Costco's 8 Top Air Fryer Snacks You Can't Miss

The Rise of Air Fryer Snacks at Costco

The air fryer has become a staple in many kitchens, and for good reason. It offers a quick, efficient way to prepare meals without the sogginess often associated with microwave use. For those looking for convenience and flavor, the air fryer is an invaluable tool. This has led to a surge in food products designed specifically for air frying, including a variety of snacks available at Costco.

Costco is known for its bulk offerings, and it's no surprise that they stock a range of air fryer-friendly snacks. These items are not only convenient but also deliver on taste and texture when cooked properly. Below is a look at some of the best air fryer snacks available at Costco, based on their performance in the air fryer, flavor, and overall appeal.

Del Real Birria & Cheese Pupusas

Del Real’s Birria & Cheese Pupusas made the cut for this list, though they required a bit more time than advertised. The pupusas delivered a good texture and balanced flavor, making them a satisfying snack after under 10 minutes of cooking. The distinct birria taste was evident, and while the cheesiness was somewhat mild, the overall flavor was enjoyable.

One downside was the thick and dry corn masa exterior. To enhance the experience, pairing them with the guacamole recipe on the back of the box or with salsa and sour cream is recommended. Despite this, the crispy exterior and flavorful interior made these pupusas a worthwhile addition to the lineup.

Bistro 28 Pretzel Bites

Bistro 28’s Pretzel Bites stood out as a favorite among the snacks reviewed. The inclusion of dipping sauce cups—two jalapeño cheese dips and one cheddar cheese dip—was a significant plus. These sauces had a great texture and flavor when warmed in the microwave, adding extra enjoyment to the pretzel bites.

To prepare the pretzel bites, a simple brush of water or melted butter and a sprinkle of salt were all that was needed. After five minutes in the preheated air fryer, they emerged with a crisp exterior and a soft, pillowy interior. The malt notes typical of soft pretzels were present, and the combination of texture and flavor made these bites a top choice.

Del Real Quesadilla Bites

Another offering from Del Real, the Quesadilla Bites, were a strong contender. Each bite was generously cheesy, with a gooey center that contrasted nicely with the slightly thick and dry corn exterior. However, the air fryer helped achieve a perfect balance of crispness on the outside and a warm, soft interior.

While a sauce could help offset the corn casing, these bites were still enjoyable on their own. Their size was ideal for snacking, and a few pieces were enough to satisfy hunger. They made for a great after-school snack or lunch accompaniment.

El Monterey Chicken & Cheese Taquitos

El Monterey’s Chicken & Cheese Taquitos were another standout. Cooking them in the air fryer took less than 10 minutes and resulted in a delicious, crunchy exterior with a flavorful, slightly spicy chicken and cheese filling. The size of each taquito was generous, making them a satisfying snack on their own.

These taquitos didn’t require any additional sauces, though they would complement well with a variety. Their convenience and flavor made them a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, tasty snack.

Ajinomoto Japanese Style Shumai

Ajinomoto’s Japanese Style Shumai offered a unique twist with its pork filling and bamboo shoots. The air fryer gave the dumplings a crisp exterior and juicy interior, making them a delightful bite. The bamboo shoots added a light, earthy crunch, enhancing the overall flavor.

These shumai were enjoyable on their own but could be paired with sauces like sweet-and-sour or soy glaze for an extra kick. Their versatility and quality made them a welcome addition to the list.

Kirkland Signature Extra-Crispy French Fries

French fries are a classic air fryer snack, and Kirkland’s Extra-Crispy French Fries lived up to the hype. They were ultra-crispy with a soft, fluffy interior, resembling fries from a food truck. The lack of excessive salt allowed for customization, and they didn’t require oil to achieve the desired crispiness.

These fries were perfect for creating loaded fries or enjoying as a standalone snack. Their quality and convenience made them a top choice.

Ore-Ida Crispy Tater Tots

Ore-Ida’s Crispy Tater Tots were another winner. Cooked in the air fryer, they became golden and crispy on the outside with a light, fluffy interior. They were flavorful enough to enjoy without ketchup, making them ideal for picky eaters.

The 8-pound bag ensures a long-lasting supply, and their texture and taste made them a must-have for any air fryer enthusiast.

Petite Cuisine Mozzarella Sticks

Lastly, Petite Cuisine’s Mozzarella Sticks were a highlight of the list. Known for their excellent cheese pull, these sticks were a crowd-pleaser. While the absence of marinara sauce was a minor downside, the seasoning and rich mozzarella flavor made them a standout.

These mozzarella sticks were perfect for snacking and were a testament to the air fryer’s ability to elevate frozen snacks into something truly delicious.

Methodology

Each snack on this list was chosen based on its suitability for air frying. All included air fryer instructions, and they were prepared according to package directions. Criteria included full heating, desired textures (crispy exterior and soft interior), and overall flavor. While flavor varied, most snacks were enjoyable on their own or with optional additions.