Costco Soup Dumplings: Price, Availability & Cooking Guide

Yes, Costco sells frozen soup dumplings, primarily under the Bing's brand. These xiao long bao typically cost between $9.99 and $12.99 for a 28-32 ounce package containing approximately 30 dumplings. They're available in most warehouse locations nationwide, usually found in the frozen food section near other Asian cuisine products. The dumplings require steaming for 12-15 minutes and contain pork broth filling inside delicate wrappers.

Availability of Soup Dumplings at Costco

Costco carries frozen soup dumplings as a regular item in most warehouse locations across the United States. The primary brand available is Bing's Gourmet Chinese Foods, a well-established producer of authentic Asian frozen foods. While product availability can vary by region and season, soup dumplings generally maintain consistent stock throughout the year.

Shoppers typically find these in the international or Asian food section of the frozen foods aisle. Some larger Costco locations may also feature them near other premium frozen appetizers. The 28-32 ounce packages usually contain about 30 individual dumplings, making them suitable for family meals or entertaining.

Product Details and Pricing

Costco's soup dumplings come in standard packaging with clear preparation instructions. The Bing's brand offers traditional pork soup dumplings (xiao long bao) that contain the signature hot broth inside each dumpling. Here's what you can expect when purchasing:

Product Feature	Details
Brand	Bing's Gourmet Chinese Foods
Package Size	28-32 ounces (approximately 1.8-2 lbs)
Quantity	Approximately 30 dumplings
Price Range	$9.99 - $12.99
Storage	Keep frozen at 0°F or below
Ingredients	Wheat flour, pork, water, broth, seasonings, vegetables

Pricing may fluctuate slightly based on your geographic location and current promotions. The cost per serving works out to approximately $0.33-$0.43 per dumpling, making them a relatively affordable option compared to restaurant versions which typically cost $0.75-$1.50 each.

Proper Preparation Method

Many customers wonder how to cook Costco soup dumplings properly to achieve the best results. The key to enjoying these frozen xiao long bao is using the correct steaming technique:

1. Remove dumplings from packaging and arrange them in a single layer in a steamer basket, leaving space between each to prevent sticking
2. Place the steamer over rapidly boiling water (ensure water doesn't touch the bottom of the basket)
3. Cover and steam for 12-15 minutes until wrappers become translucent and filling is hot
4. Do not thaw before cooking - cook from frozen for best results
5. Serve immediately with black vinegar and thinly sliced ginger

Avoid common mistakes like overcrowding the steamer basket, using insufficient water (which can cause burning), or attempting to microwave the dumplings, which will compromise the delicate texture. For optimal results, use a bamboo steamer which helps absorb excess moisture.

Quality Assessment and Taste Profile

When evaluating whether Costco soup dumplings are good, several factors come into play. The Bing's brand offers a reasonably authentic xiao long bao experience that captures the essential elements of this Shanghai specialty.

The wrappers maintain their integrity during cooking without becoming soggy or tearing easily. Each dumpling contains a flavorful pork broth that bursts when bitten, though the quantity may be slightly less than what you'd find in high-end restaurants. The pork filling is well-seasoned with traditional Chinese spices including ginger and scallions.

While they won't perfectly replicate the experience of freshly made soup dumplings from a specialized restaurant, they represent one of the better frozen options available at retail price points. Food critics and consumer reviews generally rate them as "good for frozen" with scores typically ranging from 3.5 to 4 out of 5 stars.

Storage and Shelf Life Information

Proper storage is essential for maintaining the quality of your Costco soup dumplings. When stored correctly in your home freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below, these frozen dumplings will maintain best quality for 6-8 months.

Once purchased, transfer the package directly to your freezer without thawing. If the package becomes damaged, consider transferring the dumplings to an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. Do not refreeze dumplings that have completely thawed.

When properly stored, the dumplings should remain separated and not stick together. If you notice ice crystals forming inside the package or a change in texture when cooked, this indicates the product may have experienced temperature fluctuations that compromised quality.

Value Comparison with Alternatives

When considering where to buy soup dumplings at Costco versus other options, the value proposition becomes clear. Restaurant servings of soup dumplings typically cost $12-$18 for 6-8 pieces, while homemade versions require significant time investment and specialty ingredients.

Costco's offering provides a middle ground - significantly more affordable than restaurant versions while requiring minimal preparation time compared to homemade. The convenience factor makes these particularly appealing for weeknight dinners or when hosting guests without extensive cooking experience.

Compared to other grocery store frozen dumpling options, Costco's soup dumplings generally offer better value with larger package sizes and competitive pricing. While some specialty Asian markets may offer comparable products, the convenience of finding them alongside your regular Costco shopping makes them an attractive option.

Where can I find soup dumplings in Costco?

Soup dumplings are typically located in the frozen food section, often in the international or Asian foods subsection. Look for the Bing's brand packaging near other premium frozen appetizers or dumpling products.

How many soup dumplings come in a Costco package?

A standard Costco package of Bing's soup dumplings contains approximately 30 dumplings in a 28-32 ounce package, weighing about 1.8-2 pounds total.

Do Costco soup dumplings contain actual soup inside?

Yes, authentic xiao long bao like those sold at Costco contain a hot broth filling inside each dumpling. The Bing's brand uses a gelatinized pork broth that melts into soup when steamed.

Can I cook Costco soup dumplings without a steamer?

While a steamer produces the best results, you can use alternative methods. Place a heat-proof plate on crumpled aluminum foil in a covered pot with simmering water, or use a metal colander over a pot. Avoid microwaving as it compromises texture.

Are Costco soup dumplings gluten-free?

No, traditional soup dumplings including those sold at Costco contain wheat flour in the wrapper. They are not gluten-free. Always check the specific product label for the most current ingredient information.