Discover the Ease of Costco Cauliflower Rice: A Complete Cooking Guide and Review

Unlock the secrets to effortlessly preparing Costco cauliflower rice! Whether you prefer the versatile shelf-stable plain variety or the flavorful frozen Costco cauliflower rice stir fry, this comprehensive guide has you covered. Learn optimal cooking methods for your air fryer, microwave, oven, and stovetop, ensuring perfect results every time. This in-depth Costco riced cauliflower review delves into nutrition, ingredients, and expert tips, proving why it’s an ideal, easy side dish that’s vegan, keto, low-carb, and gluten-free.

For many home cooks, the idea of preparing cauliflower rice from scratch can be daunting. The mess from cleaning a food processor often outweighs the desire for a low-carb alternative. Fortunately, cauliflower rice at Costco offers a convenient solution, eliminating the hassle of dicing and minimal cleanup. Costco provides two excellent options: individual pouches of shelf-stable plain riced cauliflower and a freezer-friendly Costco cauliflower fried rice stir-fry blend.

These ready-to-cook options simplify healthy eating, making it accessible even on the busiest days. No more tedious prep work; Costco has already done the heavy lifting, allowing you to enjoy this nutritious vegetable with ease. Whether you’re aiming for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, Costco’s riced cauliflower products are designed to fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.

While the Costco frozen Cauliflower rice stir fry often receives high marks for its pre-seasoned flavor profile, the plain riced cauliflower offers unparalleled versatility. The plain variety acts as a blank canvas, ready to absorb any flavors you wish to introduce, making it suitable for an extensive range of international dishes, from Asian-inspired stir-fries to Mexican-themed burrito bowls, or even as a simple, healthy alternative to traditional rice with your favorite protein.

Understanding the nuances of each product helps you make the best choice for your culinary needs. The stir-fry blend is perfect for a quick, flavorful meal, while the plain riced cauliflower empowers you to unleash your creativity in the kitchen, tailoring it to specific dietary preferences and meal plans. Both options represent Costco’s commitment to providing convenient and healthy food solutions.

Preparing steamed cauliflower rice can be done in various ways, catering to different kitchen setups and time constraints. This guide will walk you through my preferred methods for cooking Costco’s cauliflower rice, ensuring delicious results every time. The key is to select a cooking method that complements your main dish and fits your schedule.

For example, if your entrée is simmering on the stovetop, opting for the microwave to prepare your organic riced cauliflower stir-fry can save time and effort. Alternatively, if your oven is already preheated for a roast, baking the cauliflower rice stir-fry can be an efficient choice. Ultimately, the best Costco cauliflower rice recipe is the one that aligns with your available appliances, personal preferences, and the demands of your busy day. By the end of this article, you will possess all the essential tips and practical tools needed to master the art of cooking Costco cauliflower rice.

🔪 How to Cook Costco Cauliflower Rice for Optimal Flavor and Texture

When it comes to answering the question, “How to make Costco cauliflower rice?“, you’ll be delighted to find a multitude of easy and efficient ways to prepare both varieties.

❓ Microwaving Plain Cauliflower Rice from Costco

Let’s begin with one of the quickest methods: how to cook cauliflower rice in the microwave! These instructions are specifically tailored for Nature’s Intent shelf-stable plain cauliflower rice packets, typically sold in boxes containing six microwavable pouches at Costco. This method is ideal when you need a speedy side dish without extra cleanup.

To prepare cauliflower rice in the microwave, simply tear open one pouch partially at the designated notch. Place the pouch upright inside the microwave and heat on high for approximately 60-75 seconds. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your microwave’s wattage, so keep an eye on it. Once heated, carefully remove the pouch, as it will be hot. Fluff the riced cauliflower with a fork before serving, and feel free to add your favorite seasonings.

Alternatively, if you prefer a slightly different texture or don’t mind a little extra washing, you can also empty the contents of a pouch into a non-stick skillet. Add a tablespoon or two of water, cover, and warm it on the stovetop over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This method can help achieve a slightly less “steamed” consistency, but the microwave method truly excels in terms of sheer convenience and minimal cleanup.

