Trader Joe’s is renowned for its wide array of delicious and unique pasta sauces, making it a favorite destination for pasta lovers. With so many options on the shelves, it can be challenging to decide which sauce to bring home. To help you navigate through the choices, we’ve tasted and ranked every Trader Joe’s pasta sauce based on flavor and quality. Whether you prefer a classic marinara, a rich Alfredo, or a zesty arrabbiata, our comprehensive guide will ensure you pick the best sauce to elevate your next pasta meal. Join us as we dive into the savory world of Trader Joe’s pasta sauces, ranking them from the very best to those that might not make it to your shopping cart again.
16. Cacio e Pepe Pasta Sauce $3.79
Trader Joe’s Cacio e Pepe Pasta Sauce aims to honor the simplicity and tradition of this classic Roman dish. Combining Pecorino Romano cheese, made from sheep’s milk, and bold black pepper, the sauce promises a creamy, savory experience that’s true to its ancient roots. While this two-ingredient sauce is historically served over long noodles like spaghetti or linguine, its versatility allows it to pair well with ravioli, gnocchi, or even in a white lasagna.
However, despite its traditional ingredients and rich heritage, many customer reviews have noted that Trader Joe’s version falls short in flavor, with some finding it lacks the depth and creaminess expected from a good cacio e pepe sauce. This feedback suggests that while the sauce has the potential for various creative culinary applications, it may need some enhancement to fully capture the essence of this beloved Italian classic.
15. Organic Marinara Sauce $3.49
Trader Joe’s Organic Marinara Sauce exemplifies the beauty of simplicity with its organically-grown, vine-ripened California tomatoes, steam-peeled and simmered to perfection. The sauce achieves a medium-thick consistency and robust tomato flavor, enhanced by organic Parmesan cheese and a touch of basil for a subtle nuttiness. While this sauce is praised for its authentic and fresh taste, some customer reviews suggest it might be a bit too mild for those seeking a more intense marinara experience. Nonetheless, its versatility makes it an excellent choice not only for pasta but also for pizza, lasagna, Chicken Parm, roasted fish, or simply as a dip for crusty bread. This sauce manages to elevate everyday dishes with its balanced and rich flavors, earning it a spot as a pantry staple for many Trader Joe’s fans.
14. Three Cheese Pomodoro Pasta Sauce $3.49
Trader Joe’s Three Cheese Pomodoro Pasta Sauce receives mixed reviews from customers, balancing its strengths and weaknesses. Many appreciate the sauce for its rich and thick texture, which comes from a blend of three cheeses: Parmesan, Romano, and Asiago. This combination provides a robust and creamy flavor that pairs well with various pasta dishes. However, some customers find the sauce to be slightly too salty and wish for a more pronounced cheese flavor. Despite this, the chunks of tomato and the overall hearty consistency are often highlighted as positives.
13. Bolognese Style Tomato & Beef Pasta Sauce $4.49
Trader Joe’s revamped Bolognese Style Tomato & Beef Pasta Sauce has garnered positive feedback from customers, reflecting significant improvements in flavor and meatiness. By partnering with a supplier who crafts sauces for a renowned NYC Italian restaurant, Trader Joe’s enhanced their recipe using 100% imported Italian tomatoes known for their sweeter, less acidic profile. This change results in a more balanced and better-tasting sauce. The most notable improvement is the increased beef content, now at 9%, compared to the previous 6%, which was the industry standard. This seemingly small increase has made a substantial difference, delivering a richer, meatier sauce that stands out. Customers appreciate the robust, hearty flavor and the authentic Italian touch, making this Bolognese sauce a favorite for enhancing pasta dishes with a satisfying, savory taste.
12. Roasted Garlic Marinara Sauce $1.99
Trader Joe’s Roasted Garlic Marinara Sauce is a nostalgic delight that captures the essence of a hearty, homemade meal with ease and convenience. Customers rave about its robust flavor, achieved through a blend of classic tomato puree, roasted garlic, and a harmonious mix of parsley, basil, and oregano. The sauce’s rich aroma and taste evoke memories of family dinners and simple weeknight meals, making it a staple in many households. The addition of roasted garlic elevates the sauce, providing a depth of flavor that feels authentically Italian. This versatile sauce is not just perfect for pasta but also serves as a delicious base for dishes like shakshuka, minestrone, ratatouille, or even a creamy tomato soup. With its ideal balance of flavors, Trader Joe’s Roasted Garlic Marinara Sauce turns any meal into a comforting and satisfying dining experience, without the need for reservations or fancy attire.
