Trader Joe’s is known for its eclectic mix of products that range from culinary delights to curious experiments. With so many items to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know what’s worth trying and what to leave on the shelf. In this guide, we’ll explore 13 must-have products that deserve a spot in your cart and 13 misses you should probably skip.
Must-Have Hits
1. Unexpected Cheddar Cheese $3.99/7 Oz
A cult favorite, this cheddar is anything but ordinary, with a surprising and delightful Parmesan twist.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 1 oz
- Calories: 110
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: less than 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 7g
Ingredients
Pasteurized Milk, Cheese Cultures, Salt, Microbial Enzyme
Preparation Instruction
Perfect for slicing onto crackers or melting into a gourmet grilled cheese.
Recommendation
A cheese lover’s dream.
2. Pancake Bread $3.99 / 15 oz
This loaf is like breakfast in a bite, combining the flavors of pancakes and maple syrup in bread form.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 1 slice (57g)
- Calories: 270
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Sugars: 19g
- Protein: 4g
Ingredients
Wheat flour, sugar, eggs, butter, maple syrup.
Preparation Instruction
Enjoy as-is or warm it up for an extra comforting treat.
Recommendation
Sweet, indulgent, and irresistible.
3. Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups $4.99/16 Oz
These rich and creamy peanut butter cups are a decadent twist on a classic favorite.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 2 pieces (30g)
- Calories: 140
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Sugars: 11g
- Protein: 2g
Ingredients
Semi-Sweet Chocolate (Sugar, Chocolate Liquor, Cocoa Butter, Chocolate Liquor Processed with Alkali, Milkfat, Soy Lecithin [Emulsifier], Natural Flavor), Peanut Butter (Peanuts), Sugar, Palm Kernel Oil, Lactose, Salt, Palm Oil, Soy Lecithin (Emulsifier).
Preparation Instruction
Snack straight from the box or chop up for an ice cream topping.
Recommendation
Perfect for chocolate and peanut butter lovers.
4. Elote Corn Chip Dippers $2.69/9.75 Oz
These chips are bursting with bold Mexican street corn flavor, complete with a hint of lime and spice.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 1oz (28g/12 chips)
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Sodium: 115mg
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 2g
Ingredients
Organic Corn, Organic Sunflower Oil, Seasoning (Organic Maltodextrin, Organic Sugar, Salt, Organic Chipotle Peppers, Organic Nonfat Dry Milk, Organic Lowfat Buttermilk [Organic Skim Milk, Lactic Acid, Bacterial Cultures], Organic Spice, Organic Corn Flour, Natural Flavor, Citric Acid, Organic Sunflower Oil, Organic Habanero Pepper Powder, Natural Smoke Flavor, Organic Turmeric Extract [Color]), Trace of Lime.
Preparation Instruction
Pair with guacamole or salsa for a flavorful snack.
Recommendation
A crunchy, flavorful twist on your standard chip.
5. Mesquite Smoked Seasoned Almonds $5.99 / 16 oz
These almonds are seasoned to perfection with a smoky mesquite flavor that adds a satisfying crunch.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup (28g)
- Calories: 170
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 6g
Ingredients
Almonds, mesquite seasoning, sea salt, spices.
Preparation Instruction
Enjoy as a snack or add to salads for extra crunch.
Recommendation
Perfect for smoky, savory snack cravings.
6. Soy Chorizo $2.99/12 Oz
This plant-based chorizo is packed with flavor and spices, making it a versatile meat substitute.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 2 oz (56g/ about 1/3 cup)
- Calories: 130
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Sodium: 660mg
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 8g
Ingredients
Water, Textured Soy Protein, Soybean Oil, Paprika (For Color), Sea Salt, Distilled White Vinegar, Contains 2% or Less of Cultured Dextrose (To Preserve), Maltodextrin, Caramel Color, Spices, Dried Red Pepper, Garlic Powder.
Preparation Instruction
Sauté and add to tacos, burritos, or scrambles.
Recommendation
A spicy, delicious alternative to traditional chorizo.
7. Peanut Butter Protein Granola $3.99/12 Oz
This crunchy granola offers a rich peanut butter flavor with an added protein boost.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 2/3 cup (60g)
- Calories: 260
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Sugars: 9g
- Protein: 11g
Ingredients
Rolled Oats, Peanuts, Peanut Butter, Cane Sugar, Pea Protein Crisps (Pea Protein, Rice Flour), Brown Rice Syrup, Water, Canola Oil, Pea Protein, Oat Syrup Solids, Natural Flavors, Sea Salt, Mixed Tocopherols (Vitamin E for Freshness).
Preparation Instruction
Enjoy with yogurt, milk, or as a crunchy topping.
