15 Best Trader Joe’s Frozen Foods for Busy Weeknights

When you need to throw together a quick, satisfying dinner after a long day, Trader Joe’s frozen food selection is a lifesaver. From hearty meals to easy sides, their frozen options are perfect for anyone with a packed schedule. Each of these product is flavorful, easy to prepare, and designed to help you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your meal.

Mandarin Orange Chicken

Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken is a fan-favorite for a reason. This crispy chicken in a tangy, sweet orange sauce is a delicious dinner option that feels like takeout but is easy to make at home. Just bake the chicken pieces in the oven while the sauce heats up on the stove, then toss them together for a perfectly glazed meal. Pair it with some steamed rice or vegetables for a well-rounded dinner. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal without the price tag or wait time.

Cauliflower Gnocchi

For a low-carb, gluten-free twist on a classic Italian dish, Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Gnocchi is an excellent option. These gnocchi are made primarily from cauliflower but still manage to retain a soft, chewy texture. You can sauté them in a pan for a crispy exterior, or boil them for a softer bite. They’re versatile, pairing well with marinara, pesto, or even just some olive oil and parmesan. The quick cooking time makes them ideal for busy nights when you want something filling yet light.

Frozen Turkey Burgers

Trader Joe’s Frozen Turkey Burgers are perfect for a quick, protein-packed meal. These burgers are made from lean turkey, offering a healthier alternative to traditional beef patties. They cook up quickly on the stovetop or grill, and their neutral flavor makes them versatile for a range of toppings. Pair them with a salad, wrap them in a lettuce leaf, or place them in a bun with your favorite condiments. With minimal prep and clean-up, you can have a tasty meal ready in no time.

Chicken Tikka Masala

Trader Joe’s Chicken Tikka Masala offers the bold, rich flavors of Indian cuisine in a convenient frozen package. Tender pieces of chicken are simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce that’s flavorful without being overwhelming. Just pop it in the microwave or oven, and you’ve got a ready-to-eat meal that pairs well with naan or rice. This dish is perfect for when you’re craving something comforting and exotic but don’t have the time to cook from scratch.

Vegetable Fried Rice

Trader Joe’s Vegetable Fried Rice is a staple for busy weeknights, offering a flavorful and filling meal in minutes. The rice comes mixed with a variety of vegetables like carrots, peas, and corn, along with scrambled eggs for added protein. It’s easy to prepare on the stovetop and can be eaten on its own or as a side dish to complement other meals. You can also customize it by adding tofu, chicken, or shrimp for an extra protein boost. It’s a versatile, quick, and tasty option for any night.

Frozen Meat Lasagna

Trader Joe’s Frozen Meat Lasagna is a hearty, family-friendly meal that requires almost no effort. Layers of pasta, beef, and a rich tomato sauce come together with plenty of gooey cheese for a comforting dish. Just pop it in the oven, and in under an hour, you have a full meal that serves multiple people. This lasagna is perfect for those nights when you need a substantial dinner but don’t want to spend all evening in the kitchen. The flavor rivals homemade lasagna without any of the work.

Chicken Burrito Bowl

Trader Joe’s Chicken Burrito Bowl is a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Packed with seasoned chicken, black beans, rice, corn, and a zesty salsa, this bowl offers all the flavors of a classic burrito in a convenient, no-assembly-required package. The microwaveable meal is ready in just a few minutes, making it an easy solution for busy evenings. The blend of spices and ingredients makes for a satisfying dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor. 

Mushroom & Spinach Quiche

For a lighter meal option that’s still satisfying, Trader Joe’s Mushroom & Spinach Quiche is a great choice. This quiche is made with a buttery crust, savory mushrooms, and spinach, all bound together with a creamy egg filling. You can bake it in the oven or microwave it for a quicker option. It’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, especially on nights when you want something light yet flavorful. Pair it with a salad for a complete meal that’s both easy and delicious.

BBQ Teriyaki Chicken

Trader Joe’s BBQ Teriyaki Chicken offers a delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a quick weeknight meal. The chicken pieces are already marinated and cooked, so all you have to do is heat them up and serve. The teriyaki sauce has just the right balance of tangy and sweet, making it a crowd-pleaser. Pair it with rice and some stir-fried veggies for a complete meal that’s ready in less than 20 minutes. It’s a convenient option that still feels like a homemade dinner.

Cheese & Green Chile Tamales

For a taste of classic Mexican comfort food, Trader Joe’s Cheese & Green Chile Tamales are a must. These tamales are made with a flavorful masa dough stuffed with cheese and mildly spicy green chiles. They’re individually wrapped in corn husks, making them easy to steam or microwave. Serve them with a side of salsa or guacamole for an extra kick. They’re perfect for a quick and filling meal that’s full of traditional flavors without the labor-intensive preparation.

Butter Chicken with Basmati Rice

Trader Joe’s Butter Chicken with Basmati Rice offers an authentic Indian meal in the comfort of your home. The tender chicken is simmered in a rich, creamy sauce made with tomatoes, butter, and aromatic spices. It comes with a side of basmati rice that perfectly complements the flavorful sauce. All you need to do is heat it up, and you have a complete meal in under 10 minutes. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something comforting and exotic but don’t have time to cook from scratch.

Riced Cauliflower Stir Fry

For a low-carb, veggie-packed option, Trader Joe’s Riced Cauliflower Stir Fry is a perfect quick meal or side dish. This frozen stir fry features cauliflower rice mixed with peas, corn, scrambled egg, and green onions, all seasoned with a light soy sauce. It cooks up quickly in just a few minutes on the stovetop, and you can easily customize it by adding chicken, tofu, or shrimp. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of traditional fried rice with fewer carbs and more vegetables.

Chiles Rellenos con Queso

Trader Joe’s Chiles Rellenos con Queso brings the bold, authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine to your dinner table in a convenient, ready-to-heat package. These poblano peppers are stuffed with a rich, gooey cheese filling and lightly battered, creating a delicious balance of smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors. Simply heat them in the oven or microwave, and they’re ready to enjoy in just minutes. Pair these chiles with some Spanish rice or black beans for a complete meal that feels like a special treat.

Spicy Peanutty Noodle Bowl with Chicken

Trader Joe’s Spicy Peanutty Noodle Bowl with Chicken is a delicious, quick meal for those who love bold, spicy flavors. This bowl combines tender noodles, juicy chicken, and a creamy peanut sauce with a perfect kick of heat, creating a satisfying balance of sweet, salty, and spicy. The dish is easy to prepare, heating up in just a few minutes in the microwave, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights. The texture of the noodles combined with the rich, peanutty sauce and tender chicken makes for a hearty meal that doesn’t feel heavy. 

Kimbap

Trader Joe’s Kimbap offers a convenient and tasty take on the popular Korean dish, making it perfect for busy weeknights. This frozen version features rolls made with seasoned rice, vegetables, and a mix of proteins, all wrapped in seaweed for a quick, satisfying bite. The flavor is balanced, with a hint of sweetness and savory from the fillings. You can easily heat it up in just a few minutes, and it’s ready to enjoy as a light meal or snack. 

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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