Costco Food Court Remix: Reinventing Leftovers into Delicious Dishes
Costco’s food court is a beloved institution, offering inexpensive and satisfying meals to hungry shoppers. But what happens when you inevitably have leftovers? Or perhaps you’re looking to elevate your Costco food court experience beyond the usual slice of pizza or hot dog? This blog post is your guide to transforming Costco food court favorites into exciting, restaurant-worthy dishes right in your own kitchen. We’ll explore creative ways to reimagine classic Costco offerings, reduce food waste, and impress your friends and family with your culinary ingenuity.
## The Costco Food Court: A Culinary Launchpad
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s appreciate the potential that lies within the Costco food court. These aren’t just cheap eats; they’re versatile ingredients waiting to be unlocked. Consider these core items:
* **Pizza:** A blank canvas for toppings and transformations.
* **Hot Dogs:** Perfect for slicing, dicing, and incorporating into various dishes.
* **Chicken Bake:** A savory powerhouse that can be deconstructed and rebuilt.
* **Chicken Caesar Salad:** Provides pre-cooked chicken and dressing, saving you time.
* **Churros:** A sweet treat ready for creative desserts.
With a little imagination and some pantry staples, you can elevate these humble beginnings into culinary masterpieces.
## Recipe 1: Costco Pizza Transformation: Gourmet Flatbreads
Let’s face it, leftover pizza is often a soggy disappointment. This recipe turns it into a crispy, flavorful flatbread that’s perfect as an appetizer or light meal.
**Ingredients:**
* Leftover Costco Pizza (any kind)
* Olive Oil
* Fresh Herbs (basil, oregano, rosemary), chopped
* Garlic, minced
* Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
* Balsamic Glaze (optional)
* Additional Toppings (optional): Spinach, arugula, mushrooms, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, goat cheese, shaved parmesan.
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Pizza:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the leftover pizza from the refrigerator. If it’s particularly greasy, gently pat it dry with paper towels.
2. **Cut and Arrange:** Cut the pizza slices into smaller, manageable pieces, about 3-4 inches wide. Arrange these pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. The parchment paper will prevent sticking and ensure a crispy crust.
3. **Infuse with Flavor:** In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs (basil, oregano, and rosemary work well), and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix thoroughly.
4. **Brush the Crust:** Brush the herb-infused olive oil mixture generously over the crusts of the pizza pieces. This will add flavor and help them crisp up nicely in the oven.
5. **Add Extra Toppings (Optional):** This is where you can get creative! Add any additional toppings you desire. Some suggestions include fresh spinach or arugula, sautéed mushrooms, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, goat cheese, or shaved parmesan.
6. **Bake to Perfection:** Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the crusts are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly (if adding extra cheese).
7. **Finish with Balsamic Glaze (Optional):** Remove the flatbreads from the oven and let them cool slightly. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness and tang.
8. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve the gourmet flatbreads immediately. They are delicious as an appetizer, a light lunch, or a snack. Garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the olive oil mixture for extra heat.
* **Mediterranean Flair:** Top with artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, and Kalamata olives.
* **Veggie Delight:** Add grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers.
* **Make it Breakfast:** Top with a fried egg for a breakfast flatbread.
* **Use Different Herbs:** Experiment with different herb combinations, such as thyme and sage.
## Recipe 2: Costco Hot Dog Hack: Chili Cheese Dog Casserole
Transform plain Costco hot dogs into a comforting and crowd-pleasing casserole. This recipe is perfect for potlucks, game day, or a casual weeknight dinner.
**Ingredients:**
* Costco Hot Dogs (3-4), sliced
* 1 tbsp Olive Oil
* 1 medium Onion, chopped
* 1 Green Bell Pepper, chopped
* 2 cloves Garlic, minced
* 1 (15 ounce) can Kidney Beans, drained and rinsed
* 1 (15 ounce) can Chili Beans, undrained
* 1 (15 ounce) can Diced Tomatoes, undrained
* 1 (8 ounce) can Tomato Sauce
* 1 tbsp Chili Powder
* 1 tsp Cumin
* 1/2 tsp Paprika
* Salt and Pepper to taste
* 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
* 1 cup Cornbread Mix (prepared according to package directions)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Hot Dogs:** Slice the Costco hot dogs into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
2. **Sauté Vegetables:** Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and green bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. **Add Beans and Tomatoes:** Stir in kidney beans, chili beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Bring to a simmer.
