spot


Boxes of Red's keto-friendly egg'wich with turkey sausage at Costco

Red’s Egg’wiches are made with egg patties instead of bread.

Karlin Krishnaswami



Krishnaswami is a big fan of Red’s keto-friendly quick and easy Egg’wiches. They take just over a minute and a half to microwave and taste great with Frank’s RedHot sauce.

One Egg’wich usually keeps her full until morning snack time, though she sometimes supplements it with toast or a smoothie.

She recommends taking the cheese off before you cook the Egg’wich. If you microwave it without doing so, she’s found the cheese will melt off.

Precooked meals from Costco save the day


Precooked meals on shelves at Costco

The precooked meals at Costco can save time.

Karlin Krishnaswami



Whether they’re made in-house by Costco employees or one of the many brands in the refrigerated cases, you don’t need to be a family of four to benefit from buying the warehouse’s prepared meals.

Krishnaswami buys meals for herself and makes a list of the use- or freeze-by dates and hangs it on her fridge. Then, she removes a portion or two for the fridge and portions out the rest for the freezer.

This way, she doesn’t have to thaw more food than she wants while saving time.

Read Karlin Krishnaswami’s full shopping list: I shop for just myself at Costco and stick to a budget. Here are 15 things I love to buy and how I use them.

Lindy Vogel, a mom of 6, grabs necessities for low-effort meals

Tasty Bite organic madras lentils are her go-to meal for chaotic days


A girl holding a box of Tasty Bite organic original madras lentils.

The pouches of Tasty Bite organic madras lentils make great lunches or dinners.

Lindy Vogel



As a mom with teens in extracurricular activities, Vogel finds these microwavable pouches of Tasty Bite organic madras lentils make ideal pre-practice dinners.

Vogel loves serving her kids a hot meal, even though they can’t always eat dinner together as a family.

Vogel’s kids enjoy the EastWest Cuisine chicken-and-vegetable curry


A box of Eastwest Cuisine vegetable-and-chicken curry.

The EastWest Cuisine vegetable-and-chicken curry has a mild amount of spice.

Lindy Vogel



With microwave and boil-in-bag preparation options, it’s fairly effortless for Vogel to prepare the EastWest Cuisine vegetable-and-chicken curry. 

She also likes that the recipe contains cauliflower and peas — veggies her family doesn’t eat enough of otherwise.

Read Lindy Vogel’s full shopping list: I’m a mom of 6 who hates cooking. Here are 8 things I buy at Costco to make meal planning simple.

Executive member Dominic Bucca gets dinner items for his 2-person household

Bucca stocks up on Kirkland Signature frozen white shrimp


Clear bags of frozen white shrimp in refrigerated section at Costco

Bucca adds Kirkland Signature frozen white shrimp to pasta dishes.

Dominic Bucca



Bucca always makes room in his freezer for these easy-peel, cleaned shrimp.

He uses them in classic shrimp scampi with tons of garlic. They’re also great for pasta, cioppino, or restaurant-sized shrimp cocktails at home.

The Maldon sea-salt flakes taste great on so many foods


Green canisters of Maldon resealable tub kosher salt flakes in cardboard boxes at Costco

Maldon sea-salt flakes are many chefs’ go-to seasoning.

Dominic Bucca



As someone who’s worked in the food industry, Bucca has learned that Maldon sea-salt flakes are many chefs’ go-to seasoning.

He finds that it’s the best, flakiest salt available. Bucca plans on stocking up until he runs out of pantry space.

Read Dominic Bucca’s full shopping list: I pay for Costco’s $120 executive membership even though I only shop for 2. Here are some of my favorite things to get for dinner.

Shopper Myriam Estrella buys products that help her maintain her 73-pound weight loss

She has the Honey Smoked Fish Co. salmon stackers as a quick, yummy lunch


A hand holds a blue and red package of salmon snackers, with flakes of salmon, crackers, and a white spread inside

The Honey Smoked Fish Co. salmon stackers contain fish, crackers, and a spread.

Myriam Estrella



Her favorite on-the-go protein hit is a pack of the Honey Smoked Fish Co. salmon stackers.

These little boxes containing honey-smoked salmon, crackers, and a lemon-chive spread make for an easy lunch that keeps Estella’s cravings at bay. She just peels the plastic cover off for a delicious meal with 13 grams of protein.

Read Myriam Estrella’s full shopping list: I’ve lost 73 pounds in 10 months. Here are 10 products from Costco that help me keep the weight off.

Dietitian Lauren Manaker hunts for products that fit into the Mediterranean diet

Manaker likes to have plenty of asparagus on hand in the spring


boxes of organic asparagus at costco

The bulk packs of Hippie Organics asparagus can be used in many meals.

Lauren Manaker



Nothing screams springtime quite like asparagus, and the bulk packages at Costco provide way more than what Manaker’s household can eat in one sitting.

She uses leftover asparagus in frittatas or chilled soup.

