Trader Joe’s is no stranger to creating affordable and versatile products that make meal prep a breeze. Among its lineup of quick dinner solutions is the Giant Baked Beans in Tomato Sauce—a $2 canned wonder that’s been winning over hearts and kitchens. Whether you’re short on time or simply love a no-fuss meal, this two-ingredient dinner hack has all the flavor with minimal effort, making it a must-have pantry staple for busy weeks.
Why We Love This
Trader Joe’s Giant Baked Beans in Tomato Sauce hits all the right notes. For one, it’s ridiculously simple. Open the can, heat it up, and enjoy it solo, or pair it with something like crusty bread or rice for a more filling meal. The beans are tender, perfectly seasoned, and cooked in a rich tomato sauce that balances tangy and savory flavors. At just $2 a can, it’s also a budget-friendly find, making it an ideal pick for weeknight dinners, college students, and anyone who loves a quick and satisfying meal.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup (110g)
- Calories: 130
- Total Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: less than 1mg
- Sodium: 460mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 14g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 5g
Ingredients
- Cannellini Beans
- Tomato Sauce (Onions, Water, Diced Tomato [Tomato, Tomato Juice, Citric Acid {Acidifier}], Tomato Paste, Salt, Soy Oil, Dill, Sugar, Parsley, Crushed Red Pepper, Black Pepper)
- Soy Oil
Preparation Instructions
- Stovetop: Empty the can into a small saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through—about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Pour the beans into a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
- For an even simpler meal, pair these beans with your favorite crusty bread, or serve them over steamed rice for a heartier option.
Versatility of Use
The best part about Trader Joe’s Giant Baked Beans in Tomato Sauce is how versatile they are! Here are a few ideas to level up this two-ingredient meal:
- Beans on Toast: Spoon the warm beans over toasted sourdough for a comforting, protein-packed breakfast or lunch.
- Bean Salad: Toss the beans with chopped cucumber, red onion, and feta for a refreshing Mediterranean-inspired salad.
- Pasta Pairing: Serve the beans over pasta for a fiber-rich take on your standard marinara sauce.
- Side Dish: These beans also make a great side dish for grilled chicken or sausage, adding a pop of flavor to any dinner.
What Customers Say
Trader Joe’s fans are buzzing about this product, and for good reason. Online reviews highlight the rich flavor and perfect seasoning of the tomato sauce, with many calling it an easy weeknight lifesaver. “It’s like a comfort food in a can,” says one satisfied shopper, while another notes, “This has been my go-to lunch for weeks now—so simple and so tasty!” Others praise its versatility, with many using it in a variety of ways from salads to soups.
Final Say
If you haven’t added Trader Joe’s Giant Baked Beans in Tomato Sauce to your cart yet, you’re seriously missing out. At just $2 a can, this pantry staple offers a delicious, two-ingredient dinner solution that’s quick, nutritious, and full of flavor. Whether you keep it simple or experiment with different pairings, you’ll find yourself reaching for this gem again and again!