4. **Season the Chili:** Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the chili mixture. Stir well to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
5. **Simmer the Chili:** Reduce heat to low and simmer the chili for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
6. **Assemble the Casserole:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the chili mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the sliced hot dogs evenly over the chili.
7. **Top with Cheese:** Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the hot dogs.
8. **Add Cornbread Topping:** Prepare cornbread mix according to package directions. Spoon the cornbread batter evenly over the cheese layer.
9. **Bake to Golden Perfection:** Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
10. **Let it Rest:** Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
11. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve the chili cheese dog casserole warm. Garnish with sour cream, chopped green onions, or a dollop of salsa, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the chili mixture for extra heat.
* **Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella.
* **Add Vegetables:** Add other vegetables to the chili, such as corn, black beans, or diced tomatoes with green chilies.
* **Use Different Meats:** Substitute the hot dogs with ground beef, ground turkey, or shredded chicken.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Omit the hot dogs and add more beans or vegetables.
## Recipe 3: Chicken Bake Reinvention: Chicken Enchilada Casserole
The Costco chicken bake is a savory delight, but it can be even better when transformed into a flavorful enchilada casserole. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight meal.
**Ingredients:**
* Costco Chicken Bake (1-2), deconstructed
* 1 tbsp Olive Oil
* 1 medium Onion, chopped
* 1 (10 ounce) can Enchilada Sauce
* 1 (4 ounce) can Diced Green Chilies
* 1 (15 ounce) can Black Beans, drained and rinsed
* 1 cup Corn Kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
* 8-10 Corn Tortillas
* 2 cups Shredded Mexican Cheese Blend
* Optional toppings: Sour cream, salsa, guacamole, chopped cilantro
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chicken Bake:** Deconstruct the Costco chicken bake by removing the filling from the bread. Shred the chicken and set aside. Discard the bread or save it for another use (like breadcrumbs).
2. **Sauté the Onion:** Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. **Add Enchilada Sauce and Chilies:** Pour in the enchilada sauce and add the diced green chilies. Stir well to combine.
4. **Add Beans and Corn:** Stir in black beans and corn kernels. Bring to a simmer.
5. **Add Shredded Chicken:** Add the shredded chicken to the sauce mixture and stir to combine. Heat through.
6. **Prepare the Tortillas:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. If the corn tortillas are stiff, you can lightly warm them in a dry skillet or microwave them briefly to make them more pliable.
7. **Assemble the Casserole:** Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce mixture in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Dip each corn tortilla into the enchilada sauce mixture, then fill it with the chicken mixture. Roll up the tortilla and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
8. **Top with Cheese:** Pour any remaining enchilada sauce mixture over the rolled enchiladas. Sprinkle generously with shredded Mexican cheese blend.
9. **Bake to Melty Perfection:** Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
10. **Let it Rest:** Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
11. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve the chicken enchilada casserole warm. Top with sour cream, salsa, guacamole, and chopped cilantro, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the enchilada sauce or use a spicier enchilada sauce.
* **Add Vegetables:** Add other vegetables to the filling, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
* **Use Flour Tortillas:** Substitute corn tortillas with flour tortillas, if preferred.
* **Make it Creamy:** Add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the chicken filling.
* **Add a Crunchy Topping:** Top with crushed tortilla chips before baking for a crunchy texture.
## Recipe 4: Chicken Caesar Salad Remix: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Transform a simple Costco Chicken Caesar Salad into a vibrant and satisfying pasta salad. This is a perfect dish for a quick lunch, picnic, or potluck.
**Ingredients:**
* Costco Chicken Caesar Salad (1), remove dressing and croutons.
* 8 ounces Pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle), cooked and cooled
* 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
* 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
* 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
* 1 clove Garlic, minced
* 1 tsp Dijon Mustard
* Salt and Pepper to taste
* Optional additions: Cherry tomatoes (halved), cucumber (diced), red onion (thinly sliced), black olives (sliced)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Salad:** Remove the chicken from the Costco Chicken Caesar Salad and set aside. Discard the croutons or save them for another use. Reserve the romaine lettuce.
2. **Cook the Pasta:** Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
3. **Make the Dressing:** In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, grated parmesan cheese, lemon juice, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the ingredients to your liking.
4. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, chopped romaine lettuce from the salad, and the chicken. Add any optional additions, such as halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, or sliced black olives.
5. **Dress the Salad:** Pour the Caesar dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine. Be careful not to overdress the salad.
6. **Chill Before Serving:** Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This also helps the salad stay fresh and crisp.
7. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve the Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad chilled. Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use Different Pasta:** Experiment with different types of pasta, such as orzo, shell pasta, or tortellini.
