Costco Sells Our Favorite Marinara Sauce for Super Cheap — But There’s a Catch

I’d like to think I have my Costco runs down to a science. I know the most efficient way to get around the store when it’s packed. I know where all my favorite items (and samples!) can be found. And I know when to visit if I want any chance of scoring a decent parking spot.

Still, every now and then, something will surprise me at Costco — and that’s usually in the form of a new (or new-to-me!) item that catches my eye. On a recent visit, this surprise was a hefty stack of a pantry staple I always stock, but had never bought at Costco before: Rao’s Marinara Sauce.

It’s my go-to jarred sauce — and it’s Kitchn’s unrivaled favorite, too! — so there are always a couple of jars in my pantry. But I hadn’t realized Costco carried it until now. (I’m also convinced it must be a new-ish addition, and perhaps not rolled out nationwide, as a Rao’s search on Costco’s website doesn’t turn up anything yet.)

At other retailers near me, Rao’s usually goes for $8 or $9 per jar, dipping closer to $6 when on sale. But Costco sells a pack of two jars for $10.59, or about $5.30 each. That means in terms of cost per ounce, Costco wins out. There’s only one small catch.

The Rao’s jars at Costco come in a slightly larger size than what you’re used to. They’re 28 ounces each, or 4 ounces larger than a standard grocery-store version. For most, that won’t be an issue. (More sauce, less money!) But if you’re used to using exactly one jar in a recipe — like, say, Instant Pot spaghetti — you’ll find yourself with a 1/2 cup of leftover sauce if you don’t want to jinx the ratio.

I’ve converted to the Costco size, though, and I wanted to share a few ways that I’ve used that extra sauce. In case you’d also like to stretch those leftovers into another meal or snack, here are some easy ways to do that.

• Single-serving shakshuka: Simmer an egg in the 1/2 cup of sauce on the stovetop, then garnish with fresh herbs and serve with bread for dipping. Or double up with this microwave version.
• English muffin pizzas: Layer sliced muffins with sauce, cheese, and any other toppings you’d like — then broil or bake for a few minutes until melted. This also works with naan or pitas as the base. (I’ll be trying this spooky version for my kid as we get closer to Halloween.)
• Other options: Swirl the extra sauce into mac and cheese or a pasta frittata, save a bowl for dipping mozzarella sticks or garlic knots, or mix with Greek yogurt for a protein-packed savory toast topper. Just don’t let it go to waste!

Have you seen Rao’s at your local Costco?