Trader Joe’s is known for its unique and budget-friendly offerings, but some incredible products often fly under the radar. While fan favorites get all the hype, there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
From sweet treats to savory bites, these 13 must-have finds deserve a spot in your shopping cart. Keep reading—you won’t believe how good #3 is!
1. White Cheddar Corn Puffs $2.69/7 oz
A perfect alternative to Pirate’s Booty, these White Cheddar Corn Puffs are light, airy, and packed with cheesy goodness. Made with real white cheddar, they offer a satisfying crunch without feeling too heavy.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 140
- Fats: 7g
- Carbs: 16g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 2g
Ingredients
Cornmeal, sunflower oil, white cheddar cheese, whey, buttermilk, salt, lactic acid, and natural flavors.
Preparation Instructions
Enjoy straight out of the bag or pair with your favorite dip for an extra flavor boost.
2. Tarte aux Champignons $4.79/9.52 oz
A savory French-style flatbread topped with mushrooms, cheese, and a crispy, flaky crust. Perfect for an easy, gourmet meal at home.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 290
- Fats: 12g
- Carbs: 36g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 10g
Ingredients
Flour, mushrooms, cheese blend, crème fraîche, onions, eggs, butter, garlic, and spices.
Preparation Instructions
Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Trader Jacques — A Dozen Macarons Variés $5.99/4.2 oz
If you love French desserts, these frozen macarons are a must-try! They come in an assortment of flavors like apricot, coconut, fig, salted caramel, lemon, and pistachio, offering an authentic taste at an affordable price.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 110
- Fats: 4g
- Carbs: 15g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 2g
Ingredients
Sugar, almonds, egg whites, butter, natural flavors, fruit purees, and food coloring.
Preparation Instructions
Let thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before enjoying.
4. Lemony Arugula Basil Salad Kit $3.99/9.75 oz
This refreshing salad kit features arugula, parmesan cheese, carrots, almonds, and a tangy basil lemon vinaigrette. It’s a great option for a quick and healthy meal.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 150
- Fats: 13g
- Carbs: 7g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 4g
Ingredients
Arugula, carrots, almonds, parmesan cheese, basil lemon vinaigrette (oil, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, mustard, and seasonings).
Preparation Instructions
Toss all ingredients together and serve fresh. Add grilled chicken or salmon for extra protein.
5. Meatless Breakfast Sausage Patties $3.99/8 oz
A fantastic plant-based alternative to traditional sausage, these patties are packed with protein and flavor. Perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking to cut down on meat consumption.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 70
- Fats: 3.0g
- Carbs: 4g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 7g
Ingredients
Soy protein, wheat gluten, vegetable oil, natural flavors, spices, salt, and yeast extract.
Preparation Instructions
Pan-fry over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
6. Dark Chocolate Orange Sticks $3.99/10 oz
A delightful combination of real orange concentrate and dark chocolate, these sweet and tangy sticks are a perfect bite-sized indulgence.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 120
- Fats: 5g
- Carbs: 18g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 1g
Ingredients
Dark chocolate, orange concentrate, sugar, pectin, citric acid, and natural flavors.
Preparation Instructions
Enjoy as a snack or pair with coffee or tea for a treat.
7. Pretzel Slims $2.49/8 oz
These thin, crunchy pretzel crisps are a great alternative to traditional pretzels. They’re perfect for dipping, snacking, or even using as a crunchy sandwich alternative.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 110
- Fats: 0.5g
- Carbs: 23g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 3g
Ingredients
Wheat flour, salt, sugar, malt syrup, yeast, and baking soda.
Preparation Instructions
Eat straight from the bag or dip in hummus, guacamole, or peanut butter for extra flavor.
8. Almond Croissants $5.99/12 oz
These frozen, take-and-bake almond croissants are a must-try for pastry lovers. Flaky, buttery layers filled with rich almond cream and topped with crunchy almond slices make for a bakery-style experience at home.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 340
- Fats: 20g
- Carbs: 33g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 6g
Ingredients
Wheat flour, butter, sugar, eggs, almonds, yeast, salt, milk, and natural flavors.
Preparation Instructions
Let the croissants proof overnight at room temperature. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
9. Mango Cream Bars $3.49/15 fl oz
A tropical twist on a classic creamsicle, these Mango Cream Bars feature a rich vanilla ice cream center coated with a tangy mango puree. Perfect for a refreshing, low-calorie treat.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 220
- Fats: 10g
- Carbs: 36g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Dietary Fiber: <1g
- Sugar: 31g
- Protein: 4g
Ingredients
Milk, cream, mango puree, sugar, vanilla extract, stabilizers, and natural flavors.
Preparation Instructions
Enjoy straight from the freezer—no prep needed!
10. Dry Roasted & Salted Pistachios $6.99/1 lb
These high-quality, dry-roasted pistachios are packed with flavor and crunch. They’re a great snack option, full of healthy fats and protein, and they come at a lower price than other name brands.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 170
- Fats: 13g
- Carbs: 9g
- Sodium: 115mg
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 6g
Ingredients
Pistachios, sea salt.
Preparation Instructions
Enjoy as a snack, add to salads, or use in baking and cooking.
11. Organic Lentil Vegetable Soup $2.49/15 oz
A hearty and budget-friendly soup made with organic vegetables and lentils, perfect for a quick, nutritious meal. This soup is packed with plant-based protein and fiber to keep you full.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 210
- Fats: 2.5g
- Carbs: 36g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Dietary Fiber: 9g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 12g
Ingredients
Organic lentils, organic celery, organic onions, organic potatoes, organic spinach, organic tomato paste, organic seasonings, and sea salt.
Preparation Instructions
Heat in a saucepan over medium heat for 5 minutes or microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
12. Coffee Panna Cotta $3.49/7.4 oz
This Italian-inspired dessert combines rich coffee flavors with a creamy caramel base. It has a velvety texture similar to flan and makes for a luxurious after-dinner treat.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 180
- Fats: 9g
- Carbs: 22g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 18g
- Protein: 4g
Ingredients
Milk, cream, sugar, coffee extract, gelatin, caramel, and natural flavors.
Preparation Instructions
Enjoy chilled, straight from the refrigerator.
12. Hold the Dairy! Vegan Chocolate Mini Cones $3.99/8.04 oz
A delicious plant-based twist on the classic chocolate-dipped ice cream cone. Made with coconut milk and vegan chocolate, these mini cones are a great option for those avoiding dairy.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 370
- Fats: 17g
- Carbs: 48g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 29g
- Protein: 5g
Ingredients
Coconut milk, cocoa powder, sugar, wheat flour, tapioca starch, natural flavors, and emulsifiers.
Preparation Instructions
Enjoy frozen—no prep required!
Conclusion
Next time you’re browsing the aisles of Trader Joe’s, don’t skip past these underrated finds. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a gourmet-inspired treat, or a wholesome meal, these picks deliver on flavor, quality, and value. Give them a try—you might just find your new go-to favorite!