Recommendation
Ideal for peanut butter enthusiasts looking for a nutritious snack.
8. Yuzu Hot Sauce $4.99 / 5 oz
This hot sauce blends citrusy yuzu with a spicy kick, offering a unique flavor profile.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 1 tsp (5g)
- Calories: 10
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Sugars: 1g
Protein: 0g
Ingredients
Yuzu juice, red chili peppers, salt, vinegar.
Preparation Instruction
Drizzle over grilled meats, seafood, or use as a dipping sauce.
Recommendation:
A must-have for spice lovers seeking a citrusy twist.
9. Frozen Garlic Naan $2.29 / 8.8 oz
This frozen naan is soft, flavorful, and infused with garlic, making it a great accompaniment to any meal.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 1 piece (74g)
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 5g
Ingredients
Wheat flour, garlic, yogurt, milk, butter.
Preparation Instruction
Heat in the oven or on a skillet for a warm, fluffy bread.
Recommendation
A convenient and delicious addition to your pantry.
10. Thai Lime and Chili Cashews $7.99/1 Lb
These cashews are coated with a tangy lime and spicy chili seasoning, making them irresistibly snackable.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup (30g)
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 6g
Ingredients
Cashews, Thai Lime Leaves, Rice Bran Oil, Tom Yum Seasoning (Maltodextrin, Sugar, Salt, Yeast Extract Powder, Citric Acid, Garlic Powder, Lemon Grass, Silicon Dioxide [Anti-Caking], Chili Powder, White Pepper, Natural Lemon Flavor, Paprika Oleoresin), Chili Powder, Salt.
Preparation Instruction
Enjoy as a snack or add to stir-fries for extra flavor.
Recommendation
For a zesty, spicy snack with a satisfying crunch.
11. Dill Pickle Mustard $1.99/9 Oz
This mustard combines tangy dill pickle flavors with the classic zing of mustard for a unique condiment.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 1 tsp (5g)
- Calories: 0
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 0g
Ingredients
Water, Distilled Vinegar, Mustard Seed, Dill Pickle Pieces (Cucumber, Water, Distilled Vinegar, Salt, Dried Garlic, Spices, Calcium Chloride, Dried Dill Weed), Sea Salt, Turmeric, Dried Dill Weed, Garlic Powder, Paprika, Natural Flavor, Spice.
Preparation Instruction
Use on sandwiches, burgers, or as a dipping sauce.
Recommendation
A pickle lover’s dream come true.
12. Way More Chocolate Chip Cookies $4.49 / 18 oz
These cookies are packed with extra chocolate chips, making them a treat for any chocolate lover.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (28g)
- Calories: 140
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 1g
Ingredients
Wheat flour, chocolate chips, sugar, butter, eggs.
Preparation Instruction
Enjoy straight from the package or warm them up for extra gooeyness.
Recommendation
For when you need an extra dose of chocolate.
13. Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips $3.99/12 Oz
These semi-sweet chocolate chips are perfect for baking or snacking, offering a rich chocolate flavor.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 1 Tbsp (15g)
- Calories: 80
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: less than 1g
Ingredients
Cane Sugar, Unsweetened Chocolate, Cocoa Butter, Soy Lecithin [Emulsifier], Vanilla Extract (Water, Ethyl Alcohol, Vanilla Bean Extractives).
Preparation Instruction
Add to cookies, brownies, or trail mix.
Recommendation
A pantry staple for any baker.
Misses to Skip
1. Everything But the Bagel Seasoned Chips $2.99/7 Oz
Despite the popularity of the seasoning, these chips lack balance and are overly salty.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: about 16 chips (28g)
- Calories: 140
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Sodium: 135mg
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 2g
Ingredients
Potatoes, Canola Oil And/Or Sunflower Oil, Seasoning Blend (Poppy Seeds, Salt, Sesame Seeds, Natural Flavors, Onion Powder, Garlic Powder, Black Pepper, Sugar, Corn Maltodextrin, Sesame Oil, Soy Lecithin).
Preparation Instruction
Pair with a dip to mitigate the saltiness.
Recommendation
Overpowering flavor that’s not for everyone.
2. Kale Gnocchi $2.69 / 12 oz
While a healthy alternative to traditional gnocchi, the texture and flavor of this product leave much to be desired.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 1 cup (140g)
- Calories: 190
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 5g
Ingredients
Kale, potato starch, chickpea flour, sea salt.
Preparation Instruction
Sauté with olive oil or add a flavorful sauce.
Recommendation
Better alternatives are available.
