Trader Joe’s is renowned for its eclectic selection of frozen foods, offering options that are unique, delicious, and easy to prepare. Former and current employees alike often share their love for these standout items in the frozen aisle. We’ve compiled a list of must-try frozen foods that employees can’t stop raving about. Whether you’re looking for savory bites or sweet indulgences, there’s something here for everyone.
1. Mini Cheeseburgers $4.49/7.02 Oz
These bite-sized sliders are perfect for parties, quick lunches, or satisfying midnight cravings. Each cheeseburger is pre-assembled and ready to heat.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 260 per serving (2 mini cheeseburgers)
- Fats: 14g
- Carbs: 22g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 11g
Ingredients
Beef patty, American cheese, enriched wheat flour, water, yeast, sugar, salt, and natural flavorings.
Preparation Instructions
- Microwave: Heat for 1-2 minutes on high.
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F and bake for 8-10 minutes.
2. Tortilla Española $3.99/10.6 oz
This Spanish-inspired potato and onion omelet is hearty and flavorful. Enjoy it as a breakfast dish or a savory snack.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 210 per serving
- Fats: 13g
- Carbs: 18g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 7g
Ingredients
Potatoes, onions, eggs, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Preparation Instructions
- Pan: Heat on medium for 3-4 minutes per side.
- Microwave: Heat for 1-2 minutes on high.
3. Perfectly Pickled Pups $4.99/6.3 Oz
These are mini corn dogs with a tangy twist, featuring dill pickle flavor infused into the batter.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 210 per serving (3 pups)
- Fats: 10g
- Carbs: 24g
- Sodium: 440mg
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 5g
Ingredients
Beef hot dogs, enriched cornmeal, dill pickle brine, and spices.
Preparation Instructions
- Oven: Preheat to 400°F and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Air Fryer: Heat at 375°F for 6-8 minutes.
4. Buffalo-Style Chickenless Wings $4.69/12 Oz
Perfect for vegetarians and vegans, these spicy, plant-based wings are packed with flavor and texture.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 180 per serving (4 pieces)
- Fats: 8g
- Carbs: 15g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 10g
Ingredients
Soy protein, wheat gluten, buffalo sauce, and natural seasonings.
Preparation Instructions
- Oven: Preheat to 425°F and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Pan: Heat with a small amount of oil for 5-7 minutes.
5. Double Chocolate Croissants $5.49/12 Oz
Indulge in these buttery croissants filled with rich, gooey chocolate. They’re a treat for breakfast or dessert.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 320 per croissant
- Fats: 18g
- Carbs: 37g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 5g
Ingredients
Enriched wheat flour, butter, dark chocolate, sugar, eggs, and yeast.
Preparation Instructions
Oven: Let croissants rise overnight, then bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes.
6. Japanese-Style Fried Rice $3.79/16 Oz
This savory rice dish is packed with edamame, tofu, and vegetables, making it a quick and satisfying meal.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 230 per serving (1 cup)
- Fats: 7g
- Carbs: 35g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 8g
Ingredients
Cooked rice, soy sauce, edamame, tofu, carrots, onions, and sesame oil.
Preparation Instructions
- Microwave: Heat for 4-5 minutes on high.
- Pan: Stir-fry on medium heat for 5-7 minutes.
7. Hold the Cone (All Flavors) $3.99/7.9 Oz
These mini ice cream cones are perfect for a portion-controlled dessert, available in flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and seasonal options.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 90 per cone
- Fats: 5g
- Carbs: 12g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 1g
Ingredients
Ice cream, sugar cone, and chocolate coating.
Preparation Instructions
Ready to eat straight from the freezer.
8. Rustic Apple Tarte $4.99/18 oz
This flaky pastry is filled with sweet, spiced apple slices, making it a perfect dessert or brunch addition.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 310 per serving (1/5 tart)
- Fats: 16g
- Carbs: 39g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 19g
- Protein: 3g
Ingredients
Apples, enriched flour, butter, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
Preparation Instructions
Oven: Preheat to 400°F and bake for 25-30 minutes.
9. Ube Ice Cream $3.79/1 Pint
This Filipino-inspired treat features a creamy, purple yam-flavored ice cream that’s both unique and delicious.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 210 per serving (1/2 cup)
- Fats: 10g
- Carbs: 28g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 24g
- Protein: 3g
Ingredients
Milk, cream, sugar, ube puree, and natural flavors.
Preparation Instructions
Ready to enjoy straight from the tub.
10. Celebration Cake Gelato $3.79/1 Pint
This creamy gelato swirls together cake pieces, frosting, and sprinkles for a festive dessert experience.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 230 per serving (1/2 cup)
- Fats: 11g
- Carbs: 30g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 25g
- Protein: 3g
Ingredients
- Milk, cream, sugar, cake pieces, sprinkles, and natural flavorings.
