Delicious & Budget-Friendly: Best Costco Deals Under $10 for June
Costco is a treasure trove for savvy shoppers, especially when it comes to stocking up on pantry staples, snacks, and even meal components at incredibly affordable prices. With a bit of creativity, you can whip up delicious and satisfying meals using Costco’s best deals under $10. This June, let’s explore some amazing recipe ideas that won’t break the bank while taking full advantage of the bulk-buying benefits Costco offers. We’ll focus on ingredients typically found for under $10 (price fluctuations may occur, of course!) and craft easy-to-follow recipes perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
**Disclaimer:** *Prices and availability of products may vary depending on your location and the specific Costco warehouse. Always check the price tags before purchasing to ensure they fall within your budget.*
## The $10 Costco Challenge: A Recipe Adventure
The key to making the most of Costco’s under-$10 deals is to think outside the box and be open to substitutions. Remember, bulk buying often means getting creative with leftovers and finding ways to repurpose ingredients across multiple meals. This not only saves money but also reduces food waste. We will focus on ingredients that are often, but not always, available for under $10.
## Recipe 1: Speedy Costco Chicken Salad Sandwiches
This is a classic for a reason! Chicken salad is versatile, easy to make, and perfect for lunch, picnics, or a light dinner. At Costco, you can often find rotisserie chickens for around $5-$7, depending on sales.
**Ingredients:**
* **Rotisserie Chicken:** $5-$7 (Costco’s famous rotisserie chicken – the star of the show!)
* **Mayonnaise:** (Consider a large jar, which may exceed $10 if bought alone, but is useful for multiple meals) Use from your existing pantry, or a portion from a bulk container.
* **Celery:** (Sometimes available for under $10 in large bags – use a portion).
* **Onion:** (Likewise, available in bulk bags – use a portion).
* **Salt & Pepper:** (Pantry staples).
* **Bread/Rolls:** (Depending on the type and quantity, may be under $10 – consider using for multiple meals). A large loaf of sourdough, for example, can make many sandwiches.
**Instructions:**
1. **Shred the Chicken:** Allow the rotisserie chicken to cool slightly. Then, remove the skin and shred the meat from the bones. Discard the skin and bones.
2. **Chop the Vegetables:** Finely dice the celery and onion. The smaller the pieces, the better the texture of the chicken salad.
3. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced celery, diced onion, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper. Start with a smaller amount of mayonnaise and add more until you reach your desired consistency. You want the chicken salad to be moist but not swimming in mayonnaise.
4. **Taste and Adjust:** Taste the chicken salad and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of lemon juice for extra flavor.
5. **Assemble the Sandwiches:** Spread the chicken salad evenly between two slices of bread or inside your chosen rolls. Add lettuce, tomato or other desired sandwich fixings.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve the chicken salad sandwiches immediately or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for later. They are best enjoyed within 2-3 days.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Add Some Crunch:** For added texture, consider adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or grapes to your chicken salad.
* **Spice It Up:** A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can add a little kick to your chicken salad.
* **Use Different Herbs:** Instead of just salt and pepper, try adding some fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives.
* **Make it Lighter:** Substitute plain Greek yogurt for some of the mayonnaise to reduce the fat content.
* **Serve it differently:** Serve the chicken salad on crackers, lettuce wraps, or stuffed in bell peppers instead of sandwiches.
## Recipe 2: Easy Costco Egg Salad
Eggs are a fantastic source of protein and are often available at Costco for a great price. This simple egg salad recipe is perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or as a topping for crackers.
**Ingredients:**
* **Eggs:** (Costco often has large packs of eggs under $10).
* **Mayonnaise:** (Use from your existing pantry, or a portion from a bulk container)
* **Mustard:** (Yellow or Dijon – use from your pantry. Often inexpensive).
* **Celery Salt:** (Pantry staple – a little goes a long way).
* **Pepper:** (Pantry staple).
* **Optional:** Paprika (for garnish).
**Instructions:**
1. **Hard-Boil the Eggs:** Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, remove the pan from the heat, cover, and let the eggs sit for 10-12 minutes. This will ensure perfectly cooked hard-boiled eggs.
2. **Cool and Peel the Eggs:** Drain the hot water and immediately run cold water over the eggs to stop the cooking process. Peel the eggs under cold running water.
3. **Chop the Eggs:** Chop the peeled eggs into small, even pieces. You can use an egg slicer for more uniform pieces.
4. **Combine Ingredients:** In a bowl, combine the chopped eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, celery salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. Start with a smaller amount of mayonnaise and add more until you reach your desired consistency.
