Cookout Tray Menu & Prices 2026 – Full Guide to Meals, Calories & Combos
Getting a full, satisfying meal at a low price is rare today, especially when most fast food menus keep getting more expensive and less filling. That’s where the Cookout Tray Menu stands out. It offers a complete meal with a main item, sides, and a drink, all bundled into one affordable deal that actually delivers on taste and portion.
But here’s the problem. When you look at the tray options for the first time, it can feel confusing. There are multiple mains, dozens of sides, and even drink upgrades like milkshakes. Many people end up ordering randomly or missing out on better combinations simply because they don’t fully understand how the tray works.
In this guide, you’ll get a complete breakdown of everything you need to know. We’ll cover the latest tray prices, what comes in each option, the difference between regular and junior trays, calories, customization tips, and the most popular combinations. You’ll also discover how to get the best value and build a tray that actually matches your taste and budget.
If you want to explore more items beyond trays, you can check the full Cookout Menu to see everything available, from burgers and BBQ to milkshakes and desserts. By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to order smarter, save money, and enjoy a meal that feels customized just for you.
What Is a Cookout Tray and Why Everyone Orders It
A Cookout Tray is a bundled meal deal that lets you build a complete plate without paying separate prices for each item. Instead of ordering a burger, sides, and a drink individually, the tray combines everything into one fixed-price option. You typically get one main item, two sides, and a drink, with the flexibility to mix and match from a wide range of options. This structure is what makes it stand out, because it turns a regular fast food order into a fully customizable meal that feels tailored to your preferences.
What makes it so popular is not just the price, but the level of control it gives you. Most fast food combos are fixed, meaning you get limited choices and often end up settling. With a tray, you can pair items that normally wouldn’t come together, like combining a burger with chicken nuggets or swapping a standard drink for a milkshake upgrade. This flexibility creates a personalized experience, which is why both first-time visitors and regular customers keep coming back for it.
Another reason people consistently choose this meal option is the balance between quantity and satisfaction. The portions are generous enough to feel filling, yet the pricing remains accessible for everyday dining. Whether someone is looking for a quick lunch, a late-night meal, or the best value on the menu, the tray delivers a combination of variety, affordability, and convenience that’s hard to match in the fast food space.
What Comes in a Cookout Tray? (Complete Meal Breakdown)
Ever wondered what you actually get when you order a Cookout tray, and why it feels more satisfying than a typical combo? The answer lies in how the meal is structured. Instead of giving you a fixed set, the tray lets you build a full plate with three core parts: a main item, two sides, and a drink. This setup gives you both variety and control, so you are not stuck with options you don’t want.
So, what exactly are your choices? The main item is the centerpiece of your tray, and it usually includes options like burgers, chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, BBQ, or wraps. Then come the sides, which are where things get interesting. Unlike most fast food places, you can mix and match sides such as fries, hushpuppies, onion rings, quesadillas, or chicken nuggets. Finally, you choose a drink, with the option to upgrade to one of Cookout’s famous milkshakes for a small extra cost. This combination turns a simple meal into a fully customizable experience.
To make it even clearer, here’s how a Cookout tray is typically structured:
| Component | What You Get |
|---|---|
| Main Item | Burger, chicken sandwich, hot dog, BBQ, or wrap |
| Side #1 | Fries, onion rings, hushpuppies, nuggets, quesadilla, and more |
| Side #2 | Any second side of your choice (same options as above) |
| Drink | Soft drink, tea, or upgrade to a milkshake |
What makes this setup powerful is the flexibility. You can go classic with a burger, fries, and a soda, or mix things up with nuggets, quesadillas, and a milkshake. That freedom is exactly why many people feel like they are getting more value and a better eating experience compared to standard fast food meals.
Cookout Tray Menu 2026
The 2026 tray lineup gives you a wide range of mains to build your meal around, making it far more flexible than a typical fast food combo. You can choose from char-grilled burgers, crispy or grilled chicken sandwiches, BBQ options, hot dogs, and wraps, each offering a completely different taste experience. This variety means you are not locked into one style of meal, and you can switch between smoky, crispy, or classic flavors depending on what you are craving.
