1. Bake Shop Oatmeal Cranberry Cookies
Price: $2.49 (per pack)
These oatmeal cranberry cookies from Aldi’s Bake Shop line took us by surprise—they’re soft, chewy, and packed with large cranberry pieces. If you love a good oatmeal cookie, these are a must-buy. The spices are perfectly balanced, and the chewiness is unbeatable.
Taste Test Notes:
- “These cookies are so good! The cranberries add the perfect touch of sweetness.”
- “Better than any oatmeal raisin cookie I’ve had. A real treat!”
Nutrition Facts:
170 calories per cookie
7g fat
1g saturated fat
26g carbohydrates
1g fiber
13g sugars
2g protein
Ingredients:
Rolled oats
Cranberries
Sugar
Wheat flour
Butter
Eggs
Preparation Instructions:
Ready to eat straight out of the package; perfect for snacking or pairing with a hot cup of tea.
Verdict: #1 The standout winner of our taste test. These cookies are a must-have for your next Aldi run.
2. Specially Selected Premium Marinara Sauce
Price: $4.29 (per jar)
This marinara sauce from Aldi’s Specially Selected line is a solid contender for your pantry. Some even say it’s a great dupe for the more expensive Rao’s marinara. It’s tangy, slightly oily, and has just the right amount of saltiness.
Taste Test Notes:
- “Tastes just like Rao’s but at half the price. Definitely worth trying.”
- “It’s got a rich, tangy flavor that’s perfect for pasta dishes.”
Nutrition Facts:
100 calories per ½ cup
7g fat
2g saturated fat
9g carbohydrates
2g fiber
5g sugars
2g protein
Ingredients:
Tomatoes
Onions
Garlic
Olive oil
Salt
Italian herbs
Preparation Instructions:
Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, then serve over your favorite pasta, or use as a base for pizza and other Italian dishes.
Verdict: #2 A great value for a premium taste. Perfect for those who love a good marinara without the premium price tag.
3. Appleton Farms Bacon
Price: $4.99 (per pack)
Aldi’s Appleton Farms bacon is a thick-cut, flavorful option that doesn’t disappoint. While it might not be the prettiest bacon with its packaging showing off the fatty side, it delivers on taste and texture.
Taste Test Notes:
- “Thick and flavorful. It’s hard to find bad bacon, but this is definitely on the good side.”
- “Affordable and tasty—what more could you ask for?”
Nutrition Facts:
80 calories per 2 slices (fried)
7g fat
2.5g saturated fat
290mg sodium
0g sugars
5g protein
Ingredients:
Pork
Water
Salt
Sugar
Sodium nitrite
Preparation Instructions:
Cook in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, or bake in the oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.
Verdict: #3 Solid, reliable bacon that’s worth adding to your cart.
4. Emporium Selection Unexpected Cheddar
Price: $3.99 (per block)
This cheddar cheese from Aldi’s Emporium Selection is a supposed dupe for Trader Joe’s Unexpected Cheddar. While it’s not an exact match, it’s creamy, with a nice hint of parmesan and a slightly Swiss note that adds complexity.
Taste Test Notes:
- “A good dupe for the Trader Joe’s version, but with a bit of a Swiss twist.”
- “Creamy and delicious, perfect for cheese lovers.”
Nutrition Facts:
110 calories per serving
9g fat
6g saturated fat
180mg sodium
0g sugars
7g protein
Ingredients:
Cheddar cheese
Parmesan cheese
Milk
Salt
Enzymes
Preparation Instructions:
Slice and serve with crackers, or melt over your favorite dishes for an extra cheesy flavor.
Verdict: #4 Not a perfect dupe, but still a delightful cheese that’s worth trying.
5. Kirkwood Chicken Fries
Price: $4.49 (per bag)
If you’re a fan of Burger King’s Chicken Fries, you’ll want to give Aldi’s Kirkwood Chicken Fries a try. They’re spongy, breaded, and taste almost identical to the fast-food version. Perfect for a quick snack or meal for the little ones.
Taste Test Notes:
- “These are pretty close to Burger King’s chicken fries. My kids love them!”
- “A bit spongy, but great for a quick meal.”
Nutrition Facts:
170 calories per 3 pieces
9g fat
1.5g saturated fat
370mg sodium
14g carbohydrates
1g fiber
10g protein
Ingredients:
Chicken breast meat
Bread crumbs
Wheat flour
Corn starch
Spices
Preparation Instructions:
Bake at 400°F for 10-12 minutes or until crispy, or air-fry for a healthier option.
Verdict: #5 A fun, fast-food-inspired snack that’s sure to please.
6. Friendly Farms Greek Yogurt (Honey Vanilla)
Price: $3.75 (per tub)
This honey vanilla-flavored Greek yogurt from Aldi’s Friendly Farms line is a great deal for the price. It’s creamy, with a good amount of protein and a touch of sweetness. While it’s not as thick as some other Greek yogurts, it’s versatile and tasty.
Taste Test Notes:
- “Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. The honey vanilla flavor is delicious.”
- “A great alternative to more expensive Greek yogurts.”
