Score Big Savings: Delicious Costco Recipes Under $10 This May
Costco. The land of bulk buys, free samples, and surprisingly affordable ingredients. But navigating those massive aisles and figuring out how to use everything before it expires can be daunting. Fear not, budget-conscious foodie! This May, we’re unlocking the secrets to creating delicious and satisfying meals using Costco’s best deals under $10 per serving. Get ready to impress your family and friends without breaking the bank.
## Why Costco for Budget Cooking?
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s address why Costco is a great option for budget-friendly cooking:
* **Bulk Savings:** Costco specializes in selling products in bulk, which often translates to lower prices per unit compared to traditional grocery stores. This is especially true for staples like rice, beans, pasta, canned goods, and frozen vegetables.
* **Kirkland Signature Brand:** Costco’s Kirkland Signature brand offers high-quality products at competitive prices. Don’t underestimate these items – they often rival name-brand quality at a fraction of the cost.
* **Fresh Produce Deals:** Keep an eye out for seasonal produce deals. Costco often offers large quantities of fruits and vegetables at significantly lower prices than other stores. Just be sure you can use them before they spoil!
* **Meat and Poultry Values:** While a large pack of steak might seem expensive upfront, Costco often offers great prices per pound on meat and poultry. Consider portioning and freezing the meat to extend its shelf life.
* **Strategic Shopping:** The key to saving money at Costco is strategic shopping. Create a meal plan, stick to your grocery list, and avoid impulse purchases. It’s easy to get carried away by the tempting displays, but staying focused will help you stay within your budget.
## Important Considerations Before You Shop
* **Membership Required:** You’ll need a Costco membership to shop at their stores. Weigh the cost of the membership against the potential savings to determine if it’s worth it for you.
* **Storage Space:** Bulk purchases require ample storage space. Make sure you have enough room in your pantry, refrigerator, and freezer to accommodate your Costco haul.
* **Expiration Dates:** Pay close attention to expiration dates. It’s crucial to use perishable items before they spoil. Consider freezing items to extend their shelf life.
* **Portioning:** When buying in bulk, portioning is key. Divide large quantities into smaller, manageable portions for easy use and to prevent waste.
* **Price Comparisons:** Don’t assume that everything at Costco is the cheapest option. Compare prices with your local grocery stores to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Sometimes sales at other stores can beat Costco’s regular prices.
## Delicious Costco Recipes Under $10 Per Serving
Here are some delicious and budget-friendly recipes you can create using Costco ingredients this May:
### Recipe 1: One-Pan Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken and Vegetables
This recipe is simple, flavorful, and requires minimal cleanup. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
**Ingredients (Estimated Costco Cost):**
* Whole Chicken (Kirkland Signature): $0.99/lb (approx. $6-8 for a 6-8 lb chicken) – Serves 6-8, so price/serving for chicken is around $1
* Potatoes (5 lb bag): $6.99 (approx. $1.40 per lb) – $1 for potatoes
* Carrots (5 lb bag): $4.99 (approx. $1 per lb) – $0.75 for carrots
* Onion (3 lb bag): $3.99 (approx. $1.33 per lb) – $0.50 for onion
* Lemons (bag of 6): $7.99 (approx. $1.33 each) – $1.33 for lemons
* Fresh Herbs (Rosemary, Thyme, Oregano – Assorted Pack): $4.99 – $1 herb cost
* Olive Oil (Kirkland Signature): $14.99 (but will last for many meals) – minimal
* Salt and Pepper: minimal
**Estimated Total Cost for Recipe:** $6.58 (feeds 6-8 people) = $0.82-$1.10 per serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. **Prepare the Chicken:** Remove the giblets from the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the chicken inside and out with salt, pepper, and your chosen herbs (rosemary, thyme, and oregano).
3. **Prepare the Vegetables:** Wash and chop the potatoes, carrots, and onion into bite-sized pieces. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. **Arrange on Pan:** Place the vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Place the chicken on top of the vegetables.
5. **Add Lemon:** Cut one lemon in half and squeeze the juice over the chicken and vegetables. Place the lemon halves inside the chicken cavity.
