29 Underrated Costco Items That Deserve More Hype

Every time I go to Costco, I end up grabbing at least one thing that wasn’t on my list—but has earned a permanent spot in my pantry. Some of these items? Straight-up underrated. I’m talking about those hidden gems that quietly blow your mind and make you wonder why no one’s shouting about them.

Like the chocolate-covered raisins I always keep on hand for snacking emergencies or that frozen berry blend that turned my smoothies into something I actually crave.

These aren’t just good—they’re game-changers I’ve stocked, restocked, and shared with friends who are now hooked too. So if you’ve ever walked past these without a second thought, it’s time to change that. Check out these 29 items!

Kirkland Signature Milk Chocolate Raisins

These giant 3.4-pound jars of chocolate-covered goodness deserve way more love! Each plump raisin is wrapped in just the right amount of creamy milk chocolate, creating that perfect chewy-sweet bite. They're consistently fresh—never waxy or stale like some brand versions—and the resealable container keeps them that way.

I always have these on hand for spontaneous snacking. Trust me, once you've had Kirkland's version, those tiny, overpriced packages at the movie theater just won't cut it anymore.

Kirkland Signature Three Berry Blend - Freezer Fruit Game-Changer

Unlike some frozen berry packages that skimp on the pricier varieties, Kirkland's version maintains a perfect ratio between all three berries. The fruit is flash-frozen at peak ripeness, preserving both flavor and nutritional value better than the often disappointing fresh berries available off-season.

For the quality and quantity, this humble freezer staple delivers exceptional value while solving the eternal problem of fresh berries spoiling before you can use them all.

Kirkland Signature Mixed Nut Butter with Seeds

Kirkland's Mixed Nut Butter combines almonds, cashews, and pumpkin seeds into something far better than single-nut spreads. The texture is perfect—actually spreadable without sliding off your toast. It's addictive and criminally underrated in Costco's food section. Once you try it, your regular nut butter will start collecting dust in the pantry!

Kirkland Signature Tempura Shrimp - Restaurant Quality Hack

Costco's tempura shrimp might be the most overlooked shortcut to impressive entertaining in the freezer section. Each box contains 30 sizable butterfly shrimp in a remarkably crispy tempura batter that actually stays crunchy when baked (no deep fryer needed).

The included soy dipping sauce packets add authentic flavor without extra shopping. What makes these stand out from other frozen shrimp is the quality—good-sized, properly deveined shrimp that maintain their texture without becoming rubbery.

Quaker Rice Crisps Sweet & Savory Variety Pack - Snacking Game-Changer

The 36-count box of Quaker Rice Crisps is seriously underrated in the snack aisle. With a mix of caramel, cheddar, buttermilk ranch, and apple cinnamon flavors, you're covered for any craving. Their light, airy crunch comes from being popped (never fried), and each 100-calorie pack includes whole grains without artificial flavors.

Keep these on hand for quick lunches and sudden hunger strikes. The individual packaging prevents that "just one more handful" temptation that happens with larger bags—perfect for mindful snacking!

Innkeeper's Cinnamon Streusel Bread - Breakfast Magic Trick

Passing by this unassuming bag of Innkeeper's Cinnamon Streusel Bread might be the biggest shopping mistake you make at Costco. This generously-sized loaf packs serious cinnamon punch with perfect ribbons of spice and crumbly streusel throughout each slice.

A great weekend hack involves prepping a batch on Sunday and refrigerating it for grab-and-go breakfasts throughout the week. Your morning coffee routine deserves this upgrade from ordinary bread!

Kirkland Signature Peanut Butter Pretzels - Sweet-Salty Perfection

Don't even think about leaving Costco without this massive jar of peanut butter pretzels. These nuggets hit that perfect sweet-salty spot that's seriously addictive. What makes them stand out is how much creamy peanut butter is packed into each crunchy shell—way more generous than competitors.

