Costco Wonton Delight: Quick, Easy, and Delicious Dinner Recipes
Costco is a treasure trove for bulk buys, and their frozen wontons are no exception. These little dumplings are incredibly versatile and can be transformed into a variety of satisfying and delicious meals in minutes. This article will explore several different ways to create amazing wonton dinners using your Costco haul. We’ll cover everything from simple soups and stir-fries to more elaborate baked dishes, providing detailed instructions and helpful tips along the way.
## Why Costco Wontons are a Dinner Game-Changer
Before we dive into recipes, let’s talk about why Costco’s frozen wontons are such a great dinner solution:
* **Convenience:** They cook quickly, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Versatility:** Wontons can be boiled, steamed, fried, or baked, allowing for a wide range of cooking methods.
* **Flavor:** They have a mild flavor that pairs well with a variety of sauces and ingredients.
* **Cost-Effective:** Buying in bulk from Costco means you get a lot of wontons for a reasonable price.
* **Freezer-Friendly:** Keep them in your freezer for whenever you need a quick and easy meal.
## Essential Ingredients and Tools
Besides the star of the show – Costco’s frozen wontons – here are some essential ingredients and tools you’ll want to have on hand:
**Ingredients:**
* **Broth:** Chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even beef broth work well. Low-sodium options are preferred so you can control the salt level.
* **Soy Sauce:** A staple in Asian-inspired cuisine. Choose low-sodium soy sauce for better control over saltiness.
* **Sesame Oil:** Adds a nutty and aromatic flavor.
* **Ginger:** Fresh ginger is best, but ground ginger can be used in a pinch.
* **Garlic:** Fresh garlic is highly recommended for its pungent flavor.
* **Green Onions:** Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor. Use both the white and green parts.
* **Vegetables:** Broccoli, carrots, bok choy, spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers are all great choices.
* **Protein (Optional):** Cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, or pork can be added to make the meal more substantial.
* **Chili Garlic Sauce (Optional):** For a spicy kick.
* **Rice Vinegar (Optional):** Adds a tangy flavor.
* **Cornstarch (Optional):** For thickening sauces.
* **Noodles (Optional):** Add noodles such as ramen, udon, or soba to soups to make it more filling.
**Tools:**
* **Large Pot or Dutch Oven:** For soups and boiling wontons.
* **Wok or Large Skillet:** For stir-fries.
* **Steamer Basket:** For steaming wontons.
* **Baking Sheet:** For baking wontons.
* **Cutting Board:** For chopping vegetables.
* **Knives:** For prepping ingredients.
## Recipe 1: Quick and Easy Wonton Soup
Wonton soup is a classic comfort food, and it’s incredibly easy to make at home with Costco wontons.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package Costco frozen wontons
* 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
* 1 inch ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 green onions, chopped
* 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low-sodium)
* 1 teaspoon sesame oil
* Optional: Bok choy, spinach, or other leafy greens
* Optional: Chili garlic sauce for added heat
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Broth:** In a large pot or Dutch oven, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the sliced ginger and minced garlic. Reduce the heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse the broth.
2. **Cook the Wontons:** Gently add the frozen wontons to the simmering broth. Cook according to the package directions, usually around 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are heated through.
3. **Add Vegetables (Optional):** If using bok choy, spinach, or other leafy greens, add them to the soup during the last minute of cooking time to wilt slightly.
4. **Season and Serve:** Stir in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions and chili garlic sauce (if using).
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth or bone broth.
* Add a splash of rice vinegar for a tangy flavor.
* Include sliced mushrooms, carrots, or other vegetables for added nutrients and texture.
* Top with crispy fried shallots or sesame seeds for extra flavor and crunch.
* If you like a thicker soup, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir the slurry into the simmering broth until it thickens slightly.
## Recipe 2: Wonton Stir-Fry
A wonton stir-fry is a quick and flavorful way to use your Costco wontons. This recipe is easily customizable to your favorite vegetables and protein.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package Costco frozen wontons
* 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
* 1 pound cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, or pork, cut into bite-sized pieces (optional)
* 1 onion, sliced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 inch ginger, grated
* 1 bell pepper, sliced
* 1 cup broccoli florets
* 1 cup sliced carrots
* 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium)
* 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
* 1 tablespoon sesame oil
* 1 teaspoon cornstarch
* 1/4 cup water
* Green onions, chopped, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Sauce:** In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, cornstarch, and water. Set aside.
2. **Cook the Wontons:** You have a few options for cooking the wontons for this stir-fry:
* **Boiled:** Boil the wontons according to the package directions until they float to the surface. Drain well and set aside. This creates a softer wonton.
* **Pan-Fried:** Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the frozen wontons and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. **Stir-Fry the Vegetables:** Heat another tablespoon of vegetable oil in the same skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. **Add Protein (Optional):** If using, add the cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, or pork to the skillet and cook until heated through.
5. **Add Remaining Vegetables:** Add the bell pepper, broccoli florets, and sliced carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
6. **Add Sauce and Wontons:** Pour the prepared sauce over the vegetables and protein. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Add the cooked wontons to the skillet and toss to coat them in the sauce.
