Friends, I don’t want to be overly dramatic or anything, but…this post is going to change your life.
Too much?
Hahahaha!
I don’t think so!
Guys, I’M SO EXCITED ABOUT THIS!
Okay, so in August, I did a COSTCO FINDS post that like literally changed my life.
Again, too much?
Nah!
I had told you about a month before that that our town recently put in a Costco and you ladies all told me what to buy. And it was brilliant. So, before you read today’s post, you have to see the finds from that post HERE. Seriously, you have revolutionized my kids’ lunches for school. Where has Costco been all my life? Not only should you read that post to see my finds, but to read the comment section which lead me to today’s post (a whole new batch of finds thanks to you ladies!). The day that post published, I went to get my hair highlighted and both my hairdresser and another lady in the salon with us had read my post that day and they both had made a list of things to buy off of the comment section alone. We talked about Costco for an hour straight that day. Ha! All busy women unite, right?!
So, without further adieu, here we go. These have been my favorite finds this go around…
They sell these bars at Starbucks for a pretty penny. I don’t need to buy them there, I have a big box at home! The Chocolate Sea Salt is my fave!
My kids have literally eaten these bars up! I’ve had to make a separate trip back to Costco just to buy three more boxes of these Z Bars! My kids are eating them for their snack at school.
Yes, yes, YES!!!! This is the rice I told you about when I posted my Best Slow Cooker Brisket recipe last week!
A quick and easy lunch for me during the week!
I have one of these drinks after each workout. I’ve already had to go back and buy another box of these as well. They are delicious!!
Bam. Best purchase ever!
Okay! This salmon is not only delicious, but I love how each filet is individually wrapped! This way, I can pull one out for just me or pull six out for the family. They’re so good!
Yay!! I was thrilled with this pick!! This chicken sausage worked well in so many recipes and was delicious!
These tacos are so good too, friends! They come two to a package, so it’s the perfect little lunch (along with the individual guacamole from the last post!).
You just heat them for like 90 seconds and they’re done! So good!
These burritos have been a huge hit too! They’re large, so my kids can each split one for breakfast.
If I had to pick a favorite find this go around, it would be this tilapia. My favorite way to eat it is on a tortilla with a little salsa or aioli.
Who would have thought these would be such a big hit around here? Not me! They’re so good though!!
Friends, I’M OBSESSED! I just heard that all of Costco’s Christmas goodies are out now, so I’m about to go shop that stuff. What should I buy? I love, love, love reading all of your tips, suggestions and finds ESPECIALLY CHRISTMAS ONES!! Please comment and share!! Don’t forget, you have to read my first post HERE to get even more ideas!
Happy Wednesday, friends!!
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
One of my favourite posts from you, Shay! Costco has always intrigued me so much, since we don’t have superstores like it in Hong Kong!
–
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Jenn Smith says
I recently learned a new hack for the protein shakes. I buy the chocolate and learned if you add 2 tbsp. of PB peanut butter powder and a spoonful of cream cheese that it taste like a peanut butter cups. My new favorite!!
Crissy says
I get the Made Good Balls their. They are great for snacks and nut free if you have a school that is nut free.
Erika Slaughter says
Hmmmm…I don’t have much to add other than thanks to Costco I could really use a bigger pantry!
Narci says
Making my Costco list for right now! These are awesome finds! 🙂
Sheaffer Sims says
I mean, I’ve never had the urge to go grocery shopping at 5:30 a.m. before, but I want to go NOW!
Jen says
Thanks for sharing! Love finding new things to try! I also want to get those little naan dippers that Andrea posted about they look delicious!
Melissa says
The Naan dippers are the best! They’re at Kroger, too. Easy to throw in the toaster or oven. My kids eat them with butter, and I love them with hummus or queso 🙂
Anna S says
I read dippers as diapers and was SO CONFUSED! Hahaha!
Debra Martin says
I did, too, at first, ha!
Eileen McCullough says
Costco is my favorite!!! They have THE BEST Christmas wrapping paper. My favorite are the giant rolls that are 2-sided. The paper is thick and the roll lasts forever. I love that with 1 roll I can mix it up and have 2 different prints. It’s out now and as with anything seasonal with Costco, buy it when you see it because it won’t last long. I just picked up 3 rolls the other day! I always get their giant tissue paper pack and packs of tape too. They last me for a long time. I love their fruit – it seems to last longer than grocery store fruit. We always buy the grapes, strawberries, and apples. Another great food deal is the rotisserie chicken. So good and inexpensive – it’s perfect for a busy night! We buy a lot of our meat their too – flank steak, brisket, pork tenderloin, ribs. They’re really big, so when I get home, I cut them into 2 or 3 pieces (depending on the size) and freeze them.
Christina says
Agree on the wrapping paper!
Laura says
Yes on the wrapping paper, tape and tissue. Don’t forget the big box of name tags! They are unique and gorgeous!
Denise Panetta says
You should NEVER eat Tilapia ….https://draxe.com/fish-you-should-never-eat/ … my husband is a big sport fishermen and it is one of the worst fish to eat. Sorry … just saying!
Leia says
Costco did an article on where they get their frozen tilapia, not the one pictured, though. They are very hands on with their suppliers and I trust the quality of their products.
Barbara Parnell says
I was going to post the same..tilapia is really bad for you.
Carol says
I totally live seafood….however after seen farmed tilapia I was totally turned off. Sort of eating an aquarium fish.
Elspeth Mizner says
Great suggestions thanks for sharing
Katrina says
For Christmas time, I buy my kids’ lego advent calendars there (already purchased for this year). The giant Toblerone bars and big assorted packs of Lindors chocokates go on sale, at which point I buy multiple for stockings and gifts. I buy new pyjamas for my kids (they come in a 2 pack for less than $15). Giant rolls of thick, quality reversible Christmas wrap. Also, for gifts I buy a lot of their discounted gift cards and attraction passes (like legoland). Designer perfumes/ colognes usually go on sale close to Christmas too.
