When the summer heat rolls in, there’s no better way to cool off and satisfy your cravings than with the top Cookout specials of the season. Known for its affordable meals, smoky Southern flavors, and legendary milkshakes, Cook Out is the go-to fast-food destination for summer road trips, backyard hangs, and spontaneous drive-thru cravings.
In this expert guide, we break down the must-try Cookout summer meals, including everything from char-grilled burgers to seasonal milkshake flavors. Let’s dive into the best bites and sips that’ll keep your taste buds buzzing all summer long.
View Full Menu: Cookout Menu Price
The Cook Out Tray – Summer’s MVP Combo
If you try just one thing this summer, make it the Cook Out Tray. It’s the best value meal deal on the menu—and possibly in all of fast food.
What’s in a Cookout Tray?
- 1 Entrée: Choose from BBQ sandwich, hamburger, chicken sandwich, hot dog, or quesadilla.
- 2 Sides: Pick from fries, onion rings, hushpuppies, nuggets, or even an extra quesadilla.
- 1 Drink: Upgrade to a milkshake for just a little extra.
Pro Tip: Want to maximize value? Order a burger, chicken quesadilla, and hushpuppies with a Peach Cobbler Milkshake. It’s a Southern summer feast in one tray!
Char-Grilled Burgers That Taste Like Summer
Cookout burgers are not your average fast-food patties. They’re flame-grilled, juicy, and full of flavor that mimics a backyard BBQ.
Recommended Burgers:
- Cookout Style Burger – Chili, slaw, mustard & onions
- Out West Style – BBQ sauce, bacon & mayo
- Huge Burger – For serious appetites
Add a side of Cajun fries and a cold Cheerwine, and you’ve got a summer meal that hits every note.
Barbecue Sandwich & Plate – A Southern Summer Classic
You can’t do summer without some good Southern BBQ. At Cookout, you get pulled pork done right—juicy, smoky, and tangy.
Options:
- BBQ Sandwich – With slaw on top
- BBQ Plate – Includes BBQ pork, slaw, fries, and hushpuppies
Pair it with sweet tea or lemonade for the ultimate picnic meal without ever firing up a grill.
Hot Dogs with Southern Style Flair
Hot dogs are a summer essential, and Cookout hot dogs are bursting with bold flavors:
- Cookout Style Hot Dog – Chili, mustard, slaw, onions
- Cheese Dog – Classic comfort food
- Bacon Cheddar Dog – A fan-favorite for indulgent eaters
Perfect for a quick bite or as your tray entrée.
Chicken Sandwiches – Crispy, Spicy, or Grilled
Whether you want something lean or something with a little kick, Cookout has a chicken sandwich for you:
- Spicy Chicken Sandwich – Juicy and fiery, perfect for heat lovers
- Grilled Chicken – Light, flavorful, and perfect for summer
- Chicken Club Sandwich – Add bacon and cheese for extra indulgence
45+ Legendary Cookout Milkshake Flavors
No Cookout experience is complete without a thick, frosty milkshake—especially in the heat of summer.
Best Summer Flavors:
- Peach Cobbler
- Watermelon (seasonal)
- Banana Pudding
- Strawberry Cheesecake
- Fresh Pineapple
🍦 These shakes are so thick, you’ll need a spoon. Mix and match for fun combos like chocolate banana or Oreo mint.
Specialty Drinks: Cheerwine & Fresh Lemonade
Cheerwine, the cherry-flavored Southern soda, is a Cookout exclusive you don’t want to miss. It’s sweet, fizzy, and oh-so-refreshing.
Also try:
- Freshly Squeezed Lemonade – Tart and icy cold
- Sweet Iced Tea – Southern-style and full of sugar (in the best way)
These are ideal for washing down your burger or BBQ sandwich.
