Costco offers some hidden gems in terms of gourmet ingredients and pantry staples that rival upscale markets. These high-quality, versatile items make it easy to elevate meals without a high price tag. Whether creating elaborate dishes or just stocking up on essentials, Costco’s selection has plenty to offer for chefs and home cooks alike. Here are 20 go-to high-quality items that deliver excellent flavor and value.
Kirkland Signature Parmigiano Reggiano
Why: Aged for 24 months, this cheese has the authentic rich, nutty flavor perfect for pasta, salads, and charcuterie boards.
Tip: Shred fresh for maximum flavor, and use the rind in stocks and soups.
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Wild-Caught Alaskan Sockeye Salmon
Why: Sustainably caught and high in omega-3s, Costco’s sockeye salmon is flavorful and versatile.
Tip: Try curing it at home with a mix of salt, sugar, and herbs for homemade gravlax.
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Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Why: Costco’s organic olive oil is consistently high-quality and imported from Italy, offering a smooth, robust taste.
Tip: Use it as a finishing oil on dishes to savor its complex flavors.
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Kirkland Signature Balsamic Vinegar of Modena
Why: Made with grapes from Modena, this vinegar has the rich, sweet acidity ideal for salads, sauces, and drizzling.
Tip: Reduce it on low heat for a homemade balsamic glaze.
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Prime Beef Steaks
Why: Costco’s Prime beef cuts are well-marbled and cost-effective, a chef’s dream for grilling or sous-vide cooking.
Tip: Dry age your steaks at home for a week to enhance flavor.
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Japanese A5 Wagyu Beef
Why: For special occasions, Costco offers A5 Wagyu from Japan with exceptional marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Tip: Sear it quickly to medium-rare and savor it without overpowering sauces.
Organic Chicken Stock
Why: This stock is made with organic ingredients and is a fantastic time-saver, adding deep flavor to soups and sauces.
Tip: Reduce it down with herbs for a concentrated sauce base.
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Kirkland Signature Butter
Why: High in fat and rich in taste, it’s perfect for pastries, sauces, and sautéing.
Tip: Stock up and freeze it—it’s essential for baking and making compound butters.
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Pistachio Kernels
Why: High-quality and unsalted, these are great for snacking, garnishing, and baking.
Tip: Use them in pistachio pesto or grind them into a crust for fish.
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Organic Maple Syrup
Why: Costco’s maple syrup is pure and high-grade, with a deep, complex sweetness.
Tip: Use it to glaze carrots, make salad dressings, or add a touch to coffee.
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Kirkland Signature Champagne
Why: Made by a renowned Champagne house, this sparkling wine rivals pricier brands, perfect for celebrations or pairing with seafood.
Tip: Pair with oysters or creamy dishes for a match made in heaven.
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Frozen Organic Berries
Why: Excellent for smoothies, desserts, and sauces, Costco’s frozen berries maintain quality and flavor.
Tip: Make a quick compote by simmering them with a little sugar and lemon juice.
Organic Medjool Dates
Why: Sweet, chewy, and full of flavor, these dates are ideal for healthy snacks and baking.
Tip: Stuff with blue cheese or almonds for a sophisticated appetizer.
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Prosciutto di Parma
Why: This imported Italian prosciutto has a delicate flavor and perfect marbling for charcuterie boards.
Tip: Wrap around melon or figs, or crisp it up for salads.
Truffle Oil
Why: Affordable and authentic, Costco’s truffle oil adds depth to pasta, potatoes, and even popcorn.
Tip: Drizzle over scrambled eggs or risotto for a luxurious touch.
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Organic Quinoa
Why: A protein-packed superfood, Costco’s organic quinoa is high quality and reasonably priced.
Tip: Rinse thoroughly before cooking to avoid bitterness and use as a base for salads.
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French Brie
Why: Rich, creamy, and affordably priced, Costco’s French brie is ideal for cheese boards or baking.
Tip: Bake it with honey and nuts for a gooey, indulgent appetizer.
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Organic Grass-Fed Ground Beef
Why: Leaner with a rich taste, it’s ideal for burgers, meatballs, and sauces.
Tip: Season simply with salt and pepper to let the flavor shine in your dishes.
Cold-Smoked Salmon
Why: Thinly sliced and delicately smoked, it’s a great option for breakfast, salads, or appetizers.
Tip: Serve with crème fraîche, capers, and dill on rye or bagels.
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Kirkland Organic Peanut Butter
Why: Made with just organic peanuts and salt, this peanut butter is natural, creamy, and versatile.
Tip: Use it in sauces, baking, or as a high-protein addition to smoothies.