Melissa Sexton says
Yes on the gift cards! Last year I bought a couple of the Build a Bear gift card bundles and gave each of my nieces and nephews a card and a book (also from Costco.). Then we went as a big family to make our bears!
Lesley McFarland says
So I just discovered Costco as well. I have been a Adams shopper in the past but was never really happy with selection. I buy a lot of organic food and they just never carried much. I went to Costco and WOW!!! Love at first sight!!!!
You have to get their chicken skewers. You just heat them up and serve. Great for lunches or quick meal.
Kristin says
I love Premier protein. If you take it and mix it with 2 shots of espresso (iced in a venti cup) from Starbucks, it’s delicious and not all the calories like a regular Starbucks drink. I’ve used the caramel,
Chocolate and vanilla this way!
Kelly says
I was going to suggest this too!
Mandee says
Slightly unrelated…but get an iced triple shot at Starbucks in a venti cup and have them fill the ice to the top. Add in your caramel premier protein and you have the most delightful and filling pick me up!?
Becki Kidder says
My comment is along the lines of Mandee- protein iced coffee! Order an iced doppio espresso (2 shots of espresso) in a venti cup full of ice. Add your caramel Premier Protein (preferrably chilled) and enjoy! My fave drink!!
Mix and Match Mama says
I have to try this!!!
Leiah Fuselier says
I was just going to say mix that Premier Protein in with your coffee and it’s the best thing ever! I also use the vanilla with a little cinnamon added in. And I add them to both hot AND cold coffee.
Sara Alexander says
No Costco around here, closest one is over an hour away! Great job on The Today Show! Do you reach out to them to do a segment or do they reach out to you? I think my favorite part would be the surprise of who you might get to meet each time you go to the studio! 🙂
Mix and Match Mama says
That’s my favorite part too, Sarah!!
Tammy Davis says
This post made my morning! I too get super excited about Costco! Lol
Miranda foster says
We spend so at Costco and joke it does not save us money! Ours has these organic aussie bites (lots of nutrients in them). They taste like a muffin/a cone but they are small round snacks. They come in a clear container! The kids love them!
Patty says
I love the aussie bites! A great, healthy snack, but with no kids still at home I can’t eat them fast enough, lol
Michelle Keller says
Added these right to my Instacart! Though my Costco does not carry all of them :(.
Kimberly C says
I can a bunch of jam, fruit, and pie filling every year so their biggest bag of sugar is usually on my list at the beginning of June. Our Costco (I don’t know if they always have the same stuff in stores across the country?) has the BEST cinnamon sugar bread that the bakery makes! I would HIGHLY recommend going to your bakery section and seeing if they have the same. It’s usually packaged in a big, clear plastic box with 3 individual loaves. You won’t regret it!
Coincidentally enough I just started making my Costco list last night with my holiday baking staples on it (hello 3 pound bag of chocolate chips!) and of course our regulars as well. I’ve bought their wrapping paper there before and love it and then also a big box of color coordinated gift bows. Now I’m super excited to go knowing that the holiday items are out! ??❄️
Tara C says
The best thing I’ve picked up at our Costco are the Korean face masks in the beauty section. The pack of I think 10 is $11 and change, there are bunch of different kinds, and they are SO GOOD; they could sell them at Sephora for $50.
Allison says
They have this spinach artichoke dip near the veggies and hummus that is soooo good! It’s a big tub of it and you’ll think “how will we ever eat this?!” Fast forward a few days and it will be gone! Haha
We have used it on flatbreads or inside chicken breasts, etc. Seriously – it’s SO GOOD!
Krista says
I use this for parties all the time and people ALWAYS ask me for the recipe! It is awesome and EASY!
Julie says
Yes, the spinach and artichoke dip is wonderful!!
Molly Kissel says
The Kirkland brand Cashew Clusters with almonds and pumpkin seeds are a great snack!
DG says
We LOVE the tortilla crusted tilapia and keep it in our frrezer at all time. We also buy the Kirkland brand coffee beans which are roasted by Starbucks for Costco—-so good! Will have to try out the other recommendations!
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams says
There are so many things I would get off this list! I love RXbars and get them delivered through Amazon as a monthly subscription. They come in 12 and per bar they are a lot cheaper then most stores!
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams
Alexis deZayas says
Milton’s cauliflower pizza is SO good!! Also love their seaweed snacks!!
Susan says
Yes, the cauliflower pizza is amazing!!!
Carolyn says
I second Alexis’ recommendation. The Milton’s cauliflower crust veggie pizza is so yummy. My kids love it.
Ali says
Obsessed with the cauliflower crust pizza!! I add some pepperoni on top too 🙂
Abigail Carter says
The Kirkland hotdogs are amazing! A friend told me about them & my son is now a hotdog snob & won’t eat any other brand. I am not a big hot dog person, but they are awesome. I freeze packages & just pull one out as needed! (We leave in 7 DAYS for our China sweetie! eek!)
Elaine says
We are like 5 minutes from a Costco here and I have got to get a membership ASAP.
Andrea says
My favorite seasonal item is the Belgian chocolate cookie tin! The best cookie selection. Makes a great gift too!
Gardner Story says
The Kirkland Brand (Costco’s brand) has the best sparkling water! It’s less than 8 bucks for 32 cans! They also have amazing salsa. And in case anyone needs diapers/baby wipes, the Kirkland brand are the BEST!!! We’ve tried other diapers with our toddler and they don’t hold up as well. The price is insanely good for how many you get. I could go on.
Stephanie G says
I agree! Kirklands diapers are just as good as Huggies, for much less!
Jocie says
Omg yes the sparkling water! I traded the kirkland brand in for la croix and it was worth it!
Stacy Meek says
Can you tell me if the tacos and burritos are spicy? My kids and I are kind of wimpy. I’ve bought quesadillas before and they were so spicy and then I was stuck with a case of them. We love Mexican food, just on the mild side. Thanks for your help!
Mix and Match Mama says
Neither are spicy!! The tacos maybe a little more than the burritos, but not really hot at all.
