Trader Joe’s has a knack for curating unique, delicious, and sometimes eccentric items that develop a cult following. But just when we think a product is here to stay, it vanishes from the shelves, leaving us to reminisce.
Here are the 15 beloved Trader Joe’s items that we’re hoping make a comeback someday! Dig in!
1. Eggplant Cutlets $4.99/16 oz
Trader Joe’s Eggplant Cutlets were a convenient, breaded delight, perfect for adding a crispy texture to various dishes.
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 100 per cutlet
Fat: 3.5g
Carbs: 16g
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 200mg
Ingredients
Eggplant
Wheat flour
Sunflower oil
Salt
Spices
Preparation Instructions
Bake until golden brown. Great for layering in pasta dishes, adding to sandwiches, or enjoying as a standalone side.
2. Middle East-Style Feast $6.99
This Trader Joe’s feast combined hummus, tabbouleh, and falafel for a quick and flavorful Middle Eastern experience.
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 300 per serving
Fat: 12g
Carbs: 35g
Protein: 8g
Sodium: 550mg
Ingredients
Chickpeas
Bulgur wheat
Parsley
Garlic
Olive oil
Preparation Instructions
Serve with pita or veggies for a quick lunch or shareable appetizer platter.
3. Ketchup-Flavored Spud Crunchies $2.99/6 oz
These tangy, crunchy potato snacks had a nostalgic ketchup flavor that made them a fan-favorite for snacking.
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 150 per serving
Fat: 8g
Carbs: 18g
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 230mg
Ingredients
Potatoes
Tomato powder
Vinegar powder
Spices
Preparation Instructions
Enjoy straight from the bag or as a fun side to burgers and sandwiches.
4. Spicy Spinach Pizza $4.49/10 oz
This pizza offered a spicy twist with a savory blend of spinach and red pepper on a thin crust.
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 290 per slice
Fat: 10g
Carbs: 38g
Protein: 12g
Sodium: 450mg
Ingredients
Spinach
Tomato sauce
Wheat flour
Red pepper flakes
Mozzarella cheese
Preparation Instructions
Bake until crispy. Perfect as a main course or cut into smaller slices for party appetizers.
5. Arrabbiata Sauce $2.99/25 oz
Trader Joe’s Arrabbiata Sauce added a spicy kick to pasta dishes and was a favorite for its robust flavor.
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 80 per serving
Fat: 2g
Carbs: 12g
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 240mg
Ingredients
Tomatoes
Garlic
Olive oil
Red chili peppers
Basil
Preparation Instructions
Toss with pasta or use as a spicy topping for meatballs and grilled vegetables.
6. Cultured Salted Butter $3.99/8 oz
This rich, tangy butter elevated any dish with its creamy flavor, ideal for cooking and spreading.
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 100 per tablespoon
Fat: 11g
Carbs: 0g
Protein: 0g
Sodium: 90mg
Ingredients
Cream
Salt
Preparation Instructions
Spread on toast, use in baking, or melt over vegetables to enhance flavors.
7. Chocolate Chip Cocoa Meringues $2.99/3 oz
These airy, chocolate-studded meringues were the perfect guilt-free dessert with a delightful crunch.
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 60 per meringue
Fat: 2g
Carbs: 10g
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 15mg
Ingredients
Egg whites
Sugar
Cocoa powder
Chocolate chips
Preparation Instructions
Enjoy alone or crumble over ice cream for a crunchy topping.
8. Chocolate Hummus $1.99/8 oz
This sweet chocolate hummus added a unique twist to classic hummus, perfect for dipping fruit.
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 80 per serving
Fat: 3g
Carbs: 12g
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 50mg
Ingredients
Chickpeas
Cocoa powder
Cane sugar
Vanilla extract
Preparation Instructions
Serve with fruit, pretzels, or crackers for a sweet snack option.
9. Dark Morello Cherries $2.99/24 oz
These tart cherries in syrup added a bright flavor to desserts and were a versatile pantry staple.
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 60 per serving
Fat: 0g
Carbs: 15g
Protein: 0g
Sodium: 0mg
Ingredients
Dark cherries
Water
Sugar
Preparation Instructions
Use in pies, cocktails, or as a topping for yogurt or ice cream.
10. Bibimbap Bowl $3.49/12 oz
This Korean-inspired frozen bowl offered a flavorful and convenient meal with rice, veggies, and sauce.
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 360 per bowl
Fat: 9g
Carbs: 55g
Protein: 8g
Sodium: 680mg
Ingredients
White rice
Spinach
Carrots
Mushrooms
Gochujang sauce
Preparation Instructions
Heat in the microwave and enjoy as a quick meal.
11. Belgian Chocolate Pudding $2.99/16 oz
This silky, indulgent pudding was a chocolate lover’s dream with its rich Belgian flavor.
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 190 per serving
Fat: 11g
Carbs: 21g
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 40mg
Ingredients
Milk
Cocoa powder
Sugar
Cornstarch
Preparation Instructions
Enjoy as-is or top with whipped cream for an extra treat.
12. Gorgonzola Crackers $2.49/8 oz
These savory crackers added a hint of tangy Gorgonzola, perfect for snacking or pairing with cheese.
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 130 per serving
Fat: 6g
Carbs: 16g
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 180mg
Ingredients
Wheat flour
Gorgonzola cheese
Butter
Salt
Preparation Instructions
Pair with dips or cheese, or enjoy on their own for a savory snack.
13. Frozen Mashed Potatoes $4.29/28 Oz
These creamy, ready-to-heat mashed potatoes were a time-saving staple with a homemade taste.
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 100 per serving
Fat: 4g
Carbs: 15g
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 300mg
Ingredients
Potatoes
Milk
Butter
Salt
Preparation Instructions
Heat and serve as a side to any meal for instant comfort food.
14. Pumpernickel Pretzels $1.99/10 oz
These dark, hearty pretzels brought the distinctive flavor of pumpernickel to snacking.
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 120 per serving
Fat: 2g
Carbs: 22g
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 200mg
Ingredients
Wheat flour
Malted barley flour
Rye flour
Salt
Caramel color
Preparation Instructions
Perfect for pairing with mustard, cheese dips, or enjoyed on their own.
15. Sweet Corn Tamales $3.99/16 oz
These tamales combined sweet corn with masa for a delightful blend of flavors.
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 150 per tamale
Fat: 4g
Carbs: 26g
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 250mg
Ingredients
Corn
Masa harina
Water
Salt
Spices
Preparation Instructions
Steam or microwave, then serve with salsa for an authentic touch.
Conclusion
Trader Joe’s has a knack for unique and memorable products, but some of our favorites don’t stick around forever. While we continue to enjoy their new offerings, these 15 discontinued items will always hold a special place in our hearts. Here’s hoping Trader Joe’s brings back these fan-favorites one day!
