Cookout Tray Menu Prices (2025) – Build Your Combo

The Cookout Tray remains one of America’s best-value meals — a fully customizable combo with 1 entrée, 2 sides, and a drink (or a famous milkshake upgrade). Loved by college students, families, and late-night diners alike, Cook Out continues to prove that great fast food can still cost under $10.

In 2025, prices typically range from $7.39–$8.39 for a Junior Tray and $8.09–$10.99 for a Regular Tray, depending on your entrée and location. Each Cookout Tray runs about 400 to 1,500 calories, depending on your picks. For an extra $1.60, you can upgrade your drink to a legendary Cook Out milkshake — a fan favorite across all locations. It’s one of the few chains where you can still enjoy a complete combo meal for under $11

Cookout Tray Menu Overview

Tray Type	Price (USD)	Includes
Regular Tray	$7.39	1 main item, 2 sides, 1 drink
Junior Tray	$6.49	1 main item, 2 sides, 1 drink
Double Up Tray	$8.99	2 of the same side items or drink

What Is a Cook Out Tray? What’s Included

The Cook Out Tray is the restaurant’s best-value combo meal — a fully customizable bundle that includes one entrée, two sides, and one drink. It’s the star of the Cook Out menu, letting you mix and match your favorite items for a satisfying meal, usually priced between $8.09 and $10.99, depending on the entrée and location.

Customers love the tray for its flexibility and generous portions. You can double one side, or even swap your drink for a premium milkshake for about $1.60–$2.00 extra. Most trays range from 800 to 1,500 calories, depending on your selections.

Although the name “Cook Out” suggests a backyard barbecue, it’s actually a fast-food chain known across the South for flame-grilled burgers, BBQ, and shakes. On some boards, this meal may appear as a “Combo,” but it’s the same customizable bundle known everywhere as the Cook Out Tray.

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Bundle & Naming

Each Cook Out Tray includes:

• 1 Entrée – Choose from classics like the Big Double Burger, BBQ Sandwich, Cajun Chicken, Hot Dogs, or Quesadilla.
• 2 Sides – Pick two favorites like fries, hushpuppies, onion rings, corn dog, or cheddar bites. You can also double up a side if you want extra of one item.
• 1 Drink – Comes standard with a soft drink or sweet tea, but many upgrade to a signature Cook Out milkshake.

Across the U.S., the term “Tray” is used officially, though some locations list it as a “Combo.” Both refer to the same complete meal deal with identical structure and pricing.

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Upgrades & Add-Ons

Cook Out gives you plenty of ways to personalize your tray:

• Milkshake Upgrade: Replace your drink with any of over 40 milkshake flavors for an added cost (~$1.60–$2.00).
• Double Sides: Swap your two sides for a double portion of a favorite, like Cajun Fries or Quesadilla slices.
• Toppings & Extras: Add bacon, cheese, chili, or slaw to your entrée for roughly $0.50–$1.00 more.
• Regional Variations: Some sides and prices vary slightly by location — especially in North Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia.

These customizations make the Cook Out Tray one of the most flexible and affordable meal bundles in fast food — a complete combo that can easily stay under $11 even with upgrades.

Cookout Tray Sizes: Regular vs Jr (Portion & Price)

Whether you’re craving a full meal or just a quick bite, Cook Out offers two tray sizes — Regular and Junior (Jr) — each bundling an entrée, two sides, and a drink. The key difference lies in entrée portion size and price.

Tray Type	Entrée Size	Side Count	Drink	Typical Price Range	Typical Calories	Best for
Regular Tray	Larger entrée (Big Double, ¼ lb burger, BBQ sandwich, 3 chicken strips, 2 hot dogs, or 2 quesadillas)	2	Drink or milkshake (upgrade for +$1.00–$1.50)	$7.39 – $7.99	700–1,250+	Bigger appetites, best value seekers, or sharing
Jr Tray	Smaller entrée (small burger, 2 chicken strips, BLT, hot dog, or single quesadilla)	2	Drink	$5.99 – $6.49	400–650	Kids, lighter eaters, or budget-friendly choice

💡 Prices and calories vary slightly by state and menu board. Milkshake upgrades and premium toppings (like bacon or cheese) add to total cost.

