Costco items to freeze for later

Stocking up at Costco can be a great way to save money and time, but buying in bulk can sometimes lead to waste if you’re not prepared. One effective way to extend the life of your groceries is by freezing them. Here are nine essential items from Costco that freeze well and help you make the most out of your shopping trips.

Chicken Breasts

Costco offers bulk packages of chicken breasts that are perfect for freezing. By dividing them into meal-sized portions before freezing, you can easily thaw just what you need for dinner. I find that using freezer bags with all the air squeezed out helps prevent freezer burn, keeping the chicken fresh-tasting for months. This method is not only cost-effective but also ensures you always have a protein option ready for quick meals.

For added convenience, you can pre-marinate or season the chicken before freezing. This way, when you’re ready to cook, most of the prep work is already done. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or stir-frying, having a stash of chicken breasts in the freezer is a real time-saver.

Ground Beef

Buying ground beef in bulk at Costco is a smart choice, especially if you frequently cook dishes like tacos, burgers, and pasta sauces. Similar to chicken, I recommend portioning the ground beef into meal-sized servings before freezing. This makes it easy to defrost just the right amount for your recipes, reducing waste and saving money.

One tip is to flatten the portions into thin, even layers in freezer bags. This not only saves space but also speeds up the thawing process. Label each bag with the date and weight so you can keep track of your inventory and plan meals accordingly.

Berries

Costco’s bulk berries are a fantastic buy, whether you’re a fan of smoothies, baking, or just snacking. By freezing berries, you can enjoy them year-round without worrying about them spoiling. Spread the berries in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them before transferring them to a freezer bag to prevent them from clumping together.

Frozen berries are perfect for making quick smoothies, adding to oatmeal, or incorporating into your favorite baked goods. Plus, having a variety of berries on hand allows for more creative and colorful cooking all year long.

Bread

Bread is another bulk item from Costco that’s perfect for freezing. Whether it’s bagels, sandwich bread, or artisan loaves, freezing can help you avoid waste and ensure you always have fresh bread available. I recommend slicing loaves before freezing, so you can easily grab just the few slices you need at a time.

Use freezer bags or wrap the bread tightly in aluminum foil to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to use it, you can thaw the slices at room temperature or pop them directly into the toaster for a quick refresh.

Cheese

Cheese is a versatile ingredient, and buying it in bulk at Costco can lead to significant savings. Many varieties of cheese freeze well, including shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and even blocks of cheese. I like to grate or slice the cheese before freezing, making it easy to grab what I need for pizzas, sandwiches, or casseroles.

To prevent clumping, you can lightly coat shredded cheese with cornstarch before freezing. Store it in airtight bags or containers, and you’ll always have cheese ready for any culinary creation you have in mind.

Butter

Butter freezes exceptionally well and is a staple in many recipes. Costco’s bulk packs offer great value, and by freezing, you can extend its shelf life significantly. I simply place the unopened packages directly in the freezer, where they can last for up to a year without any loss of quality.

If you frequently bake, having a stockpile of butter is incredibly convenient. Just move a stick to the fridge the day before you need it, and you’ll always have fresh butter on hand for all your cooking and baking endeavors.

Shrimp

Shrimp is a quick-cooking protein that can elevate any meal, and Costco’s bulk bags of shrimp are perfect for keeping in the freezer. Look for shrimp that are already peeled and deveined to make meal prep even faster. I like to portion the shrimp into meal-sized bags, so I can thaw only what I need.

Frozen shrimp are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from pastas to stir-fries. Just a quick thaw under cold water, and they are ready to cook, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Vegetables

Costco offers a wide range of frozen vegetables that are ideal for adding nutrition to your meals without the hassle of washing and chopping. From broccoli florets to mixed vegetable blends, these options are not only convenient but also help reduce food waste.

When you buy fresh vegetables in bulk, you can also freeze them yourself. Blanching vegetables before freezing helps maintain their color and texture. Store them in freezer bags, and you’ll have a healthy side dish option ready at any time.

Bacon

Bacon is a beloved staple in many households, and buying it in bulk from Costco ensures you always have some on hand for breakfast or to add flavor to other dishes. I recommend freezing bacon in small batches or even pre-cooked portions to make it easy to grab just what you need.

Wrap the bacon tightly in foil or use freezer bags to maintain its quality. When you’re ready to use it, you can cook it straight from the freezer or let it thaw in the fridge overnight. This way, you can enjoy the savory goodness of bacon without frequent trips to the store.