Score Big Savings: Unveiling the Best Costco Copycat Recipes That Rival Name Brands
Costco is a haven for bulk buying and discounted prices, but sometimes, even with those savings, convenience foods can put a dent in your wallet. Enter: copycat recipes! You can recreate your favorite Costco goodies at home for a fraction of the cost, often with even better ingredients and flavor control. This article unveils the best Costco copycat recipes that truly taste like the real deal, complete with detailed instructions to guide you every step of the way.
## Why Copycat Costco Recipes?
Before diving into the recipes, let’s understand why making your own Costco favorites is a smart move:
* **Cost Savings:** This is the most obvious benefit. Buying ingredients in bulk and making things from scratch is almost always cheaper than purchasing pre-made items, even at Costco prices.
* **Ingredient Control:** You get to choose what goes into your food. This is particularly important for those with allergies, dietary restrictions, or simply a desire to avoid certain additives or preservatives.
* **Fresher Flavors:** Homemade food is generally fresher and tastes better than mass-produced items that have been sitting on shelves for an extended period.
* **Customization:** You can tailor the recipes to your own preferences. Want it spicier? Add more chili flakes! Prefer less salt? Simply adjust the seasoning.
* **Fun and Rewarding:** Cooking is a great way to de-stress and bond with family or friends. Plus, there’s a certain satisfaction that comes from recreating your favorite foods from scratch.
## The Ultimate Costco Copycat Recipe Collection
Let’s explore some of the most popular Costco items and their delicious, cost-effective copycat recipes:
### 1. Costco Chicken Bake Copycat
The Costco Chicken Bake is an iconic item that many Costco shoppers can’t resist. This flaky, cheesy, chicken-filled pastry is a perfect comfort food. However, it’s high in calories and sodium. This copycat recipe aims to replicate the taste and texture of the original while allowing you to control the ingredients.
**Ingredients:**
* **For the Dough:**
* 1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
* 1 teaspoon sugar
* 1/2 cup warm water (105-115°F)
* 1 cup milk, warmed
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
* **For the Filling:**
* 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
* 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
* 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
* 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/4 cup Caesar salad dressing
* 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* **For the Egg Wash:**
* 1 egg
* 1 tablespoon milk
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dough:** In a large bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
2. Add the warmed milk, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
3. Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. **Prepare the Filling:** While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, mozzarella cheese, provolone cheese, Parmesan cheese, Caesar salad dressing, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
7. **Assemble the Chicken Bakes:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 6 equal pieces.
9. Roll each piece of dough into a rectangle, approximately 6×8 inches.
10. Place about 1 cup of the chicken filling in the center of each rectangle.
11. Fold the dough over the filling, pressing the edges to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork to ensure they are tightly closed.
12. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk to create an egg wash.
13. Brush the tops of the chicken bakes with the egg wash.
14. Cut a few slits in the top of each chicken bake to allow steam to escape.
15. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
16. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
### 2. Costco Pizza Copycat
Costco pizza is a staple for many shoppers. The giant slices are perfect for feeding a crowd. This copycat recipe aims to replicate the massive size, cheesy goodness, and flavorful sauce of the original.
**Ingredients:**
* **For the Dough:**
* 1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
* 1 teaspoon sugar
* 1 1/2 cups warm water (105-115°F)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 4 1/2 cups bread flour, plus more for dusting
* **For the Sauce:**
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1 teaspoon dried basil
* 1/2 teaspoon sugar
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* **For the Toppings:**
* 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
* Your favorite pizza toppings (pepperoni, sausage, vegetables, etc.)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dough:** In a large bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
2. Add the olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
3. Gradually add the bread flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 1.5-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. **Prepare the Sauce:** While the dough is rising, prepare the sauce. In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
7. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
8. **Assemble the Pizza:** Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C). Place a pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven to preheat.
9. Punch down the risen dough and divide it in half. Each half will make a large pizza.
10. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one piece of dough into a large circle or rectangle, about 16-18 inches in diameter/length.
