Costco is not just a wholesale haven for bulk-buying families and businesses, it's also a prime spot for food enthusiasts and chefs. With a plethora of pantry items and a variety of hidden treasures, it's no wonder it can be a little overwhelming for customers - especially when it comes to the cheese department.

"When shopping in bulk, you should approach it the same way as any other grocery shopping. Stock up on common items that are frequently used and save specialty items for big events," advises Kyra James, a certified cheese expert. According to James, staples like Parmigiano Reggiano and Pecorino Romano are worth purchasing routinely in large quantities since they are used frequently.

To help navigate the vast assortment of cheeses at Costco, we consulted James and two other experts to guide us to the best picks, ranging from classic favorites to lesser-known selections.

Costco's version of the traditional Parmigiano Reggiano, which is aged for 24-36 months, is highly recommended by Erika Kubick, author of "Cheese Sex Death" and a former cheesemonger. Though it's offered in large one-pound wedges, Kubick assures customers that it's still a versatile and popular cheese that is easy to finish. James supports this choice as well, praising its high quality and affordability. One serving suggestion? Shave it over charred vegetables for a perfect summertime dish.

Moving over to the goat cheese, Kubick raves about an Australian spreadable variant marinated in extra-virgin olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Dubbed “unbelievably delicious” and unique, it's an excellent choice since few cheeses are actually made in Australia. Enjoy it on crackers, or like Kubick, use its marinade for eggs and dressings. This cheese is available in an almost 20-ounce jar at Costco, though smaller quantities can be found at local supermarkets.

Do not overlook Costco's selection of Brie either. Created by the renowned producer Isigny Ste-Mère in Normandy, France, this remarkable double-cream brie is a must-have. Described by James as having a "bright, oceanic funk," it's an excellent quality cheese for its size and price (typically around $12 per package). She suggests using it to fill gaps in a charcuterie board or serve it as a creamy, baked appetizer.

Another standout, matured for up to 15 months by Ford Farm Dairy on the British coast, this nutty cheese features a distinctive crystallization and crunch from calcium lactate that develops during the maturation process. This great find is advocated by Lucia Palm, a sommelier with a penchant for sharing her Costco favorites on social media.

If the idea of a full block of unknown cheese seems daunting, James suggests going for a sampler spread. With three Spanish cheeses (Manchego, Queso de Cabra, and mixed-milk Iberico), she praises it for its texture and variety, making it a great choice for parties, letting your guests try a little bit of everything.