6. **Roast:** Roast the chicken and vegetables for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
7. **Rest:** Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve the chicken and vegetables immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add other vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers.
* Use different herbs like sage or parsley.
* For extra flavor, add garlic cloves to the pan.
* If the vegetables start to brown too quickly, cover the pan with foil.
### Recipe 2: Black Bean Burgers with Avocado Crema
These vegetarian burgers are packed with flavor and protein. They’re a great alternative to traditional beef burgers.
**Ingredients (Estimated Costco Cost):**
* Canned Black Beans (Kirkland Signature, 8 cans): $7.99 (approx. $1 per can) – $2 black bean cost
* Rolled Oats (Large Bag): $12.99 (but will last for many meals) – $0.50 oats cost
* Onion (3 lb bag): $3.99 (approx. $1.33 per lb) – $0.50 onion cost
* Garlic (3 lb): $9.99 (but will last for many meals) – $0.20 garlic cost
* Spices (Chili Powder, Cumin, Paprika): From spice rack already owned (or buy large containers that will last many meals)
* Avocados (bag of 6): $9.99 (approx. $1.67 each) – $3.34 avocados cost
* Lime (bag of limes): $6.99 – $0.50 lime cost
* Sour Cream (or Greek Yogurt): $5.99 (but will last many meals) – $0.50 for sour cream
* Burger Buns: $6.99 (pack of 12) – $1.17 for buns
**Estimated Total Cost for Recipe:** $9.71 (makes 4 burgers) = $2.43 per serving.
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Black Beans:** Drain and rinse the black beans. Mash half of the beans with a fork.
2. **Sauté Onion and Garlic:** Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in a pan until softened.
3. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the mashed black beans, whole black beans, sautéed onion and garlic, rolled oats, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. **Form Patties:** Form the mixture into four patties.
5. **Cook the Burgers:** Cook the burgers in a pan over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side, or until heated through and slightly browned.
6. **Make Avocado Crema:** While the burgers are cooking, prepare the avocado crema. In a food processor or blender, combine the avocado, lime juice, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
7. **Assemble the Burgers:** Serve the black bean burgers on burger buns with avocado crema and your favorite toppings (lettuce, tomato, onion, etc.).
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add chopped bell peppers or corn to the burger mixture.
* Use different spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper.
* Top the burgers with salsa, cheese, or a fried egg.
* Grill the burgers instead of cooking them in a pan.
### Recipe 3: Costco Rotisserie Chicken Salad Sandwiches
Costco’s rotisserie chicken is a staple for budget-conscious shoppers. This recipe transforms it into a delicious and easy lunch.
**Ingredients (Estimated Costco Cost):**
* Costco Rotisserie Chicken: $4.99 (serves 4-6 people) – $2 for the chicken cost
* Mayonnaise: $7.99 (but will last for many meals) – $0.50 mayonnaise cost
* Celery (bag): $4.99 – $0.50 celery cost
* Red Onion: $3.99 (3lb bag) – $0.50 red onion cost
* Grapes (bag): $7.99 – $1.00 grapes cost
* Bread: $6.99 – $1.00 for bread cost
* Salt and Pepper: minimal
**Estimated Total Cost for Recipe:** $5.50 (makes 4 sandwiches) = $1.38 per serving.
**Instructions:**
1. **Shred the Chicken:** Remove the skin from the rotisserie chicken and shred the meat.
2. **Chop Vegetables:** Chop the celery and red onion into small pieces. Halve the grapes.
3. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped celery, chopped red onion, halved grapes, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper.
4. **Mix Well:** Mix all ingredients thoroughly.
5. **Assemble Sandwiches:** Spread the chicken salad mixture on bread slices and assemble the sandwiches.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
* Use different types of bread, such as croissants or bagels.
* Add a touch of Dijon mustard or lemon juice for extra flavor.
* Serve the chicken salad on lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
### Recipe 4: Quick & Easy Pasta with Kirkland Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
This dish is super fast to make and relies on the robust flavor of Kirkland’s Pesto.
