Costco is well known for bulk savings and everyday staples, but beyond the familiar items lies a world of underrated treasures. Whether you’re a home cook, chef, or simply a busy parent trying to put dinner on the table, there are some Costco gems that make life tastier, easier, and even healthier. We asked food experts for their favorite overlooked Costco finds—and these 12 products stood out for their incredible flavor, versatility, and value.
1. Kirkland Signature Imported Basil Pesto $9.99/22 oz
This bright green pesto is made from fresh basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil. It’s a fragrant, flavor-packed condiment that works in pasta, sandwiches, pizza, and more.
Its versatility and long shelf life make it a kitchen staple. You only need a spoonful to transform an entire meal, and freezing it in small portions keeps the flavor fresh year-round.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories 330
- Total Fat 32g
- Carbohydrates 6g
- Sodium 640mg
- Dietary Fiber 2g
- Sugar 1g
- Protein 4g
Ingredients
Basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, salt, citric acid.
Preparation Instructions
Use directly from the jar, or freeze into cubes for future use. Stir into hot pasta, spread on sandwiches, or spoon over roasted vegetables.
2. Organic Pure Maple Syrup $11.99/33.8 oz
Unlike imitation syrups, this is the real deal—pure sap from maple trees, boiled down to thick, sweet syrup.
Maple syrup this pure and flavorful usually comes at a premium. Costco’s price and quality make it a top-tier pantry essential.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories 110
- Total Fat 0g
- Carbohydrates 27g
- Sodium 5mg
- Dietary Fiber 0g
- Sugar 24g
- Protein 0g
Ingredients
100% Pure Organic Maple Syrup
Preparation Instructions
Use on pancakes, in marinades, or for sweetening oatmeal, baked goods, and salad dressings.
3. Nongshim Tonkotsu Ramen Bowls $14.99/3.56 oz
A convenient ramen bowl featuring rich tonkotsu (pork bone) broth and chewy noodles.
It’s the ultimate no-mess meal. Just add hot water or microwave, and you get bold, satisfying flavor in minutes.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories 460
- Total Fat 17g
- Carbohydrates 64g
- Sodium 1,880mg
- Dietary Fiber 2g
- Sugar 4g
- Protein 9g
Ingredients
Noodles Wheat flour, palm oil, salt.
Soup base Pork extract, soy sauce, garlic, onion, spices.
Preparation Instructions
Add boiling water to the bowl, cover and wait 3-4 minutes. Or microwave with water for 3 minutes, stir, and enjoy.
4. Emmi Roth Le Gruyère $7.49/lb
An authentic Swiss cheese with a smooth, nutty, and slightly salty flavor. Perfect for melting or serving on a cheese board.
This AOP-certified cheese is usually expensive elsewhere, but Costco delivers gourmet quality at a bargain.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories 120
- Total Fat 9g
- Carbohydrates 1g
- Sodium 200mg
- Dietary Fiber 0g
- Sugar 0g
- Protein 8g
Ingredients
Pasteurized cow’s milk, salt, rennet, bacterial cultures.
Preparation Instructions
Slice or shred for grilled cheese, casseroles, mac and cheese, or serve with crackers and fruit.
5. Jongga Kimchi $8.99/58 oz
This Korean staple is a spicy, fermented napa cabbage side dish packed with flavor and probiotics.
It’s authentic, imported from Korea, and adds punch to any dish. A must-have for flavor and gut health.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories 15
- Total Fat 0g
- Carbohydrates 3g
- Sodium 240mg
- Dietary Fiber 1g
- Sugar 1g
- Protein 1g
Ingredients
Napa cabbage, daikon radish, garlic, ginger, gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), salt, green onion.
Preparation Instructions
Serve cold as a side dish or mix into rice, eggs, soups, or even grilled cheese sandwiches.
6. Kasia’s Potato & Cheese Pierogi $9.79/2 lbs
These Eastern European-style dumplings are filled with creamy mashed potatoes and cheese. Great as a main dish or hearty side.
They’re comforting, kid-friendly, and super easy to prepare. A weeknight dinner solution that doesn’t sacrifice taste.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories 190
- Total Fat 5g
- Carbohydrates 30g
- Sodium 280mg
- Dietary Fiber 2g
- Sugar 2g
- Protein 6g
Ingredients
Enriched wheat flour, potatoes, cheese (cheddar and farmer’s cheese), onions, salt, butter.