11. Carefully transfer the dough to a pizza peel or baking sheet dusted with cornmeal.
12. Spread a generous amount of the pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
13. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and your favorite toppings.
14. Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven.
15. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
16. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
### 3. Costco Muffins Copycat (Blueberry & Chocolate Chip)
Costco muffins are gigantic and delicious, but they can be loaded with sugar and fat. This copycat recipe allows you to make healthier, equally delicious muffins at home, and customize them to your liking. We’ll cover both Blueberry and Chocolate Chip variations.
**Ingredients:**
* 3 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
* 1 tablespoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 2 large eggs
* 1 cup buttermilk
* 1/2 cup vegetable oil
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
* **For Blueberry Muffins:** 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
* **For Chocolate Chip Muffins:** 2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease well.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix. A few lumps are okay.
5. Gently fold in the blueberries or chocolate chips.
6. Fill the muffin liners about 3/4 full.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!
**Tips for Costco-Sized Muffins:**
* Use jumbo muffin tins for larger muffins.
* Increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes if using jumbo muffin tins.
* For a bakery-style dome, fill the muffin liners almost to the top.
### 4. Costco Rotisserie Chicken Salad Copycat
Costco’s rotisserie chicken is a fantastic deal, and using the leftovers to make chicken salad is a great way to extend its value. This copycat recipe recreates the deli-style chicken salad found at Costco, perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or serving on crackers.
**Ingredients:**
* 3 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded (from your Costco chicken!)
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 1/4 cup celery, finely diced
* 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
* 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 1 teaspoon lemon juice
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* Optional: 1/4 cup dried cranberries or chopped pecans for added flavor and texture
**Instructions:**
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, sweet pickle relish, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more mayonnaise for a creamier salad, or more Dijon mustard for a tangier flavor.
4. If desired, stir in the dried cranberries or chopped pecans.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This is important for the best flavor.
6. Serve on bread, croissants, crackers, or lettuce wraps. Enjoy!
### 5. Costco Kirkland Signature Trail Mix Copycat
Kirkland Signature Trail Mix is a popular snack for its variety of nuts, dried fruits, and chocolate chips. Making your own allows you to customize the mix to your preferences and control the quality of the ingredients. You can also eliminate ingredients you don’t like (looking at you, Brazil nuts!).
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup almonds
* 1 cup cashews
* 1 cup walnuts
* 1 cup pecans
* 1 cup dried cranberries
* 1 cup raisins
* 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark chocolate)
* Optional: Other nuts, seeds, or dried fruits of your choice (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, dried apricots, etc.)
**Instructions:**
1. In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients.
2. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Store in an airtight container at room temperature. Enjoy!
**Tips for Customizing Your Trail Mix:**
* **Nuts:** Use your favorite combination of nuts. Consider toasting the nuts for enhanced flavor.
* **Dried Fruits:** Experiment with different dried fruits like apricots, mangoes, or cherries.
* **Seeds:** Add pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or chia seeds for added nutrition.
* **Chocolate:** Use different types of chocolate chips, such as milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate.
* **Spice:** Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper for a unique flavor.
### 6. Costco Churros Copycat
While Costco no longer sells the twisted churros in many locations, the memory of those warm, cinnamon-sugar-coated treats lives on! This copycat recipe brings that deliciousness back to your kitchen.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup water
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 3 large eggs
* Vegetable oil, for frying
* **For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:**
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
**Instructions:**
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Remove from heat and add the flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until a smooth dough forms and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
3. Let the dough cool slightly for 5 minutes.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy. The dough should be thick enough to hold its shape but still pliable.
5. Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip.
6. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
7. Pipe the dough directly into the hot oil, cutting off the dough with scissors or a knife to your desired length (about 4-6 inches).
8. Fry the churros for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
9. Remove the churros from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
10. While the churros are still warm, combine the sugar and cinnamon in a shallow dish. Roll each churro in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat completely.
