Table of Contents
- What Is a Cookout Tray and Why Everyone Orders It
- What Comes in a Cookout Tray? (Complete Meal Breakdown)
- Cookout Tray Menu 2026
- Regular vs Junior Cookout Tray
- Customize Your Cookout Tray Like a Pro
- Cookout Tray Combinations
- Lower-Calorie Cookout Tray Choices
- How to Get the Best Value from a Cookout Tray
- Cookout Tray Hacks Most Customers Don’t Know
- Tips to Order the Perfect Cookout Tray Every Time
- Why Cookout Trays Are So Affordable
- Is the Cookout Tray Worth It?
- Useful Links
- Final Thoughts
- FAQs
A Regular Cook Out Tray is commonly $7.39 and a Jr. Tray $6.39, with Regular Trays running about $6.29 to $7.49 by location. Each tray is one main, two sides and a drink; the full Cookout menu covers everything else.
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 | 311 Cal. |
| Reg. ¼ Burger | 328 Cal. | |
| Reg. Barbecue | 368 Cal. | |
| 2 Hot Dogs | 520 Cal. | |
| 2 Quesadillas (Chicken/Beef) | 440-520 Cal. | |
| Reg. Chicken | 377 Cal. | |
| Cajun Chicken | 377 Cal. | |
| Spicy Chicken | 446 Cal. | |
| BBQ Char-Grilled Chicken | 376 Cal. | |
| 3 Chicken Strips (or Sandwich) | 660 Cal. | |
| Choose 2 Sides or Double up | Bacon Wrap | 419 Cal. |
| White Cheddar Cheese Bites | 190 Cal. | |
| Chicken Nuggets | 144 Cal. | |
| Chicken Wrap | 520 Cal. | |
| Corn Dog | 220 Cal. | |
| Fries | 347 Cal. | |
| Hush Puppies | 300 Cal. | |
| Onion Rings | 128 Cal. | |
| Quesadilla | 260 Cal. | |
| Slaw / Chili | 405 / 164 Cal. | |
| Choose a Beverage | Large drink (24 oz) | about 209-238 Cal. |
| Huge Sweet Tea | 330 Cal. | |
| Dasani 20 oz. Water Bottle | 0 Cal. | |
| Coke Float / Cheerwine Float | 399 / 401 Cal. | |
| Milkshake | 538-925 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 | 245 Cal. |
| 2 Chicken Strips | 440 Cal. | |
| 2 Corn Dogs | 440 Cal. | |
| BLT Sandwich | 392 Cal. | |
| 1 Hot Dog | 260 Cal. | |
| 1 Chicken/Beef Quesadilla | 220-260 Cal. | |
| Choose 2 Sides or Double up | Bacon Wrap | 419 Cal. |
| White Cheddar Cheese Bites | 190 Cal. | |
| Chicken Nuggets | 144 Cal. | |
| Chicken Wrap | 520 Cal. | |
| Corn Dog | 220 Cal. | |
| Fries | 347 Cal. | |
| Hush Puppies | 300 Cal. | |
| Onion Rings | 128 Cal. | |
| Quesadilla | 260 Cal. | |
| Slaw / Chili | 405 / 164 Cal. | |
| Choose a Beverage | Large drink (24 oz) | about 209-238 Cal. |
| Huge Sweet Tea | 330 Cal. | |
| Dasani 20 oz. Water Bottle | 0 Cal. | |
| Coke Float / Cheerwine Float | 399 / 401 Cal. | |
| Milkshake | 538-925 Cal. |
Cookout Tray Prices (Updated for 2026)
A Regular Cook Out Tray is commonly $7.39 and a Jr. Tray $6.39. Prices are set store by store, so a Regular Tray runs about $6.29 to $7.49 depending on location. The tray bundles one main, two sides and a drink, which would cost more if you bought the same items separately. Swapping the drink for a regular milkshake adds $1.00, or $1.60 for a fancy flavor. These are the October 2026 figures; the full list is on the Cook Out menu prices page.
| Tray or upgrade | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Regular Cook Out Tray | $7.39 |
| Jr. Cook Out Tray | $6.39 |
| Regular Tray range by location | $6.29 to $7.49 |
| Swap drink for a regular milkshake | +$1.00 |
| Swap drink for a fancy milkshake | +$1.60 |
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 is commonly $6.39, while a Regular Tray is commonly $7.39 and runs $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 to $7.49 (commonly $7.39) | About $6.39 |
| 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.
Chicken Sandwich
680 Cal
$4.29
Big Double Burger
311 Cal
$3.99
Cajun Chicken
377 Cal
$4.85
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.
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Large Fries
694 Cal
$2.99
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Regular Fries
347 Cal
$2.39
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.
