If you’re craving bold Southern flavor, unbeatable value, and quick service, the Cook Out lunch menu is exactly what you need. Known for their legendary trays and over 40 milkshake flavors, Cook Out is a go-to destination for an all-American lunch done right.
What is a Cook Out Tray?
The iconic Cook Out Tray is a customizable combo meal that lets you build your ideal lunch. Each tray includes:
- One Entrée
- Two Sides
- One Drink (upgrade to a milkshake for a small upcharge)
This mix-and-match system gives you full control over your lunch while keeping it budget-friendly and filling.
Entrée Options for Cook Out Trays
Here are the protein-packed entrees you can choose for your tray:
- Grilled Hamburger or Cheeseburger (in various sizes)
- Barbecue Plate or BBQ Sandwich
- Hot Dogs (Plain or Cook Out Style)
- Grilled or Spicy Chicken Sandwich
- Chicken Nuggets
- Chicken Strips
- Quesadillas (Beef, Chicken, or Cheese)
Side Options
Choose any two from this Southern-style selection:
- French Fries
- Onion Rings
- Hushpuppies
- Coleslaw
- Chicken Nuggets (yes, as a side!)
- Chicken Strips
- White Cheddar Cheese Bites
- Corn Dog
- Cheese or Chicken Quesadilla
Whether you’re looking for crispy, savory, or creamy—there’s a side for you.
Drinks
Each tray comes with a drink of your choice:
- Sweet or Unsweet Iced Tea
- Coca-Cola® Products
- Upgrade to a Milkshake (for an extra charge)
Milkshakes: The Real Cook Out Star
You can’t talk about the Cook Out menu without mentioning the milkshakes. With over 40 hand-spun flavors, these shakes are thick, creamy, and deeply satisfying.
Popular Milkshake Flavors:
- Banana Pudding
- Watermelon (seasonal)
- Oreo Mint
- Strawberry Cheesecake
- Chocolate Chip Mint
- Fresh Peanut Butter
Milkshakes can be enjoyed as a dessert or swapped in as a drink with your tray.
À la Carte Favorites
Prefer to order separately? No problem. You can get many items a la carte:
Burgers & Sandwiches:
- Big Double Burger (“Out West Style” with BBQ sauce, bacon & mayo)
- Huge Hamburger
- BBQ Plate
- BLT Sandwich
- Chicken Strip Club Sandwich
- Ranch Chicken Wrap
Hot Dogs:
Desserts
Cook Out offers more than just milkshakes when it comes to sweet treats:
- Fresh-baked Cookies
- Cheesecake (can also be blended into a milkshake!)
Cook Out Value: Why Customers Love It
- Affordable: Most trays cost less than $7
- Customizable: Build your perfect meal every time
- Satisfying Portions: You’ll never leave hungry
- Variety: Burgers, BBQ, dogs, chicken, and dessert in one place
Drive-Thru and Speedy Service
Cook Out is known for its quick service. Most locations are drive-thru only, making it a great choice for lunch breaks or meals on the go.
FAQs About Cook Out Lunch Menu
Can I get a milkshake instead of a drink in a tray?
Yes, you can substitute your regular drink with a milkshake when ordering a Cook Out Tray. There is usually a small upcharge, but many fans agree it’s worth it for the size and flavor variety of their iconic shakes.
How many sides come with a Cook Out Tray?
Every Cook Out Tray includes two sides by default. You can choose from options like fries, hushpuppies, onion rings, slaw, and more. It’s one of the reasons why the tray offers such great value.
What is the best value item on the Cook Out menu?
The Cook Out Tray is hands down the best value on the menu. For one low price, you get a main item, two sides, and a drink (or shake), making it one of the most satisfying and affordable fast-food meals around.
Are milkshakes available all year round?
Yes, most milkshake flavors are available year-round, including popular choices like Vanilla, Oreo, and Chocolate. However, limited-time flavors such as Watermelon or Fresh Peach are seasonal and only available during specific months.
What sauces are available?
Cook Out offers a variety of sauces, typically including BBQ sauce, ranch, honey mustard, ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise. Some locations may also have buffalo or special house-made sauces depending on local preferences.
Does Cook Out have vegetarian options?
Yes, while Cook Out isn’t known for vegetarian meals, you can still find a few satisfying meat-free options like the cheese quesadilla, French fries, hushpuppies, onion rings, and of course, milkshakes. Just be aware of potential cross-contamination.
Can I order online or via app?
Currently, Cook Out does not offer official online ordering or a nationwide mobile app. Some locations may appear on third-party delivery apps like DoorDash, but this varies by region and availability.
What’s the best milkshake flavor?
The “best” flavor is a matter of taste, but fan favorites often include Banana Pudding, Oreo Mint, and Peanut Butter Fudge. With over 40 options—and the ability to mix them—there’s something for every milkshake lover.
Are the chicken items spicy?
Only the Spicy Chicken Sandwich is designed to be hot. If you prefer a milder option, the regular Grilled or Original Chicken Sandwich will suit you better. Always ask if you’re unsure about spice level.
Do they offer combo meals besides trays?
While Cook Out does have a few individual item combos, most of the value is found in the tray deals. These let you mix and match mains and sides, offering more variety and a better deal overall.
What’s the portion size of the milkshake?
Cook Out milkshakes are known for being large and thick—typically ranging from 32 to 35 ounces. They’re considered one of the biggest and most filling shakes in fast food, often enough to share or save for later.
Are Cook Out locations dine-in or drive-thru?
Most Cook Out restaurants operate primarily as drive-thru establishments. However, some locations also offer walk-up service or limited outdoor seating. Very few have traditional dine-in spaces.
Does Cook Out serve breakfast?
No, Cook Out focuses exclusively on lunch and dinner. They start serving food around 10:30 AM, and there are no eggs, pancakes, or other typical breakfast items on the menu.
Are there gluten-free options?
Cook Out has limited gluten-free choices. Some items like grilled meats without buns may be suitable, but due to the shared kitchen environment, cross-contamination is likely. Always ask staff if you have a gluten sensitivity.
Can you mix milkshake flavors?
Yes, Cook Out is well known for allowing custom milkshake mixes. You can request creative combinations like Banana Fudge, Oreo-Caramel, or Chocolate-Cherry. Just let the cashier know your mix and they’ll make it happen.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a student looking for a budget meal or a foodie hunting for the best milkshake in town, Cook Out’s lunch menu offers unbeatable variety and flavor. Customize your tray, sip a thick milkshake, and taste why this Southern favorite continues to win hearts (and stomachs).