Read Lauren Manaker‘s full shopping list: I’m a dietitian on the Mediterranean diet. Here are 12 things I’m buying at Costco this spring.

Single shopper Quierra Luck doesn’t have a large household, but she still likes buying products in bulk

For Luck, Welch’s fruit snacks make the perfect workday snack


Boxes of 90 pouches of Welch's fruit snacks.

Each bulk box of Welch’s fruit snacks comes with 90 pouches.

Quierra Luck



Fruit snacks have become a staple in Luck’s lunchbox for a quick pick-me-up during the workday.

She buys a box of 90 pouches of Welch’s fruit snacks when she visits Costco.

She has a Bobo’s PB&J as an on-the-go breakfast


Boxes of Bobo's pb&js in strawberry and grape flavors.

A box of Bobo’s PB&Js comes with both strawberry and grape flavors.

Quierra Luck



Luck loves grabbing a Bobo’s PB&J before she heads out for work.

A box comes with 20 bars in both strawberry and grape flavors. As an added bonus, they’re gluten-free and packed with great taste.

Read Quierra Luck’s full shopping list: Even though I’m single, I love shopping in bulk at Costco. Here are 8 items I like to buy.

Since Jamie Killin got a nutritionist, she loves shopping for her favorite foods at Costco

Sabatino’s chicken meatballs are a lifesaver for her on busy nights


hand holding a box of chicken meatballs at costco

Sabatino’s meatballs make dinner simple.

Jamie Killin



Killin loves all Sabatino’s products because they make for quick, easy sources of protein.

The albondigas-flavored chicken meatballs are already fully cooked, so putting a meal together takes no time. She likes to pair them with a healthy-fat-filled sauce and a carb (like rice or pasta).

Killin also recommends trying the brand’s basil and cracked black pepper sausages and teriyaki-pineapple chicken meatballs.

Read Jamie Killin’s full shopping list: I swear by Costco now that I have a nutritionist. Here are 10 things I buy there to meet my health goals.

Mackenzie Rhyason gets his favorite foods to make in the air fryer

He reaches for Brazi Bites when he’s craving a chewy snack


Boxes of bags of Costco's Brazilian cheese bread called Brazi Bites on a shelf at the store.

Brazi Bites are a tasty gluten-free snack.

Mackenzie Rhyason



As the name suggests, Brazi Bites are bite-sized, Brazilian-inspired cheese bread made of tapioca flour.

Rhyason pops the chewy, gluten-free snack in his air fryer for about 15 minutes so the outside gets nice and toasty.

He prepares the MorningStar Farms chipotle black-bean burgers in several delicious ways


Side-by-side photo of Costco's MorningStar Farms chipotle black bean burgers and cauliflower-crust pizza.

MorningStar Farm’s black-bean burgers are a versatile meal base.

Mackenzie Rhyason



For Rhyason, MorningStar Farms’ chipotle black-bean burgers are an excellent air-fryer option. They cook quickly for lunch and have a great flavor profile that satisfies his veggie-burger craving.

With visible flecks of vegetables and beans, the black-bean burgers work well chopped up in a wrap with a bit of shredded lettuce, Greek yogurt, and banana peppers. But they’re also tasty on a bun with traditional burger fixings.

Read Mackenzie Rhyason’s full shopping list: I shop at Costco for myself. Here are 9 things I buy to make in my air fryer.

Former chef James Demmin-De Lise keeps his culinary expertise in mind when he shops for ingredients

He said the Muga rosado wine offers a great balance of flavors


A hand holds a clear bottle of rose with a cream label that says "Muga rioja" on it. Several bottles of wine are in the background.

The Muga rosado wine has notes of fruit and white blossoms.

James Demmin-De Lise



Demmin-De Lise said this tasty wine is well-balanced, elegant, and complex. It has notes of peaches, apricots, and white blossoms. It’s also pleasantly dry with a long finish (a fruity aftertaste).

For Demmin-De Lise, this wine is a delightful addition to a summertime picnic or a get-together with friends on the porch. Plus, the bottles are a few dollars cheaper than those he’s seen at other stores near him.

If you’re looking for something different, he recommends getting a Kirkland Signature frenched rack of lamb


A hand holds a clear plastic package of a lamb rack with a label showing a picture of a cooked rack of lamb.

The Kirkland Signature frenched rack of lamb is a great centerpiece for a fancy dinner party.

James Demmin-De Lise



When Demmin-De Lise has guests over, he often tries to cook a meal that feels a bit fancier. One way to hit that note is to serve lamb.

He cuts this frenched lamb into chops, pan-sears the meat, and serves three pieces with greens and potatoes as a flavorful, bold main course. He also likes to coat his lamb in a mustard crust when he’s feeling adventurous.

Read James Demmin-De Lise’s full shopping list: I’m a former chef who shops for 2 at Costco. Here are 11 foods I get there that feel gourmet.





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