3. Cauliflower Pizza Crust $4.99/5 Oz
This gluten-free crust is popular in theory but tends to be soggy and bland when cooked.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 1 crust (71g)
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 10g
Ingredients
Shredded Cauliflower, Liquid Whole Eggs (Eggs, Citric Acid [To Maintain Color]), Grated Parmesan Cheese (Pasteurized Skim Milk, Cheese Cultures, Salt, Microbial Enzyme), Deactivated Yeast, Minced Garlic (Garlic, Water, Phosphoric Acid), Dried Basil, Dried Oregano.
Preparation Instruction
Pre-bake for extra crispiness before adding toppings.
Recommendation
Fails to deliver the satisfying crunch of a traditional crust.
4. Almond Butter Puffs Cereal $3.49/9 Oz
Though packed with almond flavor, this cereal has an odd texture and isn’t as satisfying as others on the market.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 1 cup (40g)
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 6g
Ingredients
Almond Butter (Roasted Almonds), Rice Flour, Quinoa, Brown Sugar, Powdered Sugar (Sugar, Calcium Phosphate), Sunflower Oil, Cocoa Processed with Alkali, Salt, Cassava Starch, Mixed Tocopherols (To Preserve).
Preparation Instruction
Best enjoyed with milk, but the texture remains lackluster.
Recommendation
There are better cereals out there.
5. Beef Pho Soup $3.49/13.23 Oz
This frozen pho lacks the depth and richness of authentic pho, resulting in a disappointing meal.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (375g)
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 4.5g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Sugars: less than 1g
- Protein: 13g
Ingredients
Water, Cooked Rice Noodles (Water, Rice), Cooked Seasoned Beef, Water & Binder Product (Beef, Water, Soy Sauce [Water, Soybeans, Salt], Cornstarch, Salt, Spices), Bean Sprouts, Onions, Green Onions, Beef Base Concentrate (Roasted Beef, Salt, Beef Stock, Caramel Color, Natural Flavor, Beef Fat, Potato Flour, Cane Sugar, Paprika, Spices), Fish Sauce (Anchovies, Sea Salt), Cilantro, Thai Basil, Cornstarch, Yeast Extract, Onion Powder, Salt, Spices.
Preparation Instruction
Microwave or stovetop, but it doesn’t improve much.
Recommendation
Falls flat in flavor and authenticity.
6. Cookie Butter $3.99/14.1 Oz
Once a fan favorite, the novelty of cookie butter has worn off, and it’s now too sweet for most.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 2 Tbsp. (30g)
- Calories: 170
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Sugars: 11g
- Protein: 1g
Ingredients
Speculoos Cookies (Wheat Flour [Wheat Flour, Malted Wheat Flour], Caramelized Sugar, Vegetable Oil Blend [Palm Oil, Canola Oil, Citric Acid and Lemon Juice Concentrate {To Preserve}], Cane Sugar, Soy Flour, Contains 2% or Less of Invert Sugar Syrup, Wheat Gluten, Sodium Bicarbonate, Cinnamon, Nutmeg), Vegetable Oil Blend (Canola Oil, Palm Oil, Citric Acid [To Preserve]), Sugar, Canola Lecithin.
Preparation Instruction
Spread on toast or mix into desserts, but the sweetness can be overwhelming.
Recommendation
Its time has passed.
7. Everything But the Bagel Seasoning Blend $1.99/2.3 Oz
Overhyped and overused, this seasoning blend doesn’t work as well on everything as advertised.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 1/4 tsp (1g)
- Calories: 5
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 0g
Ingredients
Sesame Seeds, Sea Salt Flakes, Dried Minced Garlic, Dried Minced Onion, Black Sesame Seeds, Poppy Seeds.
Preparation Instruction
Use sparingly on appropriate dishes, but don’t expect miracles.
Recommendation
The novelty has worn off.
8. Strawberry Non-Dairy Oat Frozen Dessert $3.99/1 Pint
A dairy-free alternative that falls short in flavor and texture, leaving much to be desired.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 2/3 cup (123g)
- Calories: 260
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Sodium: 105mg
- Sugars: 22g
- Protein: 1g
Ingredients
Oat Base (Water, Oats), Tapioca Syrup, Coconut Oil, Dextrose, Invert Sugar, Chicory Root Extract (Inulin), Agave Syrup, Almond Brittle (Cane Sugar, Almonds), Candied Strawberries (Strawberries, Glucose Syrup, Sugar), Maltodextrin, Mono- and Diglycerides of Fatty Acids, Pink Salt, Sunflower Lecithin, Color Added (Red Beet Juice, Annatto Extract, Citric Acid [To Maintain Color]), Pea Protein Concentrate, Carob Bean Gum, Natural Flavor.
Preparation Instruction
Serve as a dessert, but it may leave you unsatisfied.
Recommendation
Other non-dairy options are more flavorful.