🍚 Costco Cauliflower Rice Stir Fry Instructions: A Versatile Side

Costco also features the highly popular Tattooed Chef Organic Riced Cauliflower Stir-Fry in its freezer aisle. This product is a game-changer for quick meal preparation, as it comes pre-seasoned with a delicious blend of vegetables and sauce. It’s designed for ultimate convenience; all you need to do is heat it up, and it’s ready to enjoy as a flavorful side dish or a light meal on its own.

If you’re wondering how to perfectly cook this frozen cauliflower rice stir fry, there are several versatile options available to suit your preferences and kitchen equipment.

1. Oven Method for Crispy Texture:

One fantastic method to cook Costco cauliflower rice stir fry is in the oven, which helps achieve a slightly crispy texture. Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (177°C). Lightly spray a metal baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

The package of frozen cauliflower rice stir fry contains four smaller, individually sealed bags. Empty the contents of one of these smaller bags evenly onto the prepared baking pan. Store the remaining bags back in the freezer for future convenient meals. Bake the cauliflower stir fry for 15 minutes on an oven rack positioned approximately one-third down from the top. After 15 minutes, give the stir-fry a good stir to ensure even cooking and browning, then return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. This simple two-step baking process yields wonderfully heated and slightly crisped cauliflower rice stir-fry.

2. Stovetop Sautéing for a Classic Stir-Fry Feel:

For those who prefer a more traditional cooking method, preparing frozen cauliflower rice on the stove is a popular and effective choice. The package includes stovetop directions, but I often find that a small adjustment to the oil quantity yields perfect results. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil) in a cast iron skillet or a wok over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, empty the contents of one smaller bag of frozen cauliflower rice stir fry into the pan. Cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure all ingredients are evenly heated and slightly softened. This method allows for excellent control over the texture, and you can easily add extra vegetables or protein if desired.

🤔 Microwaving Costco Cauliflower Rice Stir Fry for Ultra-Fast Meals

🔥 Achieving Perfect Costco Cauliflower Rice in the Air Fryer

Last but certainly not least, the air fryer offers an excellent method for cooking Costco frozen stir fry, often resulting in a superior texture with slightly crisped edges. For this recipe, I typically use a 4-quart air fryer, which is a good size for one bag of the stir-fry blend. Whether you own a Ninja Foodi, Philips, Instant Pot Vortex, Cosori, Nuwave, Breville, or any other brand, your air fryer should competently cook cauliflower rice.

However, it’s crucial to remember that air fryer cooking times can vary based on the model and size. Always check your food a bit earlier than suggested when trying a new air fryer recipe to prevent overcooking. This method is fantastic for a healthy and quick side that feels a bit more indulgent.

1. Preparation for Air Frying:

To start, line your air fryer basket with aluminum foil. This step is optional but highly recommended for easier cleanup and to prevent small rice pieces from falling through the basket. Lightly spray the foil with cooking spray. Next, empty the entire bag of frozen cauliflower rice stir fry into the foil-lined basket. Each small bag contains approximately 3.25 cups of frozen riced cauliflower stir fry, making it a generous single serving or a side for two.

2. Air Frying Process:

Air fry the frozen cauliflower rice stir fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes. After the initial cooking time, carefully remove the basket, give the food a thorough flip and stir to ensure even cooking and browning. Return the basket to the air fryer and continue air frying for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the cauliflower rice is heated through and reaches your desired level of crispness. The air fryer excels at giving vegetables a lovely texture, making this a highly recommended method for the stir-fry variety.

📋 Costco Cauliflower Rice Calories: A Dietary Overview

Understanding the nutritional value of your food is key to maintaining a healthy diet. Both varieties of Costco cauliflower rice offer excellent options for calorie-conscious individuals.

The plain Costco cauliflower rice (Nature’s Intent) is remarkably low in calories, providing only 25 calories per serving (which is about 2/3 cup), or approximately 60 calories per individual pouch. A typical box from Costco contains about 15 servings, making it a long-lasting and economical healthy staple.

