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30 Trader Joe’s Recipes to Try At Home

Trader Joe’s is a renowned grocery store rooted in Pasadena, California. The chain was founded by Joe Coulombe in 1967. The chain has grown to have over 569 stores across the United States.

Logo sign over entrance to Trader Joe's grocery store

Trader Joe’s is known for their fresh ingredients and delicious food. Whether you go for groceries or stop in for lunch, Trader Joe’s will not disappoint.

These Trader Joe’s recipes allow you to enjoy the ingredients from Trader Joe’s and make something new and intersting!

Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Ground turkey stuffed peppers offer a hearty mix of flavors and textures. The bell peppers turn tender as they bake, bringing a mild sweetness that balances the savory filling. Ground turkey, sautéed onions, and garlic combine with spices for a rich, well-seasoned bite.

Trader Joe’s Jasmine Rice adds a light, fluffy texture, soaking up the marinara sauce for extra depth. The sauce provides a subtle tang, keeping the filling moist and flavorful.

Melted pepper jack cheese tops it all off, adding a creamy finish with a slight kick. Every bite is warm, satisfying, and packed with comforting flavors.

Taco Bake

Taco Bake

This taco bake brings together bold flavors with simple ingredients for a satisfying meal. Ground turkey is seasoned with Trader Joe’s taco blend, giving it a rich, savory taste with just the right amount of spice. The jasmine rice adds a soft, fluffy texture that balances the heartiness of the dish.

Trader Joe’s frozen Mexican street corn brings a touch of sweetness with a smoky, roasted flavor. Mixed with tomato sauce, it creates a rich base that ties everything together. The combination of textures makes each bite flavorful and well-rounded.

A layer of melted pepper jack cheese finishes it off, adding creaminess with a mild kick. As it bakes, the cheese becomes golden and bubbly, locking in the flavors beneath. This dish is both easy to make and packed with delicious ingredients.

Boozy Macarons

Boozy Macarons

These boozy macarons offer a delicate balance of sweetness with a bold kick of spirits. The light, airy shells have a crisp exterior that gives way to a soft, chewy center. Each bite carries hints of almond, perfectly complementing the deep, rich flavors infused from rum, triple sec, and brandy.

The filling is smooth and velvety, blending the warmth of the alcohol with just the right amount of sweetness. The combination creates a sophisticated dessert that feels both indulgent and refined. The flavors develop as they sit, making each macaron even more delicious over time.

Ideal for an adult gathering, these macarons bring something unexpected to the table. The contrast of the delicate texture with the bold liquor notes makes them stand out from traditional sweets. Whether paired with coffee or enjoyed on their own, they offer a treat that’s both elegant and full of flavor.

Cheesesteak Sandwich

Cheesesteak Sandwich

This cheesesteak sandwich brings together classic flavors with high-quality ingredients. Trader Joe’s shaved beef steak is cooked to perfection, becoming tender and flavorful as it absorbs the juices from the sautéed onions and bell peppers. The vegetables add a slight sweetness and a bit of crunch, balancing the richness of the meat.

A generous layer of provolone cheese melts over the warm filling, creating a smooth, creamy texture that ties everything together. The cheese enhances the savory flavors without overpowering them, making each bite satisfying.

Served on a toasted ciabatta baguette, the sandwich has a crispy exterior with a soft, chewy center. The bread holds up well against the hearty filling, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Cauliflower Gnocchi and Sausage Skillet

Cauliflower Gnocchi and Sausage Skillet

This cauliflower gnocchi and sausage skillet offers a balance of rich flavors and hearty textures. The cauliflower gnocchi has a lightly crisped exterior with a soft, pillowy center, making it a great alternative to traditional potato-based versions. It absorbs the flavors of the dish while keeping the meal light.

The smoked apple chicken sausage adds a savory, slightly sweet contrast, blending beautifully with the creamy parmesan sauce. The avocado oil helps create a smooth, velvety texture, while the half and half brings just the right amount of richness. Each ingredient melds together for a comforting yet wholesome dish.