**Ingredients (Estimated Costco Cost):**
* Pasta (Kirkland Penne, 6lb Bag): $7.99 (but lasts for multiple meals) – $1.00 for pasta
* Kirkland Pesto (Large Jar): $9.99 (but will last many meals) – $1.50 pesto cost
* Cherry Tomatoes (2lb container): $8.99 – $2.00 cherry tomato cost
* Parmesan Cheese (Optional, but Costco has a great block!): $19.99 – minimal cost (from cheese already owned, or a tiny sliver from the block)
* Olive Oil:minimal (from existing supply)
* Salt and Pepper: minimal
**Estimated Total Cost for Recipe:** $4.50 (Serves 4) = $1.13 per serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Cook the pasta according to package directions. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. **Sauté Tomatoes (Optional):** While the pasta is cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan. Add the cherry tomatoes and sauté for a few minutes until they blister slightly. This step enhances their sweetness.
3. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, pesto, and cherry tomatoes. Add a little pasta water at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
4. **Season and Serve:** Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
* Use different types of pasta, such as rotini or farfalle.
* Add other vegetables like spinach or zucchini.
* Toast pine nuts and sprinkle them over the top.
### Recipe 5: Giant Costco Cookie Skillet (for Sharing!)
This is a fun dessert that’s perfect for a potluck or family gathering. Using pre-made cookie dough keeps it incredibly simple.
**Ingredients (Estimated Costco Cost):**
* Kirkland Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough (Pre-made): $9.99 (makes several batches of cookies or one giant skillet) – $2.50 cookie dough cost
* Ice Cream (Optional, Kirkland Vanilla is a great deal): $12.99 – not factored into per-serving cost
**Estimated Total Cost for Recipe:** $2.50 (Serves 8-10) = $0.25 – $0.31 per serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Prepare Skillet:** Grease a 10-inch oven-safe skillet with cooking spray.
3. **Press Dough into Skillet:** Press the cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the skillet.
4. **Bake:** Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is slightly soft.
5. **Cool Slightly:** Let the cookie skillet cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
6. **Serve (Optional):** Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles on top of the cookie dough before baking.
* Use different types of cookie dough, such as peanut butter or oatmeal raisin.
* Drizzle with chocolate sauce or caramel sauce.
### Recipe 6: Sheet Pan Fajitas with Costco Chicken or Steak
Another easy one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
**Ingredients (Estimated Costco Cost):**
* Chicken Breast (Kirkland Signature) or Steak (for fajitas): $ varies. Using Chicken Breast $1.99/lb- 2 lbs – $4.00
* Bell Peppers (6-pack): $12.99 (approx $2.17 each) – $4.34 for 2 bell peppers
* Onion (3 lb bag): $3.99 (approx. $1.33 per lb) – $0.50 for onion
* Fajita Seasoning (large container- will last for multiple meals)
* Tortillas (Costco has a great deal on large packs): $8.99 – $1.50 tortillas
* Sour Cream/Salsa/Guacamole (Optional toppings)
**Estimated Total Cost for Recipe:** $10.34 (Serves 4) = $2.58 per serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat oven and prep:** Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the chicken (or steak) into thin strips. Slice the bell peppers and onion into strips.
2. **Season:** In a large bowl, toss the chicken (or steak), bell peppers, and onion with fajita seasoning.
3. **Arrange on pan:** Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet.
4. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
5. **Warm tortillas:** Warm the tortillas according to package directions.
6. **Assemble:** Serve the fajita mixture in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add a can of drained and rinsed black beans or corn to the baking sheet.
* Serve with lime wedges for extra flavor.
* Use different types of peppers, such as poblano or jalapeño.
### Recipe 7: Costco Ground Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Utilize the ground beef and frozen vegetable sections for a quick and filling stir-fry.
