UPDATE: With Thanksgiving just around the corner, Costco is the go-to destination for holiday shopping, offering an array of essentials that could sell out quickly. Home cook and Costco superfan, Olivia Yi, has shared her top 12 must-buy items that are crucial for any Thanksgiving feast.
THANKSGIVING SHOPPING ALERT: Yi emphasizes the importance of early shopping, especially for key items like turkeys, which range from 10 to over 22 pounds. If you plan to shop a day or two before Thanksgiving, you risk missing out on your preferred size as stock diminishes rapidly.
For appetizers, Yi recommends Costco’s premade vegetable trays, which come ready to serve. They typically feature a mix of colorful produce and a tasty ranch dip, making them an effortless way to start the meal.
CHARCUTERIE BOARDS: Consider creating a charcuterie board with Costco’s selection of cheeses and cured meats. These boards are perfect for guests to snack on while they wait for the main course, which is usually served around 4 p.m.. The store offers premade packs, making it easy to customize your board with nuts, crackers, and fresh fruit.
If you’re not serving a whole turkey, Yi suggests Costco’s precooked oven-browned turkey breast. This juicy option is ideal for those who prefer white meat or want a smaller portion alongside other main dishes like rib-eye or even lobster tails, depending on availability.
POTATOES AND SIDES: Costco’s vast selection of potatoes is perfect for creating crowd-pleasing mashed varieties. Options include sweet potatoes and mixed small potatoes, ensuring guests can enjoy second helpings. Yi also highlights the convenience of Costco’s pre-snipped green beans, which can be sautéed with garlic and topped with Kirkland Signature Parmigiano-Reggiano.
If time is tight, opt for Costco’s premade side dishes, such as scalloped potatoes and roasted Brussels sprouts. These can be heated quickly in the microwave or air fryer, making them a lifesaver for busy hosts.
DESSERT ALERT: The iconic Kirkland Signature pumpkin pie, priced at under $10, is a must-buy. This pie serves up to 12 people and is known for its delicious taste. Yi advises customers to purchase this item early, as it tends to sell out fast.
For those looking to elevate their Thanksgiving table, Costco offers beautiful bouquets of fresh-cut flowers for under $20. These arrangements can brighten any table and are a thoughtful gift for the host.
TABLEWARE OPTIONS: Need elegant serving solutions? Costco provides high-quality plastic plates and cutlery that mimic fine china. Yi has found 160-piece sets of heavyweight plastic silverware for under $11 and packs of 50 elegant plates for around $10.
Lastly, Yi suggests providing take-home containers for guests to enjoy leftovers. A 25-pack of 38-ounce Glad meal-prep containers is usually available for under $10, making it easy to send guests home with a taste of the feast.
As Thanksgiving approaches, make sure to visit Costco early to secure these essentials before they sell out. With a decade of experience relying on Costco for holiday needs, Olivia Yi’s recommendations are sure to enhance your Thanksgiving celebration. Don’t wait—get your shopping done now!