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Dasani
20 oz · 0 Cal
$2.39
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Coca Cola (Large)
24 oz · 210 Cal
$2.39
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Coca Cola (Regular)
16 oz · 140 Cal
$2.19
Powerade Mountain Blast
32 oz · 149 Cal
$2.39
Dr Pepper
32 oz · 280 Cal
$2.39
Hi-C Fruit Punch
32 oz · 317 Cal
$2.39
Fanta Orange
32 oz · 302 Cal
$2.59
Mellow Yellow
32 oz · 288 Cal
$2.59
Sprite
32 oz · 289 Cal
$2.59
Pibb Xtra
32 oz · 290 Cal
$2.59
Coca-Cola Zero Sugar
32 oz · 0 Cal
$2.59
Diet Coke
32 oz · 0 Cal
$2.59
Milkshake Upgrades
Upgrading your drink to a milkshake is one of the easiest ways to turn your tray into a more satisfying, 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.
Cookout Tray Combinations
These builds combine items from the tray lists above. Cook Out publishes no sales data, so none of them is an official best seller; for calorie totals see the tray combos page.
| Combo Name | Main Entrée | Sides | Drink / Add-on | Notes |
| 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 and filling. |
| 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. |
Lower-Calorie Cookout Tray Choices
The lightest trays pair a smaller main with the lowest-calorie sides: Onion Rings (side) at 128 calories, Chicken Nuggets (side) at 144 and Side of Chili at 164. Totals below add the official calories for each item with a zero-calorie drink.
| Tray | Main | Sides | Drink | Total Calories |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lightest Jr. Tray | Small Burger (245) | Onion Rings + Onion Rings (128 each) | Diet drink | 501 |
| Light Chicken | BBQ Char-Grilled Chicken (376) | Onion Rings + Chicken Nuggets (128 + 144) | Water | 648 |
| Simple Burger Tray | Small Burger (245) | Onion Rings + Side of Chili (128 + 164) | Unsweetened tea | 537 |
| Lean Hot Dog Tray | 1 Hot Dog (260) | Onion Rings + Chicken Nuggets (128 + 144) | Water | 532 |
| Grilled Chicken Balance | Char-Grilled Chicken Original Style (393) | Onion Rings + Side of Chili (128 + 164) | Water | 685 |
| BLT Light Tray | BLT Sandwich (392) | Onion Rings + Chicken Nuggets (128 + 144) | Unsweetened tea | 664 |
| Strip Control Tray | 2 Chicken Strips (440) | Onion Rings + Side of Chili (128 + 164) | Water | 732 |
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.
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.
Is the Cookout Tray Worth It?
Usually, yes. A Regular Tray is commonly $7.39 and a Jr. Tray $6.39 for a main, two sides and a drink. At the October 2026 menu prices, a Regular Burger ($3.49), Regular Fries ($2.39), Hushpuppies ($1.99) and a regular Coca-Cola ($2.19) come to $10.06 bought separately, so the Regular Tray saves about $2.67. The same meal built on a Small Burger ($2.99) is $9.56 against the $6.39 Jr. Tray, a saving of about $3.17. Tray sides can be smaller than full orders, so treat these as a guide rather than an exact comparison.
The tray is also where you control the calories. A light tray comes to about 500 calories, and the heaviest tray WRAL counted reached 2,639. A milkshake instead of the drink adds $1.00, or $1.60 for a fancy flavor. To see the totals for specific builds, use our tray combos or the calories calculator.
Useful Links
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Head Office | 15 Laura Ln, Suite 300, Thomasville, NC 27360 |
| Phone Number | (336) 431-1094 |
| facebook.com/cookout | |
| About Cookout | cookout.com/company |
| Locations | https://cooksoutmenus.us/cookout-locations/ |
| 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.
FAQs
1How much does a Cookout Tray cost in 2026?
A Cookout Tray typically costs between $6.29 and $7.49, depending on location, and a Regular Tray is commonly $7.39. The Junior Tray is commonly $6.39. Swapping the drink for a milkshake adds $1.00 to $1.60.
2How much is a Cookout tray after tax?
Sales tax is added at the window and varies by state and county, so the total is a little above the menu price. Check your local rate for an exact figure.
3What comes with a Cookout Tray?
A standard tray includes one main item, two sides, and a drink. You can also upgrade your drink to a milkshake for an extra charge.
4Can you customize a Cookout Tray?
Yes, the tray is fully customizable. You can choose from different mains, mix any two sides, and select your preferred drink or upgrade.
5Does the Cookout Tray include a milkshake?
No, a milkshake is not included by default. It is available as an upgrade instead of a regular drink for an additional cost.
6What are the best sides to choose in a Cookout Tray?
Any two sides work, and you can take the same side twice. For the fewest calories pick Onion Rings (128), Chicken Nuggets (144) or Side of Chili (164); the full list is above.
7Is the Cookout Tray worth it?
Yes, it is considered one of the best value meals in fast food because it includes multiple items at a single affordable price.
8How many calories are in a Cookout Tray?
From about 500 calories for the lightest Jr. Tray to over 1,500 with fried sides and a shake.
9What is the difference between Regular and Junior Tray?
The Regular Tray has full-sized mains, while the Junior Tray uses smaller portions. Both include two sides and a drink.
10Can you get a healthy Cookout Tray?
Yes, by choosing grilled mains, lighter sides like slaw, and drinks like water or unsweet tea, you can build a lower-calorie tray.
11What is the most popular Cookout Tray combo?
Cook Out publishes no sales data, so there is no official most popular combo. Any main, two sides and a drink make a tray.