Cookout Menu: A Complete Guide to Southern Fast Food

Cookout, a popular fast-food chain known for its distinctive Southern flavors, has garnered a loyal following in the Southeastern United States. Founded in 1989 in Greensboro, North Carolina, Cookout quickly grew from a local favorite to a regional powerhouse. The restaurant has become a go-to destination for late-night cravings, offering a wide range of menu options at affordable prices. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic burger, a flavorful milkshake, or a hearty tray, Cookout has something for everyone. This article will take you on a deep dive into the Cookout menu, exploring its offerings, including main dishes, sides, desserts, and drinks, as well as the chain’s overall dining experience.

1. Cookout Trays: The Heart of the Menu

One of the standout features of the Cookout menu is the Cookout Tray, which provides an affordable and filling meal by offering a choice of entrées, sides, and drinks. The Cookout Tray is a customizable meal that caters to diverse tastes, making it a popular option for many customers.

Entrées

The heart of every Cookout Tray is the entrée, and the chain offers a wide selection of options to satisfy both meat lovers and vegetarians. Here are some of the most popular entrées on the menu:

• Char-Grilled Hamburgers: Cookout is known for its char-grilled burgers, which are cooked to perfection over an open flame. Whether you prefer a simple hamburger or one loaded with toppings like cheese, lettuce, tomato, and pickles, Cookout’s burgers never disappoint.
  
• Char-Grilled Chicken Breast: For a lighter option, the char-grilled chicken breast is a delicious choice. It’s tender, juicy, and flavorful, making it a great alternative for those looking to skip red meat while still enjoying the smoky flavors of the grill.
  
• Crispy Spicy Chicken Breast Fillet: For those who enjoy a bit of spice, the crispy spicy chicken breast fillet offers a crunchy, flavorful bite with just the right amount of heat.
  
• Chicken Strips: Perfect for dipping in sauces or eating on their own, Cookout’s chicken strips are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. These are a crowd-pleaser for anyone who loves fried chicken.
  
• Quesadillas: Cookout also caters to fans of Tex-Mex flavors with their quesadillas. These are filled with melted cheese and a choice of chicken or beef, offering a savory and cheesy alternative to the traditional fast-food options.
  
• BBQ Sandwiches: For those craving the smoky, tangy flavors of Southern barbecue, Cookout offers BBQ sandwiches made with tender pulled pork or chicken, topped with their signature barbecue sauce. This is a favorite for anyone who loves the classic Southern BBQ experience.
  
• Hot Dogs: Cookout’s hot dogs are another menu highlight. Served with classic toppings like ketchup, mustard, and relish, they are perfect for anyone looking for a simple yet satisfying meal.
  

Sides

What makes the Cookout Tray even better is the array of side options. With a variety of sides to choose from, customers can mix and match their favorites to create the perfect meal. Here are some popular side options:

• Fries: A classic side, Cookout’s fries are crispy, golden, and delicious. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with dipping sauces like ranch, ketchup, or Cookout’s signature sauce.
  
• Hushpuppies: A Southern staple, hushpuppies are deep-fried cornmeal balls that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They pair perfectly with the savory flavors of the main entrée.
  
• Onion Rings: For those who love the crunch and flavor of onion rings, Cookout offers a tasty version that’s crispy and perfectly seasoned.
  
• Cheese Bites: A fan favorite, cheese bites are battered and fried pieces of gooey cheese that make for a perfect snack or side dish.
  
• Coleslaw: A classic Southern side, coleslaw adds a refreshing, tangy crunch that complements the richness of grilled meats and fried foods. Cookout’s coleslaw is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect with any meal.
  
• Queso Fries: For something a little more indulgent, Cookout’s queso fries are loaded with cheese sauce and often paired with other toppings, offering a deliciously cheesy twist on regular fries.
  

Drinks

The drink selection at Cookout is just as diverse as the food menu, offering something for everyone:

• Soft Drinks: A variety of classic sodas are available, including Coca-Cola products, providing a refreshing beverage to accompany any meal.
  
• Sweet Tea: Southern-style sweet tea is a must-have at Cookout, and it’s available in large, refreshing portions. It’s the perfect drink to wash down a hearty meal on a hot day.
  
• Milkshakes: One of Cookout’s signature offerings is its milkshakes, which come in over 40 flavors. Whether you prefer classic flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry or something more unique like banana pudding, peach cobbler, or caramel fudge, Cookout’s milkshakes are thick, creamy, and delicious. They are so substantial that many customers opt to eat them with a spoon rather than drinking them.
  

2. Cookout Specialties: Beyond the Basics

In addition to the Cookout Tray and its customizable sides, there are several specialty items on the menu that make Cookout stand out from other fast-food chains.

• Cookout Style Burger: For those looking to enjoy a truly unique flavor, the Cookout Style burger comes with mustard, grilled onions, slaw, and chili, offering a combination of textures and tastes that’s especially popular in the South.
  
• Double Burger: The double burger is a hearty option for those with a big appetite. Featuring two juicy patties, this burger is sure to satisfy hunger with its bold flavors and satisfying size.
  
• Cookout Hot Dogs: Another specialty item is Cookout’s hot dogs, which can be customized with a variety of toppings such as chili, cheese, mustard, onions, and relish. The combination of a perfectly grilled hot dog and creative toppings makes this a must-try for hot dog lovers.
  
• Chicken Wraps: For a lighter option, Cookout also serves chicken wraps, which feature grilled or crispy chicken, lettuce, cheese, and a choice of sauces, all wrapped up in a flour tortilla. These are a great option for anyone looking for something filling but not too heavy.
  

3. Value and Affordability: A Key Selling Point

One of the biggest draws of Cookout is its affordability. The Cookout Tray offers great value, providing a generous portion of food at a price point that rivals many other fast-food chains. For just a few dollars, customers can enjoy a well-rounded meal that includes an entrée, sides, and a drink. This has made Cookout especially popular among students, families, and late-night diners looking for a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.

Additionally, the large size of the milkshakes ensures that customers are getting a lot for their money. The shakes are often so thick that they can be eaten with a spoon, providing a rich and satisfying dessert or snack.

4. The Cookout Experience: Quick, Convenient, and Delicious

Cookout’s service model is designed for speed and convenience, making it a perfect choice for busy individuals and families on the go. The majority of Cookout locations have a streamlined drive-thru service, with some offering walk-up windows as well. Many locations also feature a covered outdoor seating area for those who prefer to enjoy their meal in the fresh air.

Cookout’s extended hours are another selling point. Many locations are open late into the night, catering to those who crave a tasty meal after a night out or a long day. On weekends, some locations stay open until 3:30 a.m., providing a late-night haven for fast food lovers.

Conclusion: Why Cookout is a Southern Favorite

Cookout’s menu is a testament to the charm of Southern cuisine, offering a range of delicious, hearty meals that satisfy any appetite. From their famous burgers and chicken sandwiches to their indulgent milkshakes, Cookout has something for everyone. With its focus on affordability, speed, and quality, it’s no wonder the chain has become a beloved destination for fast food lovers across the Southeastern United States. Whether you’re craving a classic tray, a late-night snack, or a sweet treat, Cookout is the place to be.