Costco Holiday Feast: Delicious & Budget-Friendly Recipes from December Deals

December is the season of joy, giving, and, of course, delicious food! But holiday feasts can quickly become expensive. Thankfully, Costco’s December deals offer a fantastic opportunity to create memorable meals without breaking the bank. This article will guide you through creating a stunning and budget-friendly holiday menu using some of the best deals Costco has to offer. We’ll provide detailed recipes, tips, and tricks to maximize your savings and impress your guests.

Navigating Costco’s December Deals: A Strategic Shopper’s Guide

Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk strategy. Costco’s December deals are usually released in waves, often announced in their monthly coupon book and online. Keep an eye out for:

* **Turkey and Ham Deals:** These are holiday staples, and Costco often has competitive prices on whole turkeys, boneless hams, and spiral-sliced hams.
* **Prime Rib and Beef Tenderloin:** For a more upscale option, watch for deals on prime rib roasts or beef tenderloin. These cuts are perfect for a show-stopping main course.
* **Seafood Specials:** Look for deals on shrimp, crab legs, salmon, and other seafood to add a touch of elegance to your holiday spread.
* **Cheese and Charcuterie:** Costco’s cheese and charcuterie selections are legendary. Keep an eye out for holiday cheese platters, specialty cheeses, and cured meats.
* **Baking Essentials:** Stock up on butter, flour, sugar, nuts, chocolate chips, and other baking essentials to create delicious desserts.
* **Wine and Spirits:** Costco’s Kirkland Signature brand offers excellent value on wines and spirits. Explore their selection to find the perfect pairings for your holiday meal.
* **Prepared Foods:** Don’t overlook Costco’s prepared foods section. Items like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce can save you time and effort, especially if you’re hosting a large gathering.
* **Frozen Appetizers:** A great way to quickly put together a delicious appetizer spread for your holiday guest is to stock up on frozen appetizers. Look for great prices on items like potstickers, chicken wings and mini quiches.

**Pro Tip:** Use the Costco app to track deals, create a shopping list, and check inventory at your local warehouse. This will help you stay organized and avoid impulse purchases.

The Ultimate Costco Holiday Menu: Recipes and Instructions

Here’s a complete holiday menu designed to maximize Costco’s December deals, complete with detailed recipes and instructions:

Appetizer: Shrimp Cocktail with Homemade Cocktail Sauce

* **Deal to Watch For:** Costco often has great deals on large, cooked shrimp during the holidays.

* **Ingredients:**
* 2 pounds cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined (Costco Deal)
* 1 cup ketchup
* 1/4 cup prepared horseradish
* 2 tablespoons lemon juice
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1/2 teaspoon Tabasco sauce (optional)
* Pinch of salt and pepper
* Lemon wedges, for garnish

* **Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Cocktail Sauce:** In a medium bowl, combine the ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. **Chill the Shrimp:** If the shrimp isn’t already chilled, place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. **Assemble the Cocktail:** Arrange the shrimp around the edge of a serving bowl or platter. Place the cocktail sauce in a smaller bowl in the center.
4. **Garnish and Serve:** Garnish with lemon wedges and serve immediately. This can be prepped ahead and assembled right before guests arrive. For an elegant presentation, serve in individual cocktail glasses.

Appetizer: Spinach Artichoke Dip with Crostini

* **Deal to Watch For:** Deals on artichoke hearts, spinach, Parmesan cheese, and cream cheese.

* **Ingredients:**
* 1 (10 ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
* 1 (14 ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
* 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (Costco Deal)
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 1/2 cup sour cream
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (Costco Deal)
* 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 baguette, sliced and toasted (for crostini)
* Olive oil (for brushing baguette slices)

* **Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Prepare the Dip:** In a large bowl, combine the squeezed spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. **Bake the Dip:** Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
4. **Prepare the Crostini:** While the dip is baking, brush baguette slices with olive oil and toast them in the oven until lightly golden.
5. **Serve:** Serve the hot spinach artichoke dip with the toasted crostini for dipping.

