15 Trader Joe’s Budget-Friendly Finds for Feeding a Crowd

Hosting a big gathering doesn’t have to mean blowing your budget. Trader Joe’s is packed with awesome, wallet-friendly options that make feeding a crowd a breeze. Whether it’s game day, a casual get-together, or a family reunion, Trader Joe’s has your back with tasty and affordable options that everyone will love. Keep reading to find the best picks for your next big meal without breaking the bank.

Spinach & Artichoke Dip

Trader Joe’s Spinach & Artichoke Dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s budget-friendly. This creamy dip features a delicious blend of spinach, artichoke hearts, and cheese, providing rich flavors that pair well with crackers or toasted bread. It’s easy to prepare, requiring just a few minutes in the microwave or oven to heat up. The dip can be served in a large bowl for easy sharing, making it an ideal option for parties. The affordability and large serving size make it an economical choice for feeding many people without sacrificing taste.

Cornbread Mix

Trader Joe’s Cornbread Mix is an excellent, budget-friendly choice for feeding a crowd. This easy-to-make mix results in a moist, slightly sweet cornbread that complements a variety of meals. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for chili, barbecue, or a holiday meal, it’s sure to be a hit. The mix requires just a few pantry staples like eggs and milk, which helps keep the overall cost low. Each box produces a generous amount of cornbread, enough to serve several guests. It’s a classic comfort food at a wallet-friendly price.

Vegetable Spring Rolls

Trader Joe’s Vegetable Spring Rolls are an excellent vegan-friendly option for feeding a crowd. These rolls are filled with a mix of vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and mushrooms, offering a light yet satisfying snack. They’re baked in the oven for a crispy outer layer and can be served with dipping sauces like soy or sweet chili. One package contains multiple rolls, making it easy to serve a group. These spring rolls are not only budget-friendly but also a healthy, crowd-pleasing option for any occasion.

Breaded Mozzarella Cheese Sticks

Trader Joe’s Breaded Mozzarella Cheese Sticks are a simple yet delicious snack that’s perfect for serving to guests. These crunchy puff pastry sticks are filled with rich cheddar cheese, offering a satisfying combination of textures and flavors. They make for a convenient party snack. The sticks can be enjoyed on their own or paired with dips like mustard or hummus. Their affordable price makes them an easy, budget-conscious option for feeding a crowd.

Frozen Meatballs

Trader Joe’s Frozen Meatballs are a versatile, affordable option for serving at large gatherings. They come pre-cooked, so all you need to do is heat them up in the oven, microwave, or slow cooker. These meatballs are made from beef and pork and are seasoned with Italian herbs, making them flavorful and easy to pair with pasta, sub rolls, or marinara sauce. Each bag contains a substantial number of meatballs, allowing you to serve a large group without spending too much. They’re a filling and satisfying dish for parties or potlucks.

Jumbo Cinnamon Rolls

Trader Joe’s Jumbo Cinnamon Rolls are a budget-friendly breakfast or dessert option for feeding a crowd. These ready-to-bake rolls come with a sweet cinnamon filling and cream cheese icing, making them a decadent treat that guests will love. One package contains five large rolls, each of which can be split into smaller portions for serving. They’re easy to prepare in the oven and take just minutes to bake, saving you time while providing a warm, homemade dessert. The cost per roll is very affordable, making them an excellent choice for gatherings.

Mac and Cheese Bites

Trader Joe’s Mac and Cheese Bites are a delicious and budget-friendly appetizer that’s perfect for parties. These bite-sized snacks are filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, then breaded and fried for a crunchy exterior. They can be baked in the oven and served on a platter for easy sharing. Each box contains a substantial number of bites, making them great for feeding a large group. Their price point is very reasonable, and they provide a comforting, nostalgic flavor that guests of all ages will enjoy.