5. **Taste and Adjust:** Taste the egg salad and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a pinch of salt or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve the egg salad on bread, crackers, lettuce wraps, or on its own. It’s also delicious as a filling for deviled eggs.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Add Some Sweetness:** A pinch of sugar or a tablespoon of sweet pickle relish can add a touch of sweetness to your egg salad.
* **Use Different Mustards:** Experiment with different types of mustard, such as Dijon, stone-ground, or spicy brown mustard, to change the flavor of the egg salad.
* **Add Herbs:** Fresh herbs like dill, chives, or parsley can add a fresh flavor to egg salad.
* **Make it Lighter:** Use plain Greek yogurt in place of some of the mayonnaise to reduce the fat content.
* **Make Deviled Eggs:** Cut the hard-boiled eggs in half lengthwise. Remove the yolks and mash them with the mayonnaise, mustard, celery salt, and pepper. Spoon the mixture back into the egg whites and sprinkle with paprika.
## Recipe 3: Flavorful Costco Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
Pasta salad is a crowd-pleaser and a great way to use up leftover vegetables or add some extra nutrients to your diet. Costco often sells large bags of pasta for under $10, making this a budget-friendly meal option.
**Ingredients:**
* **Pasta:** (Rotini, Penne, or any other short pasta shape – look for large bags under $10).
* **Italian Dressing:** (Use a bottle from your pantry or buy one at Costco – check for sales).
* **Black Olives:** (Canned or jarred olives – use a portion from a larger container).
* **Cherry Tomatoes:** (Often available in bulk – use a portion).
* **Cucumber:** (Available in multi-packs – use a portion).
* **Red Onion:** (Available in bulk – use a portion).
* **Optional:** Feta Cheese (if available within budget).
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This will also prevent the pasta from sticking together.
2. **Prepare the Vegetables:** Halve or quarter the cherry tomatoes. Slice the cucumber and red onion thinly. Pit and slice the black olives.
3. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and black olives.
4. **Add the Dressing:** Pour the Italian dressing over the pasta salad. Start with a smaller amount and add more until the pasta is evenly coated.
5. **Toss and Chill:** Toss the pasta salad gently to combine all the ingredients. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer it chills, the better it will taste.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve the pasta salad cold as a side dish, a light lunch, or a potluck contribution.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Add Protein:** Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make the pasta salad a more substantial meal.
* **Use Different Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, or zucchini.
* **Add Cheese:** Sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese, mozzarella cheese, or Parmesan cheese over the pasta salad for extra flavor.
* **Make it Spicy:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
* **Add Herbs:** Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley can add a fresh flavor to pasta salad.
## Recipe 4: Hearty Costco Bean and Cheese Burritos
Beans are an excellent source of protein and fiber, making them a filling and affordable ingredient. At Costco, you can often find large cans or bags of dried beans for under $10.
**Ingredients:**
* **Canned Refried Beans:** (Costco often has large cans of refried beans for a great price).
* **Shredded Cheese:** (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend – use a portion from a larger bag).
* **Tortillas:** (Large flour tortillas – Costco sells large packs).
* **Optional:** Salsa, Sour Cream, Guacamole (use from your pantry or buy small containers).
**Instructions:**
1. **Heat the Beans:** Heat the refried beans in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
2. **Warm the Tortillas:** Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds per side, until they are soft and pliable. Alternatively, you can warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
3. **Assemble the Burritos:** Place a warm tortilla on a flat surface. Spread a layer of heated refried beans evenly over the tortilla. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
4. **Fold the Burrito:** Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then fold the bottom up and over the filling. Roll the burrito tightly to enclose the filling.
5. **Cook the Burritos (Optional):** If desired, cook the burritos in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve the bean and cheese burritos with salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or your favorite toppings.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Add Protein:** Add cooked ground beef, shredded chicken, or black beans to make the burritos more filling.
* **Add Vegetables:** Add diced onions, bell peppers, or tomatoes to the burritos.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beans for a little kick.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Use vegetarian refried beans and add some chopped vegetables like corn, zucchini, or bell peppers.
* **Bake the Burritos:** Place the assembled burritos in a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.
## Recipe 5: Simple & Satisfying Costco Oatmeal with Toppings
Oatmeal is a healthy and affordable breakfast option that can be customized with a variety of toppings. Costco often sells large containers of rolled oats for under $10.
**Ingredients:**
* **Rolled Oats:** (Large container from Costco).
* **Water or Milk:** (Use from your pantry).
* **Salt:** (Pinch from your pantry).
* **Toppings:** (Choose from a variety of toppings based on your budget and preferences, such as fruit, nuts, seeds, honey, or cinnamon). Often, Costco has dried fruit options, or large containers of cinnamon for under $10.