Main Course: Herb-Crusted Prime Rib Roast

* **Deal to Watch For:** Watch for significant savings on prime rib roasts in December.

* **Ingredients:**
* 5-6 pound prime rib roast (Costco Deal)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
* 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 cup beef broth

* **Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Roast:** Pat the prime rib roast dry with paper towels. This helps with browning. Season generously with salt and pepper.
2. **Make the Herb Paste:** In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, and Dijon mustard. Mix well to form a paste.
3. **Coat the Roast:** Rub the herb paste all over the prime rib roast, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
4. **Sear the Roast (Optional but Recommended):** Heat a large oven-safe skillet over high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned (about 2-3 minutes per side). This step creates a delicious crust and enhances the flavor.
5. **Roast the Prime Rib:** Place the seared roast (or the roast directly from step 3) in a roasting pan. Add beef broth to the bottom of the pan. Roast in the oven based on the following temperature guide (using a meat thermometer is crucial):
* **Rare:** 120-125°F
* **Medium Rare:** 130-135°F
* **Medium:** 140-145°F
* **Medium Well:** 150-155°F
6. **Rest the Roast:** Once the roast reaches your desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful roast.
7. **Carve and Serve:** Carve the prime rib roast against the grain into thin slices. Serve with pan juices (or a homemade gravy) and your favorite side dishes.

**Roasting Time Guide (Approximate):**

* **Rare:** 12-15 minutes per pound
* **Medium Rare:** 15-18 minutes per pound
* **Medium:** 18-20 minutes per pound
* **Medium Well:** 20-22 minutes per pound

**Important Note:** Roasting times can vary depending on your oven. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your roast is cooked to your desired doneness.

Side Dish: Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

* **Deal to Watch For:** Deals on potatoes, garlic, Parmesan cheese, butter, and cream.

* **Ingredients:**
* 5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered (Costco Deal)
* 1 cup heavy cream (Costco Deal)
* 1/2 cup butter, cubed (Costco Deal)
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (Costco Deal)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Fresh chives, chopped, for garnish

* **Instructions:**
1. **Boil the Potatoes:** Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold water and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes).
2. **Drain the Potatoes:** Drain the potatoes in a colander.
3. **Return to Pot:** Return the drained potatoes to the pot.
4. **Mash the Potatoes:** Use a potato masher or an electric mixer to mash the potatoes until smooth. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make them gummy.
5. **Add Cream and Butter:** Gradually add the heavy cream and butter, mixing until smooth and creamy.
6. **Add Garlic and Parmesan:** Stir in the minced garlic and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. **Garnish and Serve:** Garnish with fresh chives (if using) and serve hot.

Side Dish: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

* **Deal to Watch For:** Keep an eye out for deals on Brussels sprouts, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil.

* **Ingredients:**
* 2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved (Costco Deal)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil (Costco Deal)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar (Costco Deal)
* 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)

* **Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. **Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:** In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. **Roast the Brussels Sprouts:** Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.
4. **Make the Balsamic Glaze:** While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, prepare the balsamic glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey or maple syrup (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened slightly.
5. **Drizzle with Glaze and Serve:** Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and drizzle with the balsamic glaze. Serve immediately.

Dessert: Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream

* **Deal to Watch For:** Deals on canned pumpkin, pie crusts, cream cheese (for a cheesecake version), and heavy cream.

* **Ingredients:**
* 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree (Costco Deal)
* 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
* Pinch of salt
* 1 (9 inch) pre-made pie crust (Costco Deal)
* 1 cup heavy cream, whipped, for serving (Costco Deal)
* Optional: Graham cracker crust for a different flavor profile.

* **Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Prepare the Filling:** In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt. Mix well.
3. **Pour into Crust:** Pour the pumpkin mixture into the pre-made pie crust.
4. **Bake the Pie:** Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with foil.
5. **Cool Completely:** Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
6. **Serve:** Serve chilled or at room temperature with whipped cream.