I've tried similar snacks elsewhere, but Kirkland's version always has fresher, crunchier shells and smoother filling. My family goes through these so fast that I now grab two jars at once—one for movie nights and another that mysteriously disappears.

Zalea Gourmet Whole Peaches in Syrup - Dessert Game-Changer

Those massive jars of golden peach spheres in Costco's specialty food section are the secret weapon for instant desserts you've been overlooking. Zalea's Gourmet Whole Peaches come in a generous 94-ounce jar, with perfectly ripened, skinless peaches suspended in light syrup.

Unlike canned peaches that fall apart, these maintain their shape and texture beautifully. For under $11, this versatile jar delivers restaurant-quality peaches that stay fresh for weeks after opening—proving some of Costco's best treasures lurk in the less-traveled aisles.

St. Michel French Cookie Collection - Parisian Café Experience in a Tin

Skip the fancy European bakery and grab this charming tin of authentic French cookies at Costco instead. Made in France with traditional recipes dating back to 1905, these cookies offer that perfect not-too-sweet profile that makes European biscuits so addictive. Serve these alongside afternoon tea or coffee for instant sophistication without any effort.

Schwartz Brothers Organic Everything Bagel Chips - Dip's Best Friend

Schwartz Brothers Organic Everything Bagel Chips are a hidden gem in Costco's snack section. These crispy rounds pack all the flavor of an everything bagel—garlic, onion, sesame, and poppy seeds—into perfectly crunchy bites. They're satisfyingly thick with authentic bagel texture, sturdy enough for the heaviest dips but flavorful enough to enjoy straight from the container.

I recommend serving them alongside cream cheese-based dips at gatherings, where they just might consistently disappear first. The generous 15-ounce container gives you plenty to work with, and being organic is a nice bonus for a snack that tastes this good.

Kirkland Signature Wildflower Honey - Nature's Sweet Secret

Grade A Argentine wildflower honey sits unassumingly on shelves while delivering complex floral notes that generic supermarket versions simply can't match. Rich amber coloring signals depth of flavor that transforms everything from morning tea to baking projects. Well-designed squeeze bottle prevents sticky messes while still allowing easy pouring

Heavenly Hunks Mini Organic Oatmeal Dark Chocolate Cookies

Hiding in plain sight at Costco, these bite-sized Heavenly Hunks deliver serious cookie satisfaction in perfectly portioned packages. Each of the 16 individually wrapped treats strikes that magical balance between chewy oatmeal texture and rich dark chocolate indulgence without overwhelming sweetness.

Gluten-free and vegan status comes without any taste compromise—you'd never guess anything's missing. Despite their "mini" name, one pack delivers surprisingly satisfying heft that truly lives up to the "heavenly" promise!

Kirkland Signature Spanish Extra Virgin Olive Oil - Mediterranean Liquid Gold

Sharp-eyed culinary enthusiasts recognize these dark green bottles as one of the best values in premium cooking oils anywhere. 100% Spanish extra virgin olive oil delivers robust, peppery flavor that mass-market brands simply can't match. Cold-pressed from Spanish olives, each bottle contains unfiltered liquid gold with that distinctive grassy aroma serious cooks crave.

SimplyProtein Crispy Bars - Protein Without the Punishment

Often overlooked among Costco's flashier protein options, this variety pack of SimplyProtein Crispy Bars offers a game-changing approach to high-protein snacking. Packing 13g protein with just 2g sugar per bar, these crunchy treats come in three genuinely tasty flavors—dark chocolate almond, refreshing lemon coconut, and rich peanut butter chocolate.

With 7g of fiber per serving, they'll keep hunger at bay until dinner without that artificial aftertaste many protein products leave behind.

Tate's Bake Shop Cookie Bark - Chocolate-Covered Revelation

Costco shoppers rushing past this unassuming green bag are missing out on one of the best sweet treats in the warehouse! Tate's Cookie Bark brilliantly reinvents the classic chocolate chip cookie by shattering it into crispy shards, then enrobing everything in rich dark chocolate finished with a sprinkle of sea salt.

