Trader Joe’s continues to win our grocery-shopping hearts for good reasons: the friendly vibe, unbeatable prices, and unique products you simply can’t find elsewhere. But, let’s face it—not everything on their shelves hits the mark, especially in the meat department.
We recently took a trip to our local Trader Joe’s meat counter to separate the winners from the losers, saving you from any kitchen disappointments. Here are the items we recommend—and those you’re better off skipping:
Meats to Grab:
Sesame Teriyaki Skirt Steak $16.99/1 Lb
Trader Joe’s Sesame Teriyaki Skirt Steak offers an effortless gourmet meal with a savory-sweet flavor that delights every palate. Marinated to perfection, it’s ready for the grill or pan-frying.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 230 per serving
- Fats: 12g
- Carbs: 10g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 9g
- Protein: 19g
Ingredients:
Beef skirt steak, soy sauce, sugar, sesame seeds, garlic, ginger, spices.
Preparation Instructions:
Grill or pan-fry on medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side until desired doneness. Let rest before slicing thinly against the grain.
Angus Filet Mignon $20.99/1 Lb
Richly tender, Trader Joe’s Angus Filet Mignon is a premium cut perfect for a luxurious home dining experience, impressing with each succulent bite.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 280 per serving
- Fats: 0g
- Carbs: 0g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 22g
Ingredients:
100% Angus Beef.
Preparation Instructions:
Pan-sear in a hot skillet for 3-4 minutes per side, finish in the oven at 400°F for an additional 4-5 minutes for medium-rare. Rest 5 minutes before serving.
Ultra-Thin Shaved Beef Steak $10.99/1 Lb
Trader Joe’s Ultra-Thin Shaved Beef Steak is versatile, perfect for quick stir-fries, Philly cheesesteaks, or beef bowls, delivering flavor in mere minutes.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 180 per serving
- Fats: 11g
- Carbs: 0g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 19g
Ingredients:
Thinly sliced beef.
Preparation Instructions:
Quickly sauté over high heat for 1-2 minutes, seasoning to your taste, until browned and cooked through.
Ribeye Steak $14.99/1 Lb
Trader Joe’s Ribeye Steak is wonderfully marbled, ensuring juicy, flavorful bites that steak aficionados will love.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 270 per serving
- Fats: 9g
- Carbs: 0g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 21g
Ingredients:
100% Beef Ribeye.
Preparation Instructions:
Grill or pan-sear for approximately 4-5 minutes per side on medium-high heat for medium-rare doneness. Allow steak to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Balsamic Rosemary Steak Tips $11.99/1 Lb
Infused with balsamic vinegar and fragrant rosemary, these steak tips promise a restaurant-quality experience at home.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 220 per serving
- Fats: 13g
- Carbs: 6g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 21g
Ingredients:
Beef steak tips, balsamic vinegar, rosemary, garlic, spices.
Preparation Instructions:
Sauté or grill over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side until caramelized and cooked to your liking.
Choice Premium Angus Beef Flank Steak $14.99/1 Lb
Trader Joe’s Angus Beef Flank Steak is a lean, flavorful choice perfect for fajitas, salads, or a hearty steak dinner.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 200 per serving
- Fats: 10g
- Carbs: 0g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 24g
Ingredients:
Angus Beef Flank Steak.
Preparation Instructions:
Grill or broil for 5-6 minutes per side on medium-high heat. Rest and slice thinly against the grain.
New York Strip $13.99/1 Lb
This classic cut offers robust beef flavor and tenderness ideal for steak lovers who appreciate simplicity done well.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 260 per serving
- Fats: 18g
- Carbs: 0g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 23g
Ingredients:
100% Beef New York Strip.
Preparation Instructions:
Grill or pan-sear for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Allow to rest 5 minutes before serving.
Sliced Prosciutto $3.99/4 Oz
A tender, flavorful cured ham perfect for elevating charcuterie boards, pairing with cheese, fruits, or topping pizza.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 110 per serving
- Fats: 7g
- Carbs: 0g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 5g
Ingredients:
Pork, Salt.
Preparation Instructions:
Ready to eat. Enjoy straight from the package or pair with your favorite charcuterie accompaniments.
Sweet Italian Pork Sausage $6.49/1 Lb
Delicious pork sausages seasoned perfectly, offering great texture and flavor—perfect for grilling or pan-frying.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 190 per serving
- Fats: 13g
- Carbs: 1g
- Sodium: 440mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 15g
Ingredients:
Pork, Salt, Spices, Natural Pork Casing.
Preparation Instructions:
Pan-fry over medium heat or grill until fully cooked.
Uncured Dry Rubbed Bacon $5.99/12 Oz
Natural and convenient bacon slices that crisp up nicely, great for quick breakfasts or sandwiches.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 60 per serving
- Fats: 3g
- Carbs: 0g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 4g
Ingredients:
Pork, Sea Salt, Celery Powder, Spices.
Preparation Instructions:
Bake on a wire rack in the oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.
Shawarma Chicken Thighs $6.99/1 Lb
Flavorful marinated thighs reminiscent of street-cart shawarma, perfect for rice platters or wraps.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 160 per serving
- Fats: 7g
- Carbs: 3g
- Sodium: 440mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 21g
Ingredients:
Chicken Thighs, Onion, Garlic, Sea Salt, Cumin, Cinnamon, Cilantro, Paprika, Turmeric, Parsley.
Preparation Instructions:
Bake at 400°F for approximately 20 minutes until fully cooked.
Meats to Skip:
1. All-Natural Chicken Breast Tenders $7.99/1 Lb
Despite the appealing “natural” label, these chicken tenders contain bothersome tendons and lack flavor.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 140 per serving
- Fats: 3g
- Carbs: 0g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 26g
Ingredients:
Chicken Breast.
Preparation Instructions:
Cook thoroughly in a skillet or oven until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
2. Gyro Slices $$4.69/8 Oz
Convenient but ultimately lackluster gyro slices that fall short of restaurant-quality.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 190 per serving
- Fats: 11g
- Carbs: 5g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Dietary Fiber: Less than 1g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 14g
Ingredients:
Beef, Lamb, Water, Breadcrumbs, Seasoning Mix.
Preparation Instructions:
Heat in skillet for 20 seconds per side.
3. Savory Herbed Chicken Thighs $6.99/1 Lb
Marinated thighs lacking distinctive flavors despite promising herbs and spices.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 140 per serving
- Fats: 6g
- Carbs: 1g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Dietary Fiber: Less than 1g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 18g
Ingredients:
Chicken Thighs, Basil, Cilantro, Mint, Garlic, Lemon Peel, Fish Sauce, Chili Peppers.
Preparation Instructions:
Bake at 375°F for 35-40 minutes or cook stovetop for 14-16 minutes.
4. Balsamic Rosemary Beef Steak Tips $11.99/1 Lb
Pricey beef steak tips that fail to impress in taste despite a flavorful marinade.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories: 220 per serving
- Fats: 13g
- Carbs: 6g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 21g
Ingredients:
Beef, Red Wine Vinegar, Brown Sugar, Soy Sauce, Olive Oil, Parsley, Garlic, Rosemary, Seasonings.
Preparation Instructions:
Cook stovetop for best results, searing for about 5-7 minutes per side or broil until desired doneness.
Final Say
Trader Joe’s offers plenty of delicious and budget-friendly meat choices, but knowing exactly what to pick—and what to pass on—can truly elevate your cooking experience. Armed with these insights, you’re set to make smarter, tastier decisions during your next shopping trip. Here’s to stress-free shopping and memorable meals!