11. Serve immediately. Enjoy!
### 7. Costco Pumpkin Pie Copycat
Costco’s pumpkin pie is a Thanksgiving staple for many families. This copycat recipe aims to replicate the creamy, spiced filling and flaky crust of the original. You can use a store-bought crust to save time, or make your own for a truly homemade experience.
**Ingredients:**
* **For the Crust:** (Or use a store-bought 9-inch pie crust)
* 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
* 1/4 cup ice water
* **For the Filling:**
* 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
* 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Crust (if making from scratch):** In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Do not overmix.
3. Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a 12-inch circle.
5. Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie plate. Trim and crimp the edges.
6. **Prepare the Filling:** In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
7. Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
8. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let cool completely before serving. Refrigerate any leftovers. Enjoy!
### 8. Costco Kirkland Signature Macadamia Clusters Copycat
These decadent chocolate-covered macadamia nut clusters are a favorite treat, but they can be quite expensive. This copycat recipe allows you to make your own for a fraction of the cost, and you can even customize the chocolate type and nut ratio.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound macadamia nuts, roasted and salted
* 12 ounces chocolate chips (milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or a combination)
* 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for a smoother chocolate coating)
* Optional: Sea salt flakes for sprinkling on top
**Instructions:**
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) in a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and melted.
3. Add the macadamia nuts to the melted chocolate and stir to coat completely.
4. Drop spoonfuls of the chocolate-covered macadamia nuts onto the prepared baking sheet, forming clusters.
5. If desired, sprinkle with sea salt flakes.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is set.
7. Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Enjoy!
### 9. Costco Mango Salsa Copycat
Costco’s Mango Salsa is fresh, flavorful, and perfect with tortilla chips, grilled chicken, or fish. This copycat recipe captures the vibrant flavors of the original, using simple ingredients that are easy to find.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
* 1/2 red onion, finely diced
* 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
* 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
* 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
* Juice of 2 limes
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. In a medium bowl, combine the diced mangoes, red onion, red bell pepper, jalapeño pepper (if using), and cilantro.
2. Pour the lime juice over the mixture and season with salt and pepper.
3. Stir gently to combine.
4. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more lime juice for a tangier salsa, or more jalapeño for added heat.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve with tortilla chips, grilled chicken, fish, or tacos. Enjoy!
### 10. Costco Kirkland Signature Pesto Copycat
Costco’s Kirkland Signature Pesto is a convenient and flavorful addition to pasta, sandwiches, and more. Making your own allows you to control the quality of ingredients and adjust the flavor to your liking.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 cup olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic.
2. Pulse until finely chopped.
3. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until a smooth paste forms.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze pesto in ice cube trays for longer storage.
6. Use pesto on pasta, sandwiches, pizza, or as a spread. Enjoy!
## Tips for Success with Costco Copycat Recipes
* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** The better the ingredients, the better the final product will taste. Don’t skimp on things like butter, cheese, and spices.
* **Follow the Recipes Carefully:** Pay attention to the measurements and instructions. Baking is a science, and even small changes can affect the outcome.
* **Taste and Adjust Seasonings:** Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add more salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
* **Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment:** Once you’ve mastered the basic recipes, feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Try adding different types of cheese to the pizza, or using different dried fruits in the trail mix.
* **Invest in Good Kitchen Equipment:** A good stand mixer, food processor, and baking sheets can make a big difference in the quality of your homemade Costco goodies.
* **Practice Makes Perfect:** Don’t get discouraged if your first attempt isn’t perfect. Keep practicing, and you’ll eventually master these Costco copycat recipes.
## Enjoy the Savings and the Flavor!
By recreating your favorite Costco products at home, you can save money, control the ingredients, and enjoy fresh, delicious food. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and start cooking! You’ll be amazed at how easy and rewarding it is to make your own Costco copycat goodies.