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Oatmeal:** Combine the rolled oats, water (or milk), and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the oatmeal is cooked through and has reached your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. **Add Toppings:** Pour the oatmeal into a bowl and add your favorite toppings, such as sliced bananas, berries, nuts, seeds, honey, or cinnamon.
3. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve the oatmeal immediately.
**Tips & Variations:**
* **Use Different Liquids:** Use milk, almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk instead of water for a creamier oatmeal.
* **Add Spices:** Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the oatmeal for extra flavor.
* **Add Sweeteners:** Sweeten the oatmeal with honey, maple syrup, brown sugar, or agave nectar.
* **Add Fruit:** Add fresh or frozen fruit to the oatmeal for added nutrients and flavor.
* **Add Nuts and Seeds:** Add nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds, or seeds like chia seeds, flax seeds, or hemp seeds for added protein and healthy fats.
* **Make Overnight Oats:** Combine the rolled oats, water (or milk), and toppings in a jar or container. Stir well and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, the oatmeal will be ready to eat cold. You can also warm it up in the microwave if desired.
## Recipe 6: Delicious Costco Quesadillas
Quesadillas are a quick, easy and highly customisable meal. Costco offers budget friendly tortillas and cheeses, allowing for a variety of options.
**Ingredients:**
* **Tortillas:** (Large flour tortillas from Costco).
* **Shredded Cheese:** (Cheddar, Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend – use a portion from larger bags).
* **Optional:** Cooked chicken or beef (leftovers can work!), vegetables, salsa, sour cream.
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Filling:** If using cooked chicken, beef or vegetables, chop them into small pieces.
2. **Assemble the Quesadilla:** Lay a tortilla flat on a surface. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese on half of the tortilla. Add any additional fillings, such as cooked meat or vegetables, on top of the cheese. Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling.
3. **Cook the Quesadilla:** Heat a lightly oiled skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the quesadilla in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey.
4. **Cut and Serve:** Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it cool slightly. Cut it into wedges and serve with salsa, sour cream, guacamole or your favorite toppings.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different types of cheeses, such as pepper jack, mozzarella or Colby jack, for a variety of flavors.
* **Add Black Beans or Corn:** Add black beans or corn for a heartier and more flavorful quesadilla.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a little kick.
* **Grill the Quesadillas:** Grill the quesadillas for a smoky flavor.
* **Bake the Quesadillas:** Bake the quesadillas in the oven for a healthier option.
## Recipe 7: Black Bean Salsa with Costco Tortilla Chips
This simple salsa comes together in minutes and is a healthy and satisfying snack or appetizer. Costco typically has large bags of tortilla chips and canned black beans at great prices.
**Ingredients:**
* **Canned Black Beans:** (Drained and rinsed – from Costco).
* **Corn:** (Canned or frozen – Costco often has deals).
* **Red Onion:** (Diced – use from your larger Costco purchase).
* **Bell Pepper:** (Diced – check Costco for deals).
* **Lime Juice:** (From your pantry, or buy limes at Costco).
* **Cilantro:** (Chopped – check Costco for deals).
* **Tortilla Chips:** (From Costco!).
* **Optional:** Jalapeno (for added heat).
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, combine the black beans, corn, red onion, bell pepper, lime juice and cilantro. If using, add finely diced jalapeno.
2. **Mix Well:** Gently mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
3. **Taste and Adjust Seasoning:** Taste the salsa and adjust seasoning as needed. You may want to add more lime juice, salt or pepper.
4. **Serve with Tortilla Chips:** Serve the black bean salsa immediately with tortilla chips, or chill for later.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Avocado:** Add diced avocado just before serving for a creamy texture.
* **Use Different Peppers:** Experiment with different types of peppers, such as poblano or serrano, for varying levels of heat.
* **Add Mango:** Add diced mango for a sweet and tropical twist.
* **Make it a Salad:** Serve the black bean salsa over a bed of lettuce or mixed greens for a healthy and refreshing salad.
* **Use as a Topping:** Use the black bean salsa as a topping for grilled chicken, fish or tacos.
## Recipe 8: Mini Costco Pizzas on English Muffins
English muffins are sometimes available at Costco for under $10 for a large package, making this a very affordable option for pizza night.
**Ingredients:**
* **English Muffins:** (Split in half).
* **Pizza Sauce:** (Use from your pantry).
* **Shredded Cheese:** (Mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend – portion from your larger purchase).
* **Optional Toppings:** Pepperoni, mushrooms, olives, bell peppers (use from your pantry or other Costco purchases).
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Prepare the English Muffins:** Split the English muffins in half and place them on a baking sheet.
