5 Costco Meals That Are Cheaper Than Buying Takeout
Written by
Jennifer Taylor
Edited by
Rebekah Evans
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
When you want to save money by dining in, stocking up at Costco could be the break your budget needs. These budget-friendly Costco meals may save you prep time on meals while keeping you from dropping major money on takeout, since each one is under $20.
Opting to dine in, rather than ordering takeout can amount to serious savings. On average, cooking your favorite takeout meals at home can allow you to save around 50% per dish, according to CNET.
Shopping at Costco offers savings of its own, meaning you can save a substantial amount of money by substituting takeout with Costco meals. Whether you’re willing to do some prep work or want to do nothing but heat your dinner up, Costco has more than enough options to delight your taste buds.
Here’s a look at 10 Costco meals that are cheaper than buying takeout.
Costco Rotisserie Chicken
- Price: $4.99
Costco has kept its rotisserie chickens at the low price of $4.99, even in the face of inflation. Add these to your next sandwich, ramen or taco night with tender, juicy chicken breast.
Some sustainable shoppers boil down the bones to make chicken stock for even more recipes. Think of it this way, the more parts of the chicken you use, the more you’re getting for your money.
Kirkland Signature Chicken Bakes
- Price: $15.78
If your favorite part of a Costco shopping trip is visiting the food court afterward, you’ll be thrilled to know that Costco sells a six-pack of its famous chicken bakes. These could easily be a meal by themselves since they’re very filling, but you could also pair them with other items on our list for a full lunch or dinner.
These are baked dough stuffed with chicken, cheese and smoky bacon combined with Caesar dressing and green onions. Microwavable and handheld, these make for a quick weeknight treat.
Nongshim Tonkotsu Ramen
- Price: $8.65
Instant ramen can be something other than basic. Enjoy ramen noodles with seasoning mix covered in rich pork broth.
Add a soft-boiled egg, green onion, some of your Costco rotisserie chicken and veggies for a cost-effective meal. Although it’s more expensive than Cup o’ Noodles or Top Ramen at $8.65 for a six-pack, it still costs a cheap $1.44 per bowl.
Ajinomoto Vegetable Yakisoba
- Price: $17.54
For vegetarian shoppers who don’t look forward to the mess of making a stir-fry, there’s a microwavable six-pack of vegetarian yakisoba. It’s packed with broccoli, mushrooms, peppers, onions, carrots and edamame with a savory sauce.
At $2.92 per serving, it’s a great option for veggie lovers who want to save money and meal prep time. Ready in just three minutes, enjoy a satisfying meal in less time than it would take you to chop stir-fry vegetables on your own.
Mush Overnight Oats
- Price: $11.69
If most mornings are a rush to get out of the house, these overnight oats could help you squeeze in breakfast on those busy mornings. Each box contains eight cups — two strawberry, three vanilla bean and three blueberry.
Made from real ingredients, these overnight oats contain no added sugar. Simply pair it with fruit or other toppings for a nutritious breakfast.
Editor’s note: Pricing and availability may vary depending on location.
More From GOBankingRates