11. Tomato Basil Marinara Sauce $1.99
Trader Joe’s Tomato Basil Marinara Sauce is a versatile and well-balanced staple that customers consistently praise for its bright tomato flavor and moderate basil notes. This sauce incorporates a harmonious blend of tomato puree, tomatoes, oil, salt, sugar, garlic, onions, and spices like parsley and oregano, in addition to the basil. The result is a smooth, slightly chunky sauce that maintains a fresh and vibrant taste. It’s perfect for heating ‘as is’ and serving over various pasta types, from spaghetti to penne, and even Thai noodles for a creative twist. Additionally, it serves wonderfully as a simmer sauce for dishes like chicken breasts or meatballs and can be a great base for your own culinary creations. Its balanced flavor profile and versatility make Trader Joe’s Tomato Basil Marinara a favorite among shoppers, who appreciate its ability to elevate both simple and complex meals effortlessly.
10. Alfredo Pasta Sauce $3.49
Trader Joe’s Alfredo Pasta Sauce has received mixed reviews from customers, highlighting both its strengths and areas for improvement. Many appreciate its convenience and the fact that it offers a quick solution for a creamy pasta dish. The sauce boasts a rich texture and a decent flavor, thanks to the blend of cheese and cream. However, some customers feel that it lacks depth and the authentic, buttery taste they expect from a high-quality Alfredo sauce. Additionally, a few reviewers noted that it can be a bit too thick and may require thinning with pasta water or additional cream. Overall, while Trader Joe’s Alfredo Pasta Sauce serves well in a pinch, it might not fully satisfy those looking for a more traditional and nuanced Alfredo experience
9. Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Sauce $3.49
Trader Joe’s Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Sauce has garnered positive reviews for its rich, creamy texture and balanced flavor profile. Customers appreciate the harmonious blend of tangy tomatoes and smooth cream, complemented by subtle notes of basil. This sauce is often praised for its versatility, making it an excellent choice for a variety of pasta dishes, from penne to ravioli. Reviewers frequently mention that it has a homemade quality, providing a comforting and satisfying meal experience. However, some have noted that the basil flavor could be more pronounced. Overall, Trader Joe’s Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Sauce is a favorite for those seeking a delicious and convenient option for a hearty, flavorful pasta meal.
8. Lemon Pesto Sauce $3.49
Trader Joe’s Lemon Pesto Sauce is often described by customers as a culinary delight, bringing a refreshing twist to traditional pesto with its vibrant lemon flavor. Inspired by the Amalfi coast, this sauce combines whole lemons with sunflower seed oil, Grana Padano cheese, almonds, salt, black pepper, and extra lemon zest, creating a light, bright, and slightly nutty flavor profile. Reviewers praise its versatility and the magical touch it adds to various dishes, whether stirred into pasta, spread on a baguette with prosciutto, or dolloped on grilled chicken or shrimp kabobs. The sauce’s unique blend of citrusy zest and savory cheese makes it a standout favorite for many, adding an enchanting flair to any meal. Despite its seasonal availability, customers eagerly anticipate its return, often stocking up to ensure they can enjoy its delightful flavors year-round.
7. Calabrian Chili Spicy Pasta Sauce $4.99
Trader Joe’s Calabrian Chili Spicy Pasta Sauce has quickly become a favorite among customers for its perfect balance of heat and flavor. Infused with Calabrian Chili hot sauce, this tomato-based sauce offers a pleasant, warming kick that is beautifully complemented by a touch of honey, giving it a subtle sweetness and a striking orange hue. The sauce’s thick, creamy texture, achieved without the use of cream, ensures it coats a variety of pasta shapes effortlessly. Reviewers particularly enjoy pairing it with Pappardelle Pasta or Spinach Tortellini, topped with a generous grating of Toscano Cheese with Black Pepper for a quick and cozy meal. Its versatility also shines through in non-pasta applications, such as a flavorful dip for Breaded Mozzarella Cheese Sticks or a savory topping for pizza crust. This vibrant and hearty sauce is perfect for warding off winter’s chill while reminding us of the bright days ahead.
