Let’s be honest—Costco isn’t just a store; it’s a lifestyle. You don’t just walk into Costco. You embark on a journey of oversized carts, endless free samples, and shelves stacked with treasures. But here’s the kicker: if you’re skipping over certain items during your visit, you might as well throw that glorious membership card out the window.
Don’t worry, I’m not here to judge. I’m here to make sure you don’t miss out. Let’s dive into the four golden items of Costco that you absolutely need in your cart.
1. Kirkland Signature Parchment Paper
I know what you’re thinking—parchment paper? Really? Yes, really. Costco’s Kirkland Signature parchment paper is the MVP of the kitchen. This isn’t your flimsy, tear-after-one-use stuff. It’s heavy-duty, fits perfectly on baking sheets, and lasts forever.
One roll feels like it could survive an apocalypse. Use it for baking, roasting, or even as a makeshift placemat for your toddler’s spaghetti night. Bonus: It’s non-stick and makes cleaning up a breeze. You’ll thank me every time you don’t have to scrub caramelized chicken skin off a pan.
2. Rotisserie Chicken
Alright, this one might not be a shocker, but hear me out. Costco’s rotisserie chicken isn’t just any chicken—it’s the chicken. At $4.99, it’s cheaper than a fancy coffee and infinitely more satisfying. The seasoning is perfect, the meat is juicy, and it’s massive.
But here’s the real hack: shred that bad boy and freeze it. You now have a meal starter for soups, salads, tacos, and more. Also, ever tried making chicken stock with the leftovers? It’s liquid gold. Trust me, you’re wasting your membership if you’re walking past this bird.
3. Costco’s Sheet Cake
Okay, buckle up, because Costco’s sheet cake isn’t just dessert; it’s an experience. These cakes are ridiculously delicious, and they feed an army. I must say these are perfect for birthdays or “just because I want cake” days. The chocolate version with the mousse filling? Heavenly.
And the best part? It’s dirt cheap compared to bakery cakes that taste half as good. You could even slice it up and freeze pieces for future you. Just don’t tell anyone you did, or you’ll have relatives knocking at your door.
4. Kirkland Extra Virgin Olive Oil
If you’re buying olive oil anywhere else, you’re doing it wrong. Costco’s Kirkland EVOO is a hidden gem. It’s certified organic, consistently high-quality, and tastes amazing. Use it for cooking, drizzling over salads, or dipping crusty bread.
Oh, and the price? A fraction of what you’d pay for a tiny bottle at a specialty store. Even my Italian friend swears by it—and you know that’s the ultimate endorsement.
5. Kirkland Signature Peanut Butter Cups
If you’re a fan of peanut butter and chocolate (and honestly, who isn’t?), you need these in your life. Kirkland’s version gives those fancy name-brand cups a run for their money. They’re bigger, creamier, and come in a massive tub that could double as a workout weight.
The chocolate-to-peanut-butter ratio? Chef’s kiss. Keep these stocked in your pantry, and watch your “just one more” resolve crumble. Pro tip: Freeze them for a cold, melty treat, and you’ll not look at candy the same way ever again.
6. Frozen Salmon Fillets
Costco’s frozen salmon fillets are an unsung hero in the freezer aisle. Individually vacuum-packed and wild-caught, they’re a lifesaver for weeknight dinners. They thaw quickly, cook beautifully, and taste fresh every time.
Whether you’re grilling, pan-searing, or baking them with some of that Kirkland olive oil (see item #4), these fillets are a healthy, delicious, and ridiculously convenient staple. Plus, they’re way more affordable than buying fresh salmon at the grocery store.
7. Laundry Detergent Pods
Here’s a secret: Costco’s laundry detergent pods work just as well as the big-name brands but cost way less. They’re fragrance-free, so no weird chemical smells clinging to your clothes, and they dissolve perfectly every time.
One tub will last you months—even if you’re tackling an endless pile of laundry from kids, pets, or that weird “I wore this for five minutes” habit we all have. Stock up, and you’ll never run out at the worst possible moment again.