Fresh spinach is stirred in at the end, adding a pop of color and a mild, earthy flavor. The greens balance the richness of the sauce and provide a fresh finish. This skillet dish is easy to prepare and packed with satisfying flavors in every bite.

Cruciferous Crunch Power Salad

Cruciferous Crunch Power Salad

Trader Joe’s Cruciferous Crunch Power Salad is a hearty mix of cabbage, kale, carrots, and Brussels sprouts, creating a fresh and crisp base. The slight bitterness of kale pairs well with the natural sweetness of carrots, making each bite flavorful and well-balanced.

Spiced chickpeas and quinoa add warmth and protein, while hemp hearts, sunflower seeds, and sesame seeds bring a nutty crunch. Sliced avocado provides a creamy contrast, enhancing the overall texture.

A smooth tahini dressing ties everything together with a rich, slightly nutty taste. Light yet filling, this salad is a wholesome and satisfying meal option.

Tomato Soup with Stuffed Gnocchi and Spinach

Tomato Soup with Stuffed Gnocchi and Spinach

Trader Joe’s Tomato Soup with Stuffed Gnocchi and Spinach is a comforting dish with rich flavors and a smooth texture. The organic creamy tomato soup serves as a velvety base, offering a balance of tangy and slightly sweet notes. The tomato sauce-stuffed gnocchi adds heartiness, with each bite delivering a burst of rich, savory filling.

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Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and a mild earthiness, blending seamlessly into the warm broth. It softens as it simmers, enhancing the overall texture.

This easy meal comes together quickly, making it a satisfying option for a cozy, flavorful dish.

Carne Asada with Pepper and Corn Salad

Carne Asada with Pepper and Corn Salad

Trader Joe’s Carne Asada with Pepper and Corn Salad is a flavorful and satisfying meal. The pre-seasoned carne asada is tender and perfectly spiced, offering a rich, smoky taste with every bite. Grilled to perfection, the meat develops a slightly charred exterior that enhances its bold flavor.

The side dish brings together roasted corn, fire-roasted bell peppers, and onions, adding a mix of sweetness and subtle smokiness. The combination pairs well with the savory carne asada, creating a balanced plate.

A sprinkle of authentic Greek feta cheese adds a tangy contrast, tying everything together. This dish is quick, delicious, and perfect for busy nights.

Spinach and Artichoke Pasta

Spinach and Artichoke Pasta

Trader Joe’s Spinach and Artichoke Pasta transforms a classic dip into a rich, creamy sauce. The spinach and artichoke dip coats the pasta beautifully, delivering a smooth texture with a blend of savory flavors. The artichokes add a mild tang, while the spinach brings a subtle earthiness to the dish.

Crushed garlic and mini pearl grape tomatoes add freshness, balancing the richness of the sauce. The tomatoes provide a slight burst of sweetness, complementing the creamy base.

A sprinkle of Italian seasoning enhances the flavors, while Parmesan cheese melts into the dish, adding a final touch of savory depth.

Potsticker Stir Fry

Potsticker Stir Fry

Trader Joe’s Potsticker Stir Fry is a flavorful and satisfying meal that comes together quickly. The chicken gyoza potstickers are pan-fried until golden brown, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the filling tender and juicy. Each bite delivers a mix of seasoned chicken and vegetables, adding depth to the dish.

Trader Joe’s Asian-style stir-fry vegetables bring crunch and color, blending perfectly with the savory Soyaki sauce. The sauce coats everything with a balance of soy, garlic, and sesame flavors.

This dish is a convenient way to enjoy bold Asian-inspired flavors, making it a great choice for a quick weeknight meal.

Coconut Shrimp Tacos

Coconut Shrimp Tacos

Trader Joe’s Coconut Shrimp Tacos bring together crispy, golden shrimp with fresh, vibrant toppings. The coconut shrimp offers a lightly sweet, crunchy coating that contrasts beautifully with the soft corn tortillas. Each bite delivers a satisfying mix of textures and flavors.

A slaw made from Trader Joe’s Cruciferous Crunch mix adds a crisp element, balancing the richness of the shrimp. Tossed in Green Goddess dressing, it brings a hint of herbaceous freshness.

