Cook-Out Tray Menu & Price Guide
Are you tired of the same old fast-food routine, where customization is limited and value is often questionable? Do you find yourself overwhelmed by endless menu options, wishing for a clear guide to craft the perfect, affordable meal that truly satisfies you?
confusion about what’s included in a ‘tray’
Enter the legendary Cook Out Tray: a customizable, value-packed meal experience that has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of fast-food lovers across the South. But with so many choices, it’s easy to feel lost. This guide is your ultimate solution.
This comprehensive guide will demystify the Cook Out Tray, providing you with all the up-to-date information on entrees, sides, drinks, pricing, and customization hacks. You’ll learn how to navigate the menu with confidence, build your ideal tray, and unlock incredible value, ensuring every cookout visit is a satisfying success.
Understanding the Cook Out Tray Phenomenon
What Is the Cook-Out Tray?
The Cook Out Tray is Cook Out’s signature meal deal, putting the power of choice squarely in your hands and your appetite. Rather than a fixed “combo,” the Tray lets you build a complete meal by selecting:
- One Entrée – Choose from staples like the Cook Out Style Burger, Barbeque Sandwich, Chicken Quesadilla, or any of their prized “Style” burgers.
- Two Sides – Options span from crispy fries and onion rings to hushpuppies, slaw, chili cheese fries, and seasonal specialties.
- One Drink – Pick any of Cook Out’s hand‑crafted milkshakes, freshly squeezed lemonades, or classic fountain beverages.
All of this comes bundled at a single, wallet‑friendly price, meaning you can mix and match exactly what you want without the sticker shock of ordering à la carte.
Why the Tray Is a Fast‑Food Staple
- Unlike most combo meals with rigid “pick one side” rules, the Tray lets you tailor every component. Craving extra chili cheese fries? Go for it. Want your burger with slaw instead of lettuce? No problem.
- Through strategic pricing, Cook Out ensures the Tray almost always costs less than ordering the same items individually. You get more food variety for fewer dollars – a win for budget-minded foodies.
With dozens of entrées and side permutations, the Tray experience can feel fresh every visit. You’re not limited to the same old chicken sandwich combo; you can sample across the menu
What You Gain as a Cook-Out Fan
- Craft a meal that satisfies your exact cravings: spicy, saucy, cheesy, or all of the above.
- Enjoy transparency and consistency. You know upfront what you’ll pay, and you’ll rarely find a better deal on a complete fast‑food meal.
- The Tray encourages culinary exploration. Try a new side or shake flavor each time to keep your taste buds on their toes.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd, grabbing a solo lunch, or sharing with a friend, the Cook Out Tray elevates the fast‑food combo into something genuinely custom, and that’s why it’s earned its place as a go‑to for hungry, value‑seeking diners everywhere
How the Cook-Out Tray Works: The Core Components
At its heart, the Cook Out Tray isn’t just a meal. It’s a choose‑your‑own‑adventure in flavor and value. By following a simple three‑step formula, you get maximum variety, wallet‑friendly pricing, and the freedom to build the perfect combo every time.
1. The Simple Formula
Every Tray follows the same basic structure:
- One Entree
- Two Sides
- One Drink
That’s it. No confusing tiers or hidden add‑ons, just clear choices that let you customize exactly what you want, all bundled at a price that almost always beats ordering items à la carte.
2. Building Your Tray: A Step‑by‑Step Guide
Step 1: Choose Your Main Entree
Start with the star of the show. Whether you’re craving a classic Hickory Burger, a spicy Cajun Chicken Sandwich, or the fan‑favorite Cook Out Style Burger, this is your foundation. Each entrée is crafted to deliver bold flavor and hearty satisfaction.
Step 2: Select Two Side Items
Next, round out the meal with any two sides. Fry lovers can’t go wrong with Chili Cheese Fries or Onion Rings, while lighter eaters might opt for the side salad or hushpuppies. Feeling adventurous? Mix and match sweet potato fries and slaw for a sweet‑savory twist.
Step 3: Pick Your Drink
Finally, wash it all down with your drink of choice. From ice-cold soft drinks and freshly squeezed lemonade to world-famous handmade milkshakes, the beverage round-off lets you balance sweetness, fizz, or creaminess to complement your tray.
