19 Trader Joe’s Frozen Foods To Buy And 10 To Avoid

Trader Joe’s frozen aisle is packed with tempting options, but not all are worth your time. While many are perfect for quick, delicious meals, some miss the mark. Here’s a guide to 19 frozen foods you can’t miss—and 10 to skip—so you can make the most of your next shopping trip!

1. Mandarin Orange Chicken $4.99/22 oz

Mandarin Orange Chicken is one of Trader Joe’s most beloved frozen foods. It features crispy battered chicken pieces covered in a tangy and sweet orange sauce. This dish offers a great balance of flavors and is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying snack.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 320 per serving
  • Total Fat: 16g
  • Carbs: 24g
  • Sodium: 330mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Protein: 21g

Ingredients

  • Battered Chicken Dark Meat Chunks: (chicken dark meat, water, corn starch, flour [unbleached enriched wheat flour, barley flour, niacin, iron, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid], whole eggs, vegetable oil, salt, white pepper, green onion, garlic, ginger)
  • Sauce: (sugar, water, vinegar, light soy sauce [soybean, water, salt, wheat flour], modified food starch, dark soy sauce [soybean, water, straw mushroom extractives, salt, wheat flour], garlic, green onions, ginger, white pepper, sake, mandarin orange peel, orange juice, red chile), soybean oil.

Preparation Instructions

  • Heat in the oven or pan-fry for 12-15 minutes until crispy.
  • Heat sauce in a pan and toss chicken in sauce before serving.

2. Swordfish Steak $6.99/12 oz

Swordfish Steaks are a perfect option for grilling or pan-searing. These steaks are thick, tender, and mild in flavor, offering a rich texture that pairs beautifully with simple seasonings or sauces.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 180 per serving (1 steak)
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Carbs: 0g
  • Sodium: 55mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Protein: 27g

Ingredients

Swordfish.

Preparation Instructions

  • Grill or pan-sear on medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
  • Serve with a squeeze of lemon or your favorite sauce.

3. Thai Green Curry $3.49/14 oz

Trader Joe’s Thai Green Curry is a rich, aromatic dish with tender chicken, vegetables, and a creamy coconut milk-based green curry sauce. It’s a great choice when you’re craving authentic Thai flavors without the hassle.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 230 per serving (1 container)
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Carbs: 16g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Protein: 10g

Ingredients

Chicken, coconut milk, green curry paste, bamboo shoots, bell peppers, carrots, onion.

Preparation Instructions

  • Heat in the microwave for 3-4 minutes, or simmer on the stovetop for 5-7 minutes.
  • Serve over jasmine rice for a complete meal.

4. Taiwanese Green Onion Pancakes $3.99/8 oz

Taiwanese Green Onion Pancakes are a crispy, savory treat filled with fresh green onions. These pancakes make for a perfect appetizer, side dish, or even a snack.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 160 per pancake
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Carbs: 17g
  • Sodium: 290mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Protein: 3g

Ingredients

Wheat flour, green onions, palm oil, salt, sesame oil.

Preparation Instructions

  • Pan-fry on medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side until crispy and golden brown.
  • Serve with soy sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.

5. Roasted Garlic & Pesto Pizza $6.49/14.1 oz

This pizza features a delicious combination of roasted garlic, pesto, and mozzarella cheese on a crispy crust. It’s an easy, flavorful dinner option for those who crave something different from the usual pizza.

Nutritional Facts:

  • Calories: 430 per serving
  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Carbs: 43g
  • Sodium: 900mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Protein: 17g

Ingredients

  • Wheat flour, water, burrata cheese (mozzarella cheese [pasteurized cow’s milk, salt, citric acid {acidulant}, microbial enzyme], cream, milk, xanthan gum [stabilizer], mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids), mozzarella cheese (milk, salt, microbial enzyme), provolone cheese (milk, salt, microbial rennet), pesto sauce (sunflower seed oil, basil oil [basil, sunflower seed oil, salt], cashews, dehydrated cheese [milk, salt, animal rennet], pine nuts, whey powder, dried garlic, salt, natural flavors, ascorbic acid [to preserve]), garlic, sunflower seed oil, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese (milk, salt, animal rennet), salt, extra virgin olive oil, yeast.
  • Contains: Milk, wheat, cashew, pine nut.
    May contain traces of: Egg, soy, cod, crab, lobster, shrimp.