Brooke Richardson says
Looks like I’m going to Costco today. This post got me all kinds of excited!!!!! Lol
Emily says
Not really an item… but their gas is my favorite! Always about 30 cents/gallon cheaper than any other gas station in the area! We literally save SO MUCH money filling up at Costco.
Sonia says
Let me first confess that my husband inspects buildings all over town and stops at Costco for his “restroom and lunch” breaks often (and by often I mean daily!!)…so he frequents multiple locations in the Houston area and they all carry such different stuff!!! Some carry more clothing options than others, some have furniture in options that others do not, some have a bigger freezer selection that others, etc. Anyway – we like to mix it up and try different ones on the weekends based on what he sees during the week! I highly recommend that you start to follow a couple Costco Instagram pages that give you sneak peaks to new items coming…I added costcodoesitbetter, styledbycostsco, costcodeals, and thecostcoconnoisseur. I don’t know these people personally – but I love their posts about stuff that is coming or new in stores….especially when they post about the deals, coupons, and discounts for the week! They always have more than the advertisement shows, and lets you know ahead of time so you can plan ahead!
Brooke says
Their white chocolate pretzels covered in peppermint pieces are one of our favorite Christmas treats. My son has already asked multiple times if they’ve put them out yet.
Rachelle says
Oh my! My fav too! Absolutely the best!!!!
Meredith Harper says
My family loves the turkey meatballs in the freezer section, yellow bag, they only have the turkey ones fromfall- early January. They are great in stuff or for a quick meatball sub with a little sauce and cheese. Plus I love the etouch running gloves they have this time of year- they have lots of sizes and are on sale for$10- I have had northface in the past and Costco’s work better and are way less
Elizabeth Whisler says
Costco has THE BEST wrapping paper and ribbon!! I’m sorta nutty about it. All my paper has to match and all my bows have to be that nice wide ribbon. Their paper is nice and thick and doesn’t tear, and most of the time they have double sided so you get two different looks. And the rolls are huge so one roll goes a long way.
Elizabeth Whisler says
Oh and I forgot to add, usually it’s only available on weekends, they don’t often have it during the week but their blue crab dip is so good! Stuff it in some big mushrooms, top with parmesan and breadcrumbs and bake till bubbly! Quick and easy appetizer. So delish!! Personally while I love lobster, I like the crab one better than the lobster one they also have. Seems slightly more flavorful and sometimes it seems like the mushroom will overpower the lobster flavor.
Erin Port says
Now I am kind of having FOMO since I don’t have a Costco membership! yay for seeing you on Today yesterday 🙂 How fun!!! xoxo ERIN
Jen says
I saw some adorable slipper socks at my Costco yesterday! Would make great gifts for friends! Also, the pumpkin pies are delicious and GIGANTIC! Were gift cards already mentioned in the 1st post? I love picking up a pack of gift cards for less than they are actually worth! And of course they always have tons of fun toys and book series during Christmas…I saw some fun laser tag and nerf gun sets yesterday, and my daughter wants the slime making kit! And Santa always puts books in stockings at our house, so I’ll be sure he knows about some of the new sets available. 😉 We also usually find pretty good deals on college sweatshirts, soft blankets, and Christmas dresses!
Lindsay Stewart says
The chicken salad in the section with prepared food is so great and easy when you need to take food to people. I have to bring food for a teacher luncheon tomorrow and Costco croissants and chicken salad for the win! They also have packs in the meat section of rotisserie chicken that is all white meat and has already been picked off the chicken! I buy it and put it into smaller bags in the freezer. When I want to make a soup or something in the crockpot I just take it out and throw it in. All of the flavor of a rotisserie chicken and none of the work! It’s great for casseroles and other quick dinners also. LOVE Costco!
Jennifer says
The chicken salad is my favorite thing at Costco.
Amy says
You need to get the premade gingerbread houses for your kids to decorate. They sell them for less than $10 and they’re very sturdy! Wrapping paper is also a must. Also take time to check out the toys. They have some major deals that you won’t find anywhere else.
Jen says
Oh! And if anyone in your family has seasonal allergies, I was able to get my son a year’s supply of zyrtec (generic) for only $17! Not Christmas related, but one of my favorite deals! LOL And I usually find multi-packs of brand name nail polish and OPI lip balms…great for splitting up to make multiple teacher gifts in a fun mug with a gift card or something.
Abby says
KIRKLAND TACO SEASONING – every time I make a meal for another family I do tacos…and EVERYTIME they are like…why is this taco meat so good? HA!
ORGANIC PIZZA KIT – 4 crusts + 4 sauce packets (Movie and Homemade pizza nights!)
AUSSIE BITES – So good! Great for grab and go healthy snack!
MANGO SALSA – It’s good on literally everything
KIRKLAND ORGANIC ANIMAL CRACKERS – best animal crackers! Plus the containers are AMAZING for organizing little toys or garage junk! HA!
KIRKLAND Zyrtec – or any type of pharmacy item – best prices and SAME quality or better!
Jennifer says
Try the chicken cilantro wontons sometime (4 for 50 calories)…they are awesome! And already cooked so its an easy meal to warm up on the stove top and then serve over the quinoa and brown rice you mentioned above. Also, their organic chicken nuggets are so good and they aren’t overbreaded. They are great on a salad or as a main meal for kiddos. So happy y’all love Costco!
Tracy says
Well, I’m due to renew my Sam’s membership but now I’m wondering if I should give Costco a try for a year instead! Great post. We love those protein drinks. Did they have cases of all the flavors? Hubs & son like the chocolate.
Courtney Taylor says
Kirkland organic salsa is THE BEST! Pair it with Kirkland organic tortilla chips or Food Should Taste Good chips. Aussie bites are a must! Kirkland organic unsweetened vanilla Almond milk (shelf stable and comes with 6 boxes in a case) Kerrygold butter, Kirkland sharp cheddar cheese, Kirkland organic frozen strawberries. And you should definitely switch that salmon to Kirkland wild caught Alaskan Salmon. It’s also individually wrapped and not farmed. Don’t eat farmed fish.
Susanne says
I was going to suggest the same thing. If you think the farmed salmon is good, you’ve got to try the wild caught Alaskan. It is so delicious!
