Wild calamari steaks are flat-cut portions sourced from large wild-caught Humboldt squid (Dosidicus gigas). Sold fresh by the pound at the Costco meat counter, these pre-tenderized steaks offer a mild, slightly sweet flavor with a firm yet tender texture when cooked properly.

These steaks are incredibly versatile and cook in just 2 to 4 minutes per side, making them ideal for quick weeknight dinners. Popular preparation methods include pan-frying in a hot skillet with a light panko breadcrumb coating for a golden crust, air-frying at 400°F for a healthier crispy result, or grilling over high heat (450–550°F) to achieve a smoky char with classic Mediterranean-style grill marks. For the best texture, thaw steaks overnight in the refrigerator, pat completely dry before cooking, and avoid overcooking, as calamari can become rubbery if left on heat too long.