Costco, the land of bulk bargains and unexpected treasures, is a haven for cheese enthusiasts. But navigating the vast cheese selection can be overwhelming. This comprehensive guide will delve into the cheeses you can typically find at Costco, exploring their types, uses, and what makes them standouts. We’ll explore the popular varieties, hidden gems, and offer some helpful tips for making the most of your cheese purchases at the warehouse giant.
A World of Cheese Awaits: Exploring Costco’s Selection
Costco’s cheese selection is a dynamic landscape, constantly evolving with seasonal offerings and regional preferences. While the exact inventory varies from store to store and time to time, certain staples and exciting finds consistently grace their shelves. You’ll often find both domestic and imported cheeses, catering to a wide range of palates and culinary needs. Their bulk packaging options are perfect for families, parties, or anyone who truly loves cheese.
The Everyday Essentials: Block Cheeses and Slices
The backbone of Costco’s cheese selection is the variety of block cheeses and pre-sliced options. These are the workhorses of your kitchen, perfect for sandwiches, snacks, and everyday cooking. Expect to find familiar favorites like cheddar, mozzarella, provolone, and Swiss, often available in large, cost-effective blocks.
Cheddar: From Mild to Sharp
Cheddar is a cornerstone of Costco’s cheese offerings. You’ll typically find a range of cheddar varieties, from mild and creamy to sharp and tangy. Look for both yellow and white cheddar, and occasionally, aged cheddars with a more pronounced flavor profile. These blocks are ideal for grating, slicing, or cubing for snacks. The price per pound is generally significantly lower than what you’d find at a traditional grocery store.
Mozzarella: Shredded and Fresh
Mozzarella is another staple, essential for pizza, lasagna, and countless other dishes. Costco typically carries both shredded mozzarella, perfect for quick and easy meal preparation, and fresh mozzarella, often sold in water-filled tubs or logs. The fresh mozzarella is a delightful treat, ideal for Caprese salads or enjoying with balsamic glaze.
Provolone and Swiss: Sandwich Staples
Provolone and Swiss cheeses are perfect for sandwiches and melting. You’ll often find pre-sliced provolone, making it easy to layer onto your favorite breads. Swiss cheese blocks are also common, offering a nutty and slightly sweet flavor that complements a variety of ingredients.
The Italian Influence: Parmesan, Asiago, and More
Italian cheeses hold a prominent place in Costco’s dairy section. From the ubiquitous Parmesan to the tangy Asiago and creamy ricotta, there’s something for every Italian-inspired dish. These cheeses are often available in large quantities, making them ideal for pasta sauces, gratins, and antipasto platters.
Parmesan: Grated, Shredded, and Wedges
Parmesan is a must-have for any cheese lover, and Costco delivers with a variety of options. You can find pre-grated Parmesan for convenience, shredded Parmesan for ease of use, and large wedges of Parmesan Reggiano for a more authentic experience. The Parmesan Reggiano offers a complex and nutty flavor that elevates any dish.
Asiago: A Tangy Delight
Asiago is a semi-hard cheese with a distinctive tangy flavor. Costco often carries Asiago in blocks or wedges, perfect for grating over pasta, adding to soups, or enjoying as part of a cheese board. Its sharp and nutty notes make it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
Ricotta: Creamy and Versatile
Ricotta cheese is a staple in Italian cuisine, and Costco offers it in large tubs, perfect for filling pasta shells, making lasagna, or using in desserts. The creamy and slightly sweet flavor of ricotta makes it a versatile ingredient for both savory and sweet dishes.
Beyond the Basics: Specialty Cheeses and Imported Delights
Costco’s cheese selection extends beyond the everyday essentials, featuring a variety of specialty cheeses and imported delights. These cheeses offer unique flavors and textures, perfect for expanding your palate and impressing your guests. Look for cheeses like Brie, Gouda, Manchego, and Feta, often available at competitive prices.
Brie: Creamy and Elegant
Brie is a soft, creamy cheese with a delicate flavor. Costco often carries both domestic and imported Brie, sometimes flavored with herbs or garlic. Brie is perfect for serving with crackers, fruit, or baking in puff pastry for a warm and gooey appetizer.
