14 Costco Prepared Foods That Cost More Than You Expect

Costco is known for offering great value on a wide range of products, but some prepared foods can cost more than you might expect. From indulgent seafood options to gourmet meal kits, these items provide convenience and quality but often come with a higher price tag. While many of these foods are favorites for special occasions or quick meals, the cost can add up quickly, especially when buying in bulk. If you are looking to splurge on something delicious, be prepared for a little sticker shock.

Mila Variety Pack Xiao Long Bao Soup Dumpling

The Mila Variety Pack of Xiao Long Bao Soup Dumplings offers an exciting and flavorful assortment of these iconic dumplings. These bite-sized delights come with a rich, savory broth inside each dumpling, making them a perfect addition to a meal or a delicious snack. While the pack provides a variety of flavors, the price may catch some by surprise, as it’s higher than expected for frozen dumplings. These dumplings, although convenient, can add up when buying multiple packs to satisfy a larger group or family. Nonetheless, the high quality and authentic taste make them a popular choice among Costco shoppers.

Ruprecht Fully-Cooked Braised Beef Short Rib

Ruprecht’s Fully-Cooked Braised Beef Short Ribs offer a tender and juicy meal option without the long cooking time. The rich, flavorful braise makes these ribs perfect for those who want to enjoy a delicious meal without the hassle of slow cooking. However, the price for a pack of these ribs may surprise some shoppers, as they are on the higher end compared to other meat options at Costco. Despite the cost, the convenience of having a fully prepared, restaurant-quality meal at home makes it a tempting buy. For those who love beef short ribs, the flavor and ease of preparation justify the higher price tag.

Kirkland Signature Brisket Burnt Ends

Kirkland Signature Brisket Burnt Ends are a savory, tender treat, perfect for BBQ lovers and those looking for a hearty meal. The rich, smoky flavor combined with the perfectly caramelized crust makes them a standout item in Costco’s prepared food section. However, the price for this premium item can feel higher than expected, especially when considering the cost per pound. These burnt ends, although delicious, are not the most budget-friendly option at Costco. Still, they remain a fan favorite for their exceptional taste and the ease of having a BBQ-style meal ready to enjoy in minutes.

Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon

Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon is a popular option for those who enjoy seafood, offering a smooth, smoky flavor that pairs well with a variety of dishes. While it’s often praised for its high quality and great taste, it can be more expensive than other fish or seafood products in the store. The convenience of pre-sliced, ready-to-eat salmon makes it an easy addition to salads, bagels, or just as a quick snack, but the price may surprise those who are not used to paying a premium for smoked fish. Despite the higher cost, the rich flavor and texture make it a favorite among Costco shoppers. For those who love smoked salmon, the quality makes it worth the investment.

Kirkland Signature Wild Whole Cooked Dungeness Crab

Kirkland Signature Wild Whole Cooked Dungeness Crab offers a luxurious seafood experience with the convenience of being pre-cooked. While the crab is a flavorful treat for seafood lovers, the price can be quite high, especially when purchasing multiple crabs for a large gathering. The whole crab, while a great option for special occasions or seafood feasts, can add up quickly compared to other prepared seafood options. Despite the cost, the freshness and quality of the crab make it a popular choice for Costco members. For those willing to splurge, it’s an exceptional product that brings a taste of the ocean to your dining table.

Nuchas Empanadas Veggie Combo

Nuchas Empanadas Veggie Combo offers a delicious variety of stuffed pastries filled with flavorful, hearty ingredients. These empanadas are perfect for a quick snack or a casual meal, with flavors that range from classic to more modern takes on the traditional Latin American dish. While they offer convenience and great taste, the price can feel higher than expected for a frozen product, especially if you are buying multiple packs. The variety of flavors and the quality of the fillings make them a great option for vegetarians and those looking for a lighter meal. The ease of heating them up and serving them makes it a tempting option for busy weeknights.

Giordano’s Chicago Frozen Single-Serve Deep Dish Pizza Variety 12-Pack

Giordano’s Chicago Frozen Single-Serve Deep Dish Pizza Variety 12-Pack brings the flavors of Chicago to your home with its delicious, cheesy, and filling deep dish pizzas. While the convenience of individual servings makes them easy to prepare, the cost for a 12-pack can be steep compared to other frozen pizzas. The thick, buttery crust and rich fillings justify the price for many, but those looking for a more budget-friendly option might find this pack a bit of a splurge. Each pizza offers a satisfying meal, and the variety pack provides different flavors, ensuring something for everyone. Despite the higher price, it’s a great choice for those craving authentic Chicago-style deep dish pizza.