BBQ Teriyaki Chicken

Trader Joe’s BBQ Teriyaki Chicken is a flavorful and cost-effective option for feeding a crowd. The chicken is pre-cooked and marinated in a savory teriyaki sauce, so all you need to do is heat it up in a skillet or microwave. It can be served over rice or vegetables, making it a versatile main dish for large gatherings. The package contains a generous amount of chicken, ensuring that you can serve multiple guests. This dish is affordable, easy to prepare, and always a hit at parties or potlucks.

Frozen Gyoza Potstickers

Trader Joe’s Frozen Gyoza Potstickers are a budget-friendly option that’s ideal for feeding a large group. These Japanese-style dumplings are filled with chicken, vegetables, or pork and can be quickly steamed or pan-fried. They make for a great appetizer or side dish and can be served with soy sauce or a spicy dipping sauce for added flavor. Each bag contains a substantial number of potstickers, making them perfect for sharing. Their affordable price and ease of preparation make them a favorite for party hosts.

Sweet Potato Fries

Trader Joe’s Sweet Potato Fries are an excellent, budget-friendly side dish that’s perfect for a crowd. These frozen fries can be baked in the oven and served alongside burgers, sandwiches, or on their own with dipping sauces. They’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, offering a sweet and savory flavor that guests will enjoy. Each bag contains a large number of fries, making them great for serving at parties. Their low price and delicious taste make them a popular, cost-effective option for feeding a crowd.

Frozen Cauliflower Gnocchi

Trader Joe’s Frozen Cauliflower Gnocchi is a gluten-free, budget-friendly option that’s perfect for feeding a group. Made from cauliflower, this gnocchi is a healthier twist on the classic Italian dish, offering a lower-carb alternative. It can be sautéed, baked, or boiled and pairs well with a variety of sauces such as pesto, marinara, or butter and sage. One package contains enough gnocchi to serve several guests, making it a great option for larger gatherings. Its affordability and versatility make it a hit with both health-conscious and budget-conscious hosts.

Parmesan Pastry Pups

Trader Joe’s Parmesan Pastry Pups are a fun, affordable snack perfect for serving at parties. These mini beef hot dogs are wrapped in flaky pastry dough and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese, providing a savory bite-sized appetizer that guests will love. They can be baked in the oven and served with mustard or ketchup for dipping. Each box contains a substantial number of pastry pups, making it easy to feed a crowd without breaking the bank. Their low price and popular appeal make them a go-to party snack for gatherings large and small.

Frozen Mandarin Orange Chicken

Trader Joe’s Frozen Mandarin Orange Chicken is one of the store’s most popular and affordable items for feeding a group. This sweet and savory dish features crispy battered chicken tossed in a tangy orange sauce. It’s quick and easy to prepare—simply heat the chicken in the oven and toss it with the sauce before serving. Each bag contains enough chicken to serve several people, making it a great option for large gatherings. The price is very budget-friendly, and its delicious flavor ensures it will be a crowd-pleaser.

Potato Pancakes (Latkes)

Trader Joe’s Potato Pancakes, also known as latkes, are an affordable and easy-to-prepare option for feeding a crowd. These crispy, golden pancakes are made from shredded potatoes and onions and can be baked or pan-fried until they are perfectly crisp. They make for a versatile side dish that pairs well with applesauce, sour cream, or smoked salmon. Each package contains several pancakes, making it simple to serve a group without much effort. Their price is reasonable, and their familiar, comforting flavors make them a hit at any gathering.

Frozen Turkey Burgers

Trader Joe’s Frozen Turkey Burgers are a budget-friendly and healthy option for feeding a large group. These pre-formed patties are made from lean turkey, making them a lighter alternative to traditional beef burgers. They cook up quickly on the grill or stovetop and can be served on buns with all the classic burger toppings. Each box contains multiple patties, providing enough for a group of guests. They’re an affordable way to serve a crowd without sacrificing flavor, and they’re perfect for summer cookouts or casual gatherings.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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