Trader Joe’s Time-Savers: 15 Meals You Can Make in Minutes

Busy schedules don’t mean you have to sacrifice healthy, flavorful meals—especially when Trader Joe’s is stocked with ready-to-eat options that deliver on both taste and nutrition. From protein-packed entrees to plant-based sides, these 15 pre-cooked Trader Joe’s items are the ultimate time-savers. We’ve taste-tested and ed them using a structured breakdown so you can stock your fridge and freezer with no-fuss staples that are ready when you are.

1. Spicy Mexican Style Riced Cauliflower $3.99, 16 oz

This veggie-packed, low-carb rice alternative brings bold Southwestern flavor with every bite. It’s made with cauliflower, tomatoes, jalapeños, and a medley of spices.

Perfectly spiced without overwhelming heat, this cauliflower rice is ideal for taco bowls or as a stand-alone side. It’s a game-changer for low-carb eaters.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories 50
  • Fat 2.5g
  • Carbs 5g
  • Sodium 330mg
  • Dietary Fiber 1g
  • Sugar 2g
  • Protein 2g

Ingredients

whole peeled tomatoes (tomatoes, tomato juice, citric acid [acidifier]), olive oil, diced onion, sea salt, chopped garlic, chopped basil, dried oregano.

Preparation Instructions

Sauté in a pan over medium heat for 5–7 minutes or microwave in bag for 4 minutes.

2. Sliced Roast Turkey Breast $5.49, 8 oz

This deli-style turkey is oven-roasted and ready to eat, perfect for sandwiches or protein-packed salads.

Moist, savory, and lean, the turkey slices hold their own in both hot and cold dishes. A reliable fridge staple.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories 60
  • Fat 1g
  • Carbs 0g
  • Sodium 440mg
  • Dietary Fiber 0g
  • Sugar 0g
  • Protein 13g

Ingredients

Turkey breast, water, sea salt, vinegar, rosemary extract.

Preparation Instructions

Enjoy cold or heat in a skillet for 2–3 minutes per side.

3. Multigrain Blend with Vegetables $2.99, 16 oz

A hearty mix of barley, quinoa, rice, and vegetables like carrots, peas, and corn.

Nutty, chewy, and deeply satisfying, this blend is excellent as a base for bowls or an easy side.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories 200
  • Fat 3g
  • Carbs 39g
  • Sodium 360mg
  • Dietary Fiber 5g
  • Sugar 4g
  • Protein 6g

Ingredients

Cooked multigrains, vegetables, olive oil, garlic, onion, salt, pepper.

Preparation Instructions

Microwave for 3–4 minutes or sauté for 5–6 minutes until warm.

4. Steamed Lentils $3.29, 17.63 oz

These pre-cooked lentils are seasoned lightly and ready to eat straight from the pack.

Earthy, soft, and versatile, they’re great in salads, soups, or on toast with goat cheese.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories 120
  • Fat 0.5g
  • Carbs 21g
  • Sodium 230mg
  • Dietary Fiber 6g
  • Sugar 1g
  • Protein 9g

Ingredients

Lentils, salt, essential oils (cloves, laurel, thyme, pepper, and garlic), contains traces of wheat (lentils).

Preparation Instructions

Serve cold or warm gently in microwave or stovetop.

5. Organic Jasmine Rice $3.79, 30 oz

Fluffy, microwaveable jasmine rice with perfect texture and authentic flavor.

Fragrant and soft every time, this rice is a meal-prep essential for Asian dishes or quick stir-fries.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories 250
  • Fat 0g
  • Carbs 55g
  • Sodium 0mg
  • Dietary Fiber <1g
  • Sugar 0g
  • Protein 4g

Ingredients

Organic jasmine rice, water.

Preparation Instructions

Microwave for 3 minutes—no water or mess needed.

6. Cooked Beets $3.69, 17.6 oz

These peeled, cooked, and vacuum-sealed beets are sweet and earthy.

Convenient and mess-free, they’re perfect for tossing into salads or roasting with herbs.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories 35
  • Fat 0g
  • Carbs 8g
  • Sodium 65mg
  • Dietary Fiber 2g
  • Sugar 6g
  • Protein 1g

Ingredients

Cooked beets.

Preparation Instructions

Serve cold or warm in skillet or oven.

7. Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast $7.99, 12 oz

Marinated in lemon juice and cracked pepper, these grilled chicken breasts are ready to reheat.

Juicy, zesty, and perfectly portioned for meal prepping or salad topping.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories 120
  • Fat 2g
  • Carbs 0g
  • Sodium 480mg
  • Dietary Fiber 0g
  • Sugar 0g
  • Protein 24g

Ingredients

Chicken breast, lemon juice, black pepper, sea salt, garlic powder.

Preparation Instructions

Microwave or pan-sear for 2–3 minutes until warm.

8. Gluten Free Breaded Shrimp $9.99, 12 oz

Crunchy, seasoned shrimp coated in a gluten-free batter and ready to bake.

