Costco is known for its bulk savings and convenient meal options, but not every product in its frozen or prepared food section is worth the price. Some meals fall short in terms of taste, quality, or overall value.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at six Costco meals that might not be the best bang for your buck and explore their nutritional facts, ingredients, and preparation instructions.
1. Kirkland Signature Chicken Alfredo $16/3 lbs
Kirkland Signature Chicken Alfredo is a ready-made meal that comes with pre-cooked pasta, grilled chicken breast strips, shredded cheese, and a packet of Alfredo sauce. While it’s a convenient dinner option, many customers complain about its greasy texture and bland flavor.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 260 kcal
- Total Fat: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 14g
Ingredients:
- Cooked pasta (semolina, water)
- Grilled chicken breast
- Alfredo sauce (cream, parmesan cheese, butter, garlic)
- Shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese
- Seasonings and preservatives
Preparation Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Remove plastic cover and place the tray on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Rana Maine Lobster Raviolin $15/13 oz
Rana’s Maine Lobster Ravioli sounds like a gourmet treat, but many customers are disappointed by its underwhelming taste. Reviews mention that the lobster filling lacks flavor and is overwhelmed by the cheese mixture.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Sodium: 510mg
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 10g
Ingredients:
- Enriched wheat flour
- Ricotta cheese
- Lobster meat
- Mozzarella cheese
- Egg yolk
- Spices and seasonings
Preparation Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add ravioli and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface.
- Drain and serve with your preferred sauce.
3. Kirkland Signature Mac and Cheese $11.36/3.5 lbs
Costco’s mac and cheese is creamy and rich, but many customers feel it’s overpriced compared to homemade or boxed alternatives. Some also say it lacks seasoning.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 3400
- Total Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Sodium: 490mg
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 12g
Ingredients:
- Cooked elbow macaroni
- Cheddar cheese sauce
- Whole milk
- Butter
- Seasonings and preservatives
Preparation Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Remove plastic cover and place tray on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes until cheese is bubbling.
- Let cool before serving.
4. Kirkland Signature Shepherd’s Pie $25.89/4 lbs
This large portioned meal consists of ground beef, mixed vegetables, and mashed potatoes. However, many customers find the meat too watery and the mashed potatoes artificial-tasting.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 230
- Total Fat: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sodium: 530mg
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 8g
Ingredients:
- Ground beef
- Mashed potatoes (potatoes, cream, butter)
- Mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- Worcestershire sauce
- Seasonings and preservatives
Preparation Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Remove plastic lid and place tray in the oven.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes until golden brown.
- Let it rest before serving.
5. Frozen Chicken Bake (Kirkland Signature) $16.78/8oz
This frozen version of Costco’s famous Chicken Bake doesn’t live up to the fresh version sold at their food court. Many reviews mention that the texture is too soft and lacks the crispy, cheesy exterior.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 540 kcal
- Total Fat: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 78g
- Sodium: 1460mg
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 41g
Ingredients:
- Dough (enriched wheat flour, yeast)
- Grilled chicken breast
- Cheese blend (mozzarella, provolone, parmesan)
- Caesar dressing
Preparation Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Place frozen chicken bake on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool before serving.
6. Kirkland Signature Street Taco Kit $19.81/3 lbs
Costco’s taco kit includes tortillas, grilled chicken, cabbage slaw, shredded cheese, cilantro-lime crema, and salsa. However, many customers complain that the tortillas become soggy, and the chicken is either too salty or too dry.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 190
- Total Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 12g
Ingredients:
- Flour tortillas
- Grilled chicken breast
- Cabbage slaw
- Cheese blend
- Cilantro-lime crema
Preparation Instructions:
- Heat tortillas on a skillet or microwave.
- Warm chicken in a pan or microwave.
- Assemble tacos with toppings and serve.
Conclusion
While Costco offers convenience, some of these meals may not be worth the money. Consider making homemade versions for better taste, quality, and value!