Preparation Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F.
  • Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden and crispy.

6. Outside-In Stuffed Gnocchi $3.49/16 oz

Trader Joes Outside-In Stuffed Gnocchi

Outside-In Stuffed Gnocchi is a unique twist on traditional gnocchi, filled with a rich cheese filling and served in a buttery sauce. This dish offers a satisfying, cheesy bite in every piece.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 180 per serving
  • Total Fat: 3.5g
  • Carbs: 29g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Protein: 6g

Ingredients

  • Potato, unbleached wheat flour, crushed tomatoes (tomatoes, citric acid), liquid whole eggs, mozzarella cheese (milk, salt, microbial rennet, lactic acid starter culture), salt, liquid egg whites, extra virgin olive oil, onions, basil, sunflower seed oil, garlic.
  • Contains: Milk, egg, wheat.
    May contain traces of: Soy.

Preparation Instructions

  • Boil in water for 3-4 minutes until they float.
  • Toss in melted butter or sauce of your choice.

7. Chicken Cilantro Mini Wontons $3.49/12 oz

These bite-sized wontons are filled with a flavorful chicken and cilantro mixture. They’re perfect for a quick snack, appetizer, or soup topping.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 50 per serving
  • Total Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbs: 9g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Protein: 3g

Ingredients

  • Filling:
    Chicken, cabbage, bean thread (water, sweet potato starch, carrageenan, salt), onion, green onion, cilantro, soybean flour, water, soy sauce (water, wheat, soybean, salt), sugar, garlic, salt, black pepper.
  • Dough:
    Wheat flour, water, soybean oil, salt.
  • Contains: Wheat, soy.

Preparation Instructions

Steam or microwave for 2-3 minutes, or pan-fry for a crispy finish.

8. Mushroom Medley $3.49/10 oz

Mushroom Medley offers a flavorful mix of wild mushrooms. This is a great addition to any dish, from soups to stir-fries, or simply sautéed as a side.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 80 per serving
  • Total Fat: 6g
  • Carbs: 7g
  • Sodium: 0mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Protein: 2g

Ingredients

Mushrooms (shiitake, cremini, and oyster), olive oil, salt.

Preparation Instructions

  • Sauté in a pan with olive oil for 4-5 minutes until tender.

9. Bulgogi Beef Fried Rice With Kimchi $5.49/16 oz

Bulgogi Beef Fried Rice With Kimchi combines savory bulgogi beef with flavorful fried rice and tangy kimchi. This dish delivers a delicious mix of spicy and savory flavors.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 680 per serving
  • Total Fat: 18g
  • Carbs: 103g
  • Sodium: 1960mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 5g
  • Sugar: 11g
  • Protein: 19g

Ingredients

  • Seasoned Cooked Rice:
    Cooked rice [water, rice], sauce [soy sauce {water, soybeans, wheat, salt}, sugar, sesame oil, sea salt, canola oil, water, granulated garlic, dehydrated onion, seasoning {natural flavoring, maltodextrin}, molasses, red pepper powder (red pepper, salt), seasoning {sunflower oil, natural flavor}, black pepper, xanthan gum], canola oil.
  • Stir-Fried Vegetables:
    Green cabbage, kimchi [napa cabbage, chili pepper, cayenne pepper, carrot, garlic, green onion, cane sugar, onion, sea salt, ginger], onion, canola oil, garlic.
  • Beef, Water and Potato Starch Product:
    Beef, sugar, water, garlic puree, soy sauce [water, soybeans, wheat, salt], toasted sesame oil, less than 2% of potato starch, onion juice concentrate, lemon juice concentrate, vinegar, sea salt, grill flavor [tapioca dextrin, salt, grill flavor {from sunflower oil}, smoke flavor, silicon dioxide], flavoring, black pepper.
  • Other Ingredients:
    Green onion, green beans.
  • Contains: Soy, wheat.

Preparation Instructions

  • Heat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • Optionally, pan-fry for extra crispiness.