The Costco cauliflower rice stir fry (Tattooed Chef) is slightly higher in calories due to its added vegetables and seasoning, offering around 60 calories per cup. Each container of the stir-fry blend typically provides about 13 servings. Both options present a significantly lower calorie count compared to traditional rice, making them excellent choices for weight management and healthy eating plans.

⭐ Costco Cauliflower Rice Nutrition: Detailed Breakdown

And here is the nutrition information for Costco cauliflower rice stir fry (per one cup serving):

• Calories: 60
• Total fat: 3g
• Saturated fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 290mg
• Total carbohydrate: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Net carbs: 6g
• Total sugar: 3g
• Protein: 3g
• Potassium: 180mg
• Iron: 4% DV
• Calcium: 0% DV

Both cauliflower rice products from Costco are excellent choices for those following a low-carb diet. Keto dieters, in particular, may find the plain cauliflower rice to be a more suitable option, as it contains no starchy vegetables like corn or peas, which are present in the stir-fry blend. This makes the plain version incredibly versatile for strict ketogenic meal planning. The high fiber content in both varieties also contributes to satiety and digestive health, making them a smart addition to almost any diet plan.

🥘 Costco Cauliflower Rice Ingredients: What’s Inside?

Transparency in ingredients is crucial for healthy eating. Let’s look at what’s in each Costco cauliflower rice product.

What is in Costco cauliflower rice? The plain cauliflower rice from Costco keeps it incredibly simple, with only two ingredients: cauliflower and lactic acid. The lactic acid acts as a natural preservative, ensuring the shelf-stable nature of the product without the need for refrigeration until opened. This minimalist ingredient list makes it an ideal choice for clean eating and those with dietary sensitivities.

Costco cauliflower rice stir fry, produced by Tattooed Chef, has a slightly longer but still wholesome ingredients list, with most components being organic:

• Cauliflower
• Green peas
• Stir fry sauce (water, tamari, sesame oil, sugar, ginger powder, white vinegar, salt, garlic powder, white pepper)
• Red peppers
• Corn
• Leeks

The plain cauliflower rice is undoubtedly a better fit for “clean eating” plans, given its remarkably short and straightforward ingredient list. However, it’s commendable that both of these products utilize relatively simple and recognizable ingredients, closely mirroring what you might use if preparing these dishes from scratch at home. This focus on whole, organic ingredients underscores their appeal to health-conscious consumers seeking convenient yet nutritious food options. Always check the labels for the most up-to-date ingredient information.

🌡️ Storage: How Long Does Costco Cauliflower Rice Last?

Proper storage is essential to maintain the freshness and quality of your Costco cauliflower rice products. Once cooked, both the plain Costco cauliflower rice and the cauliflower rice stir fry can be safely stored in a covered, food-safe container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This makes them excellent for meal prepping, allowing you to prepare a batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

For longer storage, cooked cauliflower rice can also be frozen. Simply transfer the cooled cauliflower rice into freezer storage bags, pressing out as much air as possible before sealing. Label the bags with the date to keep track of freshness. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or reheat directly from frozen, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out.

👪 How to Season Plain Cauliflower Rice for Maximum Flavor

Costco Cauliflower Rice (Air Fryer, Microwave, or Stove)

By Summer Yule

Make plain Costco cauliflower rice and also frozen Costco cauliflower rice stir fry! Microwave, air fryer, oven, and stove directions!

Recipe Details

• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Course: Side Dish
• Cuisine: American
• Servings: 15
• Calories: 25 kcal (for plain cauliflower rice)

Ingredients

• 1 package Costco Cauliflower Rice OR
• 1 package Costco Cauliflower Rice Stir Fry (frozen)

Instructions

To Cook Costco Cauliflower Rice (Plain):

1. To microwave: Partially tear open one pouch of cauliflower rice and microwave on high for 60-75 seconds. The pouch should be standing upright in the microwave as it cooks.
2. Stove: Dump one pouch in a skillet, and warm it on the stovetop with a little water over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

To Cook Costco Cauliflower Rice Stir Fry (Frozen):