Nutrition Facts:
200 calories per serving
9g fat
6g saturated fat
16g protein
15g sugars
60mg sodium
Ingredients:
Cultured pasteurized milk
Honey
Vanilla extract
Cane sugar
Live active cultures
Preparation Instructions:
Enjoy straight from the tub, mix with granola, or use as a base for smoothies.
Verdict: #6 A versatile, protein-packed option that’s great for everyday use.
7. Arby’s Seasoned Curly Fries
Price: $2.99 (per bag)
First up, we tried the Arby’s Seasoned Curly Fries, and let’s just say, they were a hit! We air-fried these to perfection, and they came out crispy and packed with flavor—just like the fries you’d get at Arby’s.
Taste Test Notes:
- “These taste exactly like the ones from Arby’s, which I haven’t had in years. The seasoning is spot-on, and the crunch is unbeatable.”
- “I love dipping them in ranch, but honestly, they’re great on their own. Perfect for kids and adults alike.”
Nutrition Facts:
140 calories per serving
7g fat
1g saturated fat
340mg sodium
18g carbohydrates
1g fiber
1g protein
Ingredients:
Potatoes
Vegetable oil
Salt
Corn starch
Spices
Preparation Instructions:
Bake at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, or air-fry for a crispier texture.
Season’s Choice Harvest Grain Bowls Southwest, 10 oz
Verdict: Must-Try
These fries are a perfect snack or side dish, and they’ll likely become a staple in your freezer. Just make sure to grab them before they’re gone!
8. Harvest Grain Bowls – Southwest Style
Price: $3.99 (per bowl)
Next, we tested the Harvest Grain Bowls in the Southwest flavor. This hearty dish is packed with grains, beans, corn, peppers, and more, making it a filling and flavorful option for lunch or dinner.
Taste Test Notes:
- “It reminds me of chili, but with a Southwestern twist. The flavors are well-balanced, and it’s very satisfying.”
- “I love the idea of adding tortilla chips for some crunch, or even using it as a burrito filling. It’s versatile and delicious.”
Nutrition Facts:
290 calories per bowl
9g fat
0.5g saturated fat
500mg sodium
45g carbohydrates
9g sugars
13g protein
Ingredients:
Grains (brown rice, quinoa)
Black beans
Corn
Peppers
Tomatoes
Lime juice
Preparation Instructions:
Microwave for 3-4 minutes or until heated through, then stir and enjoy.
Verdict: Worth Trying
A solid choice for a quick, healthy meal. It’s not spicy, so it’s kid-friendly too. You can enjoy it as-is or get creative with toppings and sides.
9. Grilled Cheese Tomato Soup
Price: $4.99 (per container)
We were really excited to try the Grilled Cheese Tomato Soup, and it did not disappoint! This creamy soup is topped with cheddar cheese and sourdough croutons, creating a rich and indulgent experience.
Taste Test Notes:
- “This is the ultimate comfort food. The soup is incredibly creamy, and the cheese topping adds a wonderful richness.”
- “I do wish it had a bit more tomato acidity to balance the creaminess, but it’s still a delicious take on a classic combo.”
Nutrition Facts:
270 calories per serving
8g fat
4g saturated fat
590mg sodium
31g carbohydrates
13g sugars
12g protein
Ingredients:
Tomatoes
Cheddar cheese
Croutons
Cream
Spices
Preparation Instructions:
Microwave for 3-4 minutes, stir, and heat for an additional 1-2 minutes, or heat on the stovetop over medium heat until warm.
Verdict: Comforting and Rich
If you love grilled cheese and tomato soup, this is a must-try. It’s a bit on the rich side, so if you’re sensitive to dairy, be cautious.
10. Snyder’s Hot Buffalo Wing Pretzel Pieces
Price: $2.79 (per bag)
Finally, we sampled Snyder’s Hot Buffalo Wing Pretzel Pieces. These pretzels are packed with bold buffalo flavor and have just the right amount of kick.
Taste Test Notes:
- “These pretzels really deliver on flavor. They’re not too spicy, but they definitely have a nice heat.”
- “I love the texture—crispy but not too hard. They’re perfect for snacking.”
Nutrition Facts:
130 calories per serving
4.5g fat
2g saturated fat
330mg sodium
20g carbohydrates
1g fiber
2g protein
Ingredients:
Enriched wheat flour
Corn oil
Spices
Vinegar powder
Garlic powder
Preparation Instructions:
Ready to eat as a snack, or use as a crunchy topping for salads or casseroles.
Verdict: Spicy and Satisfying
A great snack for those who enjoy bold flavors. These pretzels are addictive and will likely become a favorite in your snack rotation.
Final Thoughts
Aldi is full of surprises, with some products that are absolute steals and others that might not live up to the hype. From the irresistible Bake Shop Oatmeal Cranberry Cookies to the budget-friendly Specially Selected Marinara Sauce, our taste test revealed that Aldi has some serious contenders in the grocery game. Next time you head to Aldi, keep these recommendations in mind to make the most of your shopping trip. Happy tasting!