10. Lemon Bars $3.99/8 oz

Lemon Bars are a sweet and tangy dessert, with a buttery crust and zesty lemon filling. They make the perfect treat when you’re craving something refreshing and indulgent.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 180 per bar
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Carbs: 27g
  • Sodium: 60mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Protein: 2g

Ingredients

  • Lemon puree (lemon juice, cane sugar, lemon pulp, lemon juice concentrate, lemon peel, lemon oil), wheat flour, salted butter (cream, salt), cane sugar, sweetened condensed milk (pasteurized milk, cane sugar), fructose, sugared egg yolks (egg yolks, cane sugar), powdered sugar (cane sugar, cornstarch), water, cornstarch, egg whites, xanthan gum, invert sugar syrup, coconut oil, natural flavors, baking powder (sodium acid pyrophosphate, sodium bicarbonate, cornstarch, monocalcium phosphate), sodium bicarbonate.
  • Contains: Milk, egg, wheat, coconut.

Preparation Instructions

  • Serve chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing treat.

11. Chicken Mole $5.99/12 oz

Chicken Mole is a delicious and rich dish featuring tender chicken smothered in a flavorful, dark mole sauce. This authentic Mexican dish is perfect when you’re craving a comforting, flavorful meal without the effort.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 190 per serving
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Carbs: 12g
  • Sodium: 630mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Protein: 20g

Ingredients

  • Boneless skinless chicken leg meat, water, onion, sugar, pasilla chile pepper, diced tomatoes in juice (tomatoes, tomato juice, sea salt, calcium chloride, citric acid [acidifier]), contains 2% or less of safflower oil, chile pepper blend (chili pepper, guajillo chile peppers), garlic, cornstarch, sea salt, black pepper, onion powder, coriander, ground cinnamon.

Preparation Instructions

  • Heat in the microwave for 3-4 minutes or simmer on the stove for 7-10 minutes.
  • Serve with rice or tortillas for a complete meal.

12. Broccoli and Cheddar Cheese Quiche $2.99/6 oz

This quiche combines the creamy, rich taste of cheddar cheese with the fresh, earthy flavor of broccoli in a buttery, flaky crust. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or a quick snack.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 420 per serving
  • Total Fat: 28g
  • Carbs: 26g
  • Sodium: 670mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Protein: 16g

Ingredients

  • Eggs, milk (milk, vitamin D3), unbleached enriched wheat flour (wheat flour, niacin, reduced iron, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid), mild cheddar cheese (pasteurized milk, cheese cultures, salt, microbial enzyme, annatto [color]), broccoli, palm shortening, sharp cheddar cheese (pasteurized milk, salt, cheese cultures, annatto [color], microbial enzyme), onions, water, canola oil, cornstarch, dried garlic, sea salt, oat fiber, sugar, butter (pasteurized cream, salt), black pepper.
  • Contains: Milk, egg, wheat.

Preparation Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and the crust is golden brown.

13. Joe’s Diner Mac ‘n Cheese $2.99/14 oz

This classic comfort food features elbow macaroni in a creamy cheddar cheese sauce. It’s the perfect quick meal that offers nostalgic flavor with every bite.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 300 per serving
  • Total Fat: 14g
  • Carbs: 35g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Protein: 8g

Ingredients

Elbow macaroni, cheddar cheese, milk, butter, flour, salt.

Preparation Instructions

Microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, or heat on the stove in a saucepan for 5 minutes until creamy.

14. Italian Style Meatballs $5.49/16 oz

These Italian-style meatballs are made from seasoned beef, perfectly cooked to give a savory, juicy bite. Pair them with spaghetti, or serve them in a sandwich or sub for a tasty treat.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 240 per serving (4 meatballs)
  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Carbs: 5g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Protein: 11g

Ingredients

  • Beef, water, seasonings (bread crumbs [wheat flour, salt, ammonium bicarbonate {leavening agent}, Parmesan cheese {part-skim cow’s milk, cheese cultures, salt, vegetable rennet}, salt, dextrose, dehydrated onion, dehydrated red & green bell peppers, spices & spice extractives, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley]), textured soy flour, soy protein concentrate.
  • Contains: Wheat, milk, soy.

Preparation Instructions

  • Bake in the oven at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, or cook in a skillet over medium heat for 7-10 minutes.