Preparation Instructions
Scoop and serve directly from the freezer.
11. Griddle Cakes $3.49/14.11 Oz
Fluffy pancakes that are pre-cooked and ready to heat, perfect for busy mornings.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 180 per serving (2 pancakes)
- Fats: 5g
- Carbs: 28g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 4g
Ingredients
- Enriched wheat flour, buttermilk, eggs, sugar, and baking powder.
Preparation Instructions
- Microwave: Heat for 1 minute.
- Oven: Warm at 350°F for 8-10 minutes.
12. Chiles Rellenos Con Queso $5.99/14.4 Oz
This classic Mexican dish features roasted poblano peppers stuffed with cheese and covered in a savory tomato sauce.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 200 per serving (1 chile)
- Fats: 11g
- Carbs: 17g
- Sodium: 440mg
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 9g
Ingredients
Poblano peppers, cheese blend, tomatoes, onions, and spices.
Preparation Instructions
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat for 2-3 minutes on high.
13. Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Thigh Skewers $5.99/16 oz
Juicy chicken thighs marinated in a bold chimichurri sauce, grilled and ready to heat.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 190 per serving (1 skewer)
- Fats: 12g
- Carbs: 3g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 17g
Ingredients
Chicken thighs, chimichurri sauce (parsley, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, spices).
Preparation Instructions
- Grill: Heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Oven: Preheat to 400°F and bake for 10-12 minutes.
14. Kimbap $3.99/8.11 Oz
This Korean-inspired sushi roll features seasoned rice, vegetables, and protein wrapped in seaweed.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 210 per serving (5 pieces)
- Fats: 6g
- Carbs: 32g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 5g
Ingredients
Cooked rice, seaweed, carrots, spinach, egg, sesame oil, and soy sauce.
Preparation Instructions
- Microwave: Heat for 1 minute.
- Pan: Lightly sear for 2-3 minutes.
15. Shrimp Boom Bah $7.99/14 oz
Crispy shrimp coated in a tangy, spicy sauce, perfect as an appetizer or main dish.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 250 per serving (4 shrimp)
- Fats: 12g
- Carbs: 22g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 14g
Ingredients
Shrimp, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, chili sauce, and spices.
Preparation Instructions
- Oven: Preheat to 425°F and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Air Fryer: Cook at 400°F for 7-8 minutes.
16. Gluten-Free Battered Plant-Based Fish Fillets $4.99/10 oz
A plant-based alternative to classic fish fillets with a crispy, gluten-free coating.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 200 per serving (1 fillet)
- Fats: 9g
- Carbs: 20g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 5g
Ingredients
Soy protein, rice flour, cornstarch, and seasonings.
Preparation Instructions
- Oven: Preheat to 400°F and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Pan: Cook with a small amount of oil for 5-7 minutes.
17. A Dozen Sweet Bites $5.49/14.1 oz
An assortment of mini desserts, including chocolate and fruit-based bites, perfect for sharing.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 120 per piece
- Fats: 6g
- Carbs: 16g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 11g
- Protein: 1g
Ingredients
Chocolate, flour, sugar, fruit puree, and cream.
Preparation Instructions
Thaw: Allow to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
18. Italian Tiramisu $4.49/13.05 Oz
A classic Italian dessert with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 240 per serving (1/6 tiramisu)
- Fats: 14g
- Carbs: 25g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 19g
- Protein: 3g
Ingredients
Mascarpone cheese, ladyfingers, coffee, cocoa powder, and sugar.
Preparation Instructions
Thaw: Refrigerate for 1-2 hours before serving.
19. Classic Naples-Style Sfogliatella Pastry $4.49/14.1 Oz
Flaky, shell-shaped Italian pastries filled with sweet ricotta and citrus zest.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 310 per pastry
- Fats: 16g
- Carbs: 37g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 5g
Ingredients
Ricotta cheese, enriched flour, butter, sugar, and orange zest.
Preparation Instructions
Oven: Preheat to 375°F and bake for 10-12 minutes.
20. S’mores Ice Cream $3.79/1 Pint
Creamy ice cream swirled with marshmallow, chocolate, and graham cracker pieces.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 240 per serving (1/2 cup)
- Fats: 12g
- Carbs: 30g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 24g
- Protein: 3g
Ingredients
Milk, cream, sugar, graham crackers, marshmallow swirl, and chocolate.
Preparation Instructions
Ready to enjoy straight from the tub.
Final Thoughts
Trader Joe’s frozen aisle is a treasure trove of culinary delights, offering something for every taste and occasion. These employee-approved favorites are just the tip of the iceberg. Next time you’re shopping, make sure to explore these top picks and add some excitement to your freezer!