Julie Goolsby says
I was secretly thinking about the farmed salmon too… we live in Alaska so we’re salmon snobs for sure and all our fish is caught by us or our friends. There’s really a huge difference and people have bumper stickers here about farmed fish ?
emily @ a little bit of emily says
The tomato basil soup is delicious, and so are the dark chocolate sea salt caramels!
Kate says
Well I need to find a Costo asap! Ok, can we also quickly talk about primal pit paste!? Ha, I have tried a million natural deodorants with no success well if I wanted to have any social contact at all, I had to stop using it. Not primal! Worked Immediately and going strong for two week! I could jump through this screen and hug you!
Mix and Match Mama says
Yay!!!! I love it too, Kate!!
Caroline says
RUN TO COSTCO AND GET THE MILTON’S CAULIFLOWER CRUST PIZZA (in the frozen section). It is seriously AMAZING and husband approved!!!
Natalie says
Heidi’s Dark Chocolate Cookies…they are in a glass canister that looks nice and you can use for other things. The cookies inside are individually wrapped….ahhhmazziinng. It’s only $20 and you can only find them right now thru the holidays. I have tried to find them on amazon and other places but they are super expensive for just a few. Stock up! Also…makes an amazing gift/treat for someone else!
Mary Glenn says
I love Costco but usually stick to the fresh fruit/veggies and meat. I do love their in house made chicken pot pie if you are in a pinch or the rotisserie chicken of course! And you HAVE to try the frozen white and dark chocolate covered raspberries in the freezer section. For real they are amazing and a dessert that isn’t too terrible for you!!!!!!
Brittany says
Love love love your blog! My fave holiday Costco purchase is their wrapping paper! It’s so cute, durable, different than what you find at other stores and there is sooo much on a roll. It comes in a 4 pack. Happy shopping!
Jessica R Tribbett says
A couple things I haven’t seen yet in the comments: the salads are great – I love the Asian, Mediterranean and Brussel Sprout ones especially. Just add shredded chicken and it’s a great, easy meal! The cauliflower pizza is great, my toddlers eat it right up! The stuffed peppers are really good, you can freeze them individually. So many great things! 🙂
Katie Ault says
I cook Panko crusted chicken breasts (in the Costco frozen section), and add them to a Costco bagged salad mix. Such a quick dinner option.
De De Hagstrom says
I was going to post the same thing. Based on my family’s research, we have completely removed Tilapia from our diet. Say NO to Tilapia!
I absolutely loved the rest of the suggestions though and will definitely be trying some of them!!
Jenna says
I don’t know how you have lived without a Costco either! Hahaha! It is our favorite place to shop.
Sara Kester says
Love Costco!! My current faves are honeycrisp apples, cauliflower rice in the freezer section, and Waterloo sparkling water (it’s way better than La Croix). Also, this time of year they have diced butternut squash in the produce section (hellooo fall soup and chili)… I haven’t had to peel or dice one myself in years!
joyce says
I saw a great recipe yesterday on the Today Show that would be perfect for that diced butternut squash. ; )
lilly says
i always, always scan the warehouse sales first, so many good stuff. currently, they have ferrero rocher chocolates on sale. i get 4 to 5 boxes, then mix and match with homemade cookies + fudge to make christmas goodies bags for teachers, neighbours, friends, etc. the pure organic layered fruit bars are so good. i prefer the wild salmon which they also carry. farmed raise even without antibiotics is no good for you.
Alison Trauger says
If you liked the chili powder, try the taco seasoning! It’s so flavorful! I wish I could snap so photo for you. Ours is almost gone and it’s a large canister like the chili powder. We’re a big taco loving family around here. 🙂
costco girl says
SHAY, i literally thought of you last week when I was on the Costco website. I needed to tell you that on their website they have a TON of other stuff online beauty products that may not be in store, the new Apple watches, etc..
Melissa A MacGregor says
Looks like you’ll have to get some indian recipes into your mix!!
Liisa says
I second the chicken skewers! They are a great, low-fat meat when served with rice and veggies. Also their green chile queso is awesome, and the artichoke cheese dip is addictive!
Jill says
There are organic chicken taquitos that are wonderful for lunch or dinner! Add some queso and sour cream, done.
Courtney says
Yes!! My daughter loves these!! We find them in the open cold aisles. We love the rice/quinoa too. It is probably our top Costco item.
Kim Nations says
I love Costco. One of the best things that I love at Costco is the blueberry syrup that is made in Maine. Sadly my Costco has not had it for awhile. 🙁 IFyou see it get it and try with the Kodiak protein mix. Delicious. They also make the best Quinoa salad in the deli.. have not been disappointed yet. I love these post they are the best.. Thanks.
Kristin says
I was just going to say the peppermint bark pretzels that they carry around Christmas time! As a general rule I don’t like covered pretzels or white chocolate, but I love love love these. They are the perfect treat mid afternoon!
Carol says
The protein drink is good with a couple of frozen strawberries and a fresh banana added to the mix in the blender!
Kristen Harri says
This is my favorite new healthy treat – buy a large bag of frozen riced cauliflower and the Premier Protein drinks you have listed above. In a blender/vitamix, mix 2 cups of frozen riced cauliflower, 1 premier protein drink (vanilla is my favorite) and a splash of liquid sweetener. Amazing consistency (like a Wendy’s frosty), you don’t taste the cauliflower AT ALL and it’s soooooo healthy!!! I have one every day (mid morning) and my kids love them too!
I know you love to bake but the pies and cakes are awesome!!! I buy the apple pie every Thanksgiving and serve with their Kirkland brand vanilla ice cream (which is also unbelievable).
Shavon says
I LOVE the Kirkland version of the chocolate and nut Kind bar. So good and so filling! Perfect breakfast on the go. I love their paper towels. I get the ones that you can tear into whichever size you need. Quality beats the high dollar ones I used to buy. For a hectic week, I’ll also get their refrigerated pre-made rotisserie chicken salad. So yummy! It’s perfect on a salad, cracker, sandwich, or even by itself. I heart Costco!
