Discover the ultimate guide to Trader Joe’s must-have products, curated from Serious Eats editors’ top picks and expanded with popular shopper favorites.
From addictive snacks like Chewy Chocolate & Peanut Butter Protein Bars to versatile staples such as Everything But The Bagel Seasoning, this list of 20 items highlights affordable, flavorful finds that elevate everyday meals and treats.
Dive in for descriptions, prices, and why they’re worth grabbing on your next trip.
Chewy Chocolate & Peanut Butter Protein Bars – Price: $3.69
- Featured the favorite flavor combo of chocolate and peanut butter, was the overall winner in a taste test of 26 protein bars, and testers loved its flavor and crunch.
Sublime Ice Cream Sandwiches – Price: $$4.99
- Took the top spot in the cookie sandwich category of an ice cream sandwich taste test, and the editor loves ice cream sandwiches.
Organic Kansas City Style BBQ Sauce – Price: $2.99
- Tied for the overall win with Bull’s Eye in a taste test of 13 Kansas City–style barbecue sauces, including ones from Kansas City.
Pie Crust – Price: $4.49
- Frozen, pre-rolled pie dough, the overall winner in a pie crust taste test, convenient for editors who don’t keep pie dough in their freezers.
Creamy Almond Butter – Price: $6.49
- Came out on top for salted varieties in a taste test of 13 creamy almond butters, creamy, nutty, with crunchy pops from a bold dose of salt crystals, and cheaper than much of the competition.
Coconut Water – Price: $1.69
- The team’s favorite in a coconut water taste test, not the much pricier brand assumed to win, making post-workout rehydration cheaper.
Yellow Cake Mix – Price: $2.99
- Trader Joe’s Celebration Cake & Baking Mix took the crown for “best for a celebration” in a yellow cake mix taste test, includes cake mix, frosting mix, and sprinkles, perfect for forgotten birthdays.
Salsa Autentica and Chunky Salsa – Price: $2.29
- Two products that were runners-up in a taste test of 21 salsas, good enough to happily dig into at a party.
Domestic Parmesan Cheese – Price: $2.99
- Tops among domestic Parm options in a taste test comparing imported Parmigiano-Reggiano against domestic Parmesan, deemed just fine for grating, especially given its budget-friendly price.
Unsweetened Iced Tea – Price: $4.99
- A solid runner-up in an unsweetened iced tea taste test, tasters praised its floral notes and classic flavor profile, suitable for parties.
Everything But The Bagel Seasoning – Price: $1.99
- Highly recommended versatile seasoning that adds flavor to bagels, avocado toast, eggs, and more, a staple for many shoppers.
Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups – Price: $5.99
- Praised as superior to Reese’s, with a rich chocolate and peanut butter flavor that makes them addictive and a top snack choice.
Peanut Butter Filled Pretzel Nuggets – Price: $2.69
- Addictive salty-sweet snack that’s a must-have for many, often cited as one of the most loved items for its crunch and flavor.
Speculoos Cookie Butter – Price: $3.99
- Creamy spread with a unique spiced cookie flavor, enjoyed straight from the jar, on toast, or with apples, a fan favorite for its versatility.
Frozen Orange Chicken – Price: $5.49
- Popular frozen meal with crispy chicken in tangy sauce, convenient for quick dinners and repeatedly praised for tasting like takeout.
Soup Dumplings – Price: $3.49
- Easy-to-prepare frozen appetizer with juicy filling, a go-to for adding to ramen or as a snack, loved for its authentic taste.
Frozen Vegetable Fried Rice – Price: $2.99
- Quick and flavorful side dish or base for meals, appreciated for its convenience and veggie-packed goodness in busy households.
Unexpected Cheddar Cheese – Price: $3.99
- Unique cheese with a crumbly texture and sharp flavor reminiscent of aged cheddar and Parmesan, recommended for snacking or recipes.
Chili Onion Crunch – Price: $1.99
- Spicy, crunchy topping that elevates dishes like eggs, avocado, or rice, a favorite for adding heat and texture to everyday meals.
