Costco Lasagna Review: Your Ultimate Guide to Kirkland Signature Frozen Lasagna
Seeking an effortless yet satisfying dinner solution? Costco lasagna, often recognized as Kirkland Signature lasagna, offers a convenient and affordable option for families and gatherings. These substantial 6 lb packs of Costco frozen lasagna are available in two delectable flavors: classic beef lasagna and a rich Italian sausage and beef lasagna. Both varieties are crafted with premium ingredients, including USDA choice grade ground beef chuck, vibrant vine-ripened tomatoes, creamy whole milk mozzarella cheese, and authentic ricotta cheese. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about Kirkland lasagna, from detailed cooking instructions and nutritional insights to pricing and expert tips.
🍝 Exploring Costco’s Lasagna Selection
Costco is renowned for its bulk savings and quality products, and its lasagna offerings are a testament to this reputation. You’ll typically find several lasagna options within their frozen and prepared foods sections, catering to various preferences and occasions. The primary frozen offerings include the popular Costco Italian Beef and Sausage Lasagna and the traditional Costco Beef Lasagna. Each comes in a generous 2-pack, totaling 6 pounds, making them ideal for large family dinners, potlucks, or simply stocking up for future meals.
Kirkland Signature, Costco’s private label, is synonymous with high standards, and their frozen lasagnas proudly uphold this. Both the beef and the sausage & beef flavors deliver a rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying experience that closely resembles a homemade dish. The robust meaty sauce, perfectly layered pasta, and decadent cheese blend combine to create a classic comfort meal that excels in both flavor and convenience. The convenience factor of simply popping a frozen tray into the oven or microwave makes it a go-to for busy evenings.
Beyond the freezer aisle, certain Costco locations in the US may also carry a refrigerated Costco Ravioli Lasagna in their prepared foods section. This unique twist on lasagna substitutes traditional pasta sheets with layers of tender ravioli, offering a slightly different texture and flavor profile. For specific cooking instructions for this refrigerated variant, you might find valuable guidance in general lasagna baking guides, such as tips on how long to bake lasagna at 350 degrees.
Costco’s inventory can vary by region and season, so keep an eye out for other potential lasagna varieties. While some items like the Rana beef and short rib lasagna may be discontinued, Costco’s online store often features niche options such as freeze-dried #10 cans of Costco Mountain House Lasagna with Meat Sauce, perfect for emergency preparedness or camping enthusiasts.
💰 Costco Lasagna Price
Costco lasagna prices are subject to change and may vary by location. The following prices were accurate at the time of writing:
- Kirkland Signature Beef Lasagna: Approximately $17.99
- Kirkland Signature Sausage & Beef Lasagna: Approximately $16.79
Considering each package contains two 3-pound trays, these prices represent excellent value, especially when compared to restaurant-quality lasagna or the cost of preparing such a large meal from scratch.
🍅 What’s Inside: Costco Lasagna Ingredients
The quality of Costco Kirkland Signature lasagna largely stems from its carefully selected ingredients. Both the beef and Italian sausage and beef variations are crafted to deliver a robust flavor profile. It’s important for consumers to note that both flavors contain common allergens: wheat, eggs, and milk.
Costco Beef Lasagna Ingredients
The classic Costco Beef Lasagna boasts a rich, savory flavor thanks to its thoughtfully chosen components:
- Tomatoes: A blend of vine-ripened ground tomatoes, tomato puree, and pear tomatoes, seasoned with salt, calcium chloride, and citric acid, forming the flavorful base.
- Cooked Pasta: Made from semolina (wheat), water, and egg whites, providing tender layers.
- Ground Choice Beef from Chuck: High-quality beef that forms the hearty core of the lasagna.
- Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese: A creamy blend of whey, cream, vinegar, and salt, adding a smooth, rich texture.
- Whole Milk Mozzarella Cheese: Made from milk, cheese cultures, salt, and enzymes, ensuring a perfect melt.
- Tomato Puree: Enhances the tomato base for deeper flavor.
- Romano Cheese: Crafted from part-skim cow’s milk, cheese cultures, salt, and enzymes, offering a sharp, tangy note.