Lisa says
This is not a food item but I LOVE their Christmas wrapping paper. It is a nice thick paper!
Sonia says
Costco has some amazing Christmas finds – it’s usually where I go for coworker gifts because it’s easy to get a bunch of stuff and, living in NYC, it also allows us to get some stuff for the other service people in our life. We love the David’s Butter Pecan Cookies (they’re likes snowballs and they just MELT in your mouth!) sooo good. Also they have these french crepe style cookies and belgian chocolate truffles. Everything is just delicious!
April says
Just discovered the Organic Coconut Clusters! New favorite! They are awesome!!
Terry says
We don’t have a Costco nearby because we have a Sams. Apparently they don’t coexist very well. I’d love some suggestions for Sams if anyone shops there. Also, unfortunately what the previous lady said about tilapia is right…one of the worst fish for you. And it’s actually not a specific type of fish but a term used to encompass over a hundred different types of white fish.
Natasha says
Hi Shay! Love this post and LOVE Costco!! I would really recommend Costco’s bag of wild Alaskan salmon fillets over the farmed version, the bag is only a few dollars more and wild caught salmon is much more responsibly sourced and so much better for the environment. I have become really passionate about this after watching a documentary about fish farming and I love that Costco supports selling wild-caught fish!
Julia says
Every year Costco carries a different character holding a lantern for Christmas and each year I buy one to add to my collection! This year is the Polar bear in a puffy jacket and he’s adorable! I also have the snowman from last year and the moose from the year before! The lanterns actually work through battery power and are automatic – the light is on for 6 hours and off for 18.
Kelly says
They have Kirkland brand caramels, dipped in dark chocolate with a sprinkle of salt on them. They come in a hard plastic container like the chocolate covered almonds. A lady behind me at the check out was buying six containers and I told her they looked good. She said the last time she was at Costco the person behind her was raving about them and actually opened the container to let her try one so she could understand. Needless to say I sent my husband to get a jar and they are such a yummy treat.
Kristy Best says
We absolutely LOVE the Bibigo Bulgogi Mandu (Korean dumplings) … my daughter is Korean (adopted) and so we’re super excited to find lots of Korean options at Costco. These go well with the Lotus Foods Organic Millet and Brown Rice Ramen. The mandu are absolutely delicious and a bit hit with all three of our kids. We also really like the organic hard-boiled eggs that they sell (two eggs packaged together). Super easy and convenient for breakfasts/lunches. Also, during the summer I love to buy their buttered croissants from the bakery along with their Finlandia Muenster Cheese … toast in the toaster oven with the cheese and then top with homegrown tomatoes, salt & pepper, and a little honey mustard and your life will be forever changed for the better. 🙂
Carrissa Brown says
They have some delicious teriyaki chicken meatballs! Premade, just heat and serve! I serve them over rice with veggies as dinner or have even put them on skewers with some peppers for an appetizer. MMMM. They also have a center cut beef jerky which is one of the best bagged beef jerseys ive ever had!
Jennifer says
I second the meatballs! We bought some yesterday and put them in a crockpot with some BBQ sauce & honey and it was a perfect hot appetizer in addition to the normal veggie, meat & cheese trays for having friends over!
Chaeli says
I second (or third) the Milton’s Cauliflower crusted pizza- my entire family eats it (which is shoooocking). I also love the Merona wool women’s socks that come in a 4 pack- they are so warm ad comfortable. We also buy the Kirkland’s brand Costco as Starbucks roasts it and you cannot find a better deal on coffee. Delicious. I purchased the uncooked tortillas from the Comments of your last Costco blog and they really are life.changing. I love these posts!!
Lindsey says
I have to agree with some of the ladies above. That caramel protein shake makes the BEST coffee!
Carol says
The protein drink is great in the blender with a couple of frozen Strawberries and a banana.
Shari Florio says
I have been searching for the egg white crepes since you posted them, and have had no luck. What aisle are they located in your store? I also tried the guacamole you recommended and it’s a game changer! If you haven’t tried their rotisserie chickens or pizzas yet, try them, so good!
Mix and Match Mama says
Maybe they’re out of stock right now? They were on an end cap near the refrigerator section.
Megan says
Love Costco! I just went over the weekend and stocked up on Christmas gifts! The basketball hoop game.. 2 hoops, digital games, and it FOLDS for $129! Some other items I purchased are: nintendo Switch, nerf guns, legos, and iFly gift cards! They have so many good gift ideas right now!
Hayley Eoff says
If you ever see Lacey’s, snatch them up! They are these delicious almond-chocolate wafer/cookie things! They are so good. They sold them last year around the holidays….perfect to go with a cup of hot tea or hot cocoa!!
Deanna says
Have you bought the 2.5lb package of rotisserie chicken that they’ve taken off the bone? This makes so many dinners so quick and easy. I toss it in a pan with some cumin, chili powder, salt and pepper, mix in a can or two of rotel, black beans, and some frozen corn. I use this for everthing – quesadillas, taco salads, mexican lasagna. The best. Also – Christmas time they have these flat crackers with rosemary and sea salt. Also, the peppermint bark pretzels. I also buy the teriyaki pineapple meatballs, stick them in some naan break with cucumbers, tomatoes, and tzatziki sauce. Yum.
Meg says
We get our Starbucks K cups there, gas, veggie platter and fruit platter for parties, aussie bites, salsa, Kodiak products (easy pancakes that have protein in them….you can use the mix for waffles or muffins too)
Carolyn says
Costco’s peppermint bark is awesome! And I love the wrapping paper, but it’s A LOT of paper. It lasts for years! And the wired ribbon and tissue is the best.
Susan Christian says
If you have never gotten the ready-to-bake Chicken Pot Pie in the refrigerated/prepared foods section, you have NO idea what you are missing!!! It is literally the size of a massive hubcap, can feed a large family for 2 days and all you have to do is pop it in the oven to bake. Oh, and it’s delicious!! It’s my fave thing to grab for those weeks when I know activities and work will keep us busy and I won’t have time to cook like I normally would. No one ever seems to mind because the pot pie is so, so yummy and I get a break from the kitchen. Win win for everyone! 🙂
Kadee says
The pot pies that they make in the store are delicious!! They are in the deli section! Great easy meal in a pinch and they are HUGE! Great to bless someone with a meal when you don’t have time to cook!!