Gouda: Nutty and Smooth
Gouda is a semi-hard cheese with a nutty and slightly sweet flavor. Costco typically carries Gouda in blocks or wheels, often aged to varying degrees. Aged Gouda offers a more intense flavor and a firmer texture.
Manchego: Spanish Flair
Manchego is a firm, sheep’s milk cheese from Spain with a distinctive nutty and slightly salty flavor. Costco often carries Manchego in wedges, perfect for serving with quince paste or Marcona almonds.
Feta: Crumbly and Tangy
Feta is a crumbly, salty cheese that is a staple in Greek and Mediterranean cuisine. Costco typically carries feta in blocks or crumbled, often packed in brine. Feta is perfect for salads, omelets, or topping grilled vegetables.
Goat Cheese: Tangy and Versatile
Goat cheese, also known as chèvre, is a tangy and creamy cheese made from goat’s milk. Costco often carries goat cheese logs, sometimes flavored with herbs or honey. Goat cheese is perfect for spreading on crackers, adding to salads, or using in tarts and quiches.
The Adventurous Palate: Blue Cheese and Other Strong Flavors
For those who enjoy bolder flavors, Costco sometimes offers a selection of blue cheeses and other strongly flavored cheeses. These cheeses can add a pungent kick to your dishes or be enjoyed on their own with a glass of wine. Look for cheeses like Gorgonzola, Roquefort, and Stilton.
Making the Most of Your Costco Cheese Haul
Buying cheese in bulk at Costco can save you money, but it’s important to store it properly to maintain its quality and freshness. Proper storage will prevent mold growth and keep your cheese tasting its best. Consider these tips for storing cheese purchased at Costco.
Storage is Key: Keeping Your Cheese Fresh
The way you store your cheese will significantly impact its flavor and longevity. Here are some tips for storing different types of cheese:
- Hard Cheeses (Cheddar, Parmesan, Gouda): Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or parchment paper. Store in the cheese drawer of your refrigerator.
- Semi-Hard Cheeses (Provolone, Swiss, Asiago): Similar to hard cheeses, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or parchment paper.
- Soft Cheeses (Brie, Goat Cheese): Store in their original packaging or wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Soft cheeses tend to spoil more quickly, so use them within a week of opening.
- Fresh Cheeses (Mozzarella, Ricotta): Store in their original packaging, making sure they are submerged in their liquid (if applicable). Use within a few days of opening.
- Blue Cheeses (Gorgonzola, Roquefort): Wrap loosely in foil or parchment paper to allow them to breathe. Store away from other cheeses to prevent the mold from spreading.
Serving Suggestions: Pairing Cheese for Maximum Enjoyment
Cheese is best enjoyed at room temperature, as this allows the flavors to fully develop. Take your cheese out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before serving. Consider pairing different cheeses with complementary foods and beverages.
- Hard Cheeses: Pair with apples, pears, grapes, nuts, and red wine.
- Semi-Hard Cheeses: Pair with crackers, olives, cured meats, and beer.
- Soft Cheeses: Pair with fruit preserves, honey, crusty bread, and white wine.
- Blue Cheeses: Pair with figs, walnuts, port wine, and sweet wines.
Creative Uses: Beyond the Cheese Board
While cheese is delicious on its own, it can also be used in a variety of creative ways in your cooking.
- Grate hard cheeses over pasta, salads, or soups.
- Melt semi-hard cheeses into sandwiches, quesadillas, or gratins.
- Spread soft cheeses on crackers, sandwiches, or bagels.
- Crumble blue cheeses over salads, pizzas, or burgers.
- Add cheese to baked goods like muffins, scones, or quiches.
Costco Cheese: A Final Bite
Costco’s cheese selection is a constantly changing treasure trove for cheese lovers. By understanding the different types of cheeses available, how to store them properly, and how to use them creatively, you can make the most of your Costco membership and enjoy a world of delicious cheese experiences. Happy cheese hunting! Remember that selection and availability can vary, so visiting your local Costco is the best way to see what cheesy delights await.
What types of cheeses are commonly found at Costco, and are they generally cheaper than at regular grocery stores?
Costco’s cheese selection typically spans a wide range, from everyday favorites like cheddar, mozzarella, and provolone, often sold in bulk blocks or shredded bags, to more specialty options such as brie, gouda, parmesan, and imported cheeses from Europe. You can often find unique cheese assortments or seasonal offerings depending on the time of year and the store’s location, catering to diverse palates and culinary needs.