- Caramelized Onions: Onions cooked with canola oil, providing a sweet, savory depth.
- Sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Spices: A proprietary blend to enhance the overall flavor.
- Rice Starch: Used as a thickener for the sauce.
- Water: For consistency and cooking.
- Red Wine: Adds complexity and richness to the sauce.
- Garlic: Essential for a classic Italian flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: (Milk, cheese cultures, salt, enzymes) further enriches the cheese blend.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: For depth of flavor and cooking.
- Salt: Seasoning.
- Cornstarch: Another thickening agent.
- Spinach: Adds a subtle earthy note and nutritional value.
- Onion: Contributes to the aromatic foundation.
Costco Sausage and Beef Lasagna Ingredients
For those who prefer a little more zest, the Costco Italian Sausage and Beef Lasagna builds on the classic recipe with flavorful additions:
- Tomatoes: A foundation of vine-ripened ground tomatoes, tomato puree, and pear tomatoes, with salt, calcium chloride, and citric acid.
- Cooked Pasta: Semolina (wheat), water, and egg whites provide the pasta layers.
- Cooked Zesty Italian Sausage: Made with pork, water, a blend of spices, salt, and garlic powder for a robust, zesty kick.
- Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese: Whey, cream, vinegar, and salt for creamy layers.
- Whole Milk Mozzarella Cheese: (Milk, cheese cultures, salt, enzymes) ensuring optimal melt and texture.
- Tomato Puree: To enrich the tomato sauce base.
- Ground Choice Beef from Chuck: The substantial beef component.
- Cooked Italian Sausage: (Pork, spices, water, salt, sugar, natural flavorings, paprika) for an additional layer of savory, spiced flavor.
- Romano Cheese: (Part-skim cow’s milk, cheese cultures, salt, enzymes) contributing a sharp, salty depth.
- Caramelized Onions: Onions cooked with canola oil for a sweet and savory element.
- Rice Starch: A thickening agent for the sauce.
- Spices: A unique blend to complement the sausage and beef.
- Sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomato sauce.
- Water: For consistency.
- Parmesan Cheese: (Milk, cheese cultures, salt, enzymes) adding a rich, nutty flavor to the cheese blend.
- Garlic: Integral to the aromatic profile.
- Red Wine: Enhances the complexity and depth of the meat sauce.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: For flavor and richness.
- Salt: Essential seasoning.
- Cornstarch: Another thickener.
- Spinach: A touch of greens for balance.
- Onion: Reinforces the savory base.
🗒️ Nutritional Breakdown: Costco Lasagna Nutrition
For those monitoring their intake, understanding the nutritional content of Costco lasagna is key. The following table provides an estimated nutritional breakdown per 8oz serving. Please remember that nutritional information can be subject to change and may vary slightly based on product batches and specific preparation methods.
| Nutrient | Costco Beef Lasagna | Costco Sausage and Beef Lasagna |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 330 | 410 |
| Total Fat | 16g | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g | 10g |
| Cholesterol | 60mg | 80mg |
| Sodium | 650mg | 890mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 28g | 30g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g | 3g |
| Added Sugar | 2g | 2g |
| Protein | 19g | 23g |
| Vitamin D | 6% DV | 6% DV |
| Calcium | 20% DV | 20% DV |
| Iron | 10% DV | 10% DV |
| Potassium | 10% DV | 10% DV |
Costco Lasagna Calories
A single serving (approximately 1/6th of one 3 lb tray) of Costco Beef Lasagna contains 330 calories. The Costco Frozen Lasagna (Sausage and Beef flavor), due to its richer meat content, has a slightly higher calorie count, totaling 410 calories per serving. These figures highlight that both options are substantial meals, providing significant energy and protein for an adult-sized portion.
🔥 Costco Lasagna Cooking Instructions
For optimal results and food safety, Costco provides specific directions on the packaging for how to cook Costco lasagna in both conventional ovens and microwaves. A crucial recommendation is to cook the lasagna directly from its frozen state; thawing is not required. Always ensure the lasagna reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer before serving to guarantee it’s thoroughly heated and safe to consume.
