13 Best Trader Joe’s Frozen Foods You Can Get for Under $5

Trader Joe’s has built a reputation for offering unique, high-quality frozen foods at unbeatable prices. Their frozen meals are known for being easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy days when you want something delicious with minimal effort. With so many options available, it can be tough to decide which ones are worth trying. If you are looking for the best frozen foods you can grab for under $5, you are in for a treat.

Chicken Cilantro Mini Wontons – $3.49

These mini wontons are packed with juicy chicken, cilantro, and subtle seasonings. They are light yet flavorful, making them perfect for soups, stir-fries, or dipping in sauce. Pan-frying them gives them a crispy, golden exterior, while steaming keeps them soft and tender. They pair well with soy sauce, chili oil, or a light broth for a quick dumpling soup. Their small size makes them easy to eat and fun to serve at gatherings. At just $3.49, they offer a great balance of flavor, convenience, and affordability.

Japanese Style Fried Rice – $3.79

This frozen fried rice is packed with flavor and texture, featuring edamame, hijiki seaweed, and scrambled egg. The rice has a slightly sweet, savory, and umami-rich taste that sets it apart from regular fried rice. It cooks up quickly in a pan and pairs well with any protein or veggie. The mix of ingredients gives it a more authentic Japanese flavor than standard frozen rice options. It is filling enough to enjoy on its own but versatile enough to serve as a side dish. At under four dollars, it is a budget-friendly way to add variety to your meals.

Mini Vegetable Samosas – $3.99

These Mini Vegetable Samosas are packed with a well-seasoned mix of potatoes, peas, and Indian spices. The flaky, crispy pastry shell makes every bite a delightful crunch. They are bite-sized, making them perfect for snacking, appetizers, or pairing with a meal. They taste even better when served with Trader Joe’s mango chutney or a side of yogurt. Baking them in the oven or air fryer brings out their best texture. At under four dollars, they are an easy way to enjoy a flavorful Indian-inspired treat.

Joe’s Diner Mac ‘n Cheese – $2.99

This frozen mac and cheese is pure comfort food in a convenient package. It is made with four cheeses, including cheddar, Swiss, Havarti, and Gouda, giving it a rich and creamy texture. The sauce is thick, velvety, and coats every piece of pasta perfectly. Unlike some frozen mac and cheese options, this one does not taste artificial or overly processed. It is quick to heat up, making it a perfect meal or side dish when you need something warm and satisfying. At just under three dollars, it is an unbeatable deal for cheese lovers.

Kimbap – $3.99

Trader Joe’s Kimbap is a Korean-inspired frozen meal that makes snacking or meal prep easy. It features seasoned rice rolled with vegetables, egg, and tofu, all wrapped in seaweed. The flavors are mild yet satisfying, with a hint of sesame and soy sauce. Unlike sushi, kimbap does not contain raw fish, making it more accessible for those hesitant about seafood. The rolls heat up quickly in the microwave or on the stovetop, giving them a fresh taste and soft texture. For under four dollars, it is a convenient and tasty way to enjoy Korean flavors at home.

Vegetable Bird’s Nests – $3.99

Trader Joe’s Vegetable Bird’s Nests are a crispy, savory delight made with shredded carrots, onions, and kale. They are lightly battered and fried, creating a satisfying crunch without feeling too heavy. Each pack comes with a tasty soy dipping sauce that enhances the flavor. They make a great appetizer or side dish when you want something light but full of texture. The unique shape makes them stand out from typical frozen snacks. Pop them in the air fryer for an easy, crispy, restaurant-style treat at home.

Chicken Tikka Masala – $4.49

Trader Joe’s Chicken Tikka Masala is a fan-favorite for good reason. It features tender, marinated chicken in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce with bold Indian spices. The dish comes with a portion of basmati rice, making it a full meal with minimal effort. The sauce has a great balance of spice and creaminess, making it flavorful without being too overpowering. It is a great option for those who love Indian food but do not want to make it from scratch. Just heat it up, and you have a delicious, restaurant-style meal in minutes.

Mandarin Orange Chicken – $4.99

Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken is one of the store’s most beloved frozen items. It comes with crispy battered chicken pieces and a sweet, tangy orange sauce that caramelizes perfectly when heated. The sauce has a great balance of citrusy zest and a hint of spice, making it incredibly flavorful. Pair it with rice or steamed vegetables for an easy and satisfying meal. Cooking it in the air fryer gives it an extra crunch that rivals restaurant-quality takeout. It is an affordable way to enjoy a delicious Asian-inspired dish without leaving home.

Shrimp Noodle Rolls – $3.99

Trader Joe’s Shrimp Noodle Rolls bring a delicious dim sum experience right to your home. These delicate rice noodle rolls are filled with plump shrimp, offering a soft, chewy texture with a slight sweetness from the seafood. They come with a light soy-based sauce that enhances their natural flavors. Simply steaming or microwaving them brings out their fresh, restaurant-style quality. They make a great appetizer or side dish for any Asian-inspired meal. At just $3.99, they are an affordable way to enjoy a classic dim sum favorite.

Spicy Farfalle Pasta with Italian Chicken Sausage – $3.49

This frozen pasta dish is a perfect balance of spice, flavor, and convenience. It features farfalle (bow-tie pasta) coated in a rich tomato-based sauce with just the right amount of heat. The addition of Italian chicken sausage gives it a savory, slightly smoky flavor that complements the spice. The pasta cooks quickly and comes out tender without being mushy. It is hearty enough to be a full meal but pairs well with garlic bread or a side salad. For under four dollars, it is a quick and satisfying dinner option.

Papas Rellenas – $4.99

Papas Rellenas are crispy, golden potato balls stuffed with a savory meat filling. The outside is perfectly fried, creating a crunchy shell that contrasts with the soft, fluffy mashed potatoes inside. The seasoned beef filling is flavorful, offering a hint of spice and richness. They are best when baked or air-fried to achieve the perfect crispy texture. Serve them with a side of salsa or a dipping sauce for extra flavor. At just under five dollars, they bring a classic Latin American comfort food to your freezer.

Jalapeño & Cream Cheese Crispy Wontons – $4.99

These crispy wontons are a spicy, creamy, and crunchy delight. The filling features smooth cream cheese with bits of jalapeño, creating a perfect balance of heat and richness. The wonton wrapper fries up beautifully, delivering a satisfying crunch with every bite. They are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or party food, especially when paired with a sweet chili or soy dipping sauce. Cooking them in the air fryer gives them an extra crispy texture without needing much oil. At just $4.99, they are a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors.

Broccoli & Cheddar Cheese Quiche – $2.99

This quiche is a quick and easy meal that does not skimp on flavor. The buttery, flaky crust holds a rich filling of eggs, cheddar cheese, and tender broccoli. The cheddar gives it a creamy, slightly sharp taste that pairs well with the mild sweetness of the broccoli. It bakes up beautifully, creating a soft, custard-like texture inside with a perfectly crisp crust. It works well as a breakfast, lunch, or even a light dinner when paired with a side salad. At just $2.99, it is an affordable and delicious frozen meal option.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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