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Regular Tray Overview

The Regular Cook Out Tray is the go-to option for hungry customers and value lovers. It features a full-sized entrée like a ¼ lb burger, BBQ sandwich, or 3-piece chicken strip, alongside two signature sides and a drink or shake upgrade.
Depending on entrée and sides, calories can range from 700 to 1,200+, offering one of the most filling fast-food combos for under $8.

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Jr Tray Overview

The Junior Tray offers the same variety in a smaller portion, ideal for kids or lighter appetites. Entrées like a small burger, BLT, or 2 chicken strips still come with two sides and a drink, keeping the classic Cook Out experience intact.
At around 400–600 calories and typically under $6.50, it’s a compact, budget-friendly version of the full tray without losing flavor or customization options.

Cookout Tray Prices (2025)

The Cook Out Tray continues to be one of America’s top-value fast-food meals — a full combo (entrée + two sides + drink) that’s both filling and affordable. Prices in 2025 vary slightly by region due to local taxes and store pricing policies, but most locations still offer the Regular Tray under $10, even with upgrades.

A Regular Tray typically costs $7.99–$9.49, while the smaller Junior (Jr) Tray averages $7.39–$7.89. Customers can upgrade their drink to a premium Cook Out milkshake for an additional $1.25–$1.60, depending on city and flavor.

🔄 Updated: October 2025 — Prices verified from current Cook Out menu boards.

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Price Bands & After-Tax Notes

Typical 2025 Pre-Tax Price Ranges:

• 🍔 Regular Tray: $7.99 – $9.49
• 🌭 Junior (Jr) Tray: $7.39 – $7.89
• 🍨 Milkshake Upgrade: +$1.25 – $1.60
• ➕ Extras (cheese, bacon, or extra side): +$0.50 – $1.00

After-Tax Estimates (Varies by City/County):

• Regular Tray: ~$8.50 – $10.30
• Junior Tray: ~$7.80 – $8.70

💡 Most southern states apply 5%–9% food tax. Some Cook Out menus show pre-tax pricing, while others include tax totals (especially in North Carolina and Tennessee).

Sample Entrée Price Reference:

• Big Double Burger Tray: ~$9.15
• ¼ lb Hamburger Tray: ~$9.15
• 3 Chicken Strips Tray: ~$9.15

(Includes two sides + drink; milkshake upgrade extra)

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City/State Example Prices (October 2025)

City / State	Regular Tray	Jr Tray	Milkshake Upgrade	Est. After-Tax Total
Charlotte, NC	$8.29	$7.69	+$1.39	$9.00 – $9.70
Atlanta, GA	$8.49	$7.79	+$1.49	$9.20 – $9.90
Knoxville, TN	$7.99	$7.49	+$1.25	$8.60 – $9.30
Richmond, VA	$8.39	$7.79	+$1.35	$9.10 – $9.80
Raleigh, NC	$8.19	$7.59	+$1.30	$8.85 – $9.50

📍 Use Cook Out’s “Find a Location” tool or third-party apps like DoorDash to view your local menu board prices — tax and menu variations apply across regions.

Pick Your Entrée (Regular Tray Choices)

Every Cook Out Regular Tray starts with a hearty entrée — the centerpiece of your combo — paired with two sides and a drink. Choose from burgers, BBQ, chicken, or handheld classics.

Price range: $7.99–$9.49 (varies by location)
Calories (entrée only): 650–950 kcal

Entrée	Est. Calories	Best For
Big Double Burger	900–950	Best value—classic double-patty for big appetites
¼ lb Burger	750–820	Balanced option for burger lovers
BBQ Sandwich	700–850	Smoky Carolina-style pulled pork fans
Regular Chicken Sandwich	680–750	Lighter grilled option
Cajun Chicken Sandwich	720–780	Zesty kick with Southern spice
Spicy Chicken Sandwich	820–880	Breaded and peppery—Cook Out’s boldest choice
BBQ Chicken Sandwich	740–800	Sweet, smoky flavor on grilled chicken
2 Quesadillas (Chicken or Beef)	450–600	Cheesy, handheld comfort
2 Hot Dogs	700–850	Classic combo lovers
3 Chicken Strips	850–950	Crispy, protein-rich tray favorite

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Burger & BBQ Picks

Big Double Burger – A signature Cook Out staple: double char-grilled patties with melty cheese, lettuce, and tomato. High in flavor and value.
¼ lb Burger – All-American favorite—perfect if you want more room for loaded fries.
BBQ Sandwich – Pulled pork with Cook Out’s tangy Carolina sauce, giving that slow-smoked Southern flavor.

