11 Must-Have Costco Items Every Food Editor Swears By: Elevate Your Grocery Game!

Costco has been my go-to store for years. An employee even suggested I upgrade to an executive membership because I’m there so often. While my husband loves his greens, I depend on Costco for many staples that keep my pantry and freezer well-stocked. Here are some of my top picks for valuable buys at Costco that offer quality at great prices.

1. Oils

Oils can be pricey, but Costco offers large bottles of avocado and extra-virgin olive oil at a fraction of the cost. For about $22 for avocado oil and $26 for olive oil, I get a 2-liter bottle each. These last me a while and I keep smaller bottles out on the counter for convenience.

2. Nuts

Nuts are a household staple for us. My husband eats them with breakfast, and we snack on them throughout the day. A 3-pound bag of walnuts costs about $12, and 2.5 pounds of mixed nuts is around $15. I store them in jars and freeze any extras to keep them fresh.

3. Frozen Pot Stickers

My family loves pot stickers—easy to make and delicious. I often serve them with fried rice, which I prepare from leftover rice I freeze from dinner. My go-to brands from Costco are Bibigo and Ling Ling since they come with tasty sauce packets.

4. Rao’s Marinara Sauce

For pasta nights, Rao’s marinara is unbeatable. A two-pack at Costco costs about $12, which is much cheaper than the grocery store, where a single jar can be over $8. The flavor is fantastic, and it elevates any dish.

5. Cheese

We’re huge cheese lovers, and buying in bulk at Costco is perfect for us. I usually pick up Cheddar, Feta, and Parmesan, along with fresh mozzarella for pizza nights. They also have great artisan cheese options for gatherings.

6. Organic Berries

Costco consistently has better prices on organic berries. They typically offer blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, and sometimes blackberries, making it easy to add some fruit to our meals.

7. Frozen Fruits & Vegetables

The variety and price of frozen fruits and vegetables at Costco are excellent, especially for smoothies. Frozen produce is often just as nutritious as fresh because it’s picked at peak ripeness. I also stock up on frozen mixed vegetables and broccoli.

8. Frozen Fish

I find that I eat more fish when I have it ready in the freezer. Wild-caught salmon and cod are my favorites. They pair well with various recipes, like Miso-Maple Salmon.

9. Kalamata Olives

As someone who enjoys making Middle Eastern dishes, Kalamata olives are a must-have. They add flavor to salads and snacks. We often enjoy them with feta and hummus, making a delicious snack or lunch option.

10. Chia Seeds

Chia pudding is a hit in my house. My husband and daughter love customizing their bowls each morning. Chia seeds are packed with fiber and omega-3s, which makes them a great addition to our diet.

11. Oats

Oats are another pantry staple. My husband often makes oatmeal, and I love to bake cookies and breads with them. They’re versatile and healthy, fitting perfectly into our diet.