**Optional: Pumpkin Cheesecake Pie:** For a richer dessert, add 8 ounces of softened cream cheese to the filling ingredients and blend until smooth. Bake as directed above.

Beverage Pairing Suggestions:

* **Appetizers:** A crisp sparkling wine or a light-bodied white wine like Pinot Grigio pairs well with the shrimp cocktail and spinach artichoke dip. Kirkland Signature Prosecco is an excellent and affordable option.
* **Main Course:** A full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot complements the prime rib roast. Consider a Kirkland Signature Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.
* **Dessert:** A sweet dessert wine like Moscato or a fortified wine like Port pairs beautifully with pumpkin pie.

Tips for Saving Even More at Costco:

* **Shop with a Friend:** Split bulk purchases with a friend or family member to avoid waste and save money.
* **Use the Costco Credit Card:** Earn rewards on your Costco purchases with the Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi.
* **Look for Clearance Items:** Costco often has clearance sections with heavily discounted items.
* **Check Unit Prices:** Compare unit prices to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
* **Plan Your Meals in Advance:** Create a detailed shopping list and stick to it to avoid impulse purchases.
* **Freeze Extra Food:** If you have leftovers, freeze them for future meals.
* **Utilize Costco’s Return Policy:** Costco has a generous return policy, so don’t hesitate to return items you’re not satisfied with.
* **Consider a Costco Membership:** If you shop at Costco regularly, a membership can easily pay for itself through savings.

Alternative Main Course: Honey-Glazed Ham

If prime rib isn’t your preference, a honey-glazed ham is another excellent and cost-effective option from Costco.

* **Deal to Watch For:** Look for deals on boneless or spiral-sliced hams.

* **Ingredients:**
* 1 (8-10 pound) spiral-sliced ham (Costco Deal)
* 1/2 cup honey
* 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
* 2 tablespoons brown sugar
* 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

* **Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. **Prepare the Glaze:** In a small saucepan, combine the honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and ground cloves. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sugar is dissolved.
3. **Bake the Ham:** Place the ham in a roasting pan. Cover with foil and bake for 10-12 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
4. **Glaze the Ham:** During the last 30 minutes of baking, remove the foil and brush the ham with the honey glaze every 10 minutes.
5. **Rest the Ham:** Once the ham reaches 140°F, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
6. **Carve and Serve:** Carve the ham and serve with your favorite side dishes.

Other Dessert Options to look for at Costco

While homemade pie is a classic, Costco offers many tempting desserts during the holidays.

* **Cheesecakes:** Costco’s cheesecakes are legendary. They come in various flavors and are perfect for feeding a crowd.
* **Tiramisu:** A rich and decadent Italian dessert that’s always a crowd-pleaser. Costco’s tiramisu is a convenient and delicious option.
* **Pecan Pie:** Another holiday classic that you can find at Costco.
* **Cookies:** Giant cookie platters are a great way to satisfy everyones sweet tooth.

Making the most of your Costco trip

Shopping during the holiday season can be stressful, but planning ahead is your best bet.

* **Go early in the morning or late in the evening:** Costco tends to be less crowded during these times.
* **Shop during the week:** Weekends are usually the busiest.
* **Have a list and stick to it:** This will help you avoid impulse purchases.
* **Be prepared to wait in line:** Checkout lines can be long during the holidays.
* **Don’t be afraid to ask for help:** Costco employees are usually very helpful.

Conclusion

By strategically utilizing Costco’s December deals, you can create a stunning and delicious holiday feast without breaking the bank. With a little planning and these easy-to-follow recipes, you’ll be able to impress your guests and enjoy a memorable holiday season filled with good food and good company. Remember to check Costco’s website and coupon book regularly to stay up-to-date on the latest deals. Happy Holidays and Happy Cooking!