Cook Out Tray Price & Menu – Complete Prices & Calories Guide
The Cook Out Tray is a bundled meal that includes one main entrée, two sides, and a drink at a single fixed price. There are two sizes the Regular Tray and the smaller JR Tray and both let you choose freely from the full sides board. This guide covers current tray prices for 2026, all main entrée options, how the two tray sizes compare, which items qualify, how to order, regional price differences, and a buying guide to help you decide which tray makes sense for your appetite and budget.
What Is a Cook Out Tray?
A Cook Out Tray is a fixed price bundled meal that includes one main entrée, two sides, and one large fountain drink. The price is the same no matter which sides you pick someone ordering fries and coleslaw pays the same as someone ordering chicken nuggets and white cheddar bites. The drink slot can be upgraded to a milkshake at most locations for a small additional charge.
Two tray sizes are available at most locations: the Regular Tray (full portion) and the JR Tray (smaller portion, lower price). Both follow the same 1 main + 2 sides + 1 drink format. You choose from the full sides board for both, and doubling up on the same side is allowed at no extra cost.
How to Order a Cook Out Tray – Step by Step
The ordering process at the drive thru follows four steps. Having your choices ready before the speaker saves time for you and the line behind you.
| Step | What to Do | Options Available |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Choose your tray size | Regular Tray (~$6.29–$7.69) or JR Tray (~$4.99–$5.99) |
| 2 | Choose your main entrée | Burger, hot dog, chicken, BBQ sandwich, wrap, or quesadilla |
| 3 | Choose two sides | Any two from the full sides board same side twice is allowed |
| 4 | Choose your drink | Fountain soda, sweet/unsweet tea, lemonade, or water included |
| 5 | Optional: upgrade to a milkshake | Any of 40+ shake flavors for +$1.00–$1.60 extra |
Specify any topping modifications (add chili, remove mustard, etc.) when you state your main. Sauce requests like Cook Out Sauce or Honey Mustard should also be mentioned here they are free but you need to ask for them.
Cook Out Tray Prices 2026
Prices below are estimates compiled from Cook Out menu boards across multiple Southeastern US states in 2026. Cook Out does not publish prices on its official website. The most commonly reported board price for the Regular Tray is $7.39.
| Tray Type | Price Range (2026) | Portion Size | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Cook Out Tray | $6.29 – $7.69 | Full | 1 Main + 2 Sides + 1 Large Drink |
| JR Cook Out Tray | $4.99 – $5.99 | Smaller | 1 Main (smaller) + 2 Sides + 1 Drink |
| Milkshake Upgrade | +$1.00 – $1.60 | Same size | Replaces fountain drink with any shake flavor |
| Standalone Milkshake (no tray) | $3.99 – $4.99 | Standard | Shake only, ordered separately |
Prices are estimates from instore menu boards, verified across NC, SC, VA, GA, and TN locations, May–June 2026. Actual prices vary by location and local tax.
Competitor price shown for reference only. All figures are estimates.
Why Cook Out Tray Prices Vary by Location
Cook Out operates entirely through company owned locations no franchising but prices are still not uniform across all restaurants. Several factors cause the differences you’ll see between states and even between two Cook Out locations in the same city.
| Factor | How It Affects Price |
|---|---|
| State and local sales tax | Tax rates differ across NC, SC, VA, GA, TN, and other states. The posted board price may not include tax, which adds $0.30–$0.70 on a typical tray. |
| Local cost of operations | Locations in higher cost urban areas (Charlotte, Richmond, Atlanta) tend to price slightly higher than rural or small town locations in the same state. |
| Regional ingredient sourcing | Cook Out sources ingredients regionally. Locations farther from distribution centers may see slightly different cost structures passed through to menu prices. |
| Annual price adjustments | From 2024 to 2026, tray prices rose from approximately $5.99–$6.49 to $6.29–$7.69 a modest increase compared to most fast food chains over the same period. |
| Cook Out does not publish prices online | There is no centralized price list on cookout.com. The only way to confirm current pricing at your specific location is to check the board or call the restaurant. |
Estimated price by state (Regular Tray, 2026): North Carolina: ~$6.29–$7.39 | South Carolina: ~$6.49–$7.49 | Virginia: ~$6.79–$7.69 | Georgia: ~$6.49–$7.59 | Tennessee: ~$6.29–$7.49. These figures are field estimates and will vary by individual location.