3. **Add Sauce and Cheese:** Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce on each English muffin half. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
4. **Add Toppings:** Add your desired toppings, such as pepperoni, mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the English muffins are lightly toasted.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:** Let cool slightly and serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use Different Sauces:** Experiment with different sauces, such as pesto, BBQ sauce, or alfredo sauce.
* **Add Fresh Herbs:** Add fresh herbs, such as basil or oregano, for a more flavorful pizza.
* **Use Different Cheeses:** Try different cheeses, such as provolone, parmesan or feta.
* **Make it a Veggie Pizza:** Add a variety of vegetables, such as spinach, tomatoes, onions and artichoke hearts.
* **Grill the Pizzas:** Grill the English muffin pizzas for a smoky flavor.
## Recipe 9: Fruit Salad with Costco Fruit (Seasonal)
Costco’s seasonal fruit selection often has excellent deals on large quantities of fruit that, when divided, make an affordable option for fruit salad. Prices depend heavily on seasonality and location.
**Ingredients:**
* **Assorted Fruits:** (Choose from seasonal fruits available at Costco – berries, melons, grapes, apples, oranges).
* **Optional:** Honey or Lime Juice (to enhance sweetness or flavor).
**Instructions:**
1. **Wash and Prepare Fruit:** Wash all the fruit thoroughly. Cut the fruit into bite-sized pieces.
2. **Combine Fruit:** In a large bowl, gently combine all the cut fruit.
3. **Add Honey or Lime Juice (Optional):** Drizzle with a small amount of honey for extra sweetness, or a squeeze of lime juice for a refreshing tartness.
4. **Chill and Serve:** Chill the fruit salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Yogurt:** Top the fruit salad with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy and protein-packed addition.
* **Add Mint:** Sprinkle with fresh mint leaves for a refreshing flavor.
* **Add a Fruit Dip:** Serve with a side of fruit dip made with cream cheese, yogurt, or whipped cream.
* **Create a Rainbow Fruit Salad:** Arrange the fruit in layers by color to create a visually appealing rainbow fruit salad.
* **Grill the Fruit:** Grill some of the fruit, such as pineapple or peaches, for a caramelized flavor.
## Recipe 10: Garlic Bread Using Costco Baguettes
Costco often has baguettes for sale, sometimes priced under $10, depending on the package size, making this a flavorful and cheap option to compliment any meal.
**Ingredients:**
* **Baguette:** (From Costco).
* **Butter:** (Softened – use from your pantry).
* **Garlic:** (Minced – use from a bulk Costco purchase).
* **Optional:** Parmesan Cheese, Herbs (parsley, oregano).
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Prepare the Garlic Butter:** In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, and any optional herbs. Mix well.
3. **Slice the Baguette:** Cut the baguette in half lengthwise.
4. **Spread Garlic Butter:** Spread the garlic butter evenly over the cut sides of the baguette.
5. **Sprinkle with Parmesan (Optional):** Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
6. **Bake:** Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the garlic bread is golden brown and heated through.
7. **Slice and Serve:** Slice the garlic bread and serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add a Kick:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy garlic bread.
* **Use Different Cheeses:** Try different cheeses, such as mozzarella or provolone.
* **Grill the Garlic Bread:** Grill the garlic bread for a smoky flavor.
* **Make it a Garlic Bread Pizza:** Top the garlic bread with pizza sauce and your favorite pizza toppings for a quick and easy pizza.
* **Use Garlic Powder:** If you don’t have fresh garlic, use garlic powder instead. Mix 1-2 teaspoons of garlic powder with the softened butter.
## Making the Most of Your Costco Membership
These are just a few ideas to get you started on your Costco cooking adventure! Remember to always check the prices and availability of products at your local Costco warehouse. By planning your meals, utilizing leftovers, and being creative with your ingredients, you can easily create delicious and budget-friendly meals using Costco’s amazing deals under $10.
* **Plan Your Meals:** Before heading to Costco, plan out your meals for the week. This will help you avoid impulse purchases and ensure that you use all the ingredients you buy.
* **Check the Weekly Ads:** Costco releases weekly ads with special deals and discounts. Be sure to check the ads before you go shopping to see what’s on sale.
* **Use Coupons:** Costco also offers coupons in their monthly mailer. Clip the coupons for products you plan to buy to save even more money.
* **Buy in Bulk (Wisely):** While buying in bulk can save you money, make sure you can use all the product before it expires. If you’re not sure, consider splitting the purchase with a friend or family member.
* **Shop with a List:** Stick to your shopping list to avoid impulse purchases.
* **Compare Unit Prices:** Pay attention to the unit prices to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
* **Take Advantage of the Return Policy:** Costco has a generous return policy. If you’re not satisfied with a product, you can return it for a full refund.
Happy cooking and happy saving!