Delicious Dishes: Creative Recipes Using New Costco Food Court Items
Costco’s food court is a beloved institution for many, offering quick, affordable, and surprisingly tasty meals. With the introduction of new items, there’s even more reason to visit and, more interestingly, more opportunities to get creative in the kitchen. This blog post explores innovative recipes you can create using Costco’s latest food court offerings. Whether you’re looking to elevate a simple weeknight dinner or impress guests with a unique appetizer, these recipes offer a delicious and budget-friendly approach to cooking.
Understanding the New Costco Food Court Menu
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s briefly overview the new items hitting the Costco food court. Availability may vary by location, so always check your local Costco’s menu. Some common additions include:
* **Chicken Bake 2.0:** A reimagined version of the classic, potentially with different ingredients or a slightly altered recipe.
* **New Pizza Flavors:** Expect limited-time or seasonal pizza varieties, such as a supreme pizza or a BBQ chicken pizza.
* **Premium Hot Dogs:** Possibly all-beef, larger in size, or with gourmet toppings.
* **Salads:** Pre-made salads offering healthier options, maybe with chicken, shrimp, or vegetarian choices.
* **Ice Cream Variations:** New flavors or sundaes featuring different toppings and sauces.
With these potential new ingredients in mind, let’s unlock some exciting culinary possibilities.
Recipe 1: Chicken Bake Calzones
The Chicken Bake is a Costco staple, but let’s transform it into a hearty and satisfying calzone.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 Costco Chicken Bakes, slightly cooled
* 1 package (1 lb) pizza dough, store-bought or homemade
* 1 cup ricotta cheese
* ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
* ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
* Italian seasoning
* Marinara sauce, for dipping
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chicken Bake Filling:** Gently open the Chicken Bakes and remove the filling. Chop the filling into smaller, more manageable pieces. Discard the outer pastry or save it for another use (like breadcrumbs!).
2. **Combine the Cheeses:** In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Add a pinch of Italian seasoning.
3. **Assemble the Calzones:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Divide the pizza dough into 4 equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each portion into a circle about 8 inches in diameter.
4. **Fill the Calzones:** On one half of each circle, spread a layer of the cheese mixture, followed by a generous portion of the chopped Chicken Bake filling. Leave a small border around the edge.
5. **Seal the Calzones:** Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges firmly to seal, creating a tight closure. You can also crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch and extra security.
6. **Egg Wash and Bake:** Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top of each calzone with the beaten egg. This will give them a golden-brown color and a nice sheen. Sprinkle with a little more Italian seasoning if desired.
7. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the calzones are golden brown and the filling is heated through.
8. **Serve:** Let the calzones cool slightly before serving. Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add other ingredients to the filling, such as sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or chopped onions.
* Use different cheeses, like provolone or fontina, for a different flavor profile.
* Instead of marinara sauce, serve with pesto or a creamy garlic sauce.
* For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling.
Recipe 2: Costco Pizza Breadsticks
Take advantage of those delicious Costco pizza slices and turn them into flavorful breadsticks.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 slices Costco pizza (any flavor), slightly cooled
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
* ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
* Marinara sauce, for dipping
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Slice the Pizza:** Cut each pizza slice into strips, about 1 inch wide.
3. **Dress the Breadsticks:** In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
4. **Arrange and Bake:** Arrange the pizza strips on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each strip with the olive oil mixture and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the breadsticks are crispy and golden brown.
6. **Serve:** Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different seasonings, such as onion powder, oregano, or basil.
* Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
* Brush the breadsticks with melted butter instead of olive oil.
* Serve with pesto, ranch dressing, or a creamy garlic sauce.
* For a cheesy twist, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese before baking.
Recipe 3: Gourmet Hot Dog Sliders
Elevate the classic Costco hot dog into gourmet sliders that are perfect for parties or a fun weeknight meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 Costco hot dogs (all-beef preferred), cooked
* 6 slider buns
* Toppings of your choice (see suggestions below)
**Topping Suggestions:**
* **Spicy Slaw:** Shredded cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, sriracha, lime juice
* **Caramelized Onions:** Sliced onions, butter, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar
* **Pickled Jalapeños:** Sliced jalapeños, vinegar, sugar, salt
* **Avocado Crema:** Avocado, sour cream, lime juice, cilantro
* **Chili:** Homemade or store-bought chili
* **Cheese Sauce:** Homemade or store-bought cheese sauce
* **Crispy Fried Onions:** Store-bought or homemade
* **Bacon Bits:** Cooked and crumbled bacon
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Hot Dogs:** Cut each hot dog into three equal pieces.
2. **Prepare the Buns:** Lightly toast the slider buns if desired.
3. **Assemble the Sliders:** Place one piece of hot dog on each slider bun. Top with your desired toppings.
4. **Serve:** Serve immediately and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* Get creative with your toppings! Experiment with different flavor combinations.
* Use pretzel buns or Hawaiian rolls for a different twist.
* Grill the hot dog pieces for a smoky flavor.
* Add a drizzle of mustard or ketchup to the sliders.
* Serve with chips, fries, or a side salad.