**Ingredients (Estimated Costco Cost):**
* Ground Beef (Kirkland Signature, usually comes in large packages – freeze portions) $3.99/lb – 1.5 lbs – $6.00
* Frozen Stir-Fry Vegetables (Costco has several options): $8.99 – $2.00 vegetable cost
* Soy Sauce (Large bottle at Costco – will last many meals) – Minimal cost
* Rice (Kirkland Basmati Rice is a good deal – but is for future meals, so costs not directly attributed to per-serving)
* Sesame Oil (from existing supply) – Minimal cost
* Garlic: (from existing supply or Costco) – Minimal cost
* Ginger: (Fresh ginger from Costco) – $1.00 ginger
**Estimated Total Cost for Recipe:** $9.00 (Serves 4) = $2.25 per serving.
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the ground beef:** Brown the ground beef in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
2. **Add garlic and ginger:** Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. **Add vegetables:** Add the frozen stir-fry vegetables to the skillet and cook until heated through.
4. **Add sauce:** Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil. Cook for another minute or two, until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. **Serve:** Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
* Use different types of vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or mushrooms.
* Add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the sauce for a thicker consistency.
### Recipe 8: Yogurt Parfaits with Costco Berries and Granola
A healthy and delicious breakfast or snack option.
**Ingredients (Estimated Costco Cost):**
* Greek Yogurt (Large container, Kirkland Signature): $12.99 (but lasts many meals) – $2.00 yogurt cost
* Fresh Berries (Strawberries, Blueberries, Raspberries – Costco often has good deals): $9.99 – $3.00 berry cost
* Granola (Kirkland Signature): $8.99 – $2.00 granola cost
* Honey (optional)
**Estimated Total Cost for Recipe:** $7.00 (Serves 4) = $1.75 per serving.
**Instructions:**
1. **Layer Ingredients:** In a glass or bowl, layer yogurt, berries, and granola.
2. **Repeat:** Repeat the layers until the glass or bowl is full.
3. **Drizzle (Optional):** Drizzle with honey, if desired.
4. **Serve:** Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of yogurt, such as vanilla or flavored yogurt.
* Add other fruits, such as bananas or peaches.
* Add nuts or seeds for extra crunch.
## Maximizing Your Costco Savings: Key Strategies
Beyond the recipes themselves, here are some additional strategies for maximizing your savings at Costco:
* **Shop with a List:** Creating a detailed shopping list before you go will help you stay focused and avoid impulse purchases.
* **Compare Unit Prices:** Pay attention to the unit prices (price per ounce, pound, etc.) to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Sometimes a larger package isn’t always the cheapest option.
* **Take Advantage of Coupons and Sales:** Costco frequently offers coupons and sales on various items. Keep an eye out for these deals to save even more money. Check the Costco Connection magazine and the Costco website for current promotions.
* **Share with Friends and Family:** Consider splitting bulk purchases with friends or family members. This can help you reduce waste and save money on items you might not be able to use on your own.
* **Freeze Perishable Items:** Freezing is a great way to extend the shelf life of perishable items like meat, poultry, fruits, and vegetables. Portion and freeze items in airtight containers or freezer bags.
* **Use Costco’s Return Policy:** Costco has a very generous return policy. If you’re not satisfied with a product, you can usually return it for a full refund.
* **Be Aware of Seasonal Deals:** Costco often offers seasonal deals on items like holiday decorations, gardening supplies, and summer essentials. Stock up on these items when they’re on sale.
* **Shop During Off-Peak Hours:** Avoid shopping during peak hours (weekends and evenings) to avoid crowds and long checkout lines. Shopping during off-peak hours can make your experience more enjoyable and efficient.
* **Consider the Costco Credit Card:** If you shop at Costco frequently, consider getting the Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi. It offers cash back rewards on Costco purchases and other spending categories.
* **Try Store Brand Products:** Don’t be afraid to try the Kirkland Signature brand products. Many of them are made by well-known manufacturers and offer excellent quality at a lower price.
* **Plan Your Meals Around Costco’s Deals:** Before you go shopping, check the Costco website or the Costco Connection magazine to see what’s on sale. Then, plan your meals around those deals to save the most money.
## Conclusion: Delicious Savings Await
Costco can be a fantastic resource for budget-conscious cooks. By strategically planning your shopping trips, focusing on bulk staples, and utilizing these delicious recipes, you can create satisfying meals for your family and friends without exceeding your budget. So, grab your Costco membership card, create your shopping list, and get ready to enjoy delicious savings this May!