Kirkland Signature Imported French Brie - Cheese Platter Essential

Genuine double cream French Brie at Costco prices feels like a gourmet heist. Made in Normandy and imported in wooden rounds, this creamy cheese rivals specialty shop versions at a fraction of the cost. The generous 600g wheel features that perfect buttery texture that spreads beautifully on crackers while maintaining enough structure to slice cleanly for sandwiches or baking.

For an easy yet impressive appetizer, wrap in puff pastry with jam and bake until golden. Your guests will never guess this luxurious cheese came from a warehouse store!

Balance Grow Honey Citron & Ginger Tea - Your Secret Flavor Weapon

This magnificent 2kg jar packs the perfect trinity of honey, citron, and ginger into a versatile concentrate that deserves way more hype. One spoonful transforms ordinary water into a soul-warming elixir that dances between sweet, tangy, and spicy notes.

Real citron pieces (65%) deliver bright flavor while ginger extract adds that perfect warming kick. You should totally reach for this jar at the first sign of sniffles, but it also goes beyond hot tea—it makes incredible summer spritzers with sparkling water and elevates marinades and cocktails too!

Kirkland Signature Organic Chicken Bone Broth - Liquid Culinary Gold

Walk past those fancy name-brand broths and grab this six-pack of Kirkland Signature Organic Chicken Bone Broth instead. Each resealable carton contains richly flavored broth slow-simmered from organic, cage-free chicken bones.

Unlike most commercial broths that taste like salty water, this one offers a rich, roasted flavor, turning homemade soups from good to great without the hours spent on broth-making.

Kirkland Signature Sous Vide Egg Bites - Breakfast Revolution

Available in two flavors—uncured bacon & gouda (in orange packaging) and egg white with cheese trio & roasted red pepper (in green packaging)—these perfectly portioned protein bombs microwave in just minutes.

Cooked sous vide style, they maintain an impossibly fluffy, custard-like texture that puts regular microwaved eggs to shame. Perfect for low-carb eaters, meal preppers, or anyone who values a quick, satisfying breakfast that actually keeps you full.

Leclerc The Big Cookie Factory Chocolate & Peanut Butter - Sweet Spot Sensation

Each substantial cookie balances a perfect chewy-crisp texture with generous peanut butter chips and real chocolate chunks that actually taste like quality chocolate (not waxy imposters). Their balanced sweetness—not tooth-achingly sugary like many commercial cookies—sets them apart from competitors.

Kirkland Signature Organic Medium Salsa - Restaurant Quality in a Jar

Unlike many grocery store versions that taste like watery tomato sauce with a few sad vegetable bits, Kirkland's organic salsa delivers chunky, garden-fresh texture with balanced heat. The ingredient list reads like a homemade recipe—organic diced tomatoes lead the way, followed by green peppers, onions, and a thoughtful blend of spices including cilantro and chipotle. For the generous size and organic quality, it might be the best salsa value anywhere.

Kirkland Signature Olive Oil - Kitchen Workhorse in Disguise

This unassuming pack of olive oil bottles deserves a second glance in the Costco cooking aisle. The blend of refined olive oil with 15% extra virgin olive oil strikes the perfect balance—mild enough for everyday cooking but still carrying subtle olive notes that enhance dishes. It's perfect for everything from sautéing vegetables to baking where you don't want an overpowering olive flavor.

Kirkland Signature Organic Tomato Sauce - Pantry Hero in a Can

Kirkland Signature Organic Tomato Sauce is a pantry staple worth stocking up on. Each of the twelve cans is filled with rich, balanced flavor from vine-ripened organic California Roma tomatoes, boasting no metallic taste or excessive salt like many other brands. Its clean and short ingredient list enhances its versatility, perfect for dishes ranging from weeknight pasta to homemade pizza sauce and hearty chilis. Despite the allure of fancier jarred sauces, these cans consistently outshine them in taste tests.