If you’ve misplaced the paper sleeve with the cooking instructions, don’t worry! Here’s a detailed guide for preparing your Costco lasagna:
Kirkland Lasagna Instructions for Oven (Recommended Method)
Baking Costco lasagna in a conventional oven is generally considered the best method for achieving a perfectly cooked, golden-brown top and evenly heated interior. The total cooking time is approximately 65 minutes. Follow these step-by-step instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Carefully separate the twin pack (if applicable) and remove one sealed pan from its cardboard sleeve. Create a small, 2-inch (5cm) slit in the film cover of the lasagna tray to allow steam to escape during cooking. Place the tray on a baking sheet to catch any potential spills, and then position it on the middle rack of your preheated oven.
Bake the Costco lasagna for an initial 55 minutes. After this time, carefully remove the film cover from the tray. Continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes to allow the cheese on top to brown and become delightfully bubbly. Before removing completely, verify that the lasagna has reached a minimum safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a food thermometer.
Once cooked, carefully remove the lasagna from the oven. Allow it to stand for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and ensuring a more enjoyable texture.
How long and what temp do you bake Costco lasagna?
For a delicious, evenly cooked result, bake Costco lasagna at 375°F (190°C) for a total of 65 minutes. Remember to remove the plastic film cover for the final 10 minutes of baking to achieve a perfectly browned, crispy cheese topping.
Kirkland Lasagna Cooking Instructions (Microwave Oven)
While the oven method is preferred for overall texture, microwaving offers a faster alternative for when time is of the essence. Note that microwave cooking can sometimes lead to uneven heating, so careful monitoring and checking the internal temperature are crucial.
Separate the twin pack and remove the sealed pan from its sleeve. Create a 2-inch (5cm) slit in the film cover. Place the tray directly in the center of a 1000-watt microwave oven. Cook on high power for 10 minutes.
After the initial 10 minutes, carefully remove the film cover. Reduce the microwave power level to 50% and continue cooking for an additional 14 minutes. Before serving, always check to ensure the lasagna has reached a minimum safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If it hasn’t, add more cooking time in short intervals until safe.
Allow the lasagna to stand in the microwave for 5 minutes after cooking before cutting and serving. This allows the heat to distribute evenly and the layers to set.
Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, individual portions can be frozen for several months, making it a great meal prep option.
How to Reheat Costco Lasagna
Reheating an entire Costco lasagna can be tricky due to its size, especially in smaller appliances like air fryers. However, individual portions reheat beautifully using various methods. It’s generally impractical to cut off frozen pieces of lasagna to cook, so defrosting individual servings partially before reheating is often recommended for best results.
- Air Fryer: For crispy edges and a quick reheat, preheat your air fryer basket to 350°F (177°C) for 5 minutes. Place a single portion of lasagna in an oven-safe baking dish or an air-fryer-safe ramekin. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent drying out the top, and air fry for 15-20 minutes, or until thoroughly heated through to 165°F (74°C).
- Microwave (Best for Speed): For the fastest reheat, place a portion of lasagna on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking at the halfway point, until it’s hot throughout. This method is great for quick lunches or dinners.
Frequently Asked Questions About Costco Lasagna
Which lasagna is best at Costco?
While taste is subjective, many customers, including in our own taste tests, consider the Costco Italian Sausage and Beef Lasagna to be the superior choice among the frozen options. It offers all the comforting flavors of the classic beef lasagna but with an added layer of richness and a zesty kick from the Italian sausage. It’s also often found at a slightly lower price point, although it’s a bit higher in calories per serving, offering a more indulgent experience.
Do you have to thaw Costco lasagna before cooking?
No, there’s no need to thaw Costco frozen lasagnas before cooking. The packaging explicitly recommends cooking these Kirkland products directly from their frozen state. This convenience saves time and simplifies meal preparation, ensuring you can have a hot meal ready without extensive planning.
How many people will a Costco lasagna feed?
A single package of Costco frozen lasagna, which contains two 3 lb trays, is designed to generously feed 12 people. Each individual 3 lb lasagna tray provides 6 adult-sized servings. This makes it an incredibly cost-effective option for large family meals, parties, or any event where you need to feed a crowd alongside some complementary side dishes.