Within this menu, the tray is offered in two formats: Regular and Junior. The Regular Tray is built for a full, satisfying meal with standard portion sizes, while the Junior Tray is a lighter and more budget-friendly version that still keeps the same customizable structure. Choosing between them depends on how much you want to eat and how much you want to spend, but both give you the same freedom to mix mains, sides, and drinks your way.
Cookout’s Regular Tray
The Regular Tray is the complete, full-portion meal option designed for those who want both variety and satisfaction in one order. It allows you to choose one main item from options like burgers, BBQ, chicken, hot dogs, or quesadillas, then pair it with any two sides, and finish with a drink or an upgraded milkshake. With calorie ranges varying across mains, sides, and beverages, this tray gives you the flexibility to build anything from a balanced meal to a more indulgent combo. Its biggest strength is the ability to customize every part of the plate while still keeping the meal affordable and filling, making it the go-to choice for most customers.
| Category | Item | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Choose one of these Main Items | Big Double Burger | 330 Cal. |
| Reg. ¼ Burger | 330 Cal. | |
| Reg. Barbecue | 370 Cal. | |
| 2 Hot Dogs | 520 Cal. | |
| 2 Quesadillas (Chicken/Beef) | 440-520 Cal. | |
| Reg. Chicken | 380 Cal. | |
| Cajun Chicken | 380 Cal. | |
| Spicy Chicken | 450 Cal. | |
| BBQ Char-Grilled Chicken | 380 Cal. | |
| 3 Chicken Strips (or Sandwich) | 660 Cal. | |
| Choose 2 Sides or Double up | Bacon Wrap | 420 Cal. |
| White Cheddar Cheese Bites | 190 Cal. | |
| Chicken Nuggets | 150 Cal. | |
| Chicken Wrap | 520 Cal. | |
| Corn Dog | 220 Cal. | |
| Fries | 350 Cal. | |
| Hush Puppies | 300 Cal. | |
| Onion Rings | 130 Cal. | |
| Quesadilla | 260 Cal. | |
| Slaw or Chilli | 100-170 Cal. | |
| Choose a Beverage | Large Drink | 290 Cal. |
| Huge Tea | 390 Cal. | |
| Dasani 20 oz. Water Bottle | 0 Cal. | |
| Cheerwine/Coke Float | 380 Cal. | |
| Regular Shake | 510-900 Cal. |
Cookout’s Junior Tray
The Junior Tray is the lighter and more budget-friendly version of the meal, built for those who want the same customization without the heavier portions. You still get to choose one main item, two sides, and a drink, but the main options are slightly smaller or simpler, such as a small burger, chicken strips, corn dogs, or a quesadilla. This makes it a great choice for smaller appetites, quick meals, or anyone looking to keep their calorie intake lower while still enjoying the full tray experience.
Despite being smaller, the Junior Tray does not limit your flexibility. You can still mix and match sides just like the regular version and even upgrade your drink to a milkshake if you want something more indulgent. The calorie range varies depending on your selections, so you can easily build a lighter combo or add richer sides to make it more filling. Overall, it delivers the same customizable concept as the Regular Tray but in a more compact and affordable format.
| Category | Item | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Choose one of these Main Items | Small Burger | 240 Cal. |
| 2 Chicken Strips | 440 Cal. | |
| 2 Corn Dogs | 440 Cal. | |
| BLT Sandwich | 400 Cal. | |
| 1 Hot Dog | 260 Cal. | |
| 1 Chicken/Beef Quesadilla | 220-260 Cal. | |
| Choose 2 Sides or Double up | Bacon Wrap | 420 Cal. |
| White Cheddar Cheese Bites | 190 Cal. | |
| Chicken Nuggets | 150 Cal. | |
| Chicken Wrap | 520 Cal. | |
| Corn Dog | 220 Cal. | |
| Fries | 350 Cal. | |
| Hush Puppies | 300 Cal. | |
| Onion Rings | 130 Cal. | |
| Quesadilla | 260 Cal. | |
| Slaw or Chilli | 100-170 Cal. | |
| Choose a Beverage | Large Drink | 290 Cal. |
| Huge Tea | 390 Cal. | |
| Dasani 20 oz. Water Bottle | 0 Cal. | |
| Cheerwine/Coke Float | 380 Cal. | |
| Regular Shake | 510-900 Cal. |
Cookout Tray Prices (Updated for 2026)
What makes the tray pricing so powerful is its simplicity and consistency. As shown below, most entrée options are priced at $4.99, which means you are not paying extra based on what you choose. Whether it’s a Big Double Burger, BBQ, chicken strips, or quesadilla, the base entry point remains the same. This fixed pricing model removes decision pressure and lets you focus entirely on taste and preference instead of cost. On top of that, the full tray meal (with sides and drink) typically lands in the range of $6.29 to $7.49 depending on location and upgrades, making it one of the most affordable complete meals in fast food today.
