Looking for where to buy cauliflower rice? You can find it at major grocery chains like Walmart, Costco, and Kroger, specialty health stores including Whole Foods and Trader Joe's, and online through Amazon Fresh, Thrive Market, and Misfits Market. Fresh options are available in produce sections, while frozen varieties dominate freezer aisles, with prices typically ranging from $2.50-$5.99 per 12oz package.
Craving a low-carb alternative to traditional rice that's packed with nutrients? You're not alone. Cauliflower rice has surged in popularity, with sales increasing by 37% year-over-year according to Food Marketing Institute data. Whether you're following a keto diet, managing blood sugar, or simply looking to boost your vegetable intake, knowing exactly where to find this versatile substitute saves time and frustration.
Major Grocery Chains Carrying Cauliflower Rice
Most mainstream supermarkets now stock cauliflower rice in multiple formats. The convenience of finding it during your regular grocery run makes these options particularly valuable for busy households.
| Grocery Chain | Format Available | Price Range (12oz) | Brand Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walmart | Fresh, Frozen | $2.48-$3.98 | Marketside, Great Value |
| Costco | Frozen (bulk) | $4.99 (32oz) | Simple Truth, Kirkland Signature |
| Kroger | Fresh, Frozen | $2.99-$4.79 | Simple Truth, Private Selection |
| Target | Fresh, Frozen | $3.29-$4.99 | Good & Gather, Simply Balanced |
| Albertsons | Fresh, Frozen | $2.79-$4.49 | Signature Farms, O Organics |
According to USDA's Economic Research Service, frozen cauliflower rice typically costs about 30% less than fresh varieties, making it a more budget-friendly option for regular consumption. Most major chains stock cauliflower rice in both the produce section (fresh) and freezer aisle (frozen), with frozen options offering longer shelf life and consistent texture.
Specialty Health Food Stores
For those seeking organic or specialty varieties, health-focused retailers often provide premium options with additional features like riced vegetables blends or pre-seasoned varieties.
- Whole Foods Market: Offers 365 Everyday Value organic frozen cauliflower rice ($3.99/12oz) and fresh options in the prepared foods section
- Trader Joe's: Carries both frozen cauliflower rice ($2.99/12oz) and fresh varieties, often with seasonal flavor variations
- Sprouts Farmers Market: Features fresh riced cauliflower in the produce section and frozen options ($3.49/12oz)
- Publix GreenWise: Provides organic frozen cauliflower rice ($3.29/12oz) in most locations
These specialty retailers often carry cauliflower rice made from locally sourced produce when in season, according to Community Supported Agriculture Coalition reports. During summer months, you're more likely to find fresh cauliflower rice options at these stores as local cauliflower harvests peak.
Online Purchasing Options
For maximum convenience or specialty varieties, online retailers provide reliable delivery options that have become increasingly popular since 2020.
E-commerce Platforms
- Amazon Fresh: Multiple brand options with same-day delivery in eligible areas ($2.99-$5.49/12oz)
- Thrive Market: Organic and specialty varieties with membership pricing ($2.79-$4.29/12oz)
- Misfits Market: Occasionally features cauliflower rice in produce boxes as part of their "ugly produce" initiative
- Instacart: Connects to local grocery stores for delivery of whatever's currently in stock near you
Online options typically cost 15-20% more than in-store prices due to delivery fees, but offer the convenience of home delivery and often feature subscription options that provide additional savings. According to NPD Group research, 68% of consumers who initially tried online grocery shopping during the pandemic continue to use it regularly for specialty items like cauliflower rice.
Quality Considerations When Purchasing
Not all cauliflower rice products deliver the same quality. Understanding these key factors helps you select the best option for your needs:
- Texture: Frozen varieties often maintain better texture than fresh pre-riced options which can become watery
- Moisture content: Excess moisture leads to mushiness when cooked - look for products with "pat dry" instructions
- Additives: Pure cauliflower rice should contain only cauliflower - avoid products with added preservatives
- Color: Fresh cauliflower rice should be bright white, not yellowing which indicates age
Food safety experts at FDA recommend checking expiration dates carefully, especially for fresh riced cauliflower which has a shorter shelf life than whole heads. Frozen options maintain quality for 8-12 months when stored properly, while fresh riced cauliflower should be used within 3-4 days.
DIY Option: Making Your Own Cauliflower Rice
While store-bought options offer convenience, making your own cauliflower rice provides complete control over texture and freshness. Simply pulse fresh cauliflower florets in a food processor until rice-sized grains form, then sauté briefly to remove excess moisture.
This homemade approach costs approximately $1.50 per serving compared to store-bought options, according to USDA price data. The process takes about 10 minutes and allows you to customize the rice size to your preference - finer for Asian dishes, coarser for Mexican recipes.
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