3. Value Proposition: Choice Meets Savings
By bundling these core components, the Cook Out Tray delivers exceptional value:
- Tailor every bite to your mood; no preset combos you don’t want.
- Three distinct categories mean no two trays have to look the same.
- Trays typically cost several dollars less than ordering the same items separately, so you get more flavor for less cash.
With just three easy steps, you’re in total control of your meal and your budget. Next, we’ll dive into every entrée, side, and drink option, so you can mix, match, and master your perfect Cook Out Tray.
Deep Dive into Cook-Out Tray Components
| Entree Item | Description | Common Modifications |
| Cook Out Style Burger | Add bacon, extra cheese, grilled onions, and specific sauces (e.g., Cook Out sauce). | A classic grilled burger patty topped with chili, slaw, onions, and mustard. |
| Hamburger/Cheeseburger | Single or double patty with standard toppings (lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles). | Add cheese and bacon; substitute sauce (e.g., honey mustard, ranch). |
| BBQ Plate | Chopped BBQ pork sandwich with coleslaw and a choice of sauce. | Texas Pete, BBQ sauce; add cheese. |
| Chicken Strip Sandwich | Crispy chicken tenders on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and mayo. | Add cheese, bacon; substitute sauce (e.g., honey mustard, ranch). |
| Grilled Chicken Sandwich | Marinated grilled chicken breast on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and mayo. | Add jalapeños, onions, and sour cream. |
| Hot Dog (Cook Out Style) | Grilled hot dog with chili, slaw, onions, and mustard. | Add cheese, bacon; remove specific toppings. |
| Corn Dog | Deep-fried corn dog. | Served plain, often with ketchup or mustard on the side. |
| Chicken Quesadilla | Flour tortilla filled with grilled chicken and cheese, grilled until golden. | Add ketchup, mustard, relish, onions, chili, cheese, and slaw. |
| Cajun Chicken Sandwich | Grilled chicken breast seasoned with Cajun spices, lettuce, tomato, and mayo. | Add cheese, bacon. |
| Spicy Chicken Sandwich | Crispy chicken patty with spicy sauce, lettuce, tomato, and pickles. | Add cheese, remove pickles for less spice. |
| Cook Out Chicken Sandwich | Grilled chicken breast with Cook Out sauce, lettuce, tomato, and pickles. | Add cheese. |
| Cook Out Hot Dog | Plain grilled hot dog. | Served with a choice of dipping sauces (BBQ, honey mustard, ranch). |
| Chargrilled Chicken Plate | Grilled chicken breast served as a plate, often with a side salad. | Specify desired sauces or toppings; often chosen for lighter options. |
| Chicken Nuggets (6 pc) | Crispy chicken nuggets. | Add bacon, extra cheese, grilled onions, and specific sauces (e.g., Cook Out sauce). |
| Crispy Chicken Sandwich | Crispy chicken patty with lettuce, tomato, and mayo. | Add cheese, bacon. |
Extensive Side Item Selection
| Side Item | Description | Typical Pairing |
| French Fries | Classic crispy potato fries. | Universal, pairs well with any entree. |
| Hush Puppies | Small, savory fried cornmeal balls. | BBQ, Hot Dogs, Chicken Strips. |
| Onion Rings | Crispy, battered onion rings. | Burgers, Chicken Sandwiches. |
| Cajun Fries | French fries seasoned with a spicy Cajun blend. | Burgers, Spicy Chicken. |
| Coleslaw | Creamy, shredded cabbage and carrot salad. | BBQ, Hot Dogs, Fried Chicken. |
| Chicken Nuggets (3) | Three crispy chicken nuggets. | Universal, pairs well with any entrée. |
| Quesadilla (Side) | Small cheese quesadilla. | Burgers, Chicken. |
| Chili Cheese Fries | Fries topped with chili and melted cheese. | Hearty side for any entree. |