Regular Tray vs. JR Tray – Full Comparison
Both tray sizes use the same format, same sides board, and same drink options. The difference is in the main entrée portion and the price. The JR Tray doesn’t always appear prominently on every menu board ask at the speaker if you don’t see it listed.
| Regular Tray | JR Tray | |
|---|---|---|
| Price (2026 estimate) | $6.29 – $7.69 | $4.99 – $5.99 |
| Main portion size | Full | Smaller |
| Number of sides | 2 | 2 |
| Full sides board access | Yes | Yes |
| Drink included | Yes – Large | Yes |
| Milkshake upgrade available | Yes | Yes |
| Double up on same side | Yes | Yes |
| Est. total calories (no shake) | ~900–1,500 | ~600–900 |
| Best for | Full meal, larger appetite | Lighter meal, smaller appetite, kids |
Regular vs. JR Tray – Which One Should You Order?
| If you are… | Choose This | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Ordering a full lunch or dinner meal | Regular Tray | Full main portion fills the meal properly |
| Ordering a late night snack or lighter bite | JR Tray | Smaller portion, lower price, same sides choice |
| Ordering for a child or smaller appetite | JR Tray | Sized appropriately, still includes sides and drink |
| On a tight budget | JR Tray | Full tray format at ~$1.00–$2.00 less than Regular |
| Adding the milkshake upgrade | Regular Tray | The total cost with shake upgrade is still under $9.00 at most locations |
| First time ordering at Cook Out | Regular Tray | Better introduction to the full format and portion |
Complete Cook Out Tray Entrée Menu
The table below shows every main entrée option, whether it’s available on the Regular Tray, JR Tray, or both, and approximate calorie counts. Availability for the JR Tray can vary by location items marked “Some locations” are not universally available as a JR option.
| Main Entrée | Description | Regular Tray | JR Tray | Est. Cal. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cook Out Style Burger | Char grilled patty with chili, slaw, mustard, and onions | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ~490 |
| Big Double Burger | Two patties, choice of toppings the most ordered burger | ✅ Yes | Some locations | ~640 |
| Huge Burger | Largest single patty option | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ~600 |
| Steak Style Burger | A1 sauce, grilled onions, lettuce, tomato | ✅ Yes | Some locations | ~520 |
| Hot Dog | Char grilled beef frank, plain or with toppings | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ~260 |
| Chili Dog | Hot dog topped with Cook Out’s homemade chili | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ~370 |
| Bacon Cheddar Dog | Hot dog with bacon and cheddar cheese | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ~530 |
| Cajun Chicken Sandwich | Grilled chicken with Cajun seasoning, served on a bun | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ~380 |
| Chicken Strip Tray | Breaded, fried chicken strips | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ~480 |
| Spicy Chicken Sandwich | Crispy fried chicken with heat, lettuce, tomato | ✅ Yes | Some locations | ~450 |
| BBQ Sandwich | Pulled pork, Carolina style smoky sauce | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ~410 |
| Wrap (Cajun / Ranch) | Grilled or crispy chicken in flour tortilla with sauce | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ~420–480 |
| Quesadilla | Cheese or chicken, served as main entrée | ✅ Yes | Some locations | ~350–480 |
JR Tray availability for specific mains varies by location. If an item you want isn’t offered as a JR option at your location, the Regular Tray is the only route. Calorie figures are estimates from Cook Out’s nutrition PDF.
What Cannot Be Included in a Cook Out Tray
Not every item on the Cook Out menu qualifies as a tray entrée. Knowing what’s excluded prevents confusion at the window, especially if you’ve seen an item on the board but aren’t sure whether it fits into the tray format.
