top of page

25 Best Foods to Buy at Trader Joe's in 2024

Trader Joe’s is a beloved grocery store known for its unique and high-quality products. With an ever-changing selection and an emphasis on affordability, it’s no wonder so many shoppers flock to its aisles to fill their carts with their unique and delicious foods. Among the myriad of options, some foods stand out as absolute must-haves.



Shopping at Trader Joe’s is an experience in itself, with friendly staff, creative product names, and a cozy, inviting atmosphere. The store's commitment to high-quality ingredients, often with an emphasis on organic and natural options, ensures that you’re not just buying food, but nourishing your body with thoughtfully crafted products. Whether you’re a seasoned Trader Joe’s shopper or a newcomer, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the 25 best foods to buy at Trader Joe’s.


What are the best foods to buy at Trader Joe's?

When it comes to deciding what the best foods to buy at Trader Joe’s are, it’s all about finding the perfect balance between taste, convenience, and quality. Trader Joe’s excels in offering products that not only satisfy your cravings but also make meal prep and snacking effortless.


The best foods are those that consistently deliver on flavor while also fitting seamlessly into a variety of lifestyles and dietary needs. From innovative frozen meals that save time without sacrificing taste to unique snack options that provide a delightful twist on traditional favorites, Trader Joe’s best foods are those that bring joy to everyday eating and elevate your culinary routine.


Whether you’re a health-conscious shopper, a busy professional, or a foodie looking for the next big thing, Trader Joe’s has something exceptional for everyone. Let's get started with our list of the very best foods to buy at Trader Joe's!



1. Everything but the Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend

This seasoning blend has achieved cult status for good reason. It combines sesame seeds, sea salt, dried minced garlic, dried minced onion, black sesame seeds, and poppy seeds to replicate the flavor of an everything bagel. Sprinkle it on avocado toast, eggs, salads, or even popcorn for a burst of flavor. Its versatility and distinctive taste make it a pantry staple.


2. Mandarin Orange Chicken

Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken is a freezer aisle favorite. The chicken pieces are battered and fried, then paired with a tangy and sweet orange sauce. It’s quick to prepare, making it a convenient dinner option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Serve it with rice and steamed vegetables for a satisfying meal that rivals takeout.


Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken
Source: Trader Joe's

3. Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups

These dark chocolate peanut butter cups are a decadent treat. The rich, slightly bitter dark chocolate perfectly complements the creamy, salty-sweet peanut butter filling. They come in a resealable bag, making them easy to share (or not). Perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth, they’re a fan favorite for good reason.


4. Cauliflower Gnocchi

Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Gnocchi is a gluten-free and lower-carb alternative to traditional potato gnocchi. Made primarily from cauliflower, it has a similar texture and can be prepared in various ways – sautéed, boiled, or baked. Pair it with your favorite sauce or simply sauté it with some olive oil and garlic for a delicious and healthy meal.



5. Speculoos Cookie Butter

This spreadable cookie butter is made from Speculoos cookies, a type of spiced shortcrust biscuit. It’s sweet, creamy, and packed with flavors of cinnamon and caramel. Spread it on toast, dip fruit into it, mix it into desserts, or simply enjoy it by the spoonful. Its versatility and irresistible flavor have made it a Trader Joe’s legend.



6. Unexpected Cheddar Cheese

This cheese combines the tanginess of aged cheddar with the smoothness of Parmesan. The result is a crumbly, slightly nutty cheese that’s perfect for snacking or adding to recipes. It’s delicious on its own, paired with crackers, or melted into dishes. The surprising combination of flavors makes it a standout cheese that’s worth trying.



Trader Joe's Unexpected Cheddar Cheese
Source: Trader Joe's


7. Hold the Cone! Mini Ice Cream Cones

These mini ice cream cones are both adorable and delicious. They come in various flavors, including chocolate, vanilla, and seasonal specials. The cones are dipped in chocolate, providing a delightful crunch with each bite. Despite their small size, they pack a punch of flavor and are perfect for a controlled portion of sweetness.



8. Dark Chocolate Almonds with Sea Salt & Turbinado Sugar

These almonds are roasted and covered in rich dark chocolate, then sprinkled with turbinado sugar and a touch of sea salt. The combination of flavors and textures – crunchy almonds, smooth chocolate, and a hint of salt – creates a balanced and irresistible snack. This treat not only satisfies a sweet tooth but also provides the added benefits of almonds.



9. Trader Joe’s Joe-Joe’s

Trader Joe’s Joe-Joe’s are a classic cookie sandwich, similar to Oreos but with a unique twist. They come in several flavors, including the traditional chocolate with vanilla cream, and seasonal varieties like peppermint or pumpkin. The cookies are crisp, and the cream filling is rich, making them a perfect snack or dessert.



Source: Trader Joe's
Trader Joe's Chocolate Vanilla Creme Joe Joe's


10. Dark Chocolate Covered Espresso Beans

For a quick pick-me-up, these dark chocolate-covered espresso beans are perfect. The combination of rich dark chocolate and the robust flavor of espresso beans makes for an energizing snack. They’re great for keeping in your bag for a quick boost of energy and deliciousness on the go.



11. Organic Brown Rice

Trader Joe’s Organic Brown Rice is a pantry staple. It comes in microwaveable pouches, making it incredibly convenient to prepare. The rice is perfectly cooked and can be used as a base for countless dishes. Whether you’re making a stir-fry, a burrito bowl, or just need a quick side dish, this brown rice is a reliable choice.


