When it comes to dining on a dime, Costco’s food court is the crown jewel of wholesale snacking. But did you know that beyond its affordable delights lies a world brimming with secret hacks and gastronomic adventures? Prepare to embark on a culinary journey with these nine Costco food court hacks you have to try – because sometimes, life’s too short for the regular menu!
1. The Legendary ‘Costco Taco’
A playful twist on a foodie’s dream – the ‘Costco taco’ is a must-try. This innovative hack involves wrapping a hot dog in a slice of Costco’s delectable pizza. Yes, you heard it right! The combination of the pizza’s cheesy goodness with the savory kick of the hot dog will have your taste buds dancing in delight. Not just an economical meal for under $3.50, it’s a flavor extravaganza that speaks to the soul of comfort food aficionados.
Want to elevate it even further? Stuff that pizza-wrapped hot dog back into the bun. By doing so, you add an extra layer of carb-loaded delight, creating a mouthful that’s not just filling but utterly satisfying. Fair warning: this might just become your new favorite way to enjoy two of Costco’s staple items in one magnificent bite!
2. Homemade ‘Root Beer Float’
Nothing beats the nostalgia of a root beer float. But why wait for a diner when you can craft your own right at Costco? Purchase a soda alongside their famous frozen yogurt, and voila – you have all the makings of a delightful root beer float. The effervescence of the soda mingling with the smooth, creamy texture of the yogurt is a refreshing treat, reminiscent of simpler times and summer days.
For those looking to capture this memory at home, consider grabbing a vintage-style soda glass. Serving your homemade floats in these can recreate the classic diner aesthetic, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to this timeless treat. Remember, it’s not just about the taste; it’s about the experience!
3. Order Ahead For Quick Pickup
No one enjoys waiting in long lines, especially when hunger strikes. Luckily, Costco offers a life-saving hack: order your food over the phone for quick pickup! This insider tip is perfect for those in a rush or picking up a large order. Imagine the convenience of swinging by to grab a pre-made pizza without the hassle of waiting. Efficiency at its finest, and a perfect solution for busy days or last-minute meal planning.
Combine this with another pro-tip: timing your visits. Did you know lunchtime is when the food’s freshest? Aligning your phone orders with these peak fresh times ensures not just convenience, but also the best quality of food. Now that’s smart snacking!
4. The ‘Forbidden Glizzy’
For the brave at heart, the “forbidden glizzy” awaits. This hack takes culinary creativity to new heights by stuffing a hot dog inside a Chicken Bake. The result? An explosion of flavors and textures. The creamy, cheesy interior of the Chicken Bake melds flawlessly with the hot dog, creating a hearty, indulgent treat that’s not for the faint-hearted.
But wait, there’s more! Take this hack to the extreme with the “pizza-wrapped forbidden glizzy.” As outrageous as it sounds, it involves wrapping this creation in a slice of pizza, marrying all the fan favorites in one audacious package. This hack isn’t just food; it’s an experience that dares you to push culinary boundaries.
5. Free Ice Hack
Ever find yourself shopping for perishables, only to worry they’ll spoil before you get home? Costco’s got your back with a hack so simple it’s genius: free ice from the soft drink dispenser. This trick is perfect for keeping your food cold while you continue your shopping spree. Just ask for a cup, fill it with ice, and place your perishables in a cooler or insulated shopping bag alongside it.
To ensure your items stay chilled, consider investing in a quality insulated shopping bag. These bags are designed to maintain temperature, making them ideal companions for this cool hack!
6. The Salad Dressing Secret
Tired of plain salads? Spice up your greens with this little-known secret: Costco’s food court offers their delicious caesar salad dressing for sale – you just have to ask for it! Perfect for when you crave that restaurant-quality dressing at home. It’s a simple yet transformative hack that elevates your salads from bland to grand.
For those looking to replicate this flavorful experience in their own kitchen, a good-quality salad dressing shaker can be an invaluable tool. Not only does it allow you to mix dressings with ease, but it also serves as a convenient storage solution, ensuring you can enjoy your favorite dressings any time, hassle-free!
7. Upgrade Your Sundae
Who says you can’t have luxury on a budget? Transform your plain sundae into a decadent dessert with this clever hack: bring your own toppings. While Costco offers delicious sundaes, they’re fairly basic. But with a sprinkle of creativity – and chocolate chips, nuts, or whatever your heart desires – you can elevate your ice cream experience.
For an extra touch of elegance, why not serve your upgraded sundae in a fancy ice cream bowl? Not only does it enhance the visual appeal, but it also makes your dessert feel like an indulgent treat from a high-end ice cream parlor.
8. The Hidden Menu Items
Did you know Costco’s food court has secret menu items? These hidden gems are available to those in the know, offering unique twists on their regular fare. One such treasure is the “churro dog,” a delightful concoction that sees a hot dog encased in a churro. While not officially on the menu, many Costco locations will accommodate such creative requests, leading to mouthwatering creations only limited by your imagination!
9. The Ultimate ‘Costco Survival Meal’
Last but certainly not least, we present the ultimate ‘Costco survival meal.’ Perfect for those days when you’re on a tight budget but need a filling meal. Start with the classic $1.50 hot dog and soda combo. Then, head over to the condiment station and load up on onions, relish, and mustard. But here’s the clincher – ask for a cup and fill it with the free sauerkraut that’s typically provided for the hot dogs.
This hack not only stretches your dollar but also provides a satisfying, flavor-packed meal that’s sure to hit the spot. It’s the ultimate testament to Costco’s commitment to value, proving that delicious, filling meals need not break the bank.
So, there you have it – nine game-changing Costco food court hacks that promise to revolutionize your dining experience. From secret menu items to creative culinary concoctions, these hacks are your ticket to making the most of your next Costco run. Remember, the only limit is your imagination.
