The Costco food court is a beloved institution for shoppers. Famous for its affordable prices and generously sized portions, it’s the perfect spot for a quick and satisfying meal after a warehouse shopping trip. However, if you’re mindful of your dietary intake, especially calorie consumption, navigating the Costco food court menu requires some informed choices. It’s easy to indulge in the tempting aromas and low prices without realizing the calorie impact. This guide breaks down the calorie counts of popular Costco food court items, ranking them from lowest to highest, to help you make more informed decisions about your next post-shopping meal. Understanding the calorie content is key for anyone tracking their nutrition, and this comprehensive list of Costco Food Court Calories will provide valuable insights.
15. Berry Smoothie: 290 Calories
Starting off the list with the lowest calorie option is the Berry Smoothie. At 290 calories, this smoothie seems like a lighter choice. It offers a refreshing and fruity flavor, blending berries into a cool and drinkable treat. While it’s lower in calories compared to other items, it’s still important to consider the sugar content if you’re watching your intake.
14. Mocha Freeze: 320 Calories
Next up is the Mocha Freeze with 320 calories. This frozen coffee drink provides a sweet caffeine kick. The combination of coffee and chocolate flavors makes it a popular choice for those needing a pick-me-up. However, like many coffee-based drinks, the calorie count can add up due to added sugars and dairy.
13. Very Berry Sundae: 430-480 Calories
Moving into the 400-calorie range is the Very Berry Sundae, ranging from 430 to 480 calories. This dessert option features vanilla ice cream topped with a mix of berries and berry sauce. Sundaes are classic treats, and this berry version offers a fruity twist, but the calorie count reflects the ice cream and sugary toppings.
12. Vanilla Non-Fat Yogurt: 410 Calories
The Vanilla Non-Fat Yogurt comes in at 410 calories. While marketed as non-fat, it’s important to note the calorie content. Yogurt can be a healthy snack, but flavored versions often include added sugars that contribute to the calorie count. This vanilla yogurt is a seemingly lighter option, but the calories are still considerable.
11. Swirl Non-Fat Yogurt: 430 Calories
Slightly higher than the vanilla, the Swirl Non-Fat Yogurt has 430 calories. The swirl combines vanilla and another flavor, often chocolate or caramel, increasing both the flavor profile and the calorie count compared to plain vanilla. This option offers variety but also a slight calorie increase.
10. Chocolate Non-Fat Yogurt: 450 Calories
The Chocolate Non-Fat Yogurt contains 450 calories. Chocolate flavored yogurt often has more added sugar to achieve its sweet and rich taste. Even though it’s non-fat, the added sugars and flavorings contribute to a higher calorie count than the plain vanilla option.
9. California Churro: 470 Calories
Entering the top 10 highest calorie items is the California Churro at 470 calories. This fried dough pastry, coated in cinnamon and sugar, is a classic sweet treat at Costco. Churros are known for being calorie-dense due to the frying process and sugar coating, making them a more indulgent choice.
8. All Beef Hot Dog or Polish: 540-970 Calories
The All Beef Hot Dog or Polish sausage ranges significantly from 540 to a whopping 970 calories. The calorie range depends on toppings and whether it’s the hot dog or the Polish sausage, with the latter generally being higher. Hot dogs are processed meats and can be high in fat and sodium, contributing to their calorie density. Adding toppings like cheese, chili, or sauerkraut will further increase the calorie count.
7. BBQ Beef Brisket Sandwich: 610 Calories
The BBQ Beef Brisket Sandwich contains 610 calories. Brisket is a flavorful but fatty cut of beef, and when combined with BBQ sauce and a bun, the calories add up. While offering a hearty and savory option, this sandwich is moderately high in calories.
6. Chicken Caesar Salad: 670 Calories
Surprisingly, the Chicken Caesar Salad comes in at 670 calories. While salad is often perceived as a healthy choice, Caesar salad dressing is notoriously high in fat and calories. The addition of grilled chicken and croutons further increases the calorie count. Choosing light dressing or dressing on the side can help reduce calories.
5. Combo Slice: 680 Calories
The Combo Pizza Slice has 680 calories. Combo or supreme pizzas, loaded with multiple toppings, naturally have higher calorie counts than simpler pizzas. The crust, cheese, and variety of meats and vegetables all contribute to the calorie density of this popular pizza slice.
4. Cheese Slice: 700 Calories
A Cheese Pizza Slice contains 700 calories. Even a simple cheese pizza slice from Costco is calorie-rich due to its large size, thick crust, and generous amount of cheese. Pizza is a comfort food favorite, but portion control is important when considering calorie intake.
3. Pepperoni Slice: 710 Calories
Slightly higher than cheese, the Pepperoni Pizza Slice has 710 calories. Pepperoni adds extra fat and calories to the pizza slice compared to plain cheese. Meat toppings generally increase the calorie count of pizzas, making pepperoni a slightly more calorie-dense choice.
2. Hot Turkey & Provolone Sandwich: 730 Calories
The Hot Turkey & Provolone Sandwich comes in at 730 calories. While turkey is often seen as a leaner meat, sandwiches can become calorie-heavy due to bread, cheese, and condiments. This hot sandwich, with provolone cheese, is a substantial and calorie-rich option.
1. Chicken Bake: 770 Calories
Topping the calorie chart is the Chicken Bake with a significant 770 calories. This popular Costco food court item combines chicken, cheese, bacon, and Caesar dressing encased in a breaded dough. The combination of ingredients, especially the creamy Caesar dressing and cheese, makes it the highest calorie item on the menu.
While the Costco food court offers delicious and affordable options, it’s clear that many items are calorie-dense. Being aware of these Costco food court calories allows you to make informed choices. Enjoying these treats in moderation and balancing them with healthier meals can be part of a balanced diet. Understanding the nutritional information empowers you to indulge occasionally while staying mindful of your overall calorie intake.
