What Makes Costco’s Pizza So Good?

Growing up, weekends consisted of trips to the movies and amusement parks—and Costco. My mom would gather my sisters and me in the minivan, and we’d trudge along while she did grocery shopping for the week.

If we behaved, we’d be rewarded with a stop at the food court, where we’d order a piping hot slice of pizza. To this day, the food court’s giant pizza continues to draw in a plethora of hungry customers, and I’ve always been curious about its lasting appeal.

The Reason Costco Pizza Tastes So Good

The main answer is simple, and it has everything to do with the cheese. A Costco pizza is loaded with a mouthwatering blend of cheese that’s believed to be a combination of mozzarella and provolone, giving it a salty and savory flavor. But that’s not the only draw. The sheer amount of cheese makes the pizza a go-to option for anyone who’s a fan of extra-cheesy pies.

In a Reddit post, passionate fans debated the pros and cons of ordering a pie from Costco’s food court, and the cheese was a major talking point. “If you’re a mouse, you would love Costco pizza because it’s cheesy!” wrote one commenter.

Another fan was quick to chime in, sharing the estimated amount of cheese on each pie: “There’s a full pound on the pepperoni, and 1.5 pounds on the cheese.” So, if you prefer light cheese or no dairy on your pizza, you might want to skip the food court. 

But perhaps the most appealing aspects of Costco’s pizza are the price and size. An 18-inch pizza costs around $9.95, which is a bargain considering its size. Speaking from experience, my family of five has always been able to enjoy a full pie—with slices to spare. Even if you opt to order by the slice, you’ll still get a filling meal that costs just under $2. 

Now, even with the tasty cheese, affordability, and convenience, there are still plenty of critics. “Other than its size and price, I wouldn’t consider it good pizza. It’s fine for the price,” notes one customer.

Still, loyal fans joined in the Reddit thread, sharing their hacks on how to maximize the pizza’s deliciousness. “It’s even better reheated in a skillet until the crust gets crispy,” admits one Redditor. “A whole other level of good.”

For another shopper, the main reason they keep going back is because of the memories: “Nostalgia. I grew up eating Costco pizza once a week when my parents went on their weekly Costco visit.”

And on that point, I’d have to agree. While I can surely find higher-quality pizza, nothing compares to the age-old tradition of hitting the Costco food court with my family.