| Item Category | Tray Eligible? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard mains (burgers, dogs, chicken, BBQ, wraps) | ✅ Yes | All standard entrées qualify |
| Standard sides (fries, rings, nuggets, slaw, etc.) | ✅ Yes | Full sides board applies to both tray sizes |
| Limited time or regional specialty items | Varies | Confirm at the window not always tray eligible |
| Milkshakes (ordered standalone) | ❌ No | A shake replaces the drink slot (upgrade), not included free |
| Floats (Coke Float, Root Beer Float) | Varies | Some locations allow float upgrades; ask at the window |
| Desserts (ice cream, sundaes) | ❌ No | Ordered and priced separately from the tray |
Cook Out Tray Side Options
All twelve sides below qualify as tray picks for both the Regular and JR Tray. The most ordered sides at Cook Out are Cajun Fries and Hushpuppies. For lower calorie choices, Coleslaw and Chili Cup are the lightest options. For a complete breakdown of every side including dip pairings, allergen info, and what holds up best for delivery, see the Cook Out Sides Menu page.
| Side Item | What It Is | Est. Cal. | A La Carte | Vegetarian |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Fries | Fresh cut, skin on potato fries | ~350 | $2.39 | Yes |
| Cajun Fries | Same fries with Cajun seasoning most ordered side | ~350 | $2.39 | Yes |
| Onion Rings | Battered, deep fried onion rings | ~260 | $2.69 | Yes |
| Hushpuppies | 5–6 fried cornmeal bites highest calorie side | ~590 | $1.99 | Yes |
| Cook Out Rounds | Crispy fried potato bites, tater tot style | ~298 | $2.00 | Yes |
| Chicken Nuggets (5pc) | Breaded white meat nuggets | ~350 | $2.49 | No |
| Corn Dog | Full size hot dog in honey battered coating | ~220 | $2.49 | No |
| Cheese Quesadilla | Folded flour tortilla with melted cheese blend | ~350 | $2.49 | Yes |
| White Cheddar Bites | Fried white cheddar cheese curds | ~380 | $3.39 | Yes |
| Walking Taco | Chili, cheese, and lettuce in a corn chip bag | ~370 | $3.39 | No |
| Coleslaw | Cold creamy slaw lowest calorie side | ~170 | $1.49 | Yes |
| Chili (Cup) | Homemade beef chili | ~190 | $1.99 | No |
A la carte prices are estimates and vary by location. Vegetarian status refers to ingredients only shared fryer oil may affect cross contact risk.
Included Drinks & Milkshake Upgrade
The tray includes one large fountain drink. The milkshake upgrade replaces this drink slot with any of Cook Out’s 40+ hand spun shake flavors for +$1.00–$1.60. A standalone milkshake ordered without a tray costs approximately $3.99–$4.99, so the upgrade is nearly always the lower cost route when you’re already ordering a tray.
| Drink | Est. Calories | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Soda, Sweet Tea, Lemonade, Unsweet Tea, Water | 0–180 | Included |
| Milkshake (40+ flavors) | ~480–900 | +$1.00–$1.60 upgrade |
For the full milkshake flavor list, calorie rankings, the free flavor mixing system, and seasonal options, see the Cook Out Milkshakes Menu page.
Best Cook Out Tray Combinations by Category
These builds are organized by what you’re trying to get out of the tray whether that’s the lowest calorie count, the most protein, the most filling meal, or the best first time order.
| Category | Main | Side 1 | Side 2 | Drink | Est. Total Cal. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under 700 Calories | Hot Dog | Coleslaw | Chili Cup | Unsweet Tea | ~620 |
| Best Burger Build | Big Double Burger | Cajun Fries | Onion Rings | Sweet Tea | ~1,250 |
| Best Chicken Build | Chicken Strip Tray | Hushpuppies | Cook Out Rounds | Banana Pudding Shake | ~1,800 |
| Best Southern Plate | BBQ Sandwich | Hushpuppies | Coleslaw | Unsweet Tea | ~1,170 |
| Best First Time Order | Cook Out Style Burger | Cajun Fries | Onion Rings | Oreo Shake | ~1,360 |
| Best for Kids | Hot Dog (JR Tray) | Corn Dog | Cook Out Rounds | Strawberry Shake | ~750 |
| Highest Protein | Cajun Chicken | Chicken Nuggets | Chili Cup | Unsweet Tea | ~920 / ~44g protein |
Calorie totals include drink calories where noted. Shake calorie figures based on standard portion estimates.
