St. Patrick’s Day is nearly here, and many households will be celebrating with traditional Irish fare. If you’re planning a festive meal, Costco’s corned beef brisket is a solid option to consider.
Below is everything you need to know about Costco corned beef this season: availability, pricing, cooking methods, storage, and other St. Patrick’s Day alternatives available at the warehouse.
Table of Contents
Does Costco Have Corned Beef Now?
Yes. As of January 20, 2026, Costco stores stocked corned beef briskets, including Morton’s of Omaha brand briskets. These packages are typically found in the refrigerated section near prepared desserts rather than with other raw meat cuts. The warehouse also sometimes carries precooked corned beef dinners, though availability varies by location.
Package weights generally range from about three pounds to just over six pounds. Pricing and stock levels can differ by store, so check your local warehouse for exact selection.
Costco Corned Beef Price 2026
Local Costco pricing observed: Morton’s of Omaha corned beef brisket at $7.89 per pound. Individual pieces varied from around three pounds to over six pounds.
By comparison, the same brand was priced lower last year, and some grocery retailers sell comparable corned beef at higher per-pound prices. Instacart delivery prices for the same product may be slightly higher than in-warehouse pricing.
How Many Pounds of Corned Beef Per Person
A good rule of thumb is to plan for about 1/2 pound of uncooked corned beef per person. Shrinkage during cooking can be significant—up to one-third—especially when cooking at higher heat. Low-and-slow methods like a crock pot minimize visible shrinkage, while pressure cooking or higher-heat methods may result in more weight loss.
For example, a three-pound brisket, served with vegetables, should comfortably feed four people when accounting for shrinkage and sides.
Should I Rinse Corned Beef Before Cooking?
Yes—rinse corned beef before cooking. Corned beef is cured with salt and pickling spices that remain on the surface; rinsing removes excess surface salt and some of the curing spices. The cure has already penetrated the meat, so rinsing won’t remove internal seasoning but will help prevent an overly salty final dish.
What Is The Red Liquid In The Package?
The red liquid in the package is not blood but myoglobin combined with water released from the meat. As proteins lose their hold on water over time, myoglobin is expelled and colors the liquid red. It is harmless and safe to cook; just rinse the brisket to remove surface cure and spices if desired.
How To Cook Costco Corned Beef
The manufacturer recommends the traditional method of simmering in water, but you can also prepare corned beef using an Instant Pot or low-and-slow braising. Each method produces tender results when done correctly.
How To Cook Costco Corned Beef On The Stovetop
Instructions
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Remove the meat from the packaging and rinse thoroughly to remove excess cure and surface spices.
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Place the brisket in a large pot and add enough water to fully cover the meat.
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Add the included spice packet to taste—more spices yield a stronger flavor.
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Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
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Simmer gently for about three hours, or until tender.
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For a browned exterior, transfer the meat to a preheated 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes before resting and slicing.
How To Cook Costco Corned Beef In The Instant Pot
- Rinse the brisket and place it in the Instant Pot; cut into pieces if necessary to fit.
- Add about 2 cups of water or enough liquid to cover the meat.
- Set the pressure cooker to high. For 3–4.5 lb briskets, cook 45–65 minutes; for larger briskets (5 lbs+), cook 75–90 minutes.
- Confirm the internal temperature reaches at least 160°F in the thickest part.
- Optionally transfer the brisket to a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes to brown, then let rest 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
Tips For Cooking Costco Corned Beef
- This product is typically the flat cut with a fat cap. Cook fat-side up so melting fat keeps the meat moist.
- For extra flavor, substitute one-third of the cooking water with a favorite beer.
- Add vegetables during the final 30 minutes of stovetop cooking, or steam them in the Instant Pot for about five minutes while the meat rests.
- Always slice corned beef thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness.
How To Store Corned Beef
Uncooked corned beef, preserved with salt, will keep for several weeks in the refrigerator when left in its original packaging. Cooked corned beef should be consumed within 3–4 days. Leftovers freeze well; place cooled meat in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to two months.
Other St. Patrick’s Day Foods At Costco
If corned beef isn’t your preference, Costco carries other festive options. Nuovo Pasta’s Shamrock Ravioli offers a kid-friendly green-and-white pasta filled with a blend of Irish-aged cheddar, mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan—two packs often sell for an affordable price. Refrigerated convenience options like Ruprecht Irish Stew are also available for a simple heat-and-serve meal, typically priced by the pound.
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