Recipe 4: Costco Salad Wraps
Transform Costco’s pre-made salads into a light and refreshing wrap.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Costco pre-made salad (chicken, shrimp, or vegetarian)
* 4 large tortillas (flour or spinach)
* Optional: Avocado slices, sprouts, shredded cheese
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Salad:** If the salad has large pieces of protein or vegetables, chop them into smaller, more manageable pieces.
2. **Assemble the Wraps:** Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon a generous amount of the salad onto the center of the tortilla. Add avocado slices, sprouts, or shredded cheese if desired.
3. **Wrap it Up:** Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then fold the bottom edge over the filling. Roll the wrap tightly from the bottom to the top.
4. **Serve:** Cut the wrap in half if desired. Serve immediately or wrap in plastic wrap for later.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of tortillas, such as whole wheat or gluten-free.
* Add a drizzle of your favorite dressing to the wrap.
* Grill the wraps for a warm and crispy texture.
* Serve with a side of salsa or guacamole.
* Add a layer of hummus or cream cheese to the tortilla before adding the salad.
Recipe 5: Ice Cream Sundae Parfaits
Elevate Costco’s ice cream to a decadent parfait.
**Ingredients:**
* Costco ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, or new flavor)
* Your favorite toppings (see suggestions below)
* Whipped cream (optional)
* Maraschino cherries (optional)
* Clear glasses or parfait dishes
**Topping Suggestions:**
* **Hot Fudge Sauce:** Homemade or store-bought
* **Caramel Sauce:** Homemade or store-bought
* **Chopped Nuts:** Peanuts, almonds, pecans, walnuts
* **Sprinkles:** Various colors and shapes
* **Crushed Cookies:** Oreos, chocolate chip cookies, graham crackers
* **Fresh Fruit:** Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, bananas
* **Chocolate Shavings:** Milk chocolate, dark chocolate, white chocolate
* **Mini Marshmallows:** Regular or flavored
**Instructions:**
1. **Layer the Ingredients:** In each glass or parfait dish, layer ice cream, toppings, ice cream, and more toppings. Get creative with your layering!
2. **Top it Off:** Top with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry if desired.
3. **Serve:** Serve immediately and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* Chill the glasses or parfait dishes before assembling the parfaits.
* Use different types of ice cream for a multi-flavored parfait.
* Add a drizzle of liqueur to the parfait for an adult twist.
* Create a themed parfait, such as a chocolate lover’s parfait or a fruit parfait.
* Make individual parfaits for a party or gathering.
Recipe 6: Chicken Bake Waffle Sandwich
A savory-sweet combination that’s unexpectedly delicious.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Costco Chicken Bake, slightly cooled
* 2 frozen waffles, toasted
* Maple syrup
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chicken Bake:** Gently open the Chicken Bake and remove the filling. Discard the outer pastry or save it for another use (like breadcrumbs!). Roughly chop the filling.
2. **Assemble the Sandwich:** Place one waffle on a plate. Top with the chopped Chicken Bake filling. Place the other waffle on top.
3. **Drizzle and Serve:** Drizzle generously with maple syrup. Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of waffles, such as Belgian waffles or blueberry waffles.
* Add a slice of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for extra flavor.
* Grill the waffle sandwich for a warm and crispy texture.
* Add a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
* Serve with a side of fruit or yogurt.
Recipe 7: Pizza Quesadillas
A quick and easy way to use leftover Costco pizza.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 slices Costco pizza (any flavor)
* 2 large flour tortillas
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Pizza:** Fold each slice of pizza in half, with the toppings facing inwards.
2. **Assemble the Quesadillas:** Place one tortilla on a clean surface. Place the folded pizza slice on top of the tortilla. Place the other tortilla on top of the pizza slice.
3. **Cook the Quesadillas:** Heat a large 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.
4. **Serve:** Cut the quesadilla into wedges. Serve immediately with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add extra cheese, such as shredded cheddar or mozzarella, for a cheesier quesadilla.
* Add chopped vegetables, such as onions, peppers, or mushrooms, for added flavor and nutrients.
* Use different types of tortillas, such as whole wheat or spinach.
* Grill the quesadillas for a smoky flavor.
* Serve with a side of beans or rice.
Recipe 8: Hot Dog Mac and Cheese
A comfort food classic with a Costco twist.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 Costco hot dogs (all-beef preferred), cooked
* 1 box macaroni and cheese (prepared according to package directions)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Hot Dogs:** Slice the hot dogs into bite-sized pieces.
2. **Combine and Serve:** Stir the hot dog pieces into the prepared macaroni and cheese. Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of macaroni and cheese, such as cheddar, parmesan, or a three-cheese blend.
* Add chopped vegetables, such as broccoli, peas, or carrots, for added flavor and nutrients.
* Top with breadcrumbs and bake for a crispy topping.
* Add a sprinkle of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
* Serve with a side of garlic bread or a salad.
Recipe 9: Salad Pizza
A lighter take on pizza, using a pre-made salad as a topping.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pre-made Costco salad (caesar, greek, or other)
* Pizza dough
* Olive oil
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven and bake pizza dough accoridng to instructions.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and top with salad.
3. Serve and enjoy
Conclusion
With a little creativity, you can transform Costco food court items into delicious and satisfying meals. These recipes are just a starting point; feel free to experiment and create your own unique dishes using your favorite Costco finds. Remember that food court offerings can vary by location, so be sure to check your local Costco’s menu for the latest options. Happy cooking!