15. Mini Shrimp Bao $4.99/10.48 oz

Mini Shrimp Bao are soft, steamed buns filled with tender shrimp and savory seasonings. These bite-sized treats make the perfect appetizer or snack, and they’re great for dipping in your favorite sauce.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 170 per serving
  • Total Fat: 3.0g
  • Carbs: 30g
  • Sodium: 290mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Protein: 6g

Ingredients

  • Bao Bun
    Wheat flour, water, cornstarch, sugar, soybean oil, yeast, leavening agents [sodium bicarbonate, sodium acid pyrophosphate, monocalcium phosphate], salt, tapioca starch.
  • Shrimp Filling
    Shrimp, cornstarch, spring onion, lemongrass, shallot, water, garlic, sugar, red chili pepper, salt, paprika, black pepper, leavening agent [sodium bicarbonate], citric acid [acidulant], sodium citrate.
  • Lemongrass Lime Chili Sauce
    Water, sugar, cornstarch, lemongrass, lime juice, garlic, rice vinegar, salt, red chili pepper, xanthan gum, chili powder.
  • Contains: Wheat, shrimp.
    May contain: Sesame.

Preparation Instructions

  • Steam for 6-8 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

16. Fruits & Greens Smoothie Blend $3.99/16 oz

Fruits & Greens Smoothie Blend is a convenient frozen mix of spinach, kale, pineapple, mango, and banana. Perfect for smoothies, this blend is packed with nutrients and natural sweetness.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 80 per serving
  • Total Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbs: 19g
  • Sodium: 15mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Protein: 2g

Ingredients

  • Blueberries, banana, strawberries, dragon fruit, spinach, kale, ascorbic acid and citric acid (to maintain color).

Preparation Instructions

  • Blend with water, juice, or milk for a refreshing smoothie.

17. Portuguese Donuts $3.99/7.76 oz

These Portuguese Donuts are light, fluffy, and coated in cinnamon sugar. A perfect sweet treat for breakfast or dessert, they’re quick to prepare and full of flavor.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 210 per donut
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Carbs: 28g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 11g
  • Protein: 4g

Ingredients

  • Wheat flour, chocolate hazelnut filling (hazelnut and cocoa crème [sugar, canola oil, hazelnut, cocoa powder, skim milk powder, whey powder, soy lecithin {emulsifier}, natural flavor], powdered sugar [sugar, cornstarch], chocolate [sugar, unsweetened chocolate, cocoa butter, soy lecithin {emulsifier}, natural vanilla flavor], cocoa powder, sunflower oil, soy lecithin {emulsifier}), water, sunflower oil, sugar, margarine (vegetable oils [coconut oil, sunflower oil], water, mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids, citric acid [acidifier]), liquid pasteurized egg, contains 2% or less of cultured butter (pasteurized cream, lactic acid starter culture), mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids, guar gum, natural flavor, spices, ascorbic acid (dough conditioner), salt, skim milk powder, calcium carbonate, yeast.
  • Contains: Milk, egg, soy, wheat, hazelnut.
    May contain: Sesame.

Preparation Instructions

Microwave for 15-20 seconds or heat in the oven for 5-7 minutes at 350°F.

18. Organic Riced Cauliflower $1.99/12 oz

Organic Riced Cauliflower is a healthy, low-carb alternative to regular rice. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and works well in stir-fries, as a side dish, or as a base for grain bowls.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 25 per serving (1/3 cup)
  • Total Fat: 0g
  • Carbs: 5g
  • Sodium: 15mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Protein: 2g

Ingredients

Cauliflower.

Preparation Instructions

Heat in the microwave for 3-4 minutes or sauté in a skillet for 5 minutes with a little olive oil.

9. BBQ Chicken Pizza $5.49/13 oz

This BBQ Chicken Pizza features tender grilled chicken, smoky barbecue sauce, and a delicious cheese blend. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it a great meal for any occasion.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 290 per serving
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Carbs: 35g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Protein: 14g

Ingredients

  • Crust: Wheat flour, water, sunflower oil, salt, yeast.
    BBQ Chicken: Boneless skinless chicken breast with rib meat, water, seasoning [sugar, tomato powder, salt, citric acid, caramel color, spices, chili powder, beet powder, onion powder, garlic powder], modified potato starch, salt, natural smoke flavor.
    Low Moisture Mozzarella Cheese: Pasteurized milk, cheese cultures, salt, microbial enzymes.
    BBQ Sauce: Water, tomato paste, vinegar, sugar, caramel color, molasses, crystalline fructose, glucose syrup, modified tapioca starch, salt, dextrose, onion powder, garlic powder, spices [cumin, allspice, cinnamon, cardamom], natural smoke flavor, acetic acid.
    Smoked Gouda: Pasteurized milk, cheese cultures, salt, microbial enzyme, annatto extract [color].
    Other Ingredients: Red onions, cilantro.
  • Contains: Milk, wheat.

