If you have spent time at Cookout, you know it’s more than just another fast-food experience—it’s a rite of passage for anyone hungry for a late-night meal, your favorite Southern eats, or strange milkshake combinations you didn’t know existed. But what most people don’t realize is that there is a full Cookout secret menu waiting to be indulged in. That’s right—behind the classic menu, lined with BBQ sandwiches, hush puppies, and trays that are so indulgent it should be illegal, sits a quietly whispered myth of custom hacks and gems that regulars swear by.
So if you’re ready to transition from regulars-only to Cook Out elite, buckle up. We are going deep into the Cook Out secret menu—what it is, how to order from it, and what hacks will alter how you eat forever.
What Is the Cookout Secret Menu?
Let’s be honest. Cookout does not have an official secret menu. There is no printed list behind the counter, and there certainly is no VIP code word that you have to whisper through the drive-thru.
The Cookout Secret Menu Tray (which is a combo meal that includes an entree, two sides, and a drink) is basically a build-your-own food playground. You can trade out items, add toppings, mix flavors, and create some crazy combinations. That is the essence of the Cook Out secret menu customizations that are totally out of the ordinary of the offerings.
Top Cookout Secret Menu Hacks
1. The Cookout Quesadilla Burger
Have you ever wondered what would happen if a cheesy quesadilla and a juicy hamburger became one creation? Well, ask for a Quesadilla Burger. While it’s not on the menu, most locations (with significant effort on your behalf) will make it for you.
How to get it:
Ask for a beef quesadilla and request a hamburger patty added inside. For a full effect, you can also ask for substitutes like grilled onions, jalapenos, or BBQ sauce added in.
Tip:
For the full Southern experience, pair it with onion rings and a Cheerwine float!
2. Double Bacon Cheddar Dog (The “Fat Dog”)
This hot dog is a classic favorite. Regular hot dog and add double the bacon, melted cheese, topped with chili and slaw.
How to order:
Start with a hot dog and upgrade to double bacon, cheddar cheese, chili, and slaw.
Why it’s awesome:
Just the right mix of salty, creamy, crunchy Southern goodness.
3. Cheesecake Milkshake Mashups
Cookout has a huge milkshake menu (40+ flavors!). But you can ask them to combine cheesecake with any of the flavors for something a little next level. You can see more details about cookout menu photos.
Customer favorites:
• Cheesecake Banana Pudding
• Cheesecake Caramel Fudge
• Cheesecake Strawberry Oreo
How to order:
Ask them for a milkshake with “cheesecake” and any combination of flavors.
Caution:
May be dangerously addicting.
4. The “Dirty South Tray”
While not an official name, this is something that you will see floating around Reddit and food forums. It is the heart and soul of the Cook Out secret menu.
Here is how to order it:
• Main: Cajun chicken sandwich (request either grilled or spicy)
• Sides: Chicken nuggets
• Sides: Hush puppies or corn dog
• Drink: Sweet tea or a cherry Coke float
5. Cookout Animal Style Fries (In-N-Out vibes)
Inspired for sure from the West Coast cult chain In-N-Out, this is your decadent Cook Out option.
How to order it:
You will put in for a side of fries and ask for melted cheese with onion, chili and ranch or Cook Out sauce. You can even ask for bacon or jalapeños for a spicy twist!
6. Cookout Sauce Everything
Most people like to take advantage of this hack: it is like a touch of smokey BBQ mixed with mayo and something else magical.
Here’s how to hack it:
• Add to a burger, sandwich (wrap), or chicken nuggets.
• Ask for it on the side to dip fries or hush puppies.
I love sauces. If you try Cookout Sauce every dish will be elevated to next level.
7. Buffalo Chicken Wraps + Ranch Dip
Their chicken wraps have several styles, but if you know the hack, you can mix it up.
How to get it:
Ask for buffalo chicken wrap with lettuce and cheese, and get a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing to dip in.
Why it slaps:
Think of it as a mini buffalo wing meal on the go.
8. Hidden Veggie Burger (Yep, It’s a Thing, Happens)
Cook Out is known for meat, but there are some Cookout menu locations that serve a veggie burger option. It’s not in every Cookout menu, but it is a thing.
How to get it:
Just politely ask if they offer the veggie patty. If they do, you can then customize it like you would a normal burger—cheese, grilled onions, Cookout sauce.
Great for vegetarians or people looking to give their stomach a little break and lighten up a meal without sacrificing any flavor.
Why the Secret Menu is Possible
What makes the Cookout secret menu so exciting is that it is not really excluded from the menu, it’s creative. Cookout allows you to mix and match like no other burger place. That makes each trip to Cookout a food adventure, and you can always find something new to try.
Ordering Techniques for Cookout Secret Menu
• Courtesy is paramount. These items are unofficial, so employees don’t have to offer or make them. However, most will try if you are courteous.
• Visit during a non-busy hour. If you roll up at 2 a.m. and the drive-thru line is packed, do not try to order a “quesadilla burger with extra jalapeños and five sauces.”
• Know what meal you want. The Cookout Secret menu Tray allows you to make almost anything. For sides, you can choose chicken nuggets, wraps, corn dogs, hush puppies, onion rings, and more.
• Shake it up. Create a mixture of flavors, order cheesecake or peanut butter to add to your shake, and elevate your shake from dessert to food bliss.
Final Thoughts
Cookout is more than just food—it is about southern hospitality, bold flavors, and comfort food that feels like your grandma is hugging you. The Cookout secret menu takes ordering dinner to curating your own experience.
Whether you are pulling up at midnight after a long road trip or a person searching for the best deal for your buck in town, these hacks give you all new options in ordering at a fan-favorite.
Now go and order something confident and then when you order do not forget extra napkins.
FAQs about Cookout Secret Menu
1. Can I request any combination of milkshake flavors?
Certainly! Cookout is very accommodating with milkshakes. You have the ability to mix together up to 4 or 5 flavors in a single shake, however limiting it to 2 or 3 flavors is probably the best combination.
2. What’s a good Cookout secret tray combo?
A secret popular combo is:
• Cajun chicken sandwich
• Chicken nuggets
• Corn dog
• Cheesecake milkshake or sweet tea
3. Can I customize my Cookout Secret Menu Tray with non-menu items?
Yes, absolutely! The Cookout Secret Menu Tray is designed for customization. You can mix and match different sides, toppings, and even add extra items like sauces or additional ingredients that aren’t on the standard menu. Just be sure to ask politely and be ready to get creative with your orders.
4. Is the Cookout Veggie Burger available everywhere?
Not every Cookout location offers a veggie burger, but some do. It’s not officially on the menu, so you’ll need to ask the staff if they have the veggie patty available. If they do, you can customize it just like a regular burger with cheese, grilled onions, and sauces.
5. How can I get the best milkshake combination?
The key to a perfect Cookout milkshake is experimentation! You can mix up to four or five flavors, but it’s often best to stick to two or three for balance. Popular combinations include cheesecake flavors mixed with other dessert-inspired or fruity choices, like Cheesecake Banana Pudding or Cheesecake Caramel Fudge. Keep trying different combos to find your personal favorite!