Topping it off, a spoonful of pineapple island salsa provides a sweet and spicy kick, rounding out the dish with a burst of tropical flavor.

Curry Meatballs

Curry Meatballs

Trader Joe’s Curry Meatballs combine tender mini meatballs with a rich, spiced Thai red curry sauce. The sauce brings a deep, slightly sweet heat that coats the meatballs perfectly, enhancing their savory flavor. Each bite is packed with warm, aromatic spices that make this dish comforting and satisfying.

Served over organic jasmine rice, the curry sauce soaks into the grains, creating a flavorful base. The light, fluffy texture of the rice balances the boldness of the curry.

A side of shredded green cabbage adds a crisp, slightly salty contrast, rounding out the meal with freshness and a satisfying crunch.

Carne Asada Fries

Carne Asada Fries

Trader Joe’s Carne Asada Fries turn a classic side dish into a hearty, flavor-packed meal. The handsome cut potato fries bake to golden perfection, with a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior that holds up well to the toppings. Their mild seasoning lets the bold flavors of the carne asada shine.

Grilled to perfection, the carne asada is tender and full of smoky, spiced flavor. Sliced thin, it layers beautifully over the fries, creating a satisfying bite in every forkful.

Topped with creamy guacamole, fresh salsa, and a melty Mexican-style cheese blend, this dish is the perfect mix of rich, fresh, and savory elements.

Brussels Sprout Pizza

Brussels Sprout Pizza

Trader Joe’s Brussels Sprout Pizza is a unique twist on a classic favorite. The premade pizza dough bakes into a crisp, golden crust, providing the perfect base for bold flavors. A layer of creamy garlic dip replaces traditional sauce, adding richness with every bite.

Shredded Brussels sprouts roast beautifully in the oven, bringing a slightly crispy texture and a nutty, caramelized flavor. Melted mozzarella cheese ties everything together, creating a gooey, savory bite.

A drizzle of balsamic glaze finishes the pizza, adding a touch of sweetness and tang that complements the roasted Brussels sprouts and garlic base perfectly.

Soyaki Tacos

Soyaki Tacos

Trader Joe’s Soyaki Tacos bring a delicious fusion of flavors to the table. The chicken is marinated and cooked in Soyaki sauce, a blend of teriyaki and soy, creating a balance of sweetness and umami. Wrapped in soft mini flour tortillas, each bite is tender and flavorful.

A crisp homemade coleslaw, made with Trader Joe’s organic coleslaw kit, adds a fresh crunch. The mix of green onions, sour cream, and shredded mozzarella creates a creamy, tangy contrast to the savory chicken.

Lentil Salad

Lentil Salad

Trader Joe’s Lentil Salad is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The steamed lentils provide a hearty base with a slightly nutty taste and soft texture, making them a great foundation for bold flavors.

Trader Joe’s Bruschetta sauce adds a rich, tangy element with ripe tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, creating a refreshing contrast to the earthy lentils. The flavors blend beautifully, making each bite deliciously balanced.

Crumbled feta cheese finishes the salad with a creamy, salty bite that ties everything together. This simple three-ingredient dish is both effortless and satisfying.

Chicken and Vegetable Curry

Chicken and Vegetable Curry

Trader Joe’s Chicken and Vegetable Curry is a warm, comforting dish packed with bold flavors. The Thai red curry sauce brings a rich, slightly spicy base that pairs beautifully with tender pieces of all-natural chicken breast. Each bite is infused with aromatic spices that create a deep, satisfying taste.

Sweet potato ribbons add a slight sweetness, balancing the heat of the curry, while green beans provide a crisp texture. The combination of ingredients makes this dish both hearty and well-rounded.

Serve it with fluffy jasmine rice or Trader Joe’s tandoori naan to soak up every bit of the flavorful sauce.

Chili Onion Crunch Chicken Pasta

Chili Onion Crunch Chicken Pasta

Trader Joe’s Chili Onion Crunch Chicken Pasta is a quick and flavorful meal with the perfect balance of spice and creaminess. The boneless, skinless chicken breast is sautéed in the infused oil from Chili Onion Crunch, giving it a rich, garlicky heat that enhances every bite.