Generally, yes, Costco offers significant savings on cheese compared to traditional grocery stores. Their business model revolves around bulk sales, allowing them to negotiate lower prices with suppliers and pass those savings onto their members. However, it’s important to consider your consumption habits before buying in bulk to ensure you can use the cheese before it expires and avoid unnecessary waste.
How does Costco handle the storage and preservation of its cheeses to ensure freshness?
Costco takes several measures to maintain the freshness of its cheese products. They utilize temperature-controlled environments in their dairy aisle to ensure consistent cooling and prevent spoilage. Cheeses are often packaged in airtight containers or cryovac bags to minimize exposure to air and moisture, both of which can accelerate the aging process and lead to mold growth.
Furthermore, Costco employs a first-in, first-out (FIFO) inventory system to ensure that older products are sold before newer ones. They also have strict quality control procedures, regularly inspecting cheese products for signs of damage or spoilage. However, once purchased, it’s crucial for customers to follow proper storage guidelines, such as refrigerating cheese properly and wrapping cut pieces tightly, to maintain its quality at home.
Are there organic or grass-fed cheese options available at Costco?
Yes, Costco frequently carries organic cheese options, catering to health-conscious consumers. These often include organic cheddar, mozzarella, and sometimes even specialty cheeses like organic goat cheese. The availability can vary by location, so it’s always a good idea to check your local Costco’s inventory.
In addition to organic options, you can occasionally find grass-fed cheeses at Costco. These are typically sourced from dairy farms that adhere to specific grazing standards. While not always guaranteed, exploring the cheese aisle regularly and checking product labels will reveal if grass-fed options are currently available, offering a more sustainable and potentially healthier choice.
What are some tips for buying cheese in bulk at Costco to prevent spoilage?
Before purchasing cheese in bulk at Costco, carefully consider your consumption rate. Only buy the amount you can realistically use within a reasonable timeframe, typically a few weeks, to avoid spoilage. Check the expiration date on the packaging and choose the product with the latest date possible.
To extend the shelf life of bulk cheese, proper storage is crucial. Immediately refrigerate the cheese after purchase and wrap any cut pieces tightly in plastic wrap or beeswax wraps to prevent them from drying out or absorbing odors from the refrigerator. For hard cheeses, consider vacuum sealing or storing them in airtight containers to maintain their freshness for even longer.
Does Costco offer any cheese platters or pre-packaged cheese boards for entertaining?
Yes, Costco often offers pre-made cheese platters and cheese boards, particularly during holiday seasons or special events. These platters typically include a variety of cheeses, such as brie, cheddar, gouda, and blue cheese, along with accompaniments like crackers, olives, and fruits, making them a convenient option for entertaining.
These pre-arranged cheese selections can save time and effort, especially when hosting parties or gatherings. However, it’s important to check the ingredients and ensure they align with your guests’ preferences and dietary restrictions. Consider adding your own personal touches, such as additional crackers, dips, or garnishes, to elevate the presentation and personalize the experience.
Are there any specific cheese brands that Costco consistently carries, and are they Costco’s private label brands?
Costco frequently carries a mix of national cheese brands and their own private label, Kirkland Signature. Some common national brands you might find include Kraft, Sargento, and Tillamook, depending on your region. These are typically offered in larger, bulk-sized packages.
Kirkland Signature cheeses are often popular due to their quality and competitive pricing. You can usually find Kirkland Signature cheddar, mozzarella, parmesan, and other common cheeses. These private label options are a good way to save money without sacrificing taste or quality, and are often sourced from reputable cheese producers.
How can I find out what specific cheeses are currently available at my local Costco before visiting the store?
The best way to check the current cheese selection at your local Costco is to call the store directly. Costco employees can provide real-time inventory information and alert you to any special offers or seasonal items. Be prepared to provide specific names or descriptions of the cheeses you’re interested in.
Alternatively, you can often browse Costco’s website or app, although the online selection may not perfectly reflect what’s available in-store. You can also check online forums and social media groups dedicated to Costco shoppers, as members often share updates on new products and in-store finds, including cheese varieties.