1. To microwave: Dump the contents of one of the small bags in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a paper towel. Microwave for 2 minutes on high. Then stir the contents of the bowl and microwave on high for 2 minutes more.
2. To air fry: Line the air fryer basket with foil and spray the foil with cooking spray. Dump the bag of frozen cauliflower rice stir fry in the foil-lined basket (each small bag contains about 3¼ cups). Air fry frozen cauliflower rice stir fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes. Then flip and stir the food and air fry for an additional 3-4 minutes until heated to your liking.
3. Stove: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a cast iron skillet or a wok over medium heat. Empty one of the smaller bags of frozen cauliflower rice stir fry into the pan. Cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until done.
4. Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Spray a metal baking pan with cooking spray. Empty one of the smaller bags of frozen cauliflower rice stir fry into the pan. Bake cauliflower stir fry for 15 minutes on a rack ⅓ down from the top of the oven. Then give it a stir and place it back in the oven to cook for another 5 minutes.

Notes

Expert Tips from Dietitian Summer Yule: This is a level 1 recipe (may help support fat loss). Most people in the United States are eating too many refined grains and not enough vegetables (according to Dietary Guidelines). Riced cauliflower is great because it helps you to cut back on white rice while helping you eat more veggies. Not only that, but cauliflower rice is much lower in calories and carbs than both white and brown rice. Costco’s plain cauliflower rice provides about 25 calories and only 2 grams net carbs per 2/3 cup. Plain steamed brown rice provides 166 calories and 32 grams net carbs per 2/3 cup (per Cronometer). You save over 100 calories and about 30 grams of net carbs for every 2/3 cup of rice replaced with cauliflower rice. If you tend to eat a lot of rice, this difference can add up fast. This demonstrates why replacing some of the grains in your diet with non-starchy veggies can help with a weight loss goal. Cauliflower rice is also a super low carb and keto substitute for regular rice. If you are using a low carb diet to help with blood sugar control in diabetes, cauliflower rice may be a good option for you. But what if you don’t like the taste of cauliflower rice? We’ve had success here replacing about half the rice in recipes with cauliflower rice. After seasoning the dish, it can be hard to tell there’s cauli rice mixed in. The Costco’s frozen cauliflower rice stir fry is quite tasty, but it’s also higher in calories, sodium, and carbs than plain riced cauliflower. Seasoning plain cauliflower rice yourself with herbs and spices is your best bet for a low sodium option. Nutrition information is for one serving of plain Costco cauliflower rice.

Nutrition (for plain cauliflower rice, per 2/3 cup serving)

Calories: 25 kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 2g | Sodium: 25mg | Potassium: 130mg | Fiber: 2g | Calcium: 2% DV | Iron: 2% DV

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🍗 What to Serve with Costco Cauliflower Rice: Delicious Pairings

To create a balanced and satisfying meal, it’s always a good idea to pair cauliflower rice with a good source of protein. Its mild flavor makes it an excellent accompaniment to a wide variety of main dishes. Here are some fantastic foods that pair wonderfully with Costco cauliflower rice, helping you build delicious and healthy meals:

• Frozen Jumbo Shrimp in the Air Fryer: Quick, lean, and flavorful, perfect with plain cauliflower rice.
• Roasted Garbanzo Beans: A fantastic plant-based protein option, especially delicious with seasoned cauliflower rice.
• Air Fryer Chicken Schnitzel (Keto, Low Carb): A crispy, low-carb chicken dish that complements the lightness of cauliflower rice beautifully.
• Grilled Salmon or Cod: Light, flaky fish is an excellent match for a healthy, low-carb side.
• Lean Beef Stir-Fry: If you’re not using the pre-made cauliflower rice stir-fry, add your own protein to plain riced cauliflower.
• Tofu or Tempeh: For vegetarian and vegan meals, marinated and pan-fried tofu or tempeh adds substance.
• Eggs: Scrambled or fried eggs can be mixed into cauliflower rice for a quick, high-protein breakfast or light dinner.

FAQs About Costco Cauliflower Rice

What’s the Costco cauliflower rice price?

