Costco Brisket 2023: Everything You Need to Know Before Buying

When it comes to finding a high-quality, whole-packer brisket at an affordable price, many barbecue enthusiasts turn to Costco.

With its wide selection of meats, including the much-coveted wagyu, it’s no wonder that Costco briskets have garnered quite a reputation among home cooks and professional chefs alike.

But how good is Costco brisket, really? Dive into our comprehensive guide to discover everything you need to know.

What Cuts of Brisket Does Costco Sell?

Costco offers a medley of beef products, from prime packer briskets which include both the point and flat, to corned beef brisket, which is brined and ideal for classic dishes.

Costco Brisket Variety

• Costco USDA Prime Brisket: This is high-quality beef with rich marbling, promising a tender and juicy outcome.
• Costco Brisket Flat: A leaner cut, it’s perfect for grilling or slicing into thin strips.
• Costco Deckle/Point: Loved for its marbling, it’s often cooked low and slow, resulting in tantalizing burnt ends.

When you buy from Costco, remember to trim the brisket’s fat layer to ensure even cooking and enhanced taste.

USDA Prime Beef Brisket at Costco

Costco Brisket Price

Savor the exquisite taste of USDA Prime Commodity Beef Brisket, with an average weight of 14 lbs.

Delivered right to your doorstep at an incredible value of just $5.44 per pound. 

USDA Prime Costco Beef Brisket

• Understanding Beef Grading: The grade of beef is determined by various factors, including its maturity, texture, and the color of the lean meat. The key differentiator, however, is the marbling or fat content. A higher level of marbling means the beef is generally more tender and flavorful.
• Choice vs. Prime: While the Choice grade is of high quality, it possesses less marbling than Prime. Cuts from the loin and rib in Choice grade are exceptionally tender, juicy, and ideal for dry-heat cooking. On the other hand, even the less tender cuts from parts like the rump, round, and blade chuck can be deliciously prepared with dry heat.

Costco Beef Brisket Specifications:

• Weight: Approximately 14 lbs.
• Cut: Brisket, Boneless
• Quality: USDA Prime
• Type: Beef

Indulge in a dining experience with this premium cut of beef.

Price of Other Beef Brisket at Costco in 2023

Price of Brisket at Costco (2023)

Type of Brisket at Costco	Costco Price per Pound	Average Weight	Average Package Price
Full packer brisket (choice)	$3.59	15 lbs	$53.85
Full packer brisket (prime)	$3.59	15 lbs	$53.85
Flat brisket (choice)	$7.49	8 lbs	$59.92
Brisket burnt ends	$12.99	1.5 lbs	$19.49

Is The Brisket at Costco High Quality?

Costco Brisket offers three different grades of beef:

1. Prime Beef Brisket: The best in quality and flavor, but slightly pricier.
2. Choice Beef Brisket: A mid-range option balancing quality and price.
3. Select Beef Brisket: The most affordable but requires extra care while cooking.

Each grade offers a unique flavor profile, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Is Costco Brisket Ideal for Smoking?

Absolutely! Costco brisket is not only suitable for smoking but is also offered in a range of grades to cater to various tastes and budgets, including Prime, Choice, and Select. Here’s a breakdown:

• Prime Grade: Boasting high-quality marbling, this grade promises a tender and flavorful smoked brisket experience.
• Choice Grade: While it might have less marbling than Prime, with the right attention to detail during smoking, it can yield a delectably smoked product.
• Select Grade: More budget-friendly, this grade requires a bit more care during smoking but can still produce excellent results.

For optimal results with Costco’s brisket, keep in mind considerations like the fat cap’s thickness, the cooking temperature, and the wood type for smoking.

With proper preparation and attentiveness, you’re set to enjoy a juicy and tantalizing smoked brisket that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

How Much Does Brisket Cost from a Local Costco Store?

Costco Brisket Prices can vary, but as of our latest data:

• Prime Briskets: $3.49 to $3.99 per lb.
• Choice Briskets: $2.99 to $3.49 per lb.
• Select Briskets: $1.99 to $2.49 per lb.

Always compare to ensure you’re getting the best bang for your buck.

Read more about Costco Meat Products in 2023,

• Costco Gyro Meat
• Costco Roast Beef
• Costco Beef Jerky
• Costco Corned Beef
• Costco Ground Beef
• Spiral Sliced Costco Ham 
• Costco Tri tip Steak 
• Costco Flank Steak Beef
• Costco Skirt Steak

Tips on Buying Brisket from Costco

From understanding brisket grades to checking the meat’s color, flexibility, and fat cap, there’s a lot to consider when buying. Always plan ahead and seek advice if unsure.

1. Understand Prime, Choice, and Select grades.
2. Consider marbling and tenderness.
3. Set a budget.
4. Check packaging for punctures or tears.
5. Look for a bright red color in the brisket.
6. Avoid dull or discolored cuts.
7. Bend brisket to test flexibility.
8. Note: More flexible = more tender when cooked.
9. Look for a good fat layer.
10. Avoid excessively fatty cuts.
11. Estimate ½ pound uncooked brisket per person.
12. Account for meat shrinkage during cooking.
13. Allocate sufficient time for cooking.
14. Consult Costco employees for advice.
15. Buy extra during sales for future use.

Costco Brisket Shipping & Returns Information

At Costco Business Center, you’ll find delivered prices. Please be aware that product availability and pricing can change without prior notice, with any adjustments reflected in your order confirmation.

For any questions about delivery, please visit Business Center Customer Service or contact us at 1-800-788-9968. You have the convenience of returning Costco Business Center products at any of Costco 700+ Costco warehouses worldwide.

Costco Brisket Recipe

FAQs Regarding Costco Brisket

Conclusion

Costco’s range of briskets promises something for every barbecue lover. So, gear up, choose your preferred cut, and let the grilling begin. And if you’re left with extras, your freezer will be your brisket’s best friend until the next cookout.