Cook Out Tray – Pros & Cons
| ✔ Pros | ✖ Cons |
|---|---|
| Fixed price format covers main, two sides, and a drink | Prices are not published online you can’t confirm cost before arriving |
| 12 sides to choose from, more variety than most fast food combos | JR Tray is not always listed prominently on the board |
| Same side twice is allowed at no extra cost | Prices vary by state and location no national standard |
| Milkshake upgrade available for +$1.00–$1.60 (40+ flavors) | Most locations are drive thru only limited or no indoor seating |
| Both sizes (Regular and JR) include the full sides board | Some mains are not available as JR Tray options at all locations |
| Price has increased modestly compared to most fast food competitors | No online ordering at most locations drive thru or walk up only |
Is the Cook Out Tray Worth It?
At $6.29–$7.69 for a main, two sides, and a large drink, the Regular Tray covers a complete meal at a price that comparable combos at McDonald’s, Wendy’s, and Chick fil A don’t come close to in 2026. Those chains typically run $10.00–$13.00 for a burger or chicken sandwich with just fries and a drink.
The sides selection is what makes the format stand out beyond the price. Most fast food combos give you one side choice usually fries or a salad. Cook Out gives you twelve options including chicken nuggets, a quesadilla, a corn dog, and white cheddar bites. That means two people ordering the same main can end up with completely different meals.
The milkshake upgrade adds the most value on a per dollar basis. A standalone shake costs $3.99–$4.99. Adding one to your tray costs $1.00–$1.60 extra. If a shake is something you’d order anyway, the tray upgrade is the lower cost route every time.
The tray makes the most sense for a full meal. If you’re ordering a light snack or just a shake, ordering individual items a la carte may work better depending on what you want.
Customizing Your Cook Out Tray
Cook Out allows topping modifications on all mains at no charge, and certain add ons are available for a small extra cost. Mention modifications when you state your main at the speaker.
- Add or remove any standard topping (chili, slaw, mustard, ketchup, onions, lettuce, tomato) free
- Add A1 sauce, grilled onions, or Cook Out Special Sauce free on supported items
- Add bacon small extra charge
- Add extra cheese or a cup of cheese sauce ~$1.00
- Request Cajun seasoning on regular fries free, converts to Cajun Fries
- Request Cook Out Sauce or Honey Mustard free, ask at the window
- Double up on the same side allowed at no extra cost
- Substitute the drink for a milkshake +$1.00–$1.60
Drive Thru Ordering Tips
- Decide before the speaker. The sides board is long. Knowing your order in advance keeps the line moving.
- Ask about the JR Tray. It doesn’t always appear clearly on every board. Ask at the speaker if you want the smaller, lower priced option.
- State your shake flavor upfront. If upgrading, give the flavor name right after you say “milkshake upgrade” it lets the staff start it while the rest of your order is assembled.
- Request sauces before you finish. Cook Out Sauce and Honey Mustard are free but are not automatically included. Ask when placing your order.
- For takeout with a Walking Taco, request the chili on the side. Pre assembled, the corn chips soften quickly during the drive. Chili on the side keeps the texture intact.
Cook Out Tray vs. Competitor Combos (2026)
| Chain | Equivalent Combo | Approx. 2026 Price | Sides Included | Side Variety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cook Out | Regular Tray (Main + 2 Sides + Drink) | $6.29–$7.69 | 2 | 12 options |
| McDonald’s | Big Mac Meal (Burger + Fries + Drink) | $10.00–$13.00 | 1 | 2–3 options |
| Wendy’s | Dave’s Single Meal | $10.50–$12.50 | 1 | 3–4 options |
| Chick fil A | Chicken Sandwich Meal | $10.00–$12.00 | 1 | 4–5 options |
| Popeyes | 3pc Chicken Combo | $9.00–$11.00 | 1 | 3–5 options |
Competitor prices are market estimates from publicly reported 2026 pricing. They vary by location and are shown for reference only.
Frequently Asked Questions
One main entrée, two sides from the full sides board, and one large fountain drink. You can upgrade the drink to a milkshake at most locations for an additional charge.
The Regular Tray runs approximately $6.29–$7.69 at most locations; $7.39 is the most commonly reported board price. The JR Tray is typically $4.99–$5.99. Cook Out does not publish prices on its official website.
The JR Tray (Junior Tray) is a smaller portion version of the Regular Tray at a lower price. It still includes two sides and a drink from the same boards, but the main entrée portion is smaller. It is not always listed visibly on every menu board ask at the speaker if you don’t see it.