Best Cookout Specials for Summer
| Category | Top Pick | Why It’s Great |
|---|---|---|
| Combo Meal | Cook Out Tray | Huge value, fully customizable |
| Burger | Cookout Style Burger | Chili + slaw = Southern flavor bomb |
| BBQ | BBQ Plate | Complete meal, picnic-perfect |
| Hot Dog | Cookout Style Hot Dog | Classic with a Carolina twist |
| Chicken Sandwich | Spicy Chicken | Zesty, juicy, and crunchy |
| Milkshake | Peach Cobbler or Watermelon | Seasonal, sweet, and Southern |
| Drink | Cheerwine + Fresh Lemonade | Refreshing summer essentials |
FAQs – Top Cookout Specials You Should Try This Summer
1. What is the most popular item at Cook Out in summer?
During the summer months, the Cook Out Tray is the top choice for many customers. Its affordable price, wide customization options, and filling portions make it the go-to meal whether you’re craving a burger, BBQ sandwich, or chicken strips.
2. Are milkshakes included in the Cook Out Tray?
Milkshakes are not included by default in a Cook Out Tray, but you can upgrade your drink to a milkshake for a small extra charge. This option is popular because the shakes are thick, creamy, and pair perfectly with any tray combo.
3. What’s the best milkshake flavor for summer?
Some of the best summer milkshake flavors at Cook Out include Peach Cobbler, Watermelon, and Banana Pudding. These refreshing and fruity choices offer seasonal sweetness that fits perfectly with summer weather.
4. Does Cook Out have seasonal menu items?
Yes, Cook Out offers seasonal flavors, especially within its milkshake menu. Flavors like Watermelon are only available in the summer months, so fans eagerly wait for their return each year.
5. Is Cheerwine available year-round?
Yes, Cheerwine is offered throughout the year, but it’s especially popular during summer. This sweet cherry soda is a Southern favorite and a refreshing complement to any Cook Out meal.
6. Can I mix milkshake flavors at Cook Out?
Absolutely! Cook Out encourages flavor creativity. You can mix and match milkshake flavors to create your own custom combo. Popular summer mixes include Peach‑Vanilla and Banana‑Strawberry.
7. Does Cook Out serve real BBQ?
Yes, Cook Out offers authentic pulled pork BBQ, served with or without coleslaw. It’s a classic Southern favorite and a hearty tray option for BBQ lovers.
8. What sides can I choose in a Cook Out Tray?
Cook Out Trays come with two sides, and the options include fries, hushpuppies, onion rings, corn dogs, chicken nuggets, slaw, and more. You can mix and match to create a full meal that fits your mood.
9. Is the Spicy Chicken Sandwich really spicy?
The Spicy Chicken Sandwich at Cook Out has a noticeable but manageable level of heat. It’s balanced by lettuce, tomato, and bun, making it flavorful without being overwhelming.
10. How much does a Cook Out Tray cost?
Prices can vary slightly by location, but most Cook Out Trays cost around $6 to $8, including an entrée, two sides, and a drink. It’s widely regarded as one of the best values in fast food.
11. Are Cook Out burgers flame-grilled?
Yes, Cook Out burgers are char-grilled over an open flame, giving them that authentic backyard cookout flavor. It’s part of what makes their burgers stand out among fast-food competitors.
12. Can I order Cook Out online?
Cook Out does not offer online ordering through its own website or app, but you can order via third-party services like DoorDash, Uber Eats, or Grubhub, depending on your location.
13. Are there vegetarian options?
While Cook Out is meat-heavy, there are a few vegetarian-friendly items such as the cheese quesadilla, grilled cheese sandwich, select sides like fries or hushpuppies, and of course, the fruit-based milkshakes.
14. Does Cook Out offer gluten-free options?
There are limited gluten-free options, with grilled meats (minus the bun) being the safest choice. However, Cook Out kitchens are not gluten-free environments, so those with serious sensitivities should ask before ordering.
15. Where can I find the nearest Cook Out location?
To locate a Cook Out near you, simply visit the official Cook Out website and use their store locator tool. Just enter your city or ZIP code to see nearby locations and hours.
Final Thoughts
From hearty trays to ice-cold milkshakes, Cookout nails the summer food game. Whether you’re stopping by after a swim, grabbing takeout for a picnic, or satisfying a late-night burger craving, their menu has all the elements of a perfect summer feast.
So what are you waiting for? Find your nearest Cookout and dive into these mouthwatering Cookout specials today.