Crispy and flavorful, these are a must for shrimp tacos or dipping with sriracha mayo.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories 240
  • Fat 11g
  • Carbs 21g
  • Sodium 590mg
  • Dietary Fiber 1g
  • Sugar <1g
  • Protein 12g

Ingredients

Shrimp, water, modified tapioca starch, coconut flour, tapioca starch, palm olein, salt, sodium bicarbonate (leavening), citric acid (acidulant), grapeseed oil, mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids (emulsifier). Contains coconut, shrimp.

Preparation Instructions

Bake at 425°F for 10–12 minutes or air fry until golden.

9. Chicken Meatballs $3.99, 12 oz

These savory, fully cooked chicken meatballs are seasoned with herbs and garlic.

Tender and juicy with a mild flavor—great for pasta, wraps, or rice bowls.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories 150
  • Fat 9g
  • Carbs 2g
  • Sodium 300mg
  • Dietary Fiber 0g
  • Sugar 0g
  • Protein 16g

Ingredients

Chicken, contains 2% or less of sea salt, oregano, basil, vinegar powder, granulated garlic, granulated onion, rosemary extract, black pepper, parsley flakes.

Preparation Instructions

Microwave or heat in skillet for 5–7 minutes.

10. Sriracha Baked Tofu $3.99, 7 oz

Firm tofu marinated in spicy sriracha sauce and baked for convenience.

Satisfyingly chewy with a spicy kick—perfect for bowls or a plant-based sandwich filler.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories 140
  • Fat 7g
  • Carbs 6g
  • Sodium 440mg
  • Dietary Fiber 1g
  • Sugar 2g
  • Protein 15g

Ingredients

Tofu (water, soybeans, magnesium chloride, calcium sulfate), sriracha chili sauce (red chili peppers, distilled vinegar, garlic powder, sugar, salt, spice), water, chili flakes, cornstarch. Contains soy.

Preparation Instructions

Heat in skillet, microwave, or enjoy cold.

11. Fully Cooked Uncured Bacon $4.99, 2.8 oz

Smoky, crispy bacon that’s ready in seconds with no greasy cleanup.

Crisps up fast and tastes just like fresh-cooked—perfect for sandwiches or salads.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories 100
  • Fat 7g
  • Carbs 0g
  • Sodium 470mg
  • Dietary Fiber 0g
  • Sugar 0g
  • Protein 7g

Ingredients

Pork belly, water, sodium lactate, salt, turbinado sugar, spice extractives, spices, lactic acid starter.

Preparation Instructions

Microwave for 15–20 seconds per slice.

12. Asparagus Risotto $3.99, 12 oz

A creamy, ready-to-heat risotto with real asparagus and parmesan cheese.

Creamy and indulgent, with a great bite from the asparagus—restaurant quality at home.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories 210
  • Fat 9g
  • Carbs 25g
  • Sodium 400mg
  • Dietary Fiber 1g
  • Sugar 2g
  • Protein 6g

Ingredients

Rice, cream, asparagus, parmesan cheese, butter, onions, salt.

Preparation Instructions

Microwave or pan-heat for 5 minutes.

13. Roasted Potatoes with Peppers and Onions $2.99, 16 oz

A rustic blend of baby potatoes, bell peppers, and onions—fully roasted and ready to reheat.

Crispy edges, savory sweetness, and bold roasted flavor—ideal for breakfast hashes.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories 110
  • Fat 4g
  • Carbs 17g
  • Sodium 280mg
  • Dietary Fiber 2g
  • Sugar 2g
  • Protein 2g

Ingredients

Potatoes, bell peppers, onions, olive oil, garlic.

Preparation Instructions

Pan-fry or bake at 400°F for 10–15 minutes.

14. Grass Fed Beef Sirloin Roast $9.99, 16 oz

Fully cooked and seasoned sirloin roast made with 100% grass-fed beef.

Tender and flavorful with a clean, beefy finish—slice thin for sandwiches or plate with sides.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories 160
  • Fat 8g
  • Carbs 0g
  • Sodium 340mg
  • Dietary Fiber 0g
  • Sugar 0g
  • Protein 22g

Ingredients

Beef sirloin, garlic, salt, pepper, rosemary.

Preparation Instructions

Slice and microwave or warm in oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.

15. Stir Fry Veggie Blend $3.49, 16 oz

A colorful mix of broccoli, snap peas, carrots, and bell peppers—prepped and frozen.

Fresh-tasting with great texture once cooked. Makes any stir fry a breeze.

Nutritional Facts

  • Calories 20
  • Fat 0g
  • Carbs 4g
  • Sodium 25mg
  • Dietary Fiber 2g
  • Sugar 2g
  • Protein 2g

Ingredients

Broccoli florets, napa cabbage, bok choy, snow peas.

Preparation Instructions

Sauté in skillet for 5–7 minutes with oil or steam in microwave.

Final Thoughts

Trader Joe’s continues to make mealtime easier without sacrificing quality or taste. Whether you’re craving protein, fiber-packed grains, or flavorful vegetables, these 15 ready-made options help you skip the prep and still serve up something satisfying. Stock up your fridge or freezer with these time-saving essentials—you won’t regret it.

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