As of this writing, the Nature’s Intent plain Costco cauliflower rice typically costs around $9.99 for a box of six pouches. The Tattooed Chef Organic Riced Cauliflower Stir Fry, a frozen product, is usually priced at about $9.49 per package. Prices can vary by location and over time, so it’s always a good idea to check your local Costco warehouse for the most current pricing.

Where to buy cauliflower rice if not at Costco?

If you don’t have a Costco membership or prefer to shop elsewhere, many other retailers offer various brands of cauliflower rice. You can often find both fresh and frozen options at major grocery stores such as Walmart, Target, Trader Joe’s, Aldi, Sam’s Club, Wegmans, and Whole Foods. Online options are also available, with platforms like Amazon selling a variety of cauliflower rice products that can be delivered directly to your door.

Is Costco cauliflower rice gluten-free?

Yes, both the plain Nature’s Intent cauliflower rice and the Tattooed Chef Organic Riced Cauliflower Stir Fry available at Costco are certified gluten-free. They are also suitable for vegan diets. The stir-fry blend, in particular, uses gluten-free tamari sauce instead of traditional soy sauce, which often contains wheat. However, as recipes and ingredients can occasionally change, always double-check the nutrition label and ingredient list on the packaging before purchasing to confirm their current dietary certifications.

Is Costco cauliflower rice good?

The plain Costco cauliflower rice has a relatively neutral flavor, much like regular rice, making it an excellent vehicle for absorbing the flavors of other ingredients in your dish. It’s important to note that when served by itself, plain cauliflower rice can be quite bland. The lactic acid present in Costco’s plain riced cauliflower can also impart a slightly tangy note, which some may or may not prefer. For the best experience, proper seasoning or pairing with flavorful sauces and ingredients is key to making Costco cauliflower rice truly delicious.

Is cauliflower rice healthier than regular rice?

Cauliflower rice offers several distinct health advantages over traditional white rice. It is significantly lower in calories and carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for weight loss and those monitoring their carb intake. Additionally, cauliflower rice provides more dietary fiber and Vitamin C, contributing to improved digestion and immune support. While regular rice (especially brown rice) is richer in B-complex vitamins, both cauliflower rice and regular rice can have a place in a balanced diet. If your primary goal is to reduce calories and carbs while increasing vegetable intake, cauliflower rice is a superior option.

Does packaged cauliflower rice have to be refrigerated?

The Nature’s Intent plain cauliflower rice from Costco is a shelf-stable product, meaning it does not require refrigeration until the individual pouch has been opened. This makes it a great pantry staple. Once a pouch is opened, any unused portion should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within a few days, or frozen for longer storage. In contrast, the Tattooed Chef frozen cauliflower rice stir fry is a frozen product and must be stored in the freezer until you are ready to cook it, maintaining its freshness and quality.

👩🏻‍🍳 Creative Recipes Using Costco Cauliflower Rice

Are you looking for inspiring frozen cauliflower rice recipes or ways to incorporate plain riced cauliflower into your meals? Cauliflower rice is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be substituted in many recipes where traditional rice is used. Get creative and make yourself a delicious Costco cauliflower rice bowl or elevate your favorite dishes with these ideas:

• Keto Salmon Sushi Bowl: A fresh and flavorful take on sushi, using cauliflower rice as the base.
• High Protein Buddha Bowl: Load up on veggies and plant-based protein for a vibrant meal.
• Air Fryer Stir Fry: Perfect for a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal.
• Air Fryer Orange Chicken: Serve this popular dish over a bed of fluffy cauliflower rice instead of white rice.
• Inside Out Egg Rolls: A deconstructed egg roll bowl where cauliflower rice makes an excellent, low-carb filler.
• Cauliflower Fried Rice: Sauté plain cauliflower rice with soy sauce, eggs, peas, carrots, and your choice of protein for a healthier version of classic fried rice.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers: Mix cooked cauliflower rice with ground meat, herbs, and cheese, then stuff into bell peppers and bake.
• Cauliflower Rice Pilaf: Sauté with broth, herbs, and finely diced vegetables for a savory pilaf.

The possibilities are truly endless when incorporating Costco cauliflower rice into your daily cooking!