Angela Ellingson says
This is the best! Thank you!!
Gail Young says
Not sure if anyone has mentioned this yet, but make sure when you get your membership to get the upgraded membership. It costs a little bit more but you get a percentage back couple times a year and more than pays for itself.
During the holidays we often supplement our entertaining desserts with items from the cold case in the bakery section. Also their wines and Prosecco are great and good prices on alcohol and mixers. Often during the holidays they have a themed pack of paper produts with a tablecloth, plates, etc. Along that line we sometimes get the big box of nice plastic silverware, cups, plates for large groups.
Jamie Kimberling says
-Kirkland Italian Meatballs
– Crepini Egg White Wraps
-Picnik Coffee Creamer
-EGGS (for Andrew LOL) they sell 3 dozen organic cheaper than you can buy 1 dozen at the store
-SOUR CREAM a huge tub is like 3 bucks
Rachel says
I love everything that has been posted and don’t want to repeat. Here’s something we love that no one has mentioned – their pizzas! My husband smokes them on our traeger and they are amazing!
Casey says
Ours sell chocolate covered apples at Christmas and they are THE BEST. I actually just bought a food saver from Costco last week so I can do better about buying in bulk.
ToniD. says
Try the Plentils!! They are Lentil chips that come in a box of 24, 8 each of Thai Chili, Garlic Parmesan and Sea Salt. They are delicious, Vegan, Soy, Nut and Gluten Free!! We are big fans!
Randee says
We get the cliff z bars as well. My boys also love the whole grain fig bars for snacks. Our Costco sells bags of Skippy peanut butter bites that my whole family loves (especially me when I have a sweet tooth!)
Kelli says
Costco charges less for Stamps than the post office!!!! Ask for a book at the register! Perfect for holiday cards!!
Julie says
Please make a Costco tab on your sidebar for all of these awesome ideas!
Jennifer says
This post has convinced me to get a Costco membership! Not sure why I’ve resisted for so long… probably because I love my Super Target, but am less and less impressed with their grocery selections. I didn’t realize that Costco had so many healthy/organic options. I am trying to get our family to eat healthier and get out of our same old dinner/food ruts – I think this just might do it! I’ve read both posts and the comment sections – can’t wait to try a bunch of new things and it sounds like just in time for great deals for the holidays too!
Stacy says
You can not bake a better pumpkin pie than the Costco bakery. They are a ridiculously low price and huge. Ours can’t bake’em fast enough during the holidays.
Nerissa says
Sorry if someone said this already but Kirkland’s PRE-COOKED bacon is a life saver!! I buy a few bags at a time and freeze the ones I don’t need for later. No fuss, just heat and serve when you want it!!
Tami says
Amen!
Lee Ann says
Dilatanté mints!! Only sold now til Christmas. I buy several bags and use them as gift fillers and then sneak them frozen throughout the year. They’re the best!
Alicia says
I am not sure if it is a regional product (the company is Detroit based and we live in Detroit Metro), but if you can, get the Sanders Dark Chocolate Caramels with Sea Salt. My mother-in-law is fanatical about them and refuses to share the giant tub we get her!
White tissue paper and wrapping tape is a must. They also have great kids toys, like Nerf and American Girl.
We also like the Made Good Granola bites for school snacks since they are totally school allergy compliant.
Wende Liebert says
I know this sounds crazy but we bought 2 cars through the Costco Auto Program. it was so easy!! All you do is call the Auto Program number and get dealerships that participate in the program. They will also give you an authorization code. You go to the dealership and find the car you want and they give you the Costco price plus all the rebates. Depending on what type of member you are (we are executive) you will receive a Costo Cash Cards in about 4 weeks after your purchase. Ours was a $750 Costco Cash card. To me it was a win win situation. I got the SUV I wanted at a great deal with all the rebates and a $750 Costco Cash card!!
Leslie says
I am about to by a car through the Costco auto program. Good to know about the Costco Cash Card after the purchase!
Kirsten J says
Cars – yes! We’ve bought 3 cars through Costco. So easy, and the dealerships have salesmen who only do the Costco cars so it’s really slick and reasonable.
Jenny says
Organic Aussie Bites…. amazingly good. These have become my breakfast on the go.
Nicole Tanney says
We seriously Live at costco! My famous saying is if it’s not at costco I don’t buy it. They have a great box of homemade cards I keep on hand. Birthday cards, get well, sympathy, baby, wedding, etc! It’s perfect for any occasion when you need a card. Love there Christmas wrapping paper. We find almost all our presents there to since they pick the best toys to sell. One last of our favorites is a chocolate/Carmel/pretzel snack called Snappers! Be careful! They are super addicting!!!! ENJOY! Costco is the Best!
Leslie says
Costco is the BEST!
Food: Pecans, walnuts, shelled pistachios, hummus cups, frozen spinach ravioli, chicken tortilla soup, babybel cheese
Non-Food: Makeup remover wipes, razors, toothbrushes, vitamins, laundry pods, swiffer refills, clorox wipes.
I recently wandered over to the “other part” of the store and found the cutest food storage containers for lunches and great art supplies.
Emily Newcomb says
Love the Premier Protein drinks! I like to add a little bit of cold brew coffee to it – there are so many fun flavor combos you can make! My favorite is the Chocolate Premier Protein with toasted almond coffee (I use the Cool Brew Brand). Now i just need to find someone with a Costco membership so I can try those tacos!
Cristin says
Costco Christmas…the BEST toys and gift packs will be out now to Thanksgiving, swoop em up now. Also, wrapping paper and ribbon are major wins. I also buy two packs of the white tissue paper and use it all year long to wrap gifts, pad packages, etc. Always buy two…every year. Winter coats and their “Uggs” are amazing. The peppermint bark in the bakery is also fabulous.
