Few fast-food chains do Southern comfort food and unbeatable value quite like Cook Out. From char-grilled burgers and creamy milkshakes to hushpuppies and quesadillas, Cook Out has carved a niche in the Southeast’s food scene. But the real MVP of the menu? The Cookout Tray Menu.
This guide gives you everything you need to know about Cook Out’s legendary trays in 2026: updated prices, full side lists, top combos, smart ordering tips, and what makes this deal an absolute must-try.
View Full Menu: Cookout Menu Price
What Is the Cookout Tray Menu?
The Cookout Tray Menu is the ultimate customizable combo meal. You get:
- 1 Main Entrée
- 2 Sides (or swap 1 side for a drink)
- 1 Drink (or upgrade to a premium milkshake)
All starting around $6.49 – $6.99.
Cookout Tray Prices
| Item | Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Regular Tray (with drink) | $6.49 – $6.99 |
| Upgrade to Milkshake | +$1.00 – $1.50 |
| Extra Entrée or Side | +$1.00 – $2.00 |
Note: Prices may vary slightly by location.
Tray Entrée Options
Your entrée sets the tone for your tray. Here are your top picks:
- Big Double Burger
- BBQ Sandwich (Carolina-style pulled pork)
- Chicken Sandwich (Spicy or Grilled)
- Chicken Strips
- Hot Dogs (Chili, slaw, or plain)
- Quesadilla (Beef, Chicken, or Cheese)
- Cajun Chicken
- BBQ Plate
Cookout Tray Sides List (Fan Favorites Included)
Cook Out’s side options go way beyond fries:
- French Fries
- Hushpuppies
- Chicken Nuggets
- Quesadilla (Cheese/Chicken/Beef)
- Corn Dog
- Cheese Bites
- Cole Slaw
- Onion Rings
- Cajun Fries
- Chili
- Chicken or Bacon Wrap
Top Recommendations:
- Chicken Wrap + Cheese Quesadilla = Full Meal Hack
- Cajun Fries for flavor
- Hushpuppies for a Southern twist
Cookout Milkshakes: Worth the Upgrade?
Absolutely. For just ~$1 extra, you can turn your tray drink into one of Cook Out’s 40+ legendary milkshake flavors:
- Oreo Mint
- Banana Pudding
- Peach Cobbler
- Reese’s Cup
- Chocolate Cherry
- Strawberry Cheesecake
- Caramel Fudge
- Fresh Watermelon (seasonal)
You can also mix flavors to create your own!
Best Cookout Tray Combos
1. The BBQ Lover’s Tray
2. Late-Night Monster Tray
3. Light But Loaded Tray
- Grilled Chicken Sandwich
- Cole Slaw
- Cheese Bites
- Unsweet Tea
Pro Tips for Ordering Cookout Trays
- Go protein-heavy: Nuggets, chicken wraps, and quesadillas are all sides!
- Upgrade your drink: Their milkshakes are some of the best in fast food.
- Split the tray: One tray can easily feed two light eaters.
- Try seasonal shake flavors: Eggnog, Pumpkin Pie, and Watermelon are must-tries.
- Late-night favorite: Cook Out is open until 3 AM or later in many locations.
Why the Cookout Tray Has a Cult Following
- Budget-friendly: Massive portions for <$8
- Highly customizable: Hundreds of combo variations
- Tastes like home: Southern staples made fast
- Convenient: Drive-thru speed + late hours
Is It Healthy?
Not exactly, but you can lighten it up:
- Swap fried chicken for grilled
- Choose slaw over chili or fries
- Pick water or tea instead of soda or shake
Still, Cook Out is best enjoyed for what it is: indulgent, crave-worthy comfort food.
FAQs: Cookout Tray Menu
1. What comes with a Cookout Tray?
1 main entrée, 2 sides (or 1 side + drink), and a drink. Milkshake upgrade optional.
2. How much is a Cookout Tray in 2026?
Around $6.49–$6.99. Adding a milkshake brings it close to $8.
3. What’s the best Cookout tray combo?
Try a BBQ sandwich, Cajun fries, quesadilla, and banana pudding milkshake.
4. Are quesadillas and chicken wraps really sides?
Yes, and they’re a great value move.
5. Are there vegetarian options?
Yes: Cheese quesadilla, fries, slaw, and veggie-friendly shakes.
6. Is Cook Out open late?
Most locations stay open until 2–3 AM.
7. What drink options come with a tray?
Sodas, sweet tea, unsweet tea, and lemonade. Upgrade to a shake if desired.
8. Can I order more than 2 sides?
Yes—extra sides can be added for $1–$2.
9. Are the milkshakes hand-spun?
Yes! Thick, creamy, and made to order.
10. Are there seasonal tray items?
Sometimes. Keep an eye out for regional or holiday-exclusive sides or shakes.
11. Does Cookout have delivery?
Yes—via DoorDash, Uber Eats, and other services depending on your location.
12. Can I substitute milkshake for a side?
No, milkshakes replace the drink only.
13. What sizes are the burgers?
Small, Regular, Big Double, Huge
14. Are there gluten-free options?
Limited, but grilled meats and slaw may be safer picks.
15. Is there a secret menu?
Unofficially, yes! Mix and match shake flavors or order special style burgers like “Cookout Style.
Final Thoughts: Is the Cookout Tray Worth It?
Absolutely. It’s one of the most filling, customizable, and budget-friendly meals in the fast-food world. Whether you’re a college student, late-night diner, or Southern food lover, the Cookout Tray Menu deserves your attention in 2026.
So go ahead, mix it up, try a new shake flavor, and build your dream tray today.