Most Cook Out locations carry the JR Tray, but it is not guaranteed at every restaurant. Some locations may not offer it for all main entrée options. Confirm at the window before ordering.
Yes. You can choose any two sides from the full sides board. The price stays the same regardless of which sides you pick, and you can pick the same side twice.
Yes. Standard toppings chili, slaw, mustard, ketchup, onions, lettuce, tomato can be added or removed at no charge. Premium additions like bacon or extra cheese carry a small fee.
Yes. At most locations, the included drink can be swapped for any milkshake flavor for approximately +$1.00–$1.60. Cook Out offers over 40 flavors, and combining two flavors is free.
A standalone milkshake costs $3.99–$4.99. Adding one to your tray costs $1.00–$1.60. If you plan to order a shake anyway, the upgrade costs significantly less than buying it separately.
No. Prices are set locally and vary based on state sales tax, local operating costs, and regional factors. Cook Out does not publish a national price list. The figures on this page are estimates from menu boards across multiple states.
Yes. Vegetarian main options include the Cheese Quesadilla at most locations. Vegetarian sides include Regular Fries, Cajun Fries, Onion Rings, Hushpuppies, Cook Out Rounds, Cheese Quesadilla, White Cheddar Bites, and Coleslaw. Note that shared fryer oil may affect cross contact risk.
A Hot Dog + Coleslaw + Chili Cup + Unsweet Tea combination on a Regular Tray is approximately 620 calories total the lightest complete tray build on the standard menu.
Many Cook Out locations stay open until 2–4 AM, and the full tray menu including milkshake upgrades is available during all operating hours. Hours vary by location check your nearest Cook Out’s posted hours before visiting late.
Cook Out does not have a centralized online ordering system on cookout.com. Orders are placed at the drive thru or walk up window. Third party delivery apps (DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub) are available at select locations, but pricing on those platforms may differ from in store board prices.
Standard sauces like Cook Out Sauce and Honey Mustard are available free on request but are not automatically included. Mention your sauce preference when placing your order at the speaker.
With 13 main options, 12 sides (any two, with doubling allowed), and multiple drink choices, the tray format produces well over 150,000 possible combinations not counting topping modifications on the mains.
Milkshakes are available only as a drink upgrade (not free). Floats may be available as an upgrade at some locations. Dessert items like ice cream and sundaes are priced separately and do not fit the tray format. Limited time or regional specialty items may also not qualify confirm at the window.
Explore More Cook Out Menu Pages
The pages below cover the rest of the Cook Out menu in detail, including full item lists, prices, calories, and ordering guides.
- Cook Out Burgers Menu All burger sizes, styles, toppings, and prices
- Cook Out Sides Menu Full sides board with calories, allergens, and pairing guide
- Cook Out Milkshakes Menu All 40+ flavors, calorie rankings, free mixing guide
- Cook Out Drinks Menu Fountain drinks, floats, and lemonade options
- Cook Out Hot Dogs All hot dog styles and topping options
- Cook Out Cajun Chicken Cajun chicken sandwich details and variations
- Cook Out Nutrition Full nutrition data including fat, sodium, and protein
- Cook Out Secret Menu Off menu builds and regular reported combinations
- Cook Out Hours Late night hours and location specific schedules
- Cook Out Locations Find the nearest Cook Out by state
Sources: Cook Out in store menu boards (NC, SC, VA, GA, TN), customer reported receipts, and Cook Out’s official nutrition PDF | ℹ️ Cook Out does not publish prices on cookout.com all prices on this page are estimates from verified field research
Editorial Note:
Pricing, calorie, and availability figures on this page are estimates compiled from Cook Out menu boards reviewed across NC, SC, VA, GA, and TN locations, supplemented by Cook Out’s official nutrition PDF and customer reported receipts. Cook Out does not publish menu prices on cookout.com. All figures are subject to change without notice and vary by location and local tax. Confirm current prices and item availability at your local Cook Out before ordering. This page was last reviewed June 2026.
About This Guide: CookoutsMenu.online is an independent community resource and is not affiliated with Cook Out LLC. Prices, calories, and availability vary by location and change frequently always check your local menu board for current details. For official information, visit cookout.com.