| Corn Dog (Side) | Small corn dog. | Popular with kids, pairs with burgers or hot dogs. |
| White Cheddar Bites | Fried white cheddar cheese curds. | Burgers, Chicken Sandwiches. |
| Chicken Strip (1) | Single crispy chicken strip. | Any entrée, good for adding more protein. |
| Bacon Wrap | Small tortilla wrap with bacon and cheese. | Burgers, Hot Dogs. |
| Side Salad | Any entrée, good for adding more protein. | Lighter option, pairs with grilled chicken. |
| Cheerwine Floats | Cheerwine soda with vanilla ice cream. (Often premium side) | Sweet treat, pairs well with savory meals. |
Drink Choices for the Tray
| Drink Type | Flavors/Options | Notes (e.g., upcharge for milkshakes) |
| Fountain Sodas | Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Sprite, Dr. Pepper, Diet Dr. Pepper, Fanta Orange, Mello Yello, Pibb Xtra, Root Beer, Lemonade, Powerade | Standard inclusion with the tray. |
| Freshly Brewed Tea | Sweet Tea, Unsweet Tea | Standard inclusion with the tray. |
| Fancy Milkshakes | Banana Pudding, Birthday Cake, Caramel, Cherry, Chocolate, Chocolate Chip Mint, Coffee, Cook Out Orange, Dreamsicle, Fresh Banana, Fresh Blueberry, Fresh Watermelon (seasonal), Heath, Hershey’s Chocolate, M&M’s, Mocha, Oreo, Peanut Butter, Peach Cobbler, Pecan Pie, Pineapple, Pumpkin Spice (seasonal), Reese’s Cup, Reese’s Pieces, Strawberry, Strawberry Cheesecake, Vanilla, Watermelon, Wild Cherry, Banana Split (and many more!) | Upcharge applies. These are thick, hand-spun milkshakes often considered a meal in themselves. Flavors can vary by location and season. |
| Cheerwine | Classic cherry-flavored soda, often served from a fountain. | Standard inclusion with the tray. Iconic regional favorite. |
| Cheerwine Float | Cheerwine soda with vanilla ice cream. | Standard inclusion with the tray. An iconic regional favorite. |
| Bottled Water | Plain bottled water. | Standard inclusion with the tray. Good for saving on cost or for a healthier option. |
The Ultimate Cook Out Tray Customization Guide
Even devoted Cook Out fans can feel overwhelmed by the endless tray options, including entrees, sides, and drinks, especially when they want maximum value and flavor.
You don’t want to waste money or miss out on a perfect combo because you’re stuck staring at the menu
Think of your tray as a blank canvas. Follow this simple flowchart and curated examples to build a tray that checks every box: taste, value, and sheer fun.
. Conceptual Flowchart for Tray Customization
Below is a visual roadmap to guide each tray decision. Imagine it as three branching tiers:
| Choose Your Entree | |
| Burger | Classic, Cook Out Style, Quesadilla, Chicken Sandwich |
| Hot Dog | Chilli, Spicy, Regular |
| Other | Barbecue Sandwich, Chicken Strips |
Pick Two Sides or double up
| Pick Two Sides or double up | |
| Fries | C Regular, Chili Cheese, Sweet Potato |
| Onion Rings, Hushpuppies,Slaw, Veggies, or Fruit Cup |
Select Your Drink
| Select Your Drink | |
| Soft Drink (20+ options) | |
| Hand‑crafted Milkshake, Iced Tea or Lemonade, Bottled Water |
Example Combinations: Popular & Unexpected
| Flavor Profile | Entree | Sides | Drink |
| All‑American | Cook Out Style Burger | Chili Cheese Fries, Slaw | Cola |
| Spicy Kick | Spicy Dog | Onion Rings, Sweet Potato | Lemonade |
| Southern Comfort | BBQ Sandwich | Hushpuppies, Veggie Cup | Sweet Tea |
| Light & Fresh | Grilled Chicken Sandwich | Fruit Cup, Slaw | Bottled Water |
| Indulgent Treat | Quesadilla | Chili Cheese Fries, Onion Rings | Milkshake (Oreo) |
If you’ve ever dreaded the “too many choices” feeling or worried you’d pick the wrong sides, these combos spotlight both fan favorites and creative mash‑ups so you can order confidently.
