Costco’s prepared foods section is filled with tempting choices—from cheesy pastas to fresh salads and seafood. But which ones are truly worth your money?
Food expert Nicole McLaughlin taste-tested 20 prepared meals from Costco and rated them based on taste, prep time, and accuracy of cooking instructions. After her review, five meals stood out—all receiving near-perfect scores.
5. Kirkland Signature Shrimp Cocktail With Cocktail Sauce & Lemon $11.50/lb
A chilled appetizer with cooked shrimp, tangy cocktail sauce, and lemon wedges.
Why It Deserves the Ranking
Fresh, flavorful, and ready to serve, this shrimp cocktail is a great party platter or quick protein snack. Nicole praised its clean taste and simplicity—perfect when paired with wine.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories 100
- Total Fat 1g
- Carbohydrates 4g
- Sodium 650mg
- Dietary Fiber 0g
- Sugars 3g
- Protein 19g
Ingredients
Cooked shrimp, cocktail sauce (tomato, horseradish, lemon juice), lemon wedges, salt.
Preparation Instructions
- Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
- Serve with included sauce and lemon.
- Best enjoyed cold with a drink of your choice.
4. Kirkland Signature Chicken Alfredo With Penne Pasta $5/lb
A rich and creamy pasta dish featuring grilled chicken and Alfredo sauce.
Why It Deserves the Ranking
It’s filling, delicious, and easy to bake. Nicole called it a “win-win” for busy weeknights—consistent flavor and accurate cook times make it a Costco classic.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories 390
- Total Fat 21g
- Carbohydrates 28g
- Sodium 800mg
- Dietary Fiber 1g
- Sugars 2g
- Protein 23g
Ingredients
Penne pasta, grilled chicken, Alfredo sauce (cream, Parmesan, garlic, butter), Romano cheese, parsley.
Preparation Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Cover with foil and bake for 40–60 mins.
- Let rest 5 mins before serving.
3. Kirkland Signature Mac and Cheese $4.50/lb
Comfort food elevated—cavatappi pasta drenched in a creamy cheese blend.
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Why It Deserves the Ranking
Nicole loved its homemade look and cheesy flavor, giving it a perfect 10. It’s a great option for both kids and adults craving comfort food.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories 420
- Total Fat 24g
- Carbohydrates 35g
- Sodium 730mg
- Dietary Fiber 1g
- Sugars 3g
- Protein 15g
Ingredients
Cavatappi pasta, cheddar cheese, mozzarella, cream, milk, butter, flour, spices.
Preparation Instructions
- Bake at 400°F for 40–50 mins.
- Let rest before serving for best texture.
2. Kirkland Signature Salmon Milano With Basil Pesto Butter $14.75/lb
Fresh salmon fillets topped with rich pesto-basil butter for a gourmet finish.
Why It Deserves the Ranking
This dish tastes restaurant-quality. Nicole says the salmon cooks perfectly, and the leftover pesto butter in the pan is ideal for tossing with pasta—elevating the whole meal.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories 450
- Total Fat 32g
- Carbohydrates 1g
- Sodium 520mg
- Dietary Fiber 0g
- Sugars 0g
- Protein 38g
Ingredients
Atlantic salmon, basil pesto, butter, lemon zest, salt, pepper.
Preparation Instructions
- Bake at 400°F for 25–30 minutes.
- Serve with pasta, rice, or roasted veggies.
1. Kirkland Signature Grain & Celery Salad With Apple Cider Vinaigrette $5.75/lb
A hearty, nutrient-rich salad with grains, kale, celery, chickpeas, cranberries, and almonds.
Why It Deserves the Ranking
This dish earned Nicole’s only 11/10 rating! A perfect mix of textures and flavors—chewy, crunchy, sweet, and savory—it’s versatile, healthy, and pairs beautifully with rotisserie chicken.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories 280
- Total Fat 12g
- Carbohydrates 32g
- Sodium 420mg
- Dietary Fiber 5g
- Sugars 9g
- Protein 7g
Ingredients
Whole grains (barley, farro), kale, celery, chickpeas, dried cranberries, almonds, apple cider vinaigrette (oil, vinegar, mustard, honey, spices).
Preparation Instructions
- Toss with vinaigrette before serving.
- Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Final Thoughts
From seafood and pasta to healthy greens, Costco’s top five prepared meals offer great value and flavor. Ranked from better to best, these dishes are perfect for busy families, party hosts, or anyone looking to enjoy delicious meals without spending hours in the kitchen.
Save this list for your next Costco trip—you’ll thank yourself later!
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