The fresh wreaths and garlands are must buys too. We live in Spain now (Military family) and just made the long journey to our one Costco in the country to stock up on all the Christmas…
Also…the giant, like 5 foot tall Nutcrackers would look amazing on your front entry.
Susan Briggs says
Oh! II love their fresh greenery wreath!!
Cristin says
Oh, I forgot one thing…their photo department Christmas cards are AMAZING!! I have an etsy shop do my design and then order through Costco. A double sided, rounded corner card (100 for less than $65) That is so cheap compared to Shutterfly and Tiny Prints. The photo ones are great too. Look for a coupon that should be good for $5 off valid right up to Thanksgiving.
Ashley says
I know you love to drink tea, but if you go to Starbucks, you can order a single or double shot of espresso over ice in a venti cup and then add the whole container of the caramel premier protein and it’s an iced latte. So yummy. Or you can use it as coffee creamer.
Tanya says
Please update us with any Thanksgiving/Christmas finds! Love everything I’ve tried from costco. We just got a Trader Joe’s in our area. Obsessed!!! Do you have any finds from there? Or any posts like this for trader Joe’s? If not, would love to see one!
Karen says
Don’t forget about Costco.com ~ they have lots of goodies and their shipping is really fast. They usually stock other Premier Protein shakes too~ I love the Cookies and Cream also…..
Kelly McNellis says
Kirkland brand hot dogs. My hubby says they are the best he’s ever had and he won’t eat any other kinds now. Also the Sanders dark chocolate sea salt caramels. Heavenly and well priced. My daughters love these as much as I do! Please keep doing these awesome Costco posts!
Stefany says
Milton’s cauliflower pizza—the best
Popcornopolis Nearly Naked Popcorn—amazingly addicting :), 33 cals per cup.
Kirkland brand almond milk —yummy
Sweet potatoes crackers —delicious
Kerrygold butter—can not go back to regular butter
Nubs—our puppies love these-great bargain for amount you get.
Chicken pot pie recipe dog bites—another favorite of our puppies.
Water, eggs, gummy vitamins, probiotics—great prices
Also as mentioned above we have the upgraded membership and their Visa card…the rebate check that I get for both pays the memebership and then some. I have not paid for my upgraded membership in years.
Great post—Happy shopping!!!
Amanda says
Can’t believe no one has mentioned the Golden Island Korean BBQ pork jerky! We discovered it last year and are OBSESSED! And we’ve converted all our friends- wish I got a commission! I am no fan of any other jerky, but this stuff is amazing.
Kacy Mah says
I love Costco food court (pizza!!!)
Mary Ruggeri says
You MUST try the Kirkland brand dark chocolate covered mangos! They are the perfect sweet treat! Also, their fresh pesto basil salmon from the fresh food section is delicious ?!!!!
Kara says
We don’t have the dark chocolate mangoes right now, but we buy the dried mangoes every single costco trip!!! They are soooo good. Can’t believe no one hasn’t mentioned them yet!
Amy says
Hey Shay! I love your blog and have been reading for many years! I’ve never commented but once you brought up Costco I had to join in-I’m pretty sure Costco is a sixth love language!:) Being a Costco member since I married into it here’s my faves that I haven’t seen listed: *Costco brand Peppermint bark found in the bakery aisles at Christmas *brie with their red pepper jelly and 9 grain crackers-yum! *cape cod chicken salad with same crackers *also they sell many designer items online they don’t have in store. Just yesterday I ordered ugg boots for a fraction of the cost. I’ve seen your favorite pumpkin mask online before and last year I purchased three of Scheaffer’s favorite free people tunics at Costco online for the price of one! Sometimes they even have barefoot dreams!!! All that to say, be sure to check online for their beauty and clothing products. Free shipping and returns. Oh and their pajamas are soooo soft! Happy shopping!
Amy says
P.S. Hunter boots are on sale online right now for 89.99 :):):)
Mandii says
Shay, try putting the lentils with the ground beef for tacos! It is the best consistency and flavor too! Just add the taco seasoning to your liking!
Yvonne Burton says
Can’t wait to try the RX bars! We recently bought a pkg of dark chocolate covered almonds dusted in raspberry that are scrumptious – those darn tastings sucker me in!
I do have to say that I find the Seeds of Change and Lentil prepackaged items too salty for my taste. I think if you look at the sodium in them they are high. Had to give them away!
Chris says
There’s so much goodness at Costco! Almond Butter, single serve guac, chocolate milk, the string cheese pack, etc. But what I will go there to get, even if I don’t need anything else, is the Kirkland Signature 100% Concord Grape Juice. It’s unfiltered and DELICIOUS, and the price for two gallons blows away the regular grocery store price for one gallon.
Hope Adkins says
Hands down the wrapping paper!!!!Its nice and thick and is so pretty and makes your gifts look professionally wrapped. I always buy my spices/seasonings from Costco. As far as otherChristmas related things , they always have cute gift sets and pretty ribbon to use for decorating and they usually have nice wreaths and seasonal pillows. Also if you send alot of Christmas cards look into getting all of your postage there. It can save you time and not wipe out your local post office.
Heidi says
I am a Costco employee. I recommend the chocolate covered raisins. They are triple enrobed. Also the whole fresh fish in the meat department is amazingly priced and very simple to bake. It makes a stunning observation for a holiday meal.
Artisan romaine in the office cooler. Also the giant bag of power greens. Sneak these into smoothies and the kids will never know.
Rachel K says
A giant case of Waterloo canned sparking water (watermelon, black cherry, and grapefruit…mmm). Also, we use their cauliflower rice in the frozen section a lot. They sell a double pack of Roc retinol night cream for super cheap, so I stock up on those. I usually let my two boys split a smoothie we pick up inside so they are quiet and happy while I shop. 🙂
Katie says
I don’t know how you have survived without Costco for this long! There are too many favorites for me to list…but as far as Christmas goes, they have a great selection of books, discounted gift cards, and I love the American Girl options they have every year!