Linguine noodles absorb the bold flavors as they cook under pressure, creating a pasta dish that’s both tender and well-seasoned. The Chili Onion Crunch adds a slight crispness, making each bite more exciting.

A touch of sour cream finishes the dish, bringing a creamy contrast to the spice, making it both comforting and bold.

Loaded Sweet Potato Fries

Loaded Sweet Potato Fries

Trader Joe’s Loaded Sweet Potato Fries offer a satisfying mix of crispy, savory, and creamy textures. The sweet potato fries bake to a golden crisp, creating a flavorful base that pairs perfectly with rich and hearty Trader Joe’s chili.

Melted Monterey Jack cheese adds a smooth, slightly tangy layer, balancing the sweetness of the fries. Diced avocado and green onions provide freshness, while a dollop of sour cream ties everything together with a cool, creamy finish.

This dish is an easy and delicious option for a busy night, delivering bold flavors in every bite with minimal effort.

Chili Lime Fajitas

Chili Lime Fajitas

Trader Joe’s Chili Lime Fajitas bring a bold, zesty flavor to a simple and satisfying meal. Fresh chicken breast, sliced bell peppers, and onions are marinated in a tangy chili-lime blend, allowing the seasoning to soak in for maximum taste.

Once baked to perfection, the chicken is tender, and the vegetables develop a slight char, adding depth to each bite. A final touch of lime juice, fresh cilantro, salt, and pepper enhances the flavors.

Served in warm tortillas or over rice, these fajitas are an easy way to enjoy a flavorful meal with minimal effort.

Turkey Chili Casserole

Turkey Chili Casserole

Trader Joe’s Turkey Chili Casserole is a comforting twist on a classic Frito pie. Hearty turkey chili is layered with corn, diced tomatoes, and Trader Joe’s corn dippers, creating a satisfying mix of textures and flavors.

A generous amount of Mexican-blend cheese is spread between the layers and melted on top, forming a golden, bubbly crust. The crunch of the chips contrasts perfectly with the rich, savory chili.

Finished with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh green onions, this casserole is a warm and easy dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in.

Fish Tacos

Fish Tacos

Trader Joe’s Fish Tacos are a delicious mix of crispy, fresh, and zesty flavors. The star of the dish is Trader Joe’s Panko tilapia, which bakes to a golden crisp, providing the perfect contrast to the soft corn tortillas.

A creamy, tangy broccoli slaw made with mayonnaise and fresh lime juice adds crunch and brightness, balancing the richness of the fish. The slaw enhances every bite with a refreshing twist.

For the finishing touch, homemade pico de gallo with red onions, garlic, tomatoes, cilantro, and jalapeños brings a kick of spice, making these tacos a satisfying, well-rounded meal.

Peanut Sauce Chicken and Rice Bowls

Peanut Sauce Chicken and Rice Bowls

Peanut Sauce Chicken and Rice Bowls are a simple yet flavorful meal perfect for a lazy Saturday. The dish starts with tender sautéed chicken breast, cooked until golden and juicy.

The chicken is served over a bed of Trader Joe’s brown rice, which provides a hearty and wholesome base. The nutty flavors of the rice complement the rich sauce beautifully.

The real highlight is Trader Joe’s Asian-style spicy peanut vinaigrette, which adds a creamy, slightly spicy, and tangy finish. The combination of flavors makes this dish a quick, satisfying option for any time of the week.

Chicken Shawarma Sheet Pan Meal

Chicken Shawarma Sheet Pan Meal

Chicken Shawarma Sheet Pan Meal is a simple and flavorful dinner using Trader Joe’s shawarma chicken thighs.

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The chicken is roasted alongside cubed sweet potatoes and halved Brussels sprouts, which are tossed in avocado oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Brown rice serves as the perfect base for this dish, soaking up all the bold flavors.

A spiced yogurt sauce, made with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and seasonings, ties everything together. This easy sheet pan meal is a great option for a balanced and delicious dinner with minimal cleanup.

Wedge Salad

Wedge Salad

Wedge Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish made with crisp iceberg lettuce. Trader Joe’s chunky blue cheese dressing adds a creamy texture, while balsamic glaze provides a hint of tangy sweetness.