9. Sriracha Sauce $3.99/18.25 Oz
While Sriracha is beloved by many, Trader Joe’s version lacks the heat and depth of the original.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 1 tsp (4g)
- Calories: 0
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 0g
Ingredients
Ground Red Chili Peppers (Red Jalapeno Peppers, Red Anaheim Peppers, Salt, Citric Acid), Water, Sugar, Crushed Garlic (Garlic, Citric Acid), Salt, Contains 2% or Less of Garlic Powder, Cultured Dextrose (For Freshness), Distilled Vinegar, Salt Enhancer (Vegetable Extract [Potato], Maltodextrin [Processing Aid], Natural Flavor), Citric Acid, Xanthan Gum.
Preparation Instruction
Use as a condiment, but don’t expect the same punch as other brands.
Recommendation
Stick to the original brand.
10. Watermelon Jerky $3.69 / 2 oz
A unique idea that didn’t quite hit the mark, this jerky is more chewy and less refreshing than expected.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 1/2 pack (28g)
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Sugars: 30g
- Protein: 1g
Ingredients
Watermelon.
Preparation Instruction
Eat as-is, but be prepared for a texture that’s hard to enjoy.
Recommendation
Better in theory than in practice.
11. Overnight Oats $1.99 / 5.5 oz
These pre-made oats are convenient but lack flavor and texture, making them a pass.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 1 container (156g)
- Calories: 240
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sodium: 105mg
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 8g
Ingredients
Almond Beverage (Water, Almond Butter), Rolled Oats, Dates, Vanilla Extract (Water, Ethyl Alcohol, Vanilla Bean Extractives), Sea Salt.
Preparation Instruction
Ready-to-eat, but you might want to add some extra flavor.
Recommendation
Make your own for better taste.
12. Brioche Buns $3.99/9.45 Oz
Soft and fluffy, but they don’t hold up well to juicy burgers, resulting in a soggy mess.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 1 bun (67g)
- Calories: 180
- Fat:3g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: 5g
Ingredients
Unbleached Enriched Flour (Wheat Flour, Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid, Enzymes), Water, Sugar, Egg, Butter (Cream [Milk], Lactic Acid), Yeast, Contains 2% or Less of Wheat Gluten, Monodiglycerides, Xanthan Gum, Enzymes, Ascorbic Acid (Dough Conditioner), Sea Salt, Canola Oil, Vinegar, Fermented Wheat Flour, Wheat Flour, Wheat Starch, Starter Culture, Milk Proteins, Beta Carotene (Color).
Preparation Instruction
Toast for extra sturdiness, but they still might not hold up.
Recommendation
Opt for a sturdier bun.
13. Jingle Jangle $9.99/22.7 Oz
A holiday mix of various sweets that’s more about quantity than quality, leading to a mixed bag of treats.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 1/3 cup (34g)
- Calories: 170
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Sugars: 17g
- Protein: 2g
Ingredients
Dark Chocolate (Sugar, Unsweetened Chocolate Processed with Alkali, Cocoa Butter, Milk Fat, Soy Lecithin [Emulsifier], Natural Vanilla Flavor), Caramel Popcorn (Sugar, Brown Rice Syrup, Popcorn, Sunflower Oil, Salt, Baking Soda), Milk Chocolate (Sugar, Milk, Unsweetened Chocolate, Cocoa Butter, Soy Lecithin [Emulsifier], Natural Vanilla Flavor), Cookies (Cane Syrup, Unbleached Enriched Flour [Wheat Flour, Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid], Palm Oil, Soybean Oil, Cocoa Powder Processed with Alkali, Cornstarch, Invert Sugar Syrup, Baking Soda, Sea Salt, Cocoa Extract [Water, Ethyl Alcohol, Cocoa], Soy Lecithin [Emulsifier], Vanilla Bean Seeds, Natural Flavor, Cocoa Powder, Coffee Powder), Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups (Dark Chocolate [Sugar, Unsweetened Chocolate, Cocoa Butter, Cocoa Powder Processed with Alkali, Milk Fat, Soy Lecithin {Emulsifier}, Natural Vanilla Flavor], Ground Peanuts, Sugar, Palm Kernel Oil, Lactose, Salt, Palm Oil, Cornstarch, Soy Lecithin [Emulsifier]), Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups (Milk Chocolate [Sugar, Cocoa Butter, Whole Milk Powder, Unsweetened Chocolate, Soy Lecithin {Emulsifier}, Natural Vanilla Flavor]).
Preparation Instruction
Snack directly from the tin, but you might be disappointed.
Recommendation
There are better holiday treats available.
Conclusion
Navigating Trader Joe’s extensive product lineup can be a fun adventure or a disappointing experience depending on what lands in your cart. With this guide, you’ll know which 13 items are worth the hype and which 13 you can leave behind. Happy shopping!