Tray Hacks for Value & Taste
The true magic of Cook Out trays lies in experimentation. Swap your second side for slaw to cut grease, or pair chili cheese fries with hushpuppies for sweet‑savory bliss.
Opt for CookOut Style burgers or hot dogs as your entree, they come decked with onions, slaw, chili, and mustard at no extra cost, maximizing toppings value
If you’re a light eater or feeding a friend, consider splitting a single tray and rounding it out with bottled water. Two stomachs, one low bill.
Ask for your sides in half-and-half portions, with half fries and half onion rings, to sample more without incurring extra expense.
Ordering for a Group
Coordinating multiple trays can be chaotic. Here’s how to keep it smooth:
not down everyone’s choices, entree, two sides, drink, before you approach the counter
Cook Out Style Burger, Chili Cheese Fries, Onion Rings, Lemonade, speed things up
If several people want the same tray, order multiples (“Three of the Southern Comfort combos, please!”) to streamline preparation
By following this interactive framework, you’ll transform tray building from a headache into the highlight of your cookout experience. Enjoy
Dietary Considerations & Allergen Information
Navigating the Menu for Specific Needs
Fast‑food cravings shouldn’t derail your dietary goals. Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten‑free, or managing allergies, Cook Out’s menu has options you just need to know where to look. Below is a breakdown to help you build a tray that checks all the boxes
Vegetarian Options
What to Order:
Entrees: Cheese Quesadilla* (where available)
Sides: Regular Fries, Onion Rings, Hush Puppies, Coleslaw, Side Salad
Pro Tip: Customize your Side Salad by swapping out croutons for extra veggies or asking for dressing on the side to control portions.
Vegan Options
What to Order:
Fries: Confirm they’re fried in dedicated oil (ask staff)
Side Salad: Request no cheese or creamy dressing
Drinks: Unsweetened tea, black coffee, fountain sodas
Cook Out’s fries may be fried alongside animal products. Always verify cooking methods at your location
Gluten‑Free Guidance
Bun-Less Builds: Order any burger or sandwich with protein only, skip the bun, wrap it in lettuce, and add your favorite toppings.
Pair with fries or side salad, see vegan guidance on dressing/cheese.
Cross-Contamination Alert: Fried items are shared in the same fryers. If you have celiac disease or a severe allergy, consider grilled proteins and avoid all fried sides
Allergen Awareness & Disclaimers
Fast‑food kitchens are busy environments. Even “safe” items may come into contact with allergens.
Always inform your server of critical allergies or dietary restrictions, as they can guide you to the best choice
The nutritional and ingredient details provided here are based on publicly available Cook Out resources. Menu formulations are subject to change; for life-threatening allergies, please verify directly with Cook Out before ordering.
This guidance is compiled from Cook Out’s published nutritional data and industry best practices. It is intended to empower you with accurate
up‑to‑date information, but should not replace professional medical advice.
With these tips, you can confidently build a cookout tray that aligns with your lifestyle, no matter your dietary needs. Enjoy every bite worry‑free!
Top 5 Reader-Favorite Combinations
1. Classic Comfort
- Cook Out Style Burger + Regular Fries + Hush Puppies + Sweet Tea
You can’t go wrong with this nostalgic combo; the savory burger and crispy hushpuppies balance the light sweetness of tea. - Expert Tip: Upgrade to large fries for just a dollar extra to share (or keep all to yourself!).
2. Chicken Lover’s Dream
- Chicken Strip Sandwich + Onion Rings + Cajun Fries + Caramel Milkshake (upcharge)
- Crunchy, spicy, and sweet all at once. Fans love the interplay between the Cajun kick and rich caramel swirl.
Swap the regular shake for a lighter fruit-flavored one if you want a fresher finish—pineapple or strawberry both work wonders.
3. BBQ Bliss - BBQ Plate + Coleslaw + White Cheddar Bites + Cheerwine
The slow‑smoked flavor of the BBQ plate melds beautifully with crisp, tangy slaw and gooey cheddar nuggets. Pairing it with a cherry soda is the cherry on top, literally.