Borgo de Medici Truffle Pizza Kit

Borgo de Medici Truffle Pizza Kit offers a luxurious pizza experience with its premium truffle ingredients. The kit includes everything you need to create a gourmet pizza at home, from the dough to the truffle sauce and cheese. However, the price can be a bit shocking, especially for a DIY pizza kit. For those who enjoy indulging in high-end flavors, the truffle pizza offers an unmatched taste, but it comes at a higher price point. While it’s a fantastic treat for special occasions, it may not be the most cost-effective meal for everyday dining.

Texas Tamale Co. Hatch Chile Tamales

Texas Tamale Co. Hatch Chile Tamales bring the spicy and savory flavors of hatch chiles into a convenient tamale form. These tamales offer a great combination of flavors wrapped in soft masa, perfect for a quick meal or snack. While they are a favorite for tamale lovers, the price may surprise some shoppers, as it tends to be higher than what you would pay for homemade tamales. Despite the price, the quality of the ingredients and the bold flavor of the hatch chiles make them worth the splurge for many Costco shoppers. They are easy to prepare and are a great addition to a Tex-Mex meal.

Pizzeria DeLuna Authentic Italian Stone-Fired Pizza Pack

Pizzeria DeLuna Authentic Italian Stone-Fired Pizza Pack brings the classic Italian pizza experience to your home with its crispy, stone-baked crust and fresh toppings. The pizzas are made with high-quality ingredients, offering a true taste of Italy, but the cost can be higher than other frozen pizza options. While they deliver on flavor and texture, the price point may feel steep, especially when you can purchase multiple standard frozen pizzas for the same cost. For those who crave authentic pizza, however, the quality of the stone-fired pizza makes it a worthy investment. It is a great choice for special occasions or when you want a higher-end pizza night.

Kirkland Signature Salmon Milano with Basil Pesto Butter

Kirkland Signature Salmon Milano with Basil Pesto Butter offers a delicious and flavorful option for seafood lovers, with a rich pesto butter sauce that complements the tender salmon perfectly. While it makes for an easy-to-prepare meal, the price is on the higher side compared to other seafood options at Costco. The high-quality salmon and the gourmet pesto butter sauce are worth the extra cost for many, but it may be a bit expensive for those looking for more budget-friendly meal ideas. Despite the cost, it’s a great option for a quick yet indulgent dinner, especially for those who love Italian flavors. The combination of salmon and pesto makes it a flavorful and satisfying dish.

Mission Hill Bistro Smoked Sliced Beef Brisket

Mission Hill Bistro Smoked Sliced Beef Brisket is a savory and flavorful option for those who enjoy tender, smoked meat. This pre-cooked brisket is perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or served with sides for a hearty meal. However, the price per pound can be higher than expected, especially when considering it’s pre-cooked and ready to eat. Despite the cost, the rich, smoky flavor and ease of preparation make it a popular choice for many Costco shoppers. It’s an excellent option for busy weeknights or when you want a BBQ-style meal without the effort.

Cuisine Solutions Sliced Grass-Fed Beef Sirloin

Cuisine Solutions Sliced Grass-Fed Beef Sirloin offers a leaner and more sustainable beef option, with a flavorful taste that comes from high-quality grass-fed cattle. The beef is pre-sliced and ready to heat, making it a quick and easy meal option. While it’s a great product for those who prefer grass-fed beef, the price can be steep compared to conventional beef options. The high-quality, lean beef makes it a great addition to a variety of dishes, from salads to tacos or sandwiches. Although it’s on the pricier side, the flavor and health benefits make it worth considering for those seeking a premium beef option.

Rastelli’s Black Angus Beef Tenderloin Roast Meal

Rastelli’s Black Angus Beef Tenderloin Roast Meal is a luxurious and tender meal option, perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to an upscale dinner. The high-quality Black Angus beef roast is cooked to perfection, offering a tender, flavorful cut of meat. However, the price is significantly higher than other prepared meals at Costco, making it a splurge for many. For those willing to invest in a premium meal, the flavor and quality of the beef tenderloin are exceptional. It’s a great option for holiday dinners or celebratory meals, though it may be too expensive for everyday meals.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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