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Chicken & Quesadilla Picks

Regular Chicken – Lean, grilled, and flavorful—ideal for lighter trays.
Cajun Chicken – Adds mild spice for Southern-style zest.
Spicy Chicken – Breaded, golden, and pepper-seasoned—top pick for “best spicy chicken tray.”
BBQ Chicken – Smoky-sweet glaze for BBQ fans wanting a grilled base.
2 Quesadillas – Available in chicken or beef; melty cheese and tortilla comfort make it a flexible entrée pick.

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Hot Dog & Strips Picks

2 Hot Dogs – Classic Cook Out choice; try them “Cook Out style” with slaw, chili, and onions.
3 Chicken Strips – Crispy, juicy tenders—often considered the best Cook Out tray for protein lovers.

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Pick Your Entrée (Jr Tray Choices)

The Junior Tray offers the same 2 sides + drink, but with smaller entrée portions—perfect for kids or light eaters.

Price range: $7.49–$7.85
Calories: 400–680 kcal

Cookout Tray Menu Prices

Cook Out Tray Regular

Choose two sides or double up

Jr Entrée	Est. Calories	Best For
Small Burger	550	Light eaters craving the Cook Out burger experience
2 Chicken Strips	600	Crispy and kid-approved
2 Corn Dogs	640	Nostalgic, fair-style classic
BLT Sandwich	580	Simple, fresh, and balanced
Hot Dog	420	Easy pick for kids or quick bites
Chicken Quesadilla	640	Cheesy comfort, smaller portion

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Jr Protein Options

The Jr lineup mirrors the full menu—just smaller. Kids often favor 2 Chicken Strips or Corn Dogs, while adults wanting a light lunch tend toward the BLT or Chicken Quesadilla.

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Choose 2 Sides (or Double Up)

Your tray comes with any two sides, and you can double up on favorites like fries or nuggets. Cook Out’s sides range from classic fried comfort to lighter, crunchy options.

Side	Est. Calories	Highlights
Fries (Reg/Large)	300–480	Classic or large-cut, golden fries
Cajun Fries	380–520	Extra-spiced for bold flavor
Cheese Fries	450–600	Creamy cheddar topping
Chili-Cheese Fries	520–680	Fully loaded and hearty
Onion Rings	400–500	Crispy, golden, and savory
Hushpuppies	300–400	Sweet cornmeal bites
White Cheddar Bites	480–600	Gooey cheese inside, crispy shell
Nuggets	430–520	Mini bites, great for protein trays
Corn Dog	320–400	Sweet-battered classic
Chicken Wrap	500–580	Snack-sized, almost an entrée
Slaw	180–240	Fresh, creamy, and light
Quesadilla	350–420	Small cheesy tortilla—great filler side

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Fries & Rings

Choose from Regular, Large, Cajun, Cheese, or Chili-Cheese Fries. Cajun adds spice; chili-cheese transforms fries into a full meal. Onion Rings bring crunch and balance perfectly with burgers.

Bites, Nuggets & Wraps

White Cheddar Bites are a creamy, crave-worthy side; nuggets and wraps offer extra protein and texture for hearty trays.

Slaw, Quesadilla & Others

Coleslaw adds crunch and freshness; the quesadilla and corn dog sides bring nostalgic, filling variety to any tray.

Drinks & Milkshake Upgrade (2025)

Every Cookout Tray includes a drink, but you can upgrade to a signature Cookout Milkshake — the chain’s most famous add-on — for a small fee.
Prices and availability verified from Cookout’s 2025 in-store menu boards and delivery app listings.

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Soft Drinks & Tea

Cookout offers a classic fountain lineup — Coca-Cola, Sprite, Diet Coke, Cheerwine, and Fanta Orange — in four sizes:
Small (12 oz), Regular (16 oz), Large (24 oz), and Huge (32 oz).