Sarah says
I am a huge fan of your pumpkin sausage soup…but you know what I’ve added to turn it up a notch and make it even heartier for winter?!…a packet of that brown rice quinoa! Try it, you won’t be disappointed. I love those packets so much — easy to throw into a soup, serve in a breakfast burrito {think eggs, rice and arugula} or quickly heat up to add to a leftover protein for my husbands lunch the next day.
Joteia says
Box of kirland plastic wrap. It lasts us for a couple of yrs. best buy.
Joteia says
Passport photos are cheap
Mix and Match Mama says
These are the BEST little tips!!!
Alison Densley says
We LOVE Costco!! You should do some research into farmed salmon though. I live in the Pacific Northwest and spent time in college working in Alaska. Farmed salmon is so terrible for you and really should be avoided. We don’t eat any farmed fish, so tilapia usually isn’t an option either. But if you cut out one farmed fish it should be salmon. The conditions they’re raised in are terrible and the result is a really unhealthy fish. Just a tip from someone whose spent a lot of time around salmon!!
Kristina Kleckner says
I LOVE Costco and have been a member for almost 20 years. I even shopped there when I was single living in an apartment.
Lots of great ones already mentioned.
A few I did not see on the list…
Dark chocolate covered mint pretzels. They taste like thin mint Girl Scout cookies. They are addictive and amazing!!!
Victoria White Linen Pasta Sauce-so fresh and authentic
Chicken apple Gouda sausage-so good mixed in anything
Chocolate peanut butter Cheerios-my kids are obsessed
Shiitake Mushroom chips-I am obsessed
Edamame Puffs and frozen Edamame-both great snacks for kids
Kirkland Signature Chocolate Chips
Beef Bulgaria in the fresh section-SO good and easy to make
Coconut Clusters-I can’t even buy them because I want to eat the whole bag.
Amanda says
My go tos are:
Avacados (best price and huge)
Dave’s killer bread (fam favorite)
Avacado oil spray (use it on everything)
Allll the frozen organic berries for smoothies
Kerrygold butter
Thenthe “crack mix” it’s a peanut butter treat snack mix and it’s addictive.
For Christmas: their foil gift wrap is amazing. I usually do the big roll. Tape and tissue wrap. And they have the best toys each year!
Jill says
I’m in Canada and I always buy their big box of Christmas gift tags. They are by far the prettiest holiday gift tags I’ve found for such a good price. They also have giant holiday planters and holiday baskets that are just beautiful. Their Christmas cookie tins are also a must. Happy shopping!
Amy says
Thank you so much for these suggestions. I am going to get a membership this coming week! Such great ideas.
Andrea says
I bought the RX bars after reading this, and they are so good! I have so many dietary restrictions because of my autoimmune disease so it’s hard for me to find things I really like eating. These are such a treat!
Heidi W says
The sheet cakes from the bakery! They are by far the best store bought cake I have ever had! The Kirkland organic salsa, Kirkland organic tortilla chips and the Kirkland chicken breasts.
Rebekah says
Their cakes are the best store-bought cakes ever! I prefer making my own, but sometimes that just isn’t going to happen. This is my go-to for all wedding and baby showers. They’re big so I generally do this when hosting and get tons of complements. The price is amazing too! The same price as a quarter sheet single layer from Walmart.
Jocie says
To anyone in the MN area- buy the Holy Land hummus- you will not be disappointed if you are a hummus lover!
Misolee says
Kirkland sheets are so soft and amazing!
Mary says
I searched my Costco yesterday for the breakfast burritos on this post and my Costco does not carry them…I am so bummed!
We always get costco brand (Kirkland) paper towels and toilet paper. Not only is it cheaper but the quality is top notch! I am a huge fan of Premier Protein shakes. Also, in our frozen section in GA they have individual frozen hibachi meals that come in a 12 count. For nights I don’t have time to cook I heat these up for my kids (3 min in microwave…oh yeah!). They really do taste like a hibachi restaurant!
I also get brown sugar and powdered sugar from here…great quality and so much cheaper!
Lynn Baker says
I use the premier protein as my coffee creamer!
The chicken pot pie is delicious-several years ago the Oprah show went to Costco and Oprah raved about the pot pie-it’s one of their best sellers!
The Milton’s crackers that are hexagonal shaped are delicious with the spinach artichoke dip!
I’m headed to Costco this week and can’t wait to try a lot of the items everyone has suggested?
Jen W says
You’ll have to wait until right after Thanksgiving for this one, but I LOVE the fresh garland and wreaths from Costco. As always, you can’t beat that price for how much you get. I drape my front doorway (outside) and some railings. I just love the fresh smell. We have also purchased indoor Christmas tree lights (when ours stopped lighting and before we got another pre-lit). Yes, to the double sided huge wrapping paper. Also, Costco photo for Christmas cards. Order online pickup in store, bam. Almost can’t beat that pricing (you can with coupon codes for other sites) but for the convenience and fast processing you can’t beat it.
Brenden Pokorny says
So many great ideas!!! Here’s my must haves: makeup remover wipes, razors, toothpaste, the pub mix, kids z bars, large pack of organic brown eggs, for Christmas: the wrapping paper, children’s books, kids pajamas, gift cards. I even occasionally buy clothes for myself! Their sweat pants are so comfy I went back and bought two more pairs. I bought two sweatshirt type shirts last year and I wear them all the time. The craziest thing I’ve ordered is our family room ottoman from Costco online and LOVE IT. The price point was amazing and it’s super kid friendly and gorgeous.. Bonus when I found an identical one at Ballard Design for over triple the price!!!
Ashley says
Reds Organic Chicken Lime Burritos are my absolute favorite for lunch!! The raw honey in the two pack, and avocado spray in the two pack. My kids love the organic rice rollers in their lunch. Organic frozen chicken nuggets. Their Kirkland ready made soups in the refrigerated section are so yummy and easy for lunches. Kerrygold butter in bulk. Kodiak protein pancake mix, I premake then freeze and pull them out and warm for an easy breakfast. The coconut milk creamer in the dairy section is good. As a fellow mom of four, basically anything in bulk!
Carol w says
I love Costco!!!!! It’s been a game changer for us