Another key factor is how much value is packed into that price. You are not just paying for the entrée listed in the table, but building a full meal that includes two sides and a drink, which would cost significantly more if ordered separately. Even upgrades like milkshakes usually add only a small extra charge, keeping the overall meal budget-friendly. This pricing strategy is why the tray is often seen as a “value hack” menu item, delivering both portion and variety without stretching your budget.
| Entrée | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| 2 Pieces Hot Dogs | $4.99 |
| 🍔Big Double Burger | $4.99 |
| 🌮Quesadilla (Chicken/Beef) | $4.99 |
| 🍖Regular Pork Barbecue | $4.99 |
| 🍗3 Pieces Chicken Strips | $4.99 |
| 🍔Regular Hamburger | $4.99 |
| 🍗BBQ Char-Grilled Chicken | $4.99 |
| 🌶️Spicy Chicken | $4.99 |
| 🌮Cajun Chicken | $4.99 |
| 🍗Regular Style Chicken | $4.99 |
Regular vs Junior Cookout Tray
Both trays follow the same build, but the real difference comes down to portion size. The Regular Tray includes full-sized mains like burgers, BBQ, or chicken, making it more filling and better for a complete meal. The Junior Tray uses smaller or lighter mains such as a small burger, single hot dog, or fewer chicken strips, which makes it a better option for lighter appetites.
The price difference is small, but it impacts overall value. A Junior Tray usually costs around $5.29 to $5.99, while a Regular Tray falls between $6.29 to $7.49 depending on location. Even at a lower price, the Junior Tray still includes two sides and a drink, so you are not missing out on the full experience. However, the Regular Tray gives you more food for a slight increase in cost, making it the better value for most people.
| Feature | Regular Tray | Junior Tray |
| Portion Size | Full-sized mains | Smaller or lighter mains |
| Main Options | Burgers, BBQ, chicken, quesadillas | Small burger, hot dog, strips |
| Number of Sides | 2 sides | 2 sides |
| Drink Included | Yes | Yes |
| Milkshake Upgrade | Available | Available |
| Price Range | $6.29 – $7.49 | $5.29 – $5.99 |
| Best For | Bigger appetite / full meal | Light meal / budget option |
| Overall Value | More food for slightly higher price | Lower cost, smaller portion |
Customize Your Cookout Tray Like a Pro
One of the biggest advantages of ordering a tray is the level of control it gives you. Instead of sticking to fixed combos, you can mix and match every part of your meal based on your taste, appetite, and even calorie preference. This flexibility is what turns a simple order into a personalized experience that feels built just for you.
But here’s the catch. With so many options available, it’s easy to make random choices that don’t pair well or don’t give you the best value. That’s why understanding how to choose the right main, balance your sides, and upgrade your drink wisely can completely change your experience. When done right, you can create a tray that is not only satisfying but also perfectly aligned with what you actually want.
Choosing the Right Main Item
The main item sets the tone for your entire tray, so it’s important to choose based on both your appetite and flavor preference. If you want something filling and classic, options like burgers or BBQ work best, while chicken sandwiches or quesadillas offer a lighter yet satisfying alternative. Think about what you enjoy most, whether it’s smoky, crispy, or spicy, and build around that choice. Picking the right main ensures the rest of your tray complements it instead of feeling mismatched. Below are all the main items with their images, prices, and calorie details to help you choose the best option for your tray.
Picking the Best Side Combinations
Sides are where you can really upgrade your tray from a basic meal to something more satisfying and balanced. Instead of choosing randomly, think about pairing textures and flavors, like combining something crispy such as fries or onion rings with a softer option like hushpuppies or slaw. You can also double up on your favorite side if you want more of what you love, but mixing two different options usually gives a better overall experience. Choosing the right sides ensures your tray feels complete, not repetitive.
