In the three years that data analytics firm dunnhumby has issued its Retailer Preference Index — which factors in customer liking and financial results — Trader Joe’s has landed in the No. 1 or No. 2 position every year.
The California-based supermarket chain operates in 42 states and mainly sells its own branded groceries that appeal to budget-minded food lovers.
While the chain gets lots of attention for its Two-Buck Chuck (a budget wine line now priced at $2.99) and its rotating seasonal items (if the pumpkin spice coffee sells out, you’ll likely wait until next season), we’re often filling our carts in the frozen food section.
Most of the selections are not only convenient and simple to prepare, they’re also easy on your wallet (all of our selections are under $5).
And if you’re aiming to elevate a dinner without much effort, TJ’s frozen offerings are highly adaptable. Dress up chili lime burgers with sprouts and avocado and nobody has to know the recipe wasn’t yours — your secret remains safe with us.
Here are our top 11 frozen picks from Trader Joe’s.
The 11 Best Trader Joe’s Frozen Foods, According to… Well, Us
We’re not claiming our roundup is the result of rigorous scientific trials — we surveyed staff favorites and sampled them ourselves. But we tried to include a wide enough range so every type of eater can find a frozen option to love.
1. Mandarin Orange Chicken: $4.99
It’s no shock that this ready-to-bake, breaded chicken grabbed the top spot. It’s Trader Joe’s best-selling item and a universal favorite. Enjoy it on its own, or amp up a meal with that tangy orange and ginger goodness.
2. Matcha Green Tea Mochi Ice Cream: $4.49
This dessert is vegan and free from soy, dairy and gluten. That didn’t matter much to our tasters — people across the spectrum picked it. The green morsels marry coconut with trendy matcha for a rich, creamy bite of dessert heaven.
3. Chili Lime Chicken Burgers: $3.69
These zesty patties are 150 calories apiece, and you get four for under $4. How’s that for Savinly savings? Made with just six ingredients, they make excellent lunches or dinners. They’re flavorful, grill or pan-cook well, and they’re Whole30 compliant.
4. Vegan Tikka Masala: $3.69
If you haven’t explored Trader Joe’s frozen Indian meals, you’re missing out. They offer chicken, vegan and vegetarian options — the vegan one was our team’s go-to. These Indian-style dishes are affordable, convenient and provide a pleasing mix of protein, fats and modest carbs. (And they’re delicious.)
5. Mac and Cheese Bites: $3.99
These little temptations disappear faster than the 10 minutes it takes to cook them. They’re perfect for gatherings, an afternoon snack or as a comforting side. Take them up a notch by dipping in barbecue sauce, ranch or honey.
6. Vegetable Fried Rice: $2.49
The Japanese-style fried rice was a close contender, but the vegetable version won our hearts. It’s excellent on its own or alongside another entrée. Customize it however you like — add eggs, chicken or tofu. Either way, you’ve got a winner in minutes.
7. Gnocchi al Gorgonzola: $3.29
A gourmet-tasting meal in a bag for about $3? Yes please. These pillowy gnocchi feel authentically Italian. They’ll serve two easily and heat quickly. Finish with cracked black pepper or fold in peas. Just be careful not to overcook them.
8. Pork Gyoza Potstickers: $3.29
These dumplings blend pork and onions inside a savory wrapper. The bite-sized gyoza work as a side or to liven up a soup. Make your own dipping sauce or save time by pairing them with Trader Joe’s gyoza dipping sauce.
9. Organic Brown Rice: $3.79
Sometimes there isn’t 45 minutes to stir up brown rice. This one’s precooked and frozen, so you can have ready rice in about three minutes. You don’t trade away quality, and you reclaim time. Try it with the Mandarin orange chicken — it’s a win-win.
10. Spanakopita: $3.99
Grab a taste of Greece without leaving home. This classic spinach-and-cheese pie comes precut and oven-ready, so you get the flavor without the hassle. It’s an excellent appetizer to share and a standout party side.
11. Burrata, Prosciutto and Arugula Flatbread: $4.99
This thin-crust flatbread masquerades as a pizza. Add the cured meats after you bake the crust. It’s portioned for two but could easily be devoured by one. The ingredients are solid for the price, making it a smart freezer staple for quick meals.
Looking for more ways to save while shopping at Trader Joe’s? Check out trader joes salsa for a helpful guide on savings and product picks.
Kayla Monroe is a former staff writer at Savinly. Staff writer/editor Tiffany Wendeln Connors refreshed this piece for 2020.
