Is Costco’s Italian Seasoning Worth the Hype? A Spicy Showdown You Can’t Miss!

If you’ve ever wandered down the spice aisle at Costco, chances are you’ve seen their iconic bottle of Italian Seasoning and wondered: "Is this really worth buying?" Well, wonder no more! In this spicy showdown, we’ll uncover whether Costco’s version stacks up against homemade blends and premium store-bought options. Spoiler alert: It just might surprise you.

Table of Contents

• What Exactly Is Italian Seasoning?
• Costco’s Italian Seasoning: The Big Box Star
• Comparing Costco vs Homemade vs Premium Brands
• Buying Guide: What to Look for in Italian Seasoning
• Creative Ways to Use Italian Seasoning
• The Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

What Exactly Is Italian Seasoning?

Italian seasoning is not a single herb but rather a blend of several aromatic herbs commonly used in Italian cuisine. While recipes can vary, most versions include:

• Oregano – adds earthy warmth
• Basil – offers sweet, peppery notes
• Thyme – brings a minty, savory undertone
• Rosemary – contributes a bold, woody flavor
• Marjoram – softer and sweeter than oregano
• Parsley – for fresh color and mild taste

These herbs combine to create a balanced, savory profile perfect for pasta sauces, roasted vegetables, grilled meats, and more.

Costco’s Italian Seasoning: The Big Box Star

Costco’s version comes in a large 12 oz (340g) glass jar, perfect for families or meal-preppers. Priced at around $10–$12 per jar, it claims to be a value-packed powerhouse for everyday cooking. Let’s break down what’s inside:

• Dried Oregano
• Basil
• Thyme
• Rosemary
• Marjoram
• Parsley

No artificial preservatives, additives, or fillers—just pure herbs. But how does that translate into real-world flavor and usability?

Comparing Costco vs Homemade vs Premium Brands

To find out if Costco’s version lives up to the hype, we did a side-by-side comparison with both a homemade blend and two premium brands: Simply Organic and Spice Islands.

Brand	Price	Size	Ingredients	Flavor Rating (1–10)	Best For
Costco	$10–$12	12 oz	Oregano, Basil, Thyme, Rosemary, Marjoram, Parsley	8.5	Weeknight meals, marinades, soups
Homemade	$15+ (depending on quality)	Makes ~8 oz	Freshly dried herbs of your choice	9.5	Special dishes, gifting, gourmet cooking
Simply Organic	$8–$10	4 oz	Organic herbs, no additives	9.0	Health-focused cooks, organic enthusiasts
Spice Islands	$6–$8	3 oz	Traditional herb mix	7.5	Casual weeknight dinners

Buying Guide: What to Look for in Italian Seasoning

Not all Italian seasonings are created equal. Here’s what to keep an eye out for when shopping:

1. Natural Ingredients Only: Avoid added MSG, preservatives, or anti-caking agents unless necessary.
2. Balanced Herb Blend: Should contain a mix of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary as core ingredients.
3. Whole Leaf or Crushed?: Whole leaves have stronger aroma; crushed mixes more evenly into dishes.
4. Brand Reputation: Stick to trusted names like Kirkland Signature (Costco), Simply Organic, or McCormick.
5. Use Case: Consider how you’ll use it—everyday cooking vs. special recipes.

Also, pay attention to expiration dates. Dried herbs typically last 1–3 years, but potency fades over time.

Creative Ways to Use Italian Seasoning

Don’t limit yourself to spaghetti sauce! Try these clever uses for Italian seasoning:

• Pizza crust: Mix into dough before baking for extra flavor.
• Popcorn: Toss freshly popped kernels with olive oil and a sprinkle of seasoning.
• Egg dishes: Sprinkle over scrambled eggs or shakshuka.
• Homemade bread: Brush with butter and Italian seasoning before baking.
• Roasted potatoes: Combine with olive oil and garlic for a simple, delicious side.
• Veggie burgers: Boost flavor by mixing into patties before cooking.
• Dips & dressings: Stir into Greek yogurt, ranch dressing, or aioli for a quick dip.

The Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

In a word: YES! If you're looking for a reliable, budget-friendly option that delivers solid flavor without breaking the bank, Costco’s Italian Seasoning is a smart pick.

It may not rival top-tier organic brands or a perfectly crafted homemade batch, but for everyday cooking and convenience, it hits all the right notes.

• Pros:
• Great price per ounce
• High-quality herbs
• Ideal for bulk cooking
• No unnecessary additives
• Cons:
• May lack the depth of premium blends
• Crushed texture may not suit purists who prefer whole leaves

So go ahead, grab that big jar from Costco. Your next Italian-inspired dinner is going to smell—and taste—amazing.