6 Aldi Canned Foods to Skip and Some You Should Always Stock

Stocking up on canned goods can make life so much easier, but let’s be honest, not everything at Aldi deserves a spot in your pantry. Some cans taste surprisingly fresh and flavorful, while others are better left untouched. Whether you’re meal prepping, looking for quick dinner fixes, or just trying to save a few bucks, it helps to know which ones actually deliver. Here’s a list of canned foods worth buying and a few that might disappoint, so you can shop smarter next time you hit the aisles.

Skip: Brookdale Chili with Beans

Canned chili sounds like an easy fix for a cold day, but Brookdale’s version doesn’t quite deliver. The sauce takes over completely, leaving the beans and meat tasting flat and under-seasoned. The meat can feel rubbery, and the texture leans more soupy than hearty. If you’re after a quick chili night, you’ll probably end up disappointed by how one-dimensional this one tastes. You’re better off making your own or going with a different canned brand that offers more depth and flavor.

Buy: Happy Harvest Whole Kernel Corn

Aldi’s Happy Harvest Whole Kernel Corn is one of those pantry staples you’ll always find a use for. The kernels stay crisp and juicy even after heating, and they taste naturally sweet without feeling overly processed. It works great as a side dish, tossed into salads, or mixed into soups and casseroles for a little pop of texture. The flavor is clean and fresh-tasting, especially compared to many canned corn brands that lean too salty or metallic. It’s affordable, versatile, and dependable; definitely one to keep stocked for quick meals or easy add-ons.

Skip: Brookdale Pork Luncheon Meat

This one tries to be a budget version of Spam, but it misses the mark. The texture feels rubbery, and the smell can be off-putting right out of the can. When fried, it tends to break apart instead of crisping nicely, which makes it less enjoyable in sandwiches or breakfast meals. The flavor is bland and overly processed, making it taste more like filler than food. Unless you’re truly out of options, skip this one.

Buy: Simply Nature Organic Tomato Basil Soup

For a quick meal that doesn’t taste like a shortcut, this tomato basil soup is worth picking up. The tomato base has a rich, full flavor with just the right touch of basil to keep it interesting. It’s creamy without feeling heavy, and the ingredient list stays clean with no artificial flavors or colors. Pair it with a grilled cheese, and you’ve got a cozy meal ready in minutes. It’s one of those canned soups that actually feels homemade.

Skip: Casa Mamita Traditional Refried Beans

Refried beans should be smooth, creamy, and lightly seasoned, but this version comes out thick, greasy, and oddly grainy. The texture feels off, and the flavor leans more oily than savory. Even when mixed into tacos or burritos, it doesn’t quite blend well with other ingredients. It’s not inedible, but there are better refried beans out there that won’t leave that lingering aftertaste. You can find a smoother, more balanced brand elsewhere.

Buy: Casa Mamita Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies

This is one of those cans you’ll end up using for everything. The mix of tangy tomatoes and mild green chilies adds instant flavor to soups, stews, and rice dishes. It’s great for quick salsas too, giving that fresh, zesty bite without needing to chop anything. The balance of acidity and spice makes it a perfect pantry staple. It’s simple, versatile, and one of the most useful canned items you can keep on hand.

Skip: Northern Catch Pink Salmon

Canned salmon can be hit or miss, and unfortunately, this one lands on the miss side. The smell when you open it is stronger than you’d expect, and the taste doesn’t do much to make up for it. The texture feels mushy, and the fish has a dull, overly processed flavor. If you’re craving seafood, you’ll be much happier with a different brand or a fresh option from the freezer section. This one just isn’t worth it.

Buy: Northern Catch Chunk Light Tuna

Unlike the solid white tuna, which can taste dry and chalky, the chunk light version is softer and more pleasant. It mixes well into tuna salad or pasta without feeling too dense. The texture holds up nicely, especially when combined with mayo or olive oil, and it doesn’t overpower other ingredients. It’s affordable, mild, and convenient for a quick lunch. For an easy protein boost, this one’s a safe bet.

Skip: Sweet Harvest Mandarin Oranges in Light Syrup

Mandarin oranges should taste bright and juicy, but this can falls short. The syrup is thin and watery, and the fruit itself feels flat and lacks that citrus pop. The segments are small, and after a few bites, everything starts to taste the same. It’s fine if you’re desperate for something sweet, but it’s nothing special. You’re better off with pineapple or fresh oranges for real flavor.

Buy: Baker’s Corner Cherry Pie Filling

This is one of Aldi’s hidden gems for dessert lovers. The cherries taste sweet and tangy, and the filling is thick enough to hold its shape without being sticky. It’s perfect for pies, cobblers, or even spooned over ice cream. There’s a good ratio of fruit to syrup, so it doesn’t feel like you’re just eating sugar. If you like easy desserts, keep a can of this in your pantry, you’ll find plenty of excuses to use it.

Skip: Simply Nature Organic Lentil Soup

While it sounds healthy and comforting, this canned soup turns into a mushy mess when heated. The lentils lose their bite, and the broth is too watery to carry much flavor. Even with added spices, it still feels flat and lifeless. If you want lentil soup that tastes like it came from a real pot, this isn’t it. You’d be better off making a small batch at home or trying a different brand.

Buy: Dakota’s Pride Pinto Beans

These pinto beans are a reliable go-to for quick meals. They come out of the can tender and well-cooked, ready to be tossed into chili, rice, or soups. The flavor is mild but pleasant, which makes them easy to season any way you like. They save a ton of prep time and still taste fresh when mixed with herbs or spices. For something versatile, filling, and affordable, these beans deserve a spot in your pantry.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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