6. Organic Vodka Sauce $3.49
Trader Joe’s Organic Vodka Sauce has received a mixed bag of reviews from customers. Many praise its rich and creamy texture, noting that it pairs perfectly with pasta for a quick and satisfying meal. The organic ingredients are appreciated by health-conscious consumers, adding to its appeal. However, some reviewers have criticized its flavor, mentioning that it lacks the depth and complexity found in other vodka sauces on the market. Overall, while Trader Joe’s Organic Vodka Sauce has its strengths in terms of quality ingredients and convenience, its taste may not satisfy everyone’s palate.
5. Rosatella Pasta Sauce $3.99
Trader Joe’s Rosatella Pasta Sauce has become a customer favorite for its ingenious combination of tangy marinara and silky alfredo, offering the best of both worlds for pasta lovers. This sauce perfectly balances the bright acidity of tomatoes with the rich creaminess of alfredo, creating a harmonious flavor profile that elevates any pasta dish. Its versatility allows for endless creative culinary possibilities, making it a go-to choice for those who want a delicious and satisfying pasta experience without having to choose between marinara and alfredo. Overall, Trader Joe’s Rosatella Pasta Sauce stands out as a customer favorite due to its innovative blend of flavors and its ability to enhance pasta nights with ease and flair.
4. Organic Tomato Basil Marinara $3.49
Trader Joe’s Organic Tomato Basil Marinara is widely regarded as one of their best pasta sauces for several reasons. Firstly, its organic ingredients are a major draw for health-conscious consumers, ensuring a cleaner and more natural flavor profile. Secondly, the sauce strikes a perfect balance between the sweetness of ripe tomatoes and the aromatic freshness of basil, creating a vibrant and well-rounded taste that complements a variety of pasta dishes. Its smooth texture and robust flavor make it a versatile sauce that can be used in numerous recipes, from classic spaghetti to baked pasta dishes. Overall, Trader Joe’s Organic Tomato Basil Marinara stands out as one of their best pasta sauces due to its high-quality organic ingredients, delicious flavor, and versatility in the kitchen.
3. Olive & Basil Pesto Sauce $2.49
Trader Joe’s Olive & Basil Pesto Sauce has earned its spot as a top sauce for pasta aficionados and food enthusiasts alike. The sauce boasts a delightful fusion of savory olives and fragrant basil, creating a unique and robust flavor profile that sets it apart from traditional pesto sauces. Its texture is smooth and velvety, making it easy to coat pasta evenly for a satisfying dining experience. What makes this pesto stand out is its versatility; besides being a fantastic pasta sauce, it also serves as a flavorful spread for sandwiches, a topping for grilled meats, or a dip for bread. With its bold taste, versatility, and ease of use, Trader Joe’s Olive & Basil Pesto Sauce is a top choice for those seeking a delicious and convenient culinary addition.
2. Basil Pesto Sauce $2.99
Trader Joe’s Basil Pesto Sauce has become a fan favorite for its vibrant and authentic flavor that captures the essence of fresh basil. The sauce is rich and aromatic, with a perfect balance of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and pine nuts, creating a harmonious blend that enhances any dish it accompanies. Its versatility makes it a go-to option for pasta, sandwiches, pizzas, and more, adding a burst of herbaceous goodness to every bite. What sets Trader Joe’s Basil Pesto Sauce apart is its high-quality ingredients and the convenience it offers without compromising on taste, making it a beloved choice among customers looking to elevate their meals effortlessly.
1. Organic Roasted Red Pepper and Almond Pesto Sauce $3.99
Trader Joe’s Organic Roasted Red Pepper and Almond Pesto Sauce has quickly become a fan favorite due to its innovative blend of flavors and high-quality organic ingredients. While basil plays a supporting role, the real star is the roasted red peppers, which lend a smoky sweetness to the sauce. Customers rave about the rich and nutty taste, enhanced by the organic PDO Pecorino Romano cheese and almonds. The addition of organic herbs and spices, along with a careful balance of oils and vinegar, results in a well-rounded and satisfying pesto that can elevate any pasta dish. Despite its fiery hue, reminiscent of traditional pesto, this sauce offers a delightful twist that has captured the hearts and palates of Trader Joe’s patrons, proving that they are indeed excelling in the pesto game.