The standout drink is the Huge Sweet Tea, brewed fresh daily and served ice-cold, loved across the Southeast. For lighter choices, opt for unsweetened tea or bottled water (0 cal).

• Best for: balancing rich tray items or cooling off summer meals
• Calories: 0–180 depending on size and sugar level

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Floats & Shakes

Fans can also choose Coke or Cheerwine Floats (≈400 cal) for a creamy soda twist.

The Milkshake Upgrade is Cookout’s hallmark:

• Upgrade cost: ≈ $1.00 – $1.60 (varies by city)
• Calorie range: ≈ 400 – 800 cal per shake
• Popular flavors (2025): Oreo • Peach Cobbler • Banana Pudding • Chocolate • Strawberry • Peanut Butter Fudge

👉 Pro Tip: Some stores allow half-and-half shake mixes (like Oreo + Banana Pudding). Ask your server — it’s a regional favorite.

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Best Cookout Tray Combinations (Editor Picks)

Cookout’s menu lets you build hundreds of tray variations, but these six proven combos balance flavor, calories, and cost (all under $10 before tax).

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Value & Classic

• Budget Champion: ¼ lb Burger + Fries + Hushpuppies + Drink (≈ 1,050 cal)
  → Simple, filling, and wallet-friendly.
• All-American Classic: Big Double + Onion Rings + Slaw + Sweet Tea (≈ 1,150 cal)
  → A Southern favorite with balanced sides.

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Protein & Spicy

• Protein Power Tray: 3 Chicken Strips + Nuggets + Cajun Fries (≈ 1,250 cal)
  → Ideal for high-protein eaters or post-workout meals.
• Cajun Heat Combo: Cajun Chicken Sandwich + Quesadilla + Fries (≈ 1,300 cal)
  → Bold and spicy, one of the best cookout trays overall.

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BBQ & Late-Night

• Southern BBQ Experience: BBQ Sandwich + Slaw + Hushpuppies + Tea (≈ 1,000 cal)
  → Smoky, tangy, and authentically Carolina.
• Late-Night Legend: 2 Hot Dogs + Cheese Fries + Oreo Shake (≈ 1,450 cal)
  → A comfort-food fix popular after midnight.

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Healthier & Special-Diet Trays

Eating lighter at Cookout is easy with smart swaps — grilled instead of fried, slaw instead of fries, and sauces on the side to reduce sodium.

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Lower-Calorie Builds

• Grilled Chicken + Slaw + Small Fries + Water (≈ 720 cal)
• Junior BLT + Hushpuppies + Unsweet Tea (≈ 600 cal)
• 2 Chicken Strips + Slaw + Diet Drink (≈ 640 cal)

💡 Tip: Skip cheese and mayo to save ≈ 120 calories per tray.

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Allergen & Gluten Notes

Cookout kitchens handle major allergens (wheat, soy, dairy, nuts). Cross-contact is possible in shared fryers.

✅ Gluten-aware: Try grilled chicken or burger without bun.
✅ Dairy-free: Avoid shakes, cheddar bites, and ranch sauces.
✅ Always confirm with in-store allergen sheets (updated 2025) before ordering.

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Local Prices & Availability (Near Me)

Tray prices differ slightly by region, usually $5.99 – $6.79 (Regular) and $4.99 – $5.49 (Junior).
Shake upgrades add ≈ $1.50–$2.00, while delivery apps may show 10–20% markups.

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Find a Location

Use Cookout.com → Find a Location or simply search “Cookout near me” in Google Maps.
You can view menu board photos or delivery-app listings to confirm current local prices.

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Market Differences

Regional menus vary slightly:

• Carolinas & Georgia: Cajun Fries, Cheerwine Floats, and BBQ Plates are staples.
• Tennessee & Virginia: Grilled BBQ Chicken and extra sides common.
• College Towns: Extended hours + more shake flavors (e.g., Cookie Dough, Caramel).

Final tray total depends on local taxes, labor costs, and supply rates, keeping Cookout one of the most regionally tuned fast-food brands in the U.S.

