In Costco’s meat section, it’s survival of the savviest. As inflation tightens wallets, shoppers are redefining what “prime cuts” mean, scouring for deals that deliver both quality and value like never before.
The latest Power of Meat report from the Meat Institute and FMI shows a surprising shift: Americans are now buying more fresh meat than before the pandemic, with laser focus on price, convenience, and health¹.
From budget-friendly bulk buys to indulgent splurges, here’s how to make Costco’s meat aisle work harder for you.
1. Stock Up: Kirkland Signature Organic Ground Beef
Kirkland Signature organic ground beef is a top pick for health-conscious Costco shoppers. This high-quality meat is sourced from cattle raised without antibiotics or growth hormones, ensuring a cleaner, more natural product.
The price point is slightly higher than its non-organic counterpart, making it affordable for those looking to make healthier choices.
Another standout feature is the packaging of this ground beef. It comes in smaller, more manageable portions that are easier to store and use, reducing the risk of waste. This design makes it a convenient choice for households of various sizes.
2. Avoid: Kirkland Signature Regular Ground Beef
While Costco’s regular ground beef may seem like a budget-friendly option, it’s best to proceed cautiously. The main issue lies in its packaging, which consists of a large 10-pound chub that can be challenging to store and portion out.
This format can lead to waste and spoilage unless you’re feeding a large crowd or have ample freezer space. Moreover, the quality of the regular ground beef may not be as consistent as the organic version.
With a higher fat content and no guarantee of antibiotic-free or hormone-free cattle, it’s a less appealing choice for those prioritizing health and quality.
3. Stock Up: Beef Brisket
Costco’s brisket is a favorite among barbecue enthusiasts and home cooks alike. This large cut of beef is perfect for slow-cooking methods like smoking or braising.
The quality of Costco’s brisket is consistently high, often rivaling that of specialty butcher shops but at a more competitive price point. The size of Costco’s briskets makes them ideal for large gatherings or for those who like to cook once and enjoy leftovers for days.
When properly prepared, this cut yields tender, flavorful meat that’s versatile enough for a variety of dishes, from traditional barbecue to hearty stews
4. Avoid: Kirkland Signature New York Strip Steak
While Kirkland Signature New York strip steaks may look tempting with their thick cut and marbling, they can be challenging to cook properly. The thickness of these steaks makes it difficult to achieve the desired doneness without overcooking the exterior.
Additionally, Costco’s pre-cut steaks are often blade tenderized, a process that involves piercing the meat with small blades to improve tenderness. This process can introduce bacteria into the steak’s interior, requiring higher cooking temperatures for safety.
These pre-cut options may not be the best choice for those who prefer their steaks cooked medium-rare or medium.
5. Stock Up: Beef Ribs
Ribs are a crowd-pleaser, and Costco’s selection doesn’t disappoint. The Kirkland Signature beef ribs stand out, offering USDA Choice quality at an unbeatable price. These well-marbled ribs come in generous 4.5-pound packages, perfect for feeding a hungry crowd.
Costco offers two varieties of beef ribs: St. Louis-style, which comes pre-seasoned with a flavorful blend of spices, and raw, allowing you to customize your seasoning.
Both options will surely satisfy whether you’re grilling, smoking, or oven-roasting.
6. Avoid: Pre-Seasoned Tri-Tip
While Costco’s pre-seasoned tri-tip may seem convenient, it’s best to avoid it. The seasoning blend used on these cuts is often overly salty and can overpower the meat’s natural flavor. Additionally, the quality of the tri-tip itself can be inconsistent, with some packages containing more gristle and tough spots than others.
For the best results, opt for an unseasoned tri-tip and apply your marinade or rub according to your taste preferences.
7. Stock Up: Rack of Lamb
Costco’s rack of lamb is an elegant choice for special occasions or intimate dinners. The Australian lamb sold at Costco is known for its superior quality, thanks to the country’s strict animal welfare standards and sustainable farming practices.
What makes Costco’s lamb rack particularly appealing is that it comes pre-frenched, meaning the rib bones have been cleaned and exposed.
At other retailers, this time-consuming process is often an additional expense, but Costco includes it at no extra charge. The result is a beautiful, restaurant-quality presentation that’s sure to impress.
8. Avoid: Kirkland Signature Salmon
While Costco’s Kirkland Signature salmon may seem like a healthy choice, there are a few reasons to think twice before adding it to your cart. Salmon is often sold in large portions, which can be difficult to consume before the fish spoils, leading to waste.
Additionally, the quality of the salmon can be inconsistent, with some packages containing more bones or exhibiting a stronger fishy odor than others.
For the freshest, highest-quality salmon, visiting a dedicated seafood market or specialty grocer may be better.
9. Stock Up: Pork Belly
Pork belly is a versatile cut that’s become increasingly popular in recent years, and Costco offers it at an unbeatable price. Whether you’re planning to make homemade bacon, crispy pork belly, or succulent braised dishes, this cut is a must-have.
Costco’s pork belly comes in large, well-marbled slabs perfect for slicing into thick cuts or cubing for stews and braises.
The high-fat content ensures a rich, flavorful result, regardless of how you prepare it.
10. Avoid: Frozen Meatballs
While Costco’s frozen meatballs may seem like a convenient appetizer or meal starter, they often lack flavor and texture. They can be dense and rubbery, lacking the tender, juicy qualities of homemade or freshly prepared alternatives. Moreover, the ingredient list on these frozen meatballs can be lengthy and include additives and preservatives that may not align with your dietary preferences.
For a more satisfying and wholesome option, consider making your meatballs in bulk and freezing them for future use.
11. Stock Up: Whole Pork Loin
For the budget-conscious shopper, Costco’s whole pork loin is an unbeatable deal. This versatile cut can be transformed into various dishes, from juicy pork chops to flavorful roasts.
The pork loin’s lean meat and mild flavor make it an excellent canvas for experimenting with different seasonings and cooking methods.
Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or slow-cooking, this cut will surely become a family favorite.
12. Stock Up: Kirkland Signature Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast
If you’re looking for a reliable source of lean protein, Kirkland Signature boneless skinless chicken breast is a solid choice. These chicken breasts come in individually sealed packages, making it easy to thaw only what you need and reduce waste.
The quality of the chicken is consistently high, with minimal fat and a tender texture that lends itself well to various recipes.
This versatile cut is a must-have for health-conscious shoppers, from stir-fries to grilled chicken salads.
13. Stock Up: Kirkland Signature Rotisserie Chicken
Without mentioning the iconic Kirkland Signature rotisserie chicken, no list of Costco meat favorites would be complete. This fully cooked, seasoned chicken is an unbeatable value and a convenient meal solution for busy weeknights.
Thanks to Costco’s high-quality standards and careful preparation, the chickens are consistently juicy and flavorful.
Whether you serve it as-is, shred it for tacos, or use it in soups and casseroles, this rotisserie chicken is a versatile staple that deserves a spot in your cart.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.