7. **Serve:** Serve the wonton stir-fry immediately, garnished with chopped green onions.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use your favorite vegetables, such as snap peas, mushrooms, or zucchini.
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili garlic sauce for a spicy kick.
* Substitute hoisin sauce for oyster sauce for a sweeter flavor.
* Serve over rice or noodles for a more substantial meal.
* For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lime juice at the end.
## Recipe 3: Baked Wonton “Ravioli” with Marinara Sauce
This recipe transforms Costco wontons into a fun and flavorful baked dish that resembles ravioli. It’s a great way to use up leftover marinara sauce.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package Costco frozen wontons
* 1 cup marinara sauce
* 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 egg, beaten
* 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
* Optional: 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Filling:** In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and parsley. Mix well.
2. **Assemble the Wonton Ravioli:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
3. Lay out half of the frozen wontons on a clean surface. Spoon a small amount of the ricotta cheese mixture (about 1 teaspoon) onto the center of each wonton.
4. Top with the remaining wontons, pressing gently to seal the edges. You can brush the edges with a little water to help them stick together better. *Note: You can skip this and bake the wontons without layering for a crispy baked wonton.*
5. **Bake the Wonton Ravioli:** Arrange the filled wontons in the baking dish, on top of the marinara sauce. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the wontons.
6. **Bake:** Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the wontons are heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If desired, sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese during the last few minutes of baking.
7. **Serve:** Let the baked wonton “ravioli” cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use your favorite type of marinara sauce.
* Add cooked ground beef or sausage to the ricotta cheese filling for a heartier meal.
* Substitute pesto for marinara sauce for a different flavor profile.
* Top with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
* Instead of baking, you can pan-fry the filled wontons in a little olive oil until golden brown and crispy.
## Recipe 4: Crispy Fried Wonton Chips with Dipping Sauce
These crispy fried wonton chips are a delicious and addictive snack or appetizer. They’re easy to make and perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package Costco frozen wontons
* Vegetable oil, for frying
* Optional: Salt or seasoning salt
**Dipping Sauce Options:**
* Sweet Chili Sauce
* Soy Sauce with Sesame Oil and Green Onions
* Peanut Sauce
* Spicy Mayo (mayonnaise mixed with sriracha)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Wontons:** Thaw the wontons slightly. This makes them easier to work with and helps them cook more evenly.
2. **Cut the Wontons:** Cut each wonton into triangles or strips, depending on your preference.
3. **Heat the Oil:** Pour about 1 inch of vegetable oil into a large pot or deep fryer. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C).
4. **Fry the Wontons:** Carefully add the wonton pieces to the hot oil in batches. Do not overcrowd the pot.
5. **Cook Until Golden Brown:** Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. **Drain and Season:** Remove the wonton chips from the oil with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off excess oil. Sprinkle with salt or seasoning salt, if desired.
7. **Serve:** Serve the crispy fried wonton chips immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika, for added flavor.
* Make sweet wonton chips by sprinkling them with cinnamon sugar after frying.
* Serve with a variety of dipping sauces to cater to different tastes.
* For a healthier option, bake the wonton chips instead of frying them. Brush them with a little olive oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
## Recipe 5: Wonton Noodle Soup
This recipe combines the comfort of wonton soup with the satisfying addition of noodles for a complete and filling meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package Costco frozen wontons
* 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
* 1 inch ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 4 oz ramen, udon, or soba noodles
* 2 green onions, chopped
* 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low-sodium)
* 1 teaspoon sesame oil
* Optional: Bok choy, spinach, or other leafy greens
* Optional: Chili garlic sauce for added heat
* Optional: Soft boiled egg
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Broth:** In a large pot or Dutch oven, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the sliced ginger and minced garlic. Reduce the heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse the broth.
2. **Cook the Noodles:** Add the noodles to the simmering broth and cook according to package directions. Ensure noodles are not overcooked.
3. **Cook the Wontons:** Gently add the frozen wontons to the simmering broth. Cook according to the package directions, usually around 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are heated through.
4. **Add Vegetables (Optional):** If using bok choy, spinach, or other leafy greens, add them to the soup during the last minute of cooking time to wilt slightly.
5. **Season and Serve:** Stir in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, making sure each bowl contains both noodles and wontons. Garnish with chopped green onions, chili garlic sauce (if using), and a soft-boiled egg if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use any type of noodle you enjoy. Ramen and Udon work particularly well.
* For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth or bone broth.
* Add a splash of rice vinegar for a tangy flavor.
* Include sliced mushrooms, carrots, or other vegetables for added nutrients and texture.
* Top with crispy fried shallots or sesame seeds for extra flavor and crunch.
* If you like a thicker soup, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir the slurry into the simmering broth until it thickens slightly.
## Conclusion
Costco’s frozen wontons are a fantastic pantry staple for creating quick, easy, and delicious dinners. With a little creativity, you can transform these simple dumplings into a variety of flavorful dishes that will satisfy the whole family. From comforting wonton soup to crispy fried wonton chips, the possibilities are endless. So, stock up on a bag of Costco wontons and get cooking!