Choosing the Right Drink for Your Tray
The drink should balance your meal, not overpower it. A soft drink or tea is the most common choice because it refreshes your palate and pairs well with heavier items like burgers or fried sides. If your tray is already rich, going with a lighter drink helps keep the meal from feeling too heavy. The goal is simple, choose a drink that complements your food so the overall experience feels smooth and satisfying.
$2.19 | 150 Cal | 16 oz
Cheerwine (Regular)
$2.39 | 0 Cal | 20 oz
Dasani
$2.39 | 240 Cal | 32 oz
Coca Cola (Large)
$2.39 | 390 Cal | 32.9 oz
Fresh Brewed Tea (Huge)
$2.39 | 220 Cal | 32 oz
Cheerwine (Large)
$2.19 | 150 Cal | 16 oz
Coca Cola (Regular)
$2.39 | 149 Cal | 32 oz
Powerade Mountain Blast
$2.39 | 280 Cal | 32 oz
Dr Pepper
$2.39 | 317 Cal | 32 oz
Hi-C Fruit Punch
$2.59 | 280 Cal | 32 oz
Hi-C Poppin’ Pink Lemonade
$2.59 | 302 Cal | 32 oz
Fanta Orange
$2.59 | 288 Cal | 32 oz
Mellow Yellow
$2.59 | 289 Cal | 32 oz
Sprite
$2.59 | 290 Cal | 32 oz
Pibb Xtra
$2.59 | 0 Cal | 32 oz
Coca-Cola Zero Sugar
$2.59 | 0 Cal | 32 oz
Diet Coke
Milkshake Upgrades
Upgrading your drink to a milkshake is one of the easiest ways to elevate your tray into a more satisfying and treat-like meal. Instead of a standard beverage, you get a thick, creamy shake available in dozens of flavors, ranging from classic chocolate and vanilla to more unique options. This upgrade works especially well if you want a dessert included in your meal without ordering anything extra. It adds richness and variety, making your tray feel more complete and enjoyable.
$3.99 | 32.6 oz
Cheesecake
$3.99 | 35 oz
Fresh Eggnog
$3.99 | 35 oz
Peppermint
$3.99 | 32.3 oz
Cherry
Most Popular Cookout Tray Combinations
If you’re not sure how to build your tray, the easiest way is to go with combinations that people already love. These are real-world picks that balance flavor, portion, and value, which is why they keep showing up in customer orders. From classic burger setups to heavy chicken combos and late-night favorites, these trays are built to satisfy different cravings without overthinking your choices. Here are some of the most popular Cookout tray combinations people actually enjoy:
| Combo Name | Main Entrée | Sides | Drink / Add-on | Why It’s a Fan Favorite |
| 🍔 Classic Cookout Combo | Big Double Burger | Cajun Fries + Onion Rings | Sweet Tea | A timeless blend of crunch and spice, simple and satisfying. |
| 🍖 Southern BBQ Feast | Regular Pork Barbecue | Hushpuppies + Slaw | Cheerwine Float | A true Southern comfort plate with smoky BBQ and local flair. |
| 🍗 Chicken Lover’s Special | Cajun Chicken Sandwich | Fries + Chicken Wrap | Coke Float | Double the chicken, double the flavor, filling and fiery. |
| 🌭 Late-Night Value Tray | 2 Corn Dogs | Fries + Cheese Bites | Large Drink | Perfect for students and night owls craving something quick. |
| 🌶️ Spicy Deluxe Combo | Spicy Chicken Breast | Cajun Fries + Quesadilla | Chocolate Shake | A bold, zesty combo balanced with a sweet, creamy finish. |
| 🍔 Double Burger Feast | Big Double Burger | Fries + Hushpuppies | Large Coke | Heavy, filling, and one of the most ordered combos. |
| 🍗 Crispy Chicken Combo | 3 Chicken Strips | Fries + Onion Rings | Sweet Tea | Crunchy, salty, and perfect for fried food lovers. |
| 🌮 Quesadilla Mix Tray | Chicken Quesadilla | Nuggets + Fries | Coke Float | A mix of cheesy and crispy textures in one tray. |
| 🌭 Classic Hot Dog Combo | 2 Hot Dogs | Fries + Slaw | Large Drink | Simple, budget-friendly, and quick to eat. |
| 🍗 BBQ Chicken Plate | BBQ Char-Grilled Chicken | Hushpuppies + Fries | Sweet Tea | Smoky grilled flavor with classic Southern sides. |
| 🥓 Light Snack Combo | BLT Sandwich | Nuggets + Slaw | Large Drink | Lighter option that still feels complete. |
| 🍔 Budget Fill-Up Combo | Regular Hamburger | Fries + Chicken Wrap | Sweet Tea | Great value combo with balanced portions. |