Is Costco lasagna precooked?
Costco lasagnas are partially precooked. The meat components within the lasagna may be fully or partially cooked, and the pasta noodles are typically cooked al dente. However, the cheese topping on the frozen lasagnas is not cooked or melted. The final baking or microwaving step at home completes the cooking process, ensuring the cheese melts beautifully and the entire dish is heated through and bubbling.
Is Costco lasagna vegetarian?
The standard Kirkland Signature frozen beef lasagna and Italian sausage and beef lasagna, as well as the refrigerated Costco ravioli lasagna, are not vegetarian as they contain meat. Occasionally, Costco warehouses may stock other brands, such as frozen Amy’s lasagna, which often offers vegetarian varieties. It’s always best to check the product label for specific dietary information.
👩🏻🍳 Explore More Costco Delights
If you found this Costco lasagna review helpful, you might be interested in maximizing your Costco warehouse membership by checking out our other popular product reviews and cooking guides:
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- Costco Brisket: Buying & Cooking Guide
- How to Cook Costco Pork Belly for Perfect Results
- Costco Sandwiches: Quick Meals & Easy Lunch Solutions
- Costco Apple Pie: A Sweet Treat Review
- Mac and Cheese (Costco): The Ultimate Comfort Food
- Costco Yakisoba Stir Fry: Easy Weeknight Meal
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Watch How to Make It!
Costco Lasagna (Costco Frozen Lasagna Instructions, Price, more)
Summer Yule
Print Recipe
Pin Recipe
1 hr 5 mins
1 hr 5 mins
Dinner
American, Italian
6 per tray
410 kcal
Ingredients
- 1 package Costco lasagna (frozen; beef flavor) OR
- 1 package Costco frozen lasagna (Italian sausage and beef flavor)
Instructions
Costco lasagna in oven:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Separate twin pack and remove sealed pan from sleeve. Cut a 2-inch (5cm) slit in film cover. Place tray on a baking sheet on the middle oven rack.
- Cook Costco lasagna for 55 minutes. Carefully remove the film cover and continue cooking for 10 minutes more to brown the cheese. Check to make sure lasagna reached a minimum safe internal temp of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven and let stand 5 minutes before cutting and serving.
Costco lasagna in microwave:
- Separate twin pack and remove sealed pan from sleeve. Cut a 2-inch (5cm) slit in film cover. Place tray in center of a 1000-watt microwave.
- Cook on high for 10 minutes.
- Remove film cover. Reduce power level to 50% and cook an additional 14 minutes. Check to make sure lasagna reached a minimum safe internal temp of 165°F (74°C), and add cooking time if needed.
- Let lasagna stand in microwave for 5 minutes before cutting and serving.
Save this Recipe
Saved!
Equipment
- Kitchen Thermometer
Notes
💭 Expert Tips from Dietitian Summer Yule
This is a level 3 recipe (weight maintenance and active lifestyles). Costco lasagnas are an ultra-processed food and do not fit most of the special diets (low carb, vegan, gluten-free, low sodium, etc.). That said, they’re a quick option that feeds a crowd and satisfies many picky eaters. You can round out the meal by adding a large portion of non-starchy veggies (such as side salads) for more fiber and phytonutrients.
Nutrition information is for one serving of Kirkland Italian sausage and beef lasagna.
nutrition info disclaimer
All recipes on this website may or may not be appropriate for you, depending on your medical needs and personal preferences. Consult with a registered dietitian or your physician if you need help determining the dietary pattern that may be best for you.
The nutrition information is an estimate provided as a courtesy. It will differ depending on the specific brands and ingredients that you use. Calorie information on food labels may be inaccurate, so please don’t sweat the numbers too much.
“To taste” means to your preferences, which may have to be visual to follow food safety rules. Please don’t eat undercooked food x
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 23g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Sodium: 890mg
Potassium: 584mg
Fiber: 3g
Added Sugar: 2g
Calcium: 20% DV
Iron: 10% DV
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