Costco has earned a reputation for being more than just a warehouse club. It’s a destination where people discover products that become staples in their homes. Some items, like the $1.50 hot dog combo, are legendary. Others, like Kirkland’s maple syrup or Parmigiano Reggiano, have quietly built a cult following for their quality and value.
But which products stand out as the most universally beloved? After combing through Costco fan discussions and the r/Costco subreddit, we’ve rounded up 11 products that consistently inspire loyalty, bulk buys, and repeat trips. These are the items that prove Costco’s ability to deliver both quality and unbeatable price points.
Below, you’ll find the list of Costco’s most loved products, why shoppers can’t stop talking about them, and the average prices you can expect to pay at your local warehouse.
1. The $1.50 Hot Dog + Soda Combo
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No list of beloved Costco staples would be complete without the iconic hot dog and soda deal. Despite decades of inflation, the price has remained frozen at $1.50 since the 1980s, a decision Costco leadership has repeatedly defended as a symbol of member value. On Reddit, one fan summed it up best: “Just $1.50 in honor of our beloved hot dog combo.” At that price, it’s more than a meal — it’s a cultural touchstone.
2. The $4.99 Rotisserie Chicken
Few items generate as much dinner-table gratitude as Costco’s rotisserie chicken. At $4.99, it’s widely considered a “loss leader” that lures shoppers into stores, but it’s also meaty, flavorful, and ready to eat. One Redditor called it “some of the best bang for your buck,” pointing out that a single chicken can stretch into multiple meals.
3. Kirkland Signature Butter Croissants
Costco’s bakery croissants have developed a cult following. Priced at around $7 to $9 for a pack, they are made with real butter, which gives them their rich, flaky layers. They can be eaten fresh or frozen for later, which makes them practical as well as indulgent. As one Costco shopper warned, “Croissants are legit and dangerous!” They are a treat that tends to disappear quickly from the kitchen counter.
4. Rao’s Marinara
Rao’s Marinara is considered one of the best jarred sauces available, and Costco’s two-pack for about $13 to $14 makes it a bargain compared to grocery stores. Fans rave about the flavor that tastes almost homemade. One Redditor wrote, “It’s about as good as canned pasta sauce gets … for the price, it simply cannot be beat.” Having this in the pantry can save dinner on a busy night.
5. Kirkland Signature Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Kirkland’s extra virgin olive oil is a quiet superstar. Sold in large bottles for around $15 to $25, depending on size, it delivers clean flavor and consistent quality at a fraction of the price of boutique brands. A fan noted, “Extra virgin olive oil is one of the best … I love it.” For anyone who cooks regularly, this is an essential Costco buy.
6. Kirkland Signature Bacon
Bacon is a breakfast staple that Costco does not compromise on. The Kirkland thick-cut bacon and the precooked packs are especially popular, usually priced between $12 and $18 for large multi-packs. The flavor and texture win over both casual shoppers and serious bacon lovers. One Redditor said, “I love the precooked bacon … bacon ready in one minute makes it the best choice for our family.” Convenience and quality make this one a clear winner.
7. Kirkland Signature Basil Pesto
The refrigerated Kirkland pesto has bright basil flavor and is versatile enough for pasta, sandwiches, or eggs. A large tub typically costs $8 to $12, and many fans freeze it in smaller portions to make it last longer. As one shopper put it, “Our family loves Costco pesto … now we have pesto whenever we want.” It turns everyday meals into something special.
8. Kirkland Signature Maple Syrup
Costco’s one-liter bottles of pure Canadian maple syrup are a must-have for many households. At about $15 to $20, they are priced far below specialty grocery stores while still offering rich, authentic flavor. One Reddit user pointed out, “Kirkland maple syrup … Costco’s is cheaper.” Once you try it, it is hard to go back to imitation syrup.
9. Kirkland Signature Ultra Clean Laundry Detergent
Not all of Costco’s beloved products are food. The Ultra Clean detergent has been tested against major national brands and often comes out on top. A large tub of detergent pacs typically costs around $15 to $16, covering more than 150 loads. According to one fan, “It performed very well … actually banishing smells better than our top Tide.” The cleaning power and bulk value make it a household essential.
10. Kirkland Signature Pistachios
Kirkland pistachios are fresh, plentiful, and fairly priced. A three-pound bag of in-shell pistachios costs about $12 to $18, while the pre-shelled version is slightly more expensive but equally popular. One shopper did the math and concluded, “Tl;dr — Buy the pre-shelled pistachios.” Whether shelled or not, they are one of the most addictive snacks you can buy at Costco.
11. Kirkland Signature Parmigiano Reggiano
Costco’s Parmesan is the real thing, imported and aged, but sold at a much lower price than specialty cheese shops. Blocks of Parmigiano Reggiano often sell for about $23 to $26, depending on age and cut. One enthusiastic fan said, “So much cheaper … and still the ‘real deal’ good stuff.” It is an easy way to elevate pasta, soups, or salads with authentic flavor.
Final Thoughts
Not every Costco item wins over every shopper, but these 11 consistently rise to the top in discussions among fans. They combine quality, affordability, and reliability, which is exactly what Costco is known for. From the legendary $1.50 hot dog to essentials like olive oil and maple syrup, these products prove that Costco’s most loved items are worth the trip every time.
More Costco Stories You’ll Love
- The Hidden Meanings Behind Costco Price Tags – Dive into the secrets behind price endings like .97, .99, and asterisks, and learn how seasoned shoppers decode markdowns before they’re obvious.
- Who Makes Costco’s Kirkland Signature Products? – Curious about the actual manufacturers behind Kirkland’s popular lines? This article reveals which trusted brands supply Costco with its private-label goods.
- The Worst (and Best) of Costco’s Kirkland Signature Products – Even Costco has duds. This one takes a critical look at Kirkland products that don’t always hit the mark — and what keeps customers loyal anyway.