* **Add Protein:** Add other sources of protein, such as grilled shrimp, hard-boiled eggs, or chickpeas.
* **Make it Lighter:** Substitute some of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing.
* **Add Flavor:** Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or anchovy paste to the dressing for a more authentic Caesar flavor.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Omit the chicken and add more vegetables or beans.
## Recipe 5: Churro Creation: Churro Ice Cream Sandwiches
Costco’s churros are delicious on their own, but they can be transformed into an irresistible dessert: Churro Ice Cream Sandwiches. This recipe is simple, fun, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
**Ingredients:**
* Costco Churros (2-4)
* Ice Cream (your favorite flavor), softened slightly
* Optional toppings: Chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, sprinkles, chopped nuts
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Churros:** If the churros are not fresh, warm them slightly in the oven or microwave to soften them. Be careful not to overheat them.
2. **Cut the Churros:** Cut each churro in half horizontally, creating two equal-sized pieces. This will form the top and bottom of your ice cream sandwich.
3. **Soften the Ice Cream:** Let the ice cream soften slightly at room temperature for a few minutes, making it easier to spread.
4. **Assemble the Sandwiches:** Scoop a generous amount of softened ice cream onto one half of a churro. Spread the ice cream evenly over the surface.
5. **Top with the Other Half:** Place the other half of the churro on top of the ice cream, creating a sandwich.
6. **Optional Toppings:** Drizzle with chocolate sauce or caramel sauce, sprinkle with colorful sprinkles, or roll the edges in chopped nuts, if desired.
7. **Freeze for a Short Time:** Place the churro ice cream sandwiches in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes to firm up slightly. This will make them easier to handle and prevent the ice cream from melting too quickly.
8. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve the churro ice cream sandwiches immediately. Enjoy this sweet and satisfying treat!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use Different Ice Cream Flavors:** Experiment with different ice cream flavors, such as vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, mint chocolate chip, or coffee.
* **Add a Filling:** Add a layer of peanut butter, Nutella, or marshmallow fluff between the ice cream and the churros.
* **Make it a Sundae:** Crumble the churros over a bowl of ice cream and top with your favorite sundae toppings.
* **Use Different Toppings:** Experiment with different toppings, such as whipped cream, hot fudge sauce, crushed cookies, or fresh fruit.
* **Make Mini Sandwiches:** Cut the churros into smaller pieces and create mini ice cream sandwiches for a bite-sized treat.
## The Art of Food Court Transformation: Beyond the Recipes
These recipes are just a starting point. The real magic happens when you start experimenting and adapting them to your own tastes and preferences. Here are some general tips for transforming Costco food court items:
* **Embrace Flavor Combinations:** Don’t be afraid to mix and match flavors. Think about what ingredients complement each other and try new combinations.
* **Utilize Your Pantry Staples:** Look to your pantry for inspiration. Spices, sauces, oils, and other staples can add depth and complexity to your creations.
* **Consider Textures:** Texture is just as important as flavor. Think about how different textures can enhance a dish. For example, adding crispy bacon or crunchy vegetables can add interest to a creamy pasta salad.
* **Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment:** The best way to learn is to experiment. Don’t be afraid to try new things and see what works. Even if a recipe doesn’t turn out perfectly, you’ll learn something in the process.
* **Focus on Freshness:** Adding fresh ingredients can elevate even the most basic dishes. Fresh herbs, vegetables, and fruits can add brightness and flavor.
## Reducing Food Waste: A Sustainable Approach
Transforming Costco food court leftovers is not only a fun and creative way to cook, but it’s also a sustainable practice that helps reduce food waste. By repurposing leftovers, you can save money, reduce your environmental impact, and create delicious new meals.
Here are some additional tips for reducing food waste in your kitchen:
* **Plan Your Meals:** Plan your meals for the week in advance to avoid buying more food than you need.
* **Store Food Properly:** Store food properly to keep it fresh for longer.
* **Use Leftovers Creatively:** Get creative with your leftovers and turn them into new meals.
* **Compost Food Scraps:** Compost food scraps to reduce the amount of waste that goes to the landfill.
## Conclusion: Unleash Your Inner Food Court Chef
With a little creativity and these recipes as your guide, you can transform your Costco food court experiences into exciting culinary adventures. So, the next time you find yourself with leftover pizza, hot dogs, or a chicken bake, don’t throw it away! Instead, unleash your inner food court chef and create something amazing. You’ll be surprised at what you can create with a little imagination and some pantry staples. Happy cooking!