As someone who loves hosting during the holidays, I've learned that having the right ingredients and ready-made items can make all the difference between enjoying time with your guests and being stuck in the kitchen.
Every year, I make my pilgrimage to Costco to stock up on their seasonal specialties that help me create memorable holiday meals without the stress. I've discovered some absolute gems this year, including one spectacular find that I've saved for last – trust me, you won't want to miss it!
The Main Events
When it comes to holiday entertaining, the centerpiece of your meal sets the tone for the entire feast. These Costco finds deliver restaurant-quality results without hours of preparation, letting you focus on the sides and spending time with your guests.
Each option comes fully cooked, so you can concentrate on perfecting the presentation rather than worrying about proper cooking temperatures.
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Kirkland Signature Smoked Turkey
For busy home cooks, this hickory-smoked turkey is a game-changer. Already fully cooked, it frees up valuable oven space for all those sides you want to make.
The meat has a beautiful smoky depth that elevates it beyond your typical turkey, and the texture stays remarkably moist when reheated. Pro tip: slice it thin and keep it warm in a slow cooker with a bit of broth for effortless buffet-style serving.
Kirkland Signature Applewood Smoked Spiral Sliced Ham
This ham is my secret weapon for stress-free entertaining. The applewood smoking process gives it a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with holiday sides.
Since it's pre-sliced, serving is a breeze – perfect when you're juggling multiple dishes. The included glaze packet lets you add your own finishing touch, though I sometimes make my own with maple syrup and Dijon mustard for a signature twist.
Sensational Sides
The supporting cast of your holiday meal can make or break the experience. These carefully selected sides offer the perfect balance of convenience and homemade taste, each bringing something special to your holiday spread.
Vicky's Kitchen Cornbread Cranberry Stuffing with Turkey Italian Sausage
As someone who's made stuffing from scratch for years, I was skeptical about a pre-made version. But this stuffing won me over with its perfect balance of sweet cornbread, tart cranberries, and savory sausage. It's become my go-to when I need to save time without sacrificing flavor. The texture is spot-on – never mushy, with crispy edges when heated properly.
Kevin's Natural Foods Turkey Gravy
This gravy has saved many a last-minute dinner preparation. Made with real roasted turkey broth and actual pieces of turkey breast, it tastes homemade. The herbs are well-balanced, and it's thick enough to cling to potatoes without being gloppy. I always keep an extra box on hand for leftovers – it's perfect for making hot turkey sandwiches the next day.
Autumn Grain Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette
This is my favorite lighter option for holiday buffets. The combination of quinoa and farro provides a wonderful nutty base, while butternut squash adds seasonal flair. The champagne vinaigrette keeps everything bright and fresh – a welcome contrast to heavier holiday dishes. It's substantial enough to satisfy vegetarian guests as a main dish, too.
Stonemill Kitchens Organic Cranberry Sauce
Skip the canned stuff – this organic cranberry sauce is worth the upgrade. Made with whole cranberries, it has the perfect balance of tart and sweet, with a texture that's pleasantly chunky rather than jellied. I love using the leftover sauce in morning oatmeal or as a condiment for turkey sandwiches.
Sweet Endings
No holiday feast is complete without a memorable dessert course. These sweet selections from Costco strike the perfect balance between classic holiday flavors and special-occasion indulgence. From casual nibbles to show-stopping finales, these desserts will ensure your meal ends on a high note.
Kirkland Signature Cranberry Walnut Loaf
While technically bread, I consider this a dessert-worthy addition to any holiday spread. It's fantastic on a cheese board, especially paired with creamy brie or sharp cheddar. Toast it lightly and spread with good butter for an indulgent breakfast, or use it as the base for a next-level bread pudding.
Kirkland Signature Peppermint Bark
This bark hits all the right notes with its layers of dark and white chocolate, plus that satisfying crunch of peppermint candy. I break it into irregular pieces and use it to garnish dessert plates or add it to cookie platters for visual interest. It also makes an excellent holiday gift for neighbors and teachers.
Kirkland Signature Mini Cakes with White Buttercream Icing
These individual-sized cakes are perfect for holiday buffets where people are grazing. The vanilla cake is consistently moist, and the buttercream has that professional bakery quality. I sometimes add a light dusting of edible glitter or a few sugared cranberries on top for extra festive flair.
Costco Pumpkin Cheesecake
And here it is – my absolute favorite holiday find at Costco! This cheesecake manages to capture everything wonderful about pumpkin pie in a creamier, more luxurious form.

The spicing is perfect – present but not overwhelming – and the texture is silky smooth. Pro tip: cut it with a hot knife for clean, beautiful slices that will make your dessert table look professionally catered.
Read more: Costco’s Bringing Back an Iconic Seasonal Favorite – But It Won’t Last Long
Remember, these items are seasonal, so don't wait too long to stock up. Happy holiday cooking!