Crispy bacon bits bring a salty crunch, complementing the juicy cherry tomatoes. Chopped chives enhance the flavors with a mild onion taste, making each bite more delicious.

Perfect as a side or light meal, this salad is quick to prepare and full of fresh ingredients. The balance of creamy, tangy, and savory elements makes it a satisfying choice for any occasion.

Cookie Butter Dip

Cookie Butter Dip

Cookie Butter Dip is a sweet and creamy treat made with just two ingredients. Trader Joe’s cookie butter adds rich gingerbread flavors, while Cool Whip creates a light and fluffy texture.

This dip pairs well with cookies, pretzels, bananas, strawberries, and marshmallows. The combination of sweet and slightly salty elements makes it a crowd-pleaser.

Perfect for parties or a quick dessert, this dip is easy to prepare and enjoy. Its smooth texture and warm spice flavors make it a favorite for any occasion.

Sweet Potato Gnocchi and Sausage Salad

Sweet Potato Gnocchi and Sausage Salad

Sweet Potato Gnocchi and Sausage Salad is a flavorful and hearty dish. Trader Joe’s sweet potato gnocchi pairs perfectly with spicy Italian chicken sausage for a satisfying combination.

Arugula serves as the base, adding a peppery bite that balances the richness of the gnocchi and sausage. Grape tomatoes bring freshness, while Parmesan cheese adds a savory finish.

This salad works well for lunch or dinner, offering a mix of textures and bold flavors. It’s a quick and delicious way to enjoy a well-rounded meal with minimal effort.

Cuban Shrimp Bowls

Cuban Shrimp Bowls

Cuban Shrimp Bowls are a flavorful and vibrant meal. Shrimp seasoned with Trader Joe’s Cuban-style citrusy garlic blend adds a zesty kick.

Served over a bed of Trader Joe’s risoni, the dish includes Cuban-style black beans, plantain croutons, fresh mangoes, and red bell peppers for a mix of textures.

A drizzle of Trader Joe’s cilantro dressing ties everything together, creating a refreshing balance to the bold flavors.

Street Corn Tostadas with Black Beans and Avocado

Street Corn Tostadas with Black Beans and Avocado

Street Corn Tostadas with Black Beans and Avocado bring bold flavors to taco night. Crispy corn tortillas form the base, topped with Trader Joe’s refried black beans and Green Goddess dressing for a creamy touch.

Trader Joe’s Mexican-style roasted corn adds a smoky-sweet flavor, while mild pico de gallo brings freshness. Sliced avocado and shredded lettuce provide extra texture and balance.

These tostadas are easy to assemble and work as a light meal or a fun appetizer. Serve with a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of cotija cheese for the perfect finishing touch.

Thai Green Chili Shrimp

Thai Green Chili Shrimp

Thai Green Chili Shrimp is a flavorful dish that combines rich coconut cream with the bold taste of Trader Joe’s Thai-style green chili sauce. The sauce enhances the natural sweetness of red shrimp, creating a well-balanced meal.

Sweet mini peppers, sautéed with garlic, add depth and a hint of spice. The creamy coconut base helps mellow the heat, making it a perfect dish for any spice level preference.

Serve over jasmine rice or rice noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime complete this quick and satisfying meal.

Which Recipe Will You Try First?

Head to Trader Joe’s and whip up these easy recipes with what you find there! Trader Joe’s items make it easy to put together quick, delicious meals even if you’re inexperienced in the kitchen.

Pair your meal with a bottle of wine from Trader Joe’s, and don’t forget to add snacks to your cart as well!

One Comment

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  1. Please bring back those Russian pelemeni dumplings. They were very tasty and easy to prepare. Also, p,ease bring back the Brioche toast.

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Written by Brian Nagele

Brian attended West Virginia University, then started his career in the IT industry before following his passion for marketing and hospitality. He has over 20 years experience in the restaurant and bar industry.

As a former restaurant owner, he knows about running a food business and loves to eat and enjoy cocktails on a regular basis. He constantly travels to new cities tasting and reviewing the most popular spots.

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