12. Spicy Cashew Butter Dressing

This dressing is a game-changer for salads and beyond. Made with cashew butter, lime juice, ginger, and a blend of spices, it’s creamy, tangy, and has a slight kick. It’s perfect for drizzling over salads, using as a dip for vegetables, or even as a sauce for grilled chicken or tofu. Its unique flavor profile sets it apart from traditional dressings.



13. Cheddar Cheese with Caramelized Onions

This cheese is a delightful blend of sharp cheddar and sweet caramelized onions. The combination of flavors is rich and complex, making it perfect for snacking or adding to a cheese board. It’s also fantastic melted into sandwiches or used in recipes that call for a flavorful cheese.


14. Peanut Butter Filled Pretzel Nuggets

These pretzel nuggets are a satisfying snack that combines salty and sweet. The crunchy pretzel exterior is filled with creamy peanut butter, making for a delicious and addictive treat. They’re perfect for snacking on their own or adding to a trail mix for an extra boost of flavor.



15. Dark Chocolate Covered Marshmallows

These marshmallows are covered in rich dark chocolate, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. The combination of fluffy marshmallow and smooth chocolate is irresistible. They come in a resealable bag, making them easy to share or save for later.



16. Trader Joe’s Organic Popcorn with Olive Oil

This organic popcorn is a healthier snack option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It’s made with just three ingredients: organic popcorn, organic extra virgin olive oil, and sea salt. The result is a light, crunchy snack that’s perfect for movie nights or anytime you need a quick and satisfying treat.


17. Mini Hold the Cone! Vanilla Ice Cream Cones

These mini ice cream cones are a smaller version of the popular Hold the Cone! treats. They’re perfect for when you want a little something sweet without overindulging. The vanilla ice cream is creamy and delicious, and the chocolate-dipped cone adds a delightful crunch.



18. Trader Joe’s Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Butter & Sage

This sweet potato gnocchi is a delicious twist on the classic Italian dish. The gnocchi is made from sweet potatoes and comes with a flavorful butter and sage sauce. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a convenient meal option that’s both satisfying and unique.



19. Organic Chocolate Chip Granola Bars

These granola bars are a perfect on-the-go snack. Made with organic ingredients, they’re packed with oats, chocolate chips, and a hint of honey. They’re chewy, delicious, and provide a quick energy boost. Whether you’re packing them in a lunchbox or taking them on a hike, they’re a tasty and convenient option.


20. Green Goddess Salad Dressing

Trader Joe’s Green Goddess Salad Dressing is a fresh and flavorful addition to any salad. Made with avocado, green onion, lemon juice, chives, basil, and garlic, it’s creamy, tangy, and packed with herbs. It’s also versatile enough to use as a dip or a sauce for grilled meats and vegetables.


Source: Trader Joe's
Trader Joe's Green Goddess Salad Dressing

21. Trader Joe’s Mac and Cheese Bites

These mac and cheese bites are a comfort food favorite. They’re made with macaroni and a blend of cheeses, then coated in breadcrumbs and fried until crispy. They’re perfect as an appetizer or a snack, and they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering.



22. Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds

These almonds are roasted and covered in rich dark chocolate, making for a delicious and satisfying snack. The combination of crunchy almonds and smooth chocolate is a classic that never gets old. They’re perfect for a quick treat or adding to a dessert.


23. Trader Joe’s Frozen French Onion Soup

This frozen French onion soup is a restaurant-quality dish that’s easy to prepare at home. It comes in individual portions, making it convenient to heat and serve. The soup is rich and flavorful, with caramelized onions and a cheesy topping that’s sure to satisfy.



24. Crispy Crunchy Chocolate Chip Cookies

These cookies are a delightful treat for any chocolate chip cookie lover. They’re thin and crispy, with plenty of chocolate chips for a perfect balance of crunch and sweetness. They come in a resealable bag, making them easy to enjoy a few at a time or share with friends.


25. Trader Joe’s Organic Acai Bowl

This organic acai bowl is a delicious and healthy breakfast option. It’s made with acai berries, strawberries, blueberries, and bananas, and comes with a granola topping. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy mornings. The combination of fruits and granola provides a refreshing and satisfying start to the day.



Final Thoughts: What are the Best Foods to Buy at Trader Joe's?

There's no shortage of foods to try at Trader Joe's, which makes narrowing down the best foods to buy at Trader Joe's that much more difficult. In reality, the best foods to buy at Trader Joe’s are those that combine great flavor with practicality, helping you transform everyday meals into exciting bites. From their iconic snacks and versatile pantry staples to their gourmet cheeses and delectable frozen treats, these products exemplify what makes Trader Joe’s a beloved shopping destination. Each item on this list has earned its place through a combination of exceptional taste, quality ingredients, and the ability to enhance your daily diet in unique ways.



Whether you’re a long-time fan or a first-time visitor, incorporating these top 25 foods into your routine will undoubtedly help you add a few new favorites to your regular shopping list.


So, next time you find yourself wandering the aisles of Trader Joe’s, let this guide lead you to some of the best foods available, ensuring that your cart is filled with items that not only meet your needs but exceed your expectations. Happy shopping and happy eating!








Discover new snacks.

We email you new snack recommendations each week to help you discover your next favorite snack.

🥨 🧁 🍭 🍩 🍡

bottom of page