Healthiest Cookout Tray Choices
Eating lighter at Cookout does not mean sacrificing flavor or variety. The key is choosing grilled or smaller mains, pairing them with lower-calorie sides, and avoiding overly heavy add-ons like double fried items or high-calorie drinks. By making smart swaps, you can build a tray that feels satisfying without going overboard on calories. Here are some of the best low-calorie Cookout tray choices that still taste great:
| Healthy Choice | Main Entrée | Sides | Drink | Why It’s a Better Option |
| 🥗 Light Chicken Combo | BBQ Char-Grilled Chicken | Slaw + Hushpuppies | Water | Grilled chicken keeps calories low while slaw adds freshness. |
| 🍔 Simple Burger Tray | Small Burger | Slaw + Onion Rings | Unsweet Tea | Smaller portion burger reduces calories without losing taste. |
| 🌭 Lean Hot Dog Combo | 1 Hot Dog | Slaw + Fries | Water | A lighter main with simple sides keeps the meal balanced. |
| 🌮 Quesadilla Light Mix | Chicken Quesadilla | Slaw + Nuggets | Unsweet Tea | Moderate calories with a mix of protein and light sides. |
| 🍗 Grilled Chicken Balance | Regular Style Chicken | Slaw + Onion Rings | Water | Grilled option cuts fat while sides add texture. |
| 🥓 BLT Light Combo | BLT Sandwich | Slaw + Hushpuppies | Unsweet Tea | Balanced meal with moderate calories and good variety. |
| 🍗 Strip Control Combo | 2 Chicken Strips (Junior) | Slaw + Fries | Water | Smaller portion of strips keeps calories in check. |
How to Get the Best Value from a Cookout Tray
Getting the most value from your tray is not just about choosing the cheapest option, it’s about maximizing what you get for the price. Since most mains are priced the same, the smart move is to pick items that feel more filling or premium, like a Big Double Burger or chicken strips, instead of lighter options. This way, you are getting more portion and satisfaction without paying anything extra.
Another simple strategy is to use your sides wisely. Instead of picking two small or similar items, go for a mix that adds both quantity and variety, like pairing fries with a wrap or nuggets. You can also double up on a side if you want more volume, but mixing usually gives better overall value. For drinks, sticking with a regular beverage keeps the cost low, while upgrading to a milkshake turns your tray into a full meal plus dessert for a small extra charge, making it worth it when you want more than just a basic combo.
Cookout Tray Hacks Most Customers Don’t Know
Most people order a tray and move on, but there are a few simple tricks that can completely upgrade your meal without spending much more. One of the smartest hacks is choosing sides that feel like extra mains, such as a chicken wrap or quesadilla, instead of basic options. This instantly increases the portion and makes your tray feel like a bigger meal. Another trick is doubling up on a side you really like, especially fries or nuggets, if you want more quantity instead of variety.
Another underrated move is using the milkshake upgrade strategically. Instead of ordering a separate dessert, you can turn your drink into a shake and get both in one. You can also balance your tray better by mixing textures, like pairing something crispy with something soft, which improves the overall eating experience. These small choices may seem simple, but they can make a big difference in how filling, enjoyable, and valuable your tray feels.
When Is the Best Time to Order a Cookout Tray?
Timing can actually change your entire experience with a tray. One of the best times to order is late at night, when Cookout is known for its steady quality and quick service. This is when trays feel the most satisfying, especially after a long day, because you get a hot, filling meal without long waits. It is also when most people go for heavier combos, making it a popular choice for late-night cravings.