Kirkland Signature Organic Blue Agave - Sweetness Superstar

Looking for a sugar substitute that doesn't taste like a chemistry experiment gone wrong? Try Costco's organic blue agave nectar. Sweeter than sugar but with a lower glycemic impact, I've used this magical plant juice in everything from coffee to cocktails to cookies. My greatest kitchen discovery? A quick drizzle makes even the most disappointingly bland fruit taste summer-ripe!

Organic Rice Cauliflower Stir-Fry - Low-Carb Lifesaver

Frozen cauliflower rice isn't new, but this ready-made organic stir-fry version deserves way more attention. The pre-seasoned mix combines riced cauliflower with peas, corn, and red bell peppers in a surprisingly balanced sesame ginger sauce. Unlike many frozen cauliflower products that turn into soggy mush, this maintains actual texture when cooked. Simply pan-fry for 5-7 minutes, and you've got a convincing rice alternative that works perfectly as a side or base for protein.

The best part? It actually tastes good on its own, not just as a sad substitute for "real" rice. For anyone watching carbs or trying to add more veggies, this time-saving freezer find is a genuine meal-prep hero.

Chick-fil-A Sauce Two-Pack - Liquid Culinary Gold

Two generous 24-ounce bottles give you a whopping 48 ounces of that distinctive sweet-smoky-tangy flavor that somehow enhances literally everything it touches. While it's known as a chicken dip, this sauce has transformed my cooking repertoire—it makes an incredible glaze for salmon, elevates boring turkey sandwiches, and turns basic roasted vegetables into crave-worthy sides.

Purely Elizabeth Salty-Sweet Granola - Breakfast Revolution

Hiding in Costco's breakfast aisle, a massive 34-ounce bag of Purely Elizabeth granola waits to revolutionize your morning routine. Ancient grain clusters perfectly balance sweet and salty notes with premium organic oats, quinoa, chia seeds, and coconut sugar. While many commercial granolas masquerade as health food while packing dessert-level sweetness, these sophisticated clusters offer complex flavor without sugar overload.

Remarkably, each crunchy bite maintains its texture even when swimming in milk or yogurt, creating a genuinely satisfying breakfast that actually conquers hunger until lunchtime.

Costco Food Court - Inflation-Proof Culinary Time Capsule

Costco's food court deserves way more recognition as America's greatest unsung culinary treasure. Where else can you still score a quarter-pound all-beef hot dog AND 20-ounce soda for just $1.50? My shopping strategy involves timing visits to end right at mealtime, rewarding myself for navigating those massive aisles with gloriously affordable comfort food.

Nothing beats that moment when you've successfully wrestled a cart through checkout and can finally collapse at those utilitarian tables with your well-earned feast.

Pro tip: always grab extra napkins, and never skip the frozen yogurt swirl. It's not just cheap eats—it's a delicious Costco tradition that makes every membership card worth its weight in gold!

Costco Food Court Pizza - Slice Perfection After Shopping

Gigantic pizza slices are my absolute favorite item in the entire Costco food court. These absurdly large slices somehow maintain the perfect balance of golden crust, generous cheese pull, and toppings that don't slide off with each bite. Whether you choose the classic cheese (left) or go with pepperoni (right), each $1.99 slice delivers more satisfaction than entire pizzas from delivery chains costing three times as much.

For the size, quality, and unbelievably consistent taste from location to location, these slices remain one of the most underrated food court treasures in America.

Wrap-Up: Discover Hidden Gems at Costco

As we end our exploration of Costco's hidden gems, remember that this warehouse is more than a place for bulk buys—it's a treasure trove filled with unique, high-quality items that can elevate your everyday meals and snacks.

So next time you're at Costco, venture beyond your usual list and find these underrated heroes that might just become your new pantry staples. Happy shopping and enjoy discovering your own Costco favorites!