Pro Tip: Ask for sauce on the side so your coleslaw stays crisp until the last bite. - 4. Spicy Kick
- Spicy Chicken Sandwich + Chili Cheese Fries + Side Quesadilla + Water
- For heat seekers, this tray delivers all the firepower. The quesadilla side cools things down just enough, and water keeps you in the game.
Balance Tip: Add pickles or request extra lettuce on your sandwich to introduce a refreshing crunch.
5. The Sweet Escape - Plain Hamburger + Regular Fries + Corn Dog + Banana Pudding Milkshake (upcharge)
Sometimes, simplicity is the sweetest choice. Fans adore how the plain burger lets the corn dog and banana pudding shake shine. - If you’re feeling extra indulgent, ask to swirl in chocolate or caramel sauce into your banana pudding base.
Why These Combos Work
Each tray has been vetted by real Cook Out enthusiasts, with no flavor bombs or oversights.
Savory, sweet, crunchy, and sippable elements combine for a truly satisfying meal.
Every Hall of Fame tray has room for you to tweak whether that’s an extra topping, a side swap, or a drink upgrade.
Feeling inspired yet? Next time you hit the drive‑thru, lean on one of these fan favorites, and remember, the best tray is one you build yourself. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Cook Out Tray
Can I get extra sides?
Yes! Each tray comes with two sides included, but you can add extra sides à la carte. Just order them separately at the register or through the app; each additional side incurs a small charge.
What’s the most popular tray combination?
Many fans swear by the Chicken Quesadilla entrée paired with Hushpuppies and Chili Cheese Fries, plus a large Sweet Tea or Lemonade. This “Hall of Fame” combo balances savory, crunchy, and cheesy flavors for under $10—an unbeatable value
Are there healthier options on the tray?
Absolutely. For a lighter meal, choose the Grilled Chicken Sandwich entrée, swap one side for a Side Salad, and opt for Bottled Water or Unsweetened Tea. Grilled proteins and fresh veggies make it easy to stay on track with your health goals.
Can I swap out a side for another entrée (or vice versa)?
Tray builds are fixed—each comes with 1 entrée + 2 sides + 1 drink. However, you can always order extra entrées or sides separately to customize beyond the tray. Simply place those additional items on your order for full flexibility.
Do prices vary by location?
Yes Cook Out prices can differ regionally based on operating costs. Always check your local restaurant’s menu board, call ahead, or use the Cook Out app to confirm the exact price at your nearest location.
Are there any secret menu tray items?
While there’s no official secret tray menu, you can create custom flavor mash‑ups. For example, ask for your Style Burger with Bar‑B‑Que sauce on top, or pair the Pulled Pork BBQ Sandwich entrée with Onion Rings and Cheese Fries. Your creativity is the only limit!
How do I find the nearest Cook Out location and its specific menu?
Head to the official Cook Out website or download their mobile app. Use the “Find a Location” feature to view hours, contact info, and location‑specific menus and prices—so you always get the most accurate, up‑to‑date details.
Always plan your tray order around your flavor priorities—whether that’s low‑calorie choices, big‑flavor sides, or unbeatable value to get exactly what you crave at the best price.
Recap of Cook Out Tray Value
The Cook Out Tray endures as a go-to fast-food favorite because it delivers unbeatable value, endless customization, and complete mealtime freedom. Whether you’re craving a classic burger and fries pairing or you want to mix things up with chicken nuggets, hushpuppies, and seasoned slaw, the tray lets you build exactly the meal you’re after without breaking the bank. Its combination of quality ingredients, generous portions, and wallet-friendly pricing makes it a smart choice for diners of all tastes and budgets.
Final Tips for Your Next Cookout Visit
Expert Tip: If you’re on the fence about which side to choose, don’t hesitate to ask the staff for a quick recommendation or description. They know the menu inside and out and are happy to guide you.
Expert Tip: Make your tray even more indulgent by adding one of Cook Out’s famous fancy milkshakes for a small extra charge, it’s practically a dessert-and-drink combo in one!
Expert Tip: Keep an eye on seasonal promotions and combo deals; Cook Out frequently rolls out limited-time offers that can shave even more off your total