Preparation Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F.
  • Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted.

Here are 10 frozen foods that you might want to avoid on your next trip to Trader Joe’s.

1. Tempura Shrimp $5.99/8 oz

Tempura Shrimp is one of those frozen foods that promises a crispy, light bite but often falls flat in execution. The shrimp are coated in a tempura batter that lacks crispness and tends to be greasy when cooked.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 220 per serving (5 pieces)
  • Total Fat: 14g
  • Carbs: 17g
  • Sodium: 540mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Protein: 10g

Ingredients

Shrimp, wheat flour, corn starch, vegetable oil, salt, spices.

Preparation Instructions

  • Fry in oil for 3-4 minutes or bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.

2. Coconut Shrimp $6.99/8 oz

Coconut Shrimp sounds like a tropical treat, but this product disappoints with its overly sweet, soggy coconut crust. It lacks the crispy exterior and flavorful shrimp filling that you would expect from a high-quality frozen snack.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 260 per serving (4 pieces)
  • Total Fat: 14g
  • Carbs: 23g
  • Sodium: 340mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Protein: 9g

Ingredients

Shrimp, coconut, wheat flour, sugar, egg, salt, vegetable oil.

Preparation Instructions

Bake in the oven at 375°F for 10-12 minutes or fry in oil for 3-4 minutes.

3. Premium Salmon Burgers $7.49/12.8 oz

Premium Salmon Burgers promise a juicy, flavorful alternative to regular burgers, but the texture is often dry and bland. The lack of seasoning makes them a letdown, especially when compared to other frozen fish options.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 100 per burger
  • Total Fat: 3g
  • Carbs: 3g
  • Sodium: 330mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Protein: 15g

Ingredients

  • Pink salmon, water, seasoning (tapioca syrup, mirepoix powder [vegetables {onion, carrot, celery}], sugar, cornstarch, salt, onion powder, sunflower oil, dextrose, antioxidant blend for freshness [rosemary extract, tocopherols and ascorbic acid]), sea salt, carrageenan, yeast extract (yeast extract, maltodextrin, salt), natural flavor.
  • Contains: Salmon.

Preparation Instructions

  • Pan-fry in a skillet for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

4. Chiles Rellenos Con Queso $5.99/14.4 oz

Chiles Rellenos Con Queso are stuffed poblano peppers with cheese, but the cheese filling is often too thin and watery, leaving the peppers bland and unappetizing. The texture can also be a bit mushy after heating.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 330 per serving
  • Total Fat: 24g
  • Carbs: 19g
  • Sodium: 870mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Protein: 9g

Ingredients

  • Tomato Sauce: Tomato, water, onion, salt, palm oil, garlic, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, parsley flakes, citric acid [to preserve], oregano leaves.
    Fire Roasted Poblano Peppers
    Asadero Cheese: Milk, acetic acid, calcium chloride, sodium citrate, salt, microbial rennet.
    Batter: Water, egg white powder [egg white, dextrose, guar gum, silicon dioxide {anti-caking}, citric acid {acidifier}], enriched flour [wheat flour, niacin, iron, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid], salt, paprika.
    Palm Oil
  • Contains: Milk, egg, wheat.

Preparation Instructions

  • Bake in the oven at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, or microwave for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

5. Corn & Cheese Arepas $3.49/8 oz

Corn & Cheese Arepas are a disappointing frozen take on the classic Colombian snack. The texture is dry and the cheese filling lacks flavor, making them a lackluster option for those looking for an authentic arepa experience.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 200 per serving (2 pieces)
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Carbs: 24g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Protein: 4g

Ingredients

Cornmeal, cheese, vegetable oil, salt.

Preparation Instructions

  • Heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or pan-fry for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.

6. Steamed Chicken Soup Dumplings $4.99/9 oz

While the Steamed Chicken Soup Dumplings sound promising, they often end up being a watery mess, with the broth inside failing to hold its shape. The dough is also thicker than expected, making them less satisfying than traditional dumplings.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 180 per serving (3 pieces)
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Carbs: 22g
  • Sodium: 460mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Protein: 7g

Ingredients

Chicken, flour, water, soy sauce, garlic, ginger.