Ordering Tips & Hacks

Pro Ordering Moves

Make the most of your Cook Out Tray by using these insider strategies:

• Upgrade to a milkshake: For just about $1.00–$1.59 extra, you can replace your drink with one of Cook Out’s 40+ milkshake flavors—a classic move among regulars.
• Double up on protein: Choose entrées like Two Hot Dogs or Three Chicken Strips to maximize value without adding cost.
• Smart side swaps: You can double your favorite side (like hush puppies or Cajun fries) instead of mixing two different ones.
• Mix & match flavor hacks: Pair onion rings with cheddar bites for a crispy-cheesy combo that regulars swear by.
• Go “Cook Out Style”: Ask for this add-on for burgers or chicken sandwiches—includes chili, slaw, mustard, and onion—for a signature flavor boost.
• Late-night pro tip: Most locations are open until 2:30–3:30 AM, perfect for post-event meals or smaller lines after midnight.
• Keep your receipt: Occasionally, receipts include survey codes or local coupon offers redeemable for discounts or free add-ons.

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Delivery, Pickup & Drive-Thru

Third-Party Apps

Cook Out’s delivery availability depends on location but is expanding across DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub. Expect a 10–25% markup versus in-store prices due to app fees and delivery surcharges.

• Delivery times typically range 30–50 minutes, depending on driver availability.
• Not all tray combos or milkshake options appear online, so in-store menus offer fuller customization.

Pro Tip: For large orders, call the local store directly—Cook Out often processes phone-ahead pickup orders faster than app-based ones.

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Pickup & Drive-Thru

Cook Out’s drive-thru and walk-up windows remain the fastest and most cost-efficient ways to order.

• Peak hours: 12–1 PM (lunch) and 6–8 PM (dinner). Expect longer lines during these times.
• Best times: Between 2–5 PM and after 2 AM for quick service and freshly cooked trays.
• Tip: Have your order ready—Cook Out is known for quick turnaround and minimal menu hesitation.

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Deals, Coupons & Gift Cards

• Cook Out does not run national coupons or app promotions, but local franchises sometimes include discounts on receipts or mail flyers.
• College-town locations often run student specials (usually posted on-site).
• Gift cards are sold in-store in flexible denominations—perfect for meal budgeting or gifts.
• Balance checks: Call the number printed on the back of your card; Cook Out does not yet have an online balance check portal.

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FAQs – Cookout Tray Menu

Q1: What comes in a Cookout Tray?
A Cookout Tray includes 1 entrée, 2 sides (or a double side), and 1 drink—or a milkshake upgrade for a small fee.

Q2: Can I upgrade my drink to a milkshake?
Yes. The upgrade costs around $1.00–$1.59, depending on location.

Q3: Are tray prices the same everywhere?
No. Prices vary slightly by state tax and regional franchise pricing, typically between $5.99–$6.49.

Q4: What’s the difference between Regular and Junior Trays?
Regular Trays include full-size entrées, while Junior Trays offer smaller portions ideal for lighter appetites or kids.

Q5: Does Cook Out offer vegetarian options?
Limited—but you can build a tray with grilled cheese, fries, hush puppies, and slaw for a meat-free option.

Q6: Are there gluten-free options?
Yes. Bun-less burgers or grilled chicken can be ordered gluten-free, though cross-contact risk exists.

Q7: Does Cook Out have an app?
As of 2025, Cook Out does not have an official ordering app—use third-party apps or visit in person.

Q8: What are the typical operating hours?
Most locations open from 10:30 AM to 2:30–3:30 AM, though hours vary by city and day.

Q9: Can you order multiple trays per person?
Yes. There’s no limit, and many customers order multiple trays for family or group meals.

Q10: Are Cook Out milkshakes available year-round?
Yes—over 40 flavors, including seasonal favorites like Eggnog and Watermelon (summer only).

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Final Notes & Call-to-Action

Cook Out’s Tray Menu remains one of America’s best fast-food values in 2025, offering customizable combos, generous portions, and late-night availability unmatched by most chains. Whether you’re dining in, driving through, or ordering online, every tray delivers flavor, flexibility, and value.

Pro Tip for First-Timers:
Try the Cook Out Style Burger Tray with Cajun fries, hush puppies, and a banana pudding milkshake—a perfect intro to what fans love.

👉 Ready to build your own tray?
[Find a Cook Out Near You] · [See Full Menu]