I've Tried Dozens of Walmart Deli Items, and This One Is the Best

I've ventured through every part of the deli aisle at Walmart, sampling everything from warm, grab-and-go meals to retro deli salads, but some are better than others when it comes to dollars (and flavor).

Whether you are balancing grocery budgets before retirement or just looking for convenient, tasty meals without sacrificing quality, I'll guide you through the best of the best. Expect nothing but my honest thoughts on value, taste, and practicality with these Walmart shopping hacks from the deli department.

Editor's note: Prices and availability are subject to change and may vary by location.

Price: $5.97 (on sale from $6.97)

This hot deli standout is a lifesaver on busy days, with its warm, juicy chicken that has just the right dash of lemon-pepper zest. A full bird at under six bucks is an impressive value, and it gives you dinner now and leftovers for later. Compared to other store-brand rotisserie chickens like Safeway, it outperforms on both flavor and pricing, and is something I would happily stock up on again and again.

Price: $4.97

Hospitality meets convenience in this substantial sub that is stacked with classic Italian cold cuts and cheeses tucked between robust bread. Perfect for a quick lunch or splitting with a spouse, the generous portions make it feel like a treat, but the price keeps it firmly in "smart buy" territory.

Price: $4.27

Rich, tangy, and just a bit gourmet, this salad delivers deviled egg flavor with a playful flair that is almost like paprika, pickle-relish bits, and a hint of cayenne. It is a standout at potlucks and offers restaurant-style taste at deli prices. Walmart reviewers like Jason love this macaroni salad, saying that it is "simply delectable."

Price: $5.94

Check out this unique dip packed with cream cheese, smoky brisket, barbecue spices, and a subtly sweet undertone. Fans online on the Walmart website (and in my kitchen) call it perfect for a party and "the best dip ever" because the flavor of it is upscale yet familiar, and it is budget-friendly enough to buy regularly.

Price: 97 cents

Creamy, fluffy, and surprisingly indulgent, these mashed potatoes have a buttery, almost cream-cheese richness with just the right pepper. They even rival restaurant versions like Popeyes' famous mashed potatoes. For under a dollar for a single serving, it is an unbeatable side dish for those nights when oven-free cooking is key.

Price: 97 cents

With silky, velvety cheese sauce swaddling every noodle, this Walmart deli mac and cheese tastes like home but cooks in minutes. Reviewers say it rivals even the best of home-cooked macaroni recipes, and at that price, I do not mind keeping a few cups in the fridge for an instant comfort fix.

Price: 97 cents

With their golden-crisp wedges that balance hearty potato flavor with a light, seasoned batter, these delight even as they cool in the bag. They're a nostalgic favorite that feels more satisfying than fries, and they're wallet-friendly at under a dollar per single serving.

Price: $1

This chicken egg roll has a crisp exterior and a savory filling with cabbage, carrot, and tender chicken that is small but satisfying in just three bites. An excellent, affordable snack or side, it's much cheaper than mall food court prices or Panda Express, where their egg roll costs $1.95 for a small roll.

Price: $4.97 (on sale from $5.97)

Fine dining meets ease in this flatbread, made with bright artichokes, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and creamy white sauce to make it feel gourmet, while prep is simple. This flatbread is a perfect home-ready mini-pizza for an upscale yet relaxed meal that reviewers say is "remarkably good."

Price: $4.92

After trying dozens of Walmart deli delicacies, this heartwarming deli staple is the perfect balance of flavor, affordability, and convenience.

The creamy pasta, balanced seasonings, and satisfying ingredients take it above basic. It's great for lunches, barbecue sides, or even repurposed into potato cakes. And at a price that respects a retirement-leaning budget and flavor that doesn't skimp, it's my top deli pick at Walmart.

Walmart's deli is a convenient option, but the real savings often come from knowing when and how to shop. Early mornings and late evenings are great times to find markdowns on fresh items nearing their sell-by dates, which can help you stock up for less.

Pairing those timing tricks with even more strategies can stretch your food budget even further. These grocery budget hacks are a smart way to tackle high food costs, especially as prices keep creeping up.