Another great time is during off-peak hours, like mid-afternoon or early evening. During these times, orders are prepared faster and often feel fresher since the kitchen is not overwhelmed. This gives you a better overall experience, especially if you are trying new combinations or customizing your tray. Whether it is a late-night fix or a quick daytime meal, choosing the right time can make your tray feel even more enjoyable.
Tips to Order the Perfect Cookout Tray Every Time
Building the perfect tray is all about making smart choices that balance taste, portion, and value. Instead of guessing, you can follow a few simple strategies that consistently lead to a better meal. From picking the right main to pairing sides and choosing the right drink, these tips help you get the most out of every order.
| Tip | What to Do | Why It Works |
| Choose a Filling Main | Go for options like Big Double Burger or Chicken Strips | Gives you better portion and keeps you full longer |
| Mix Your Sides | Pair one crispy (fries/onion rings) with one soft (slaw/hushpuppies) | Creates better texture and balance |
| Avoid Double Heavy Items | Don’t pick two fried sides unless you want a very heavy meal | Keeps the tray enjoyable, not overwhelming |
| Upgrade Smartly | Add a milkshake only if you want dessert included | Turns your meal into a full experience |
| Use Sides as Extras | Pick wraps or quesadillas as sides for more value | Feels like getting extra mains |
| Match Drink with Meal | Light drink for heavy meals, richer drink for lighter trays | Improves overall balance |
| Consider Appetite | Choose Junior for light meals, Regular for full meals | Prevents over-ordering or under-ordering |
Why Cookout Trays Are So Affordable
The biggest reason trays feel so affordable is the way the pricing is structured. Instead of charging separately for every item, Cookout bundles the main, sides, and drinks into one fixed price. This reduces the perceived cost for customers while increasing order value for the business. At the same time, most entrée options are priced equally, which simplifies decisions and allows customers to pick what they actually want without worrying about price differences.
Another key factor is operational efficiency. Cookout focuses on a streamlined menu, fast service, and high-volume sales, which helps keep costs low. Many ingredients are used across multiple items, and the simple cooking process allows them to serve more customers quickly. This combination of bundled pricing, consistent menu structure, and high turnover is what makes trays one of the most cost-effective and popular meal deals in fast food.
My Experience with Cookout Tray (Taste, Portion, Value Review)
From my experience, the tray stands out most in how satisfying it feels for the price. The first thing you notice is the portion size, especially with a Regular Tray. The main item feels properly sized, and when combined with two sides, the meal easily feels complete without needing anything extra. It does not feel like a light snack, it feels like a full meal that actually fills you up.
In terms of taste, the variety is what makes it enjoyable. You get different textures and flavors in one tray, something crispy, something soft, something savory, and even something sweet if you go for a milkshake. This mix keeps the meal from feeling repetitive, which is common with standard combos. The ability to customize also makes a big difference, because you can build a tray that matches your exact preference.
When it comes to value, it is hard to beat. You are essentially getting multiple items bundled together at a price that would normally cover just one or two items elsewhere. The balance of portion, taste, and cost makes it one of the most practical choices on the menu. Overall, it delivers a consistent and satisfying experience, especially when you choose your combinations carefully.
Useful Links
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏛️ Head Office | 2212 S. Main St., Winston-Salem, NC 27107, USA |
| 📞 Phone Number | 336-724-7970 |
| facebook.com/cookout | |
| ℹ️ About Cookout | cookout.com/company |
| 📍 Locations | https://cooksoutmenus.us/cookout-location/ |
| 💼 Employment | https://cooksoutmenus.us/cookout-careers/ |
Final Thoughts
The Cookout Tray Menu continues to stand out as one of the best value meal options in fast food. It combines variety, customization, and affordability in a way that few other menus can match. Whether you are craving burgers, chicken, BBQ, or something lighter, the tray gives you the flexibility to build a meal that fits your taste without overpaying.
What makes it even better is how easy it is to tailor your order. From choosing the right main to mixing sides and upgrading your drink, every part of the tray can be adjusted to match your preference. This level of control, combined with consistent pricing and generous portions, makes it a reliable choice for both quick meals and late-night cravings.
Overall, if you are looking for a meal that delivers both quantity and quality, the tray is hard to beat. It is not just about getting more food for the price, but about creating a combination that actually satisfies. With the right choices, you can turn a simple order into a complete and enjoyable meal experience.