Costco is a unique shopping experience. For those who live within driving distance of its locations, it’s a go-to for bulk groceries. A long-term member breaks down the 50 best items to buy, based on years of testing and real-world use.
Why Costco Matters
Costco’s appeal isn’t just about price. It’s about quality, convenience, and the ability to stock up on staples. The warehouse model encourages bulk purchases, which can save money for families and frequent cooks.
Pantry Staples That Deliver
- Kirkland Signature Thai Hom Mali Jasmine Rice ($21.99 for 25 pounds): High-quality rice at a great price, even approved by seasoned cooks.
- Ghirardelli Triple Chocolate Brownie Mix ($16.99 for 6 packages): A consistently top-rated brownie mix that rivals homemade versions.
- Rao’s Marinara Sauce ($11.99 for 2 jars): Widely considered the best jarred marinara on the market, now available at a bulk discount.
- Garofalo Organic Pasta Variety Pack ($10.89 for 6 packages): Imported Italian pasta that delivers superior texture and chew.
- Kirkland Signature 100% Italian Extra Virgin Olive Oil ($29.99 for 2 liters): High-quality imported olive oil at a fraction of the price of specialty brands.
- Bonne Maman Four Fruits Preserves ($10.99 for 36 ounces): A Costco-sized jar of premium fruit preserves for toast, baking, and appetizers.
- Kirkland Signature Organic Diced Tomatoes ($9.49 for 8 cans): A versatile pantry staple for sauces, casseroles, and more.
- Pure Vanilla Extract ($9.99 for 16 ounces): A high-quality vanilla extract perfect for baking and desserts.
- Nestle Tollhouse Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips ($15.99 for 4.5 pounds): An enormous bag of chocolate chips for cookies, brownies, and endless sweet treats.
- Kirkland Signature Organic Maple Syrup ($12.59 for 1 liter): A versatile syrup for pancakes, cooking, and cocktails.
- Morning Summit Cereal ($13.49 for 38 ounces): The perfect mix of flakes, granola, dried fruit, and nuts for a satisfying breakfast.
- Wild Planet Albacore Tuna ($17.99 for 6 cans): Sustainably caught tuna with mild flavor, ideal for sandwiches and casseroles.
- Dixie Crystals Granulated Cane Sugar ($7.29 for 10 pounds): Stock up on sugar for baking and sweetening without worry.
Snacks You Won’t Regret Buying in Bulk
- Schwartz Brothers Bakery Everything Bagel Chips ($8.49 for 15 ounces): The perfect everything bagel-flavored snack, better than crackers.
- Kirkland Signature Pistachios ($15.99 for 3 pounds): A massive bag of pistachios for snacking, baking, or adding to desserts.
- Kirkland Signature Praline Pecans ($14.49 for 2.5 pounds): Candied pecans perfect for snacking or adding crunch to salads and desserts.
- Kirkland Signature Applesauce ($9.99 for 24 pouches): Organic, no-sugar-added applesauce pouches for kids and adults.
Bakery Treasures Worth the Trip
- Kirkland Signature White Cake with Vanilla Cheesecake Mousse ($17.99): A high-quality, affordable layer cake for any occasion.
- King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls ($6.69 for 32 rolls): A bulk pack of sweet rolls perfect for sliders, sandwiches, or breakfast.
- Kirkland Signature Rosemary Parmesan Cheese Loaf ($7.99 for 2 pounds): A flavorful bread infused with rosemary and Parmesan cheese.
- Kirkland Signature Cheesecake ($19.99 for 4.5 pounds): A creamy, decadent cheesecake that rivals homemade versions.
- Kirkland Signature Croissants ($5.99 for 12): Flaky, buttery croissants perfect for breakfast or sandwiches.
- Kirkland Signature Pumpkin Pie ($5.99): A seasonal favorite that delivers high quality at an unbeatable price.
Refrigerated Essentials
- Kirkland Signature Five Cheese Tortelloni ($12.99 for 2 packages): A versatile pasta for quick dinners, soups, or casseroles.
- Kirkland Signature Parmigiano Reggiano ($14.79 per pound): Authentic, aged Parmigiano Reggiano at a bulk discount.
- Kerrygold Pure Irish Butter ($16.29 for 2 pounds): A rich, flavorful butter that elevates any dish.
- Daisy Sour Cream ($5.49 for 3 pounds): A large container of sour cream for cooking, baking, and topping.
Costco’s best groceries combine quality, value, and convenience. These selections prove that bulk shopping doesn’t mean sacrificing taste or freshness.