Preparation Instructions

Steam for 10 minutes or microwave for 2 minutes.

7. Chicken Karaage $6.49/18.97 oz

Chicken Karaage promises crispy Japanese fried chicken, but the batter often fails to crisp up, leaving a soggy and greasy texture. The flavor is also underwhelming, making it less enjoyable compared to other fried chicken options.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 340 per serving
  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Carbs: 25g
  • Sodium: 730mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Protein: 15g

Ingredients

  • Crispy Seasoned Chicken:
    Boneless skinless chicken leg meat, water, soybean oil, wheat flour, cornstarch, modified tapioca starch, corn meal, sea salt, sugar, soy protein concentrate (soy protein concentrate, soy lecithin), natural flavors, yeast extract, salted mirin [sake {water, rice, koji (Aspergillus oryzae)}, sugar, water, salt, yeast extract], soy sauce [water, soybeans, wheat, salt], white wine vinegar, sodium bicarbonate, garlic powder, ginger powder, black pepper, eggs, rosemary powder.
  • Sauce:
    Water, canola oil, salted egg yolk [egg yolks, salt], modified food starch, rice vinegar, malt vinegar, salt, tomato concentrate, sugar, enzyme modified egg yolk [egg yolks, phospholipase], gum arabic, spice, yeast, garlic powder, xanthan gum.
  • Contains: Egg, soy, wheat.

Preparation Instructions

  • Fry in oil for 4-5 minutes or bake in the oven at 375°F for 12-15 minutes.

8. Cha Siu Bao $4.49/8 oz

Cha Siu Bao are steamed buns filled with sweet and savory BBQ pork, but the dough can often be too thick, and the filling doesn’t have enough flavor to make the overall dish satisfying.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 200 per serving (2 buns)
  • Total Fat: 6g
  • Carbs: 28g
  • Sodium: 370mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Protein: 7g

Ingredients

Pork, flour, sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, yeast.

Preparation Instructions

Steam for 10-12 minutes or microwave for 2 minutes until hot.

9. Organic Foursome Vegetable Medley $2.99/16 oz

The Organic Foursome Vegetable Medley is a mix of frozen vegetables, but the texture often turns mushy when cooked, and the flavor is quite bland, making it less appetizing than other veggie options.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 70 per serving (1/2 cup)
  • Total Fat: 0g
  • Carbs: 16g
  • Sodium: 15mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Protein: 2g

Ingredients

Carrots, peas, corn, green beans.

Preparation Instructions

Microwave for 2-3 minutes, or sauté in a pan for 5 minutes until tender.

10. Spicy Meat Pizza $5.99/18.34 oz

The Spicy Meat Pizza features a combination of spicy sausage and pepperoni, but the meat tends to be greasy and the flavors don’t balance well. The crust also doesn’t hold up, making this pizza a less enjoyable option.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories: 310 per serving
  • Total Fat: 16g
  • Carbs: 29g
  • Sodium: 640mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Protein: 15g

Ingredients

  • Wheat flour, water, low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese (pasteurized milk, salt, cheese cultures, microbial enzyme), Calabrian recipe smoked sausage (pork, pork fat, salt, seasoning blend [paprika, red chili pepper, onion, black pepper, garlic, cilantro], acerola cherry powder, leek powder, natural flavors), grilled red bell peppers, tomato puree, cooked meatballs (pork, water, salt, dextrose [corn, wheat], seasoning blend [anise, caraway, black pepper, fennel, ginger, cumin, paprika, parsnip, garlic], onion, glucose syrup [corn, wheat], natural flavoring), pepper sauce (red bell peppers, sugar, water, spices [red chili pepper, smoked paprika], modified cornstarch, lemon juice concentrate, salt), tomato paste, sunflower oil, salt, onions, extra virgin olive oil, yeast, cornstarch, ground fennel seed powder, garlic, parsley, basil, red chili pepper, balsamic vinegar (wine vinegar, concentrated grape must), black pepper, dried oregano, dill.
  • Contains: Milk, wheat.
    May contain: Soy.

Preparation Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400°F.
  • Bake for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden and cheese is melted.

Conclusion

With these 19 must-have frozen foods, you’ll always have something tasty on hand. Avoid the 10 to skip, and you’ll ensure your freezer is stocked with only the best from Trader Joe’s. Enjoy your shopping!

 

 

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