Preparation Instructions
Pan-fry in a bit of oil until golden brown, boil for a softer texture, or bake. Serve with sautéed onions or sour cream.
7. Kerrygold Salted Butter $12.49/2 lbs
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Irish-made butter from grass-fed cows. Known for its rich yellow color and creamy, flavorful texture.
Perfect for spreading, baking, or finishing dishes. Its quality far exceeds typical store-bought butter.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories 100
- Total Fat 11g
- Carbohydrates 0g
- Sodium 90mg
- Dietary Fiber 0g
- Sugar 0g
- Protein 0g
Ingredients
Pasteurized cream, salt.
Preparation Instructions
Spread on bread, melt over vegetables or use in baking (adjust salt in recipes accordingly).
8. Ling Ling Chicken & Vegetable Potstickers $10.99/4.2 lbs
These pan-fry dumplings are filled with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and Asian seasonings.
A freezer essential for quick snacks, appetizers, or dinners that taste homemade without the hassle.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories 270
- Total Fat 7g
- Carbohydrates 39g
- Sodium 600mg
- Dietary Fiber 2g
- Sugar 3g
- Protein 12g
Ingredients
Wheat flour, chicken, cabbage, carrots, soy sauce, green onions, garlic, ginger.
Preparation Instructions
Pan-fry with water and oil for crispy bottoms, or steam. Serve with included dipping sauce or your own mix.
9. Kinder’s Organic Cracked Pepper & Lemon Seasoning $6.99/10.4 oz
A citrusy, peppery blend that works on proteins and veggies alike.
This seasoning transforms plain dishes into zesty, flavorful meals. It’s a new pantry MVP.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories 0
- Total Fat 0g
- Carbohydrates 0g
- Sodium 65mg
- Dietary Fiber 0g
- Sugar 0g
- Protein 0g
Ingredients
Sea salt, black pepper, lemon peel, garlic, cane sugar, parsley, citric acid.
Preparation Instructions
Sprinkle generously on chicken, fish, shrimp, or roasted vegetables before cooking or grilling.
10. Chosen Foods Avocado Oil Spray $5.99/4.7 oz
A clean-label spray made with 100% avocado oil and no propellants.
Perfect for high-heat cooking and baking. Sprays evenly and cleanly without chemicals.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories 0
- Total Fat 0g
- Carbohydrates 0g
- Sodium 0mg
- Dietary Fiber 0g
- Sugar 0g
- Protein 0g
Ingredients
100% Pure Avocado Oil
Preparation Instructions
Spray onto baking pans, air fryer baskets, or food before cooking. Use for roasting, grilling, and frying.
11. Greek Organic Saffron $14.99/1g
A highly prized spice offering floral aroma and golden color to dishes.
Saffron is the world’s most expensive spice—Costco’s organic version offers major savings and stunning quality.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories 2
- Total Fat 0g
- Carbohydrates <1g
- Sodium 0mg
- Dietary Fiber 0g
- Sugar 0g
- Protein 0g
Ingredients
100% Organic Greek Saffron Threads
Preparation Instructions
Steep threads in warm water or broth before adding to rice, soups, or sauces for color and flavor.
12. Frozen Organic Dark Sweet Cherries $10.99/4 lbs
Pitted and flash-frozen cherries ideal for smoothies, desserts, or snacking.
They’re nutrient-rich and naturally sweet, making them one of the most delicious and health-boosting freezer finds.
Nutritional Facts
Calories 90
- Total Fat 0g
- Carbohydrates 22g
- Sodium 0mg
- Dietary Fiber 3g
- Sugar 18g
- Protein 1g
Ingredients
Organic Dark Sweet Cherries
Preparation Instructions
Enjoy straight from the freezer, blend into smoothies, or bake into cobblers and pies.
Conclusion
Costco is more than just a place to stock up on basics—it’s a haven for food lovers who know where to look. These 12 underrated finds prove that behind the towering pallets and oversized packages are gourmet-quality ingredients, global flavors, and kitchen shortcuts that elevate everyday meals. Whether you’re looking to simplify dinner, boost flavor, or explore something new, these expert-recommended picks deliver incredible value without compromising on taste or quality. So next time you’re at Costco, venture beyond the usual staples—you might just discover your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
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