14 Innovative Ways to Use Trader Joe’s Frozen Foods

Trader Joe’s frozen food aisle is a treasure trove of culinary possibilities. Whether you’re in a time crunch or simply want to elevate your weeknight meals, these frozen gems can be the key to quick, delicious, and inventive dishes. From savory dinners to sweet treats, here are some creative ways to turn those frozen staples into crowd-pleasing meals.

Frozen Gyoza Soup

Combine Trader Joe’s Frozen Gyoza with chicken broth, fresh spinach, and sliced mushrooms for a quick and comforting soup. Simply bring the broth to a simmer, add the mushrooms and cook for a few minutes, then toss in the gyoza and spinach, letting them cook through until tender. This hearty soup comes together in under 15 minutes and is perfect for chilly nights.

Cauliflower Gnocchi Bake

For an easy weeknight meal, toss Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Gnocchi with marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella, and fresh basil. Spread the gnocchi in a baking dish, pour over the marinara, top with mozzarella, and bake at 400°F until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Serve with a side salad for a complete meal that’s both comforting and healthy.

Thai Shrimp Curry

Take Trader Joe’s Frozen Argentinian Red Shrimp and create a quick Thai-inspired curry. Sauté the shrimp with red curry paste, coconut milk, and a bag of frozen mixed vegetables. Simmer until the shrimp are cooked through and serve over jasmine rice. This dish is full of flavor and can be on the table in less than 20 minutes.

Riced Cauliflower Stir-Fry

For a healthy and satisfying dish, stir-fry Trader Joe’s Riced Cauliflower with their frozen Asian Vegetable Mix, soy sauce, and a splash of sesame oil. Add a scrambled egg for extra protein, and finish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions. It’s a low-carb alternative to fried rice that’s packed with flavor.

Cheese Pizza with Extras

Elevate a Trader Joe’s Frozen Cheese Pizza by adding your favorite toppings before baking. Try sliced bell peppers, onions, and pepperoni, or keep it vegetarian with mushrooms, olives, and fresh arugula. Bake according to the package instructions, and you’ll have a personalized pizza that’s better than takeout.

Spaghetti with Turkey Meatballs

Make a quick and hearty dinner by simmering Trader Joe’s Frozen Turkey Meatballs in marinara sauce and serving over your favorite pasta. Cook the meatballs directly from frozen until heated through, then spoon over a bed of spaghetti. Top with grated Parmesan and fresh basil for a classic Italian meal in a flash.

Chicken Burrito Bowls

Create easy burrito bowls using Trader Joe’s Frozen Grilled Chicken Strips, their frozen Organic Brown Rice, and frozen corn. Layer the rice in bowls, top with chicken and corn, then add black beans, salsa, and a dollop of sour cream. It’s a complete meal that’s perfect for meal prepping or a quick weeknight dinner.

Vegetable Fried Rice

Whip up delicious fried rice by stir-frying Trader Joe’s Frozen Vegetable Fried Rice with their frozen Chicken Cilantro Mini Wontons. Add a splash of soy sauce and finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. It’s an easy way to turn a side dish into a main meal.

Mushroom Risotto with Sausage

For a creamy and rich dinner, cook Trader Joe’s Frozen Mushroom Risotto according to the package instructions, then stir in slices of their Italian Sausage-less Sausage. Add a handful of fresh spinach just before serving for an extra boost of greens. It’s an indulgent meal that’s still on the lighter side.

Seafood Paella

Make an impressive seafood paella by combining Trader Joe’s Frozen Seafood Blend with their frozen Rice Medley. Sauté the seafood in a bit of olive oil, add the rice medley, and cook until heated through. Finish with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of parsley for a dish that’s perfect for sharing.

Spinach and Artichoke Quiche

For a quick brunch option, use Trader Joe’s Frozen Spinach and Artichoke Dip as the filling for a quiche. Simply pour the thawed dip into a pre-made pie crust, top with shredded cheese, and bake until set. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for entertaining or a special breakfast.

BBQ Chicken Sliders

Use Trader Joe’s Frozen BBQ Chicken Teriyaki to create easy sliders. Cook the chicken according to the package instructions, then shred and pile onto slider buns with coleslaw and pickles. These sliders are great for parties or as a fun weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.

Vegetable Samosa Tacos

Put a twist on taco night by using Trader Joe’s Frozen Mini Vegetable Samosas as the filling. Warm the samosas in the oven, then place them in soft tortillas and top with chopped cilantro, yogurt sauce, and a squeeze of lime. It’s a fusion dish that’s both unique and delicious.

Salmon and Asparagus Foil Packs

For a healthy and easy dinner, use Trader Joe’s Frozen Wild Salmon and frozen Asparagus Spears to make foil packs. Place the salmon and asparagus on a sheet of foil, drizzle with olive oil, and season with lemon slices, salt, and pepper. Fold the foil to seal and bake at 400°F until the salmon is cooked through. This no-mess meal is perfect for busy nights.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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