By: Mia Anderson
Updated: Oct. 24, 2021
Originally Published: Oct. 16, 2019
For a mom who can happily spend over an hour capturing adorable moments between my toddler and our fluffy Goldendoodle, my patience for cooking is nonexistent — especially when it comes to grocery shopping. As soon as the clock strikes 30 minutes while preparing dinner, my enthusiasm dwindles, especially after a long workday. So, when a Trader Joe’s opened just around the corner from my home, I was thrilled.
Now my freezer is stocked with roasted and frozen veggies, mouthwatering sweet potato gnocchi, and creamy mushroom risotto, all just minutes away from being served. With these easy Trader Joe’s meals, I’ve reclaimed my weeknights and have more time to spend with my little one (which translates to preventing her from using crayons on our walls, furniture, and yes, even our dog).
To top it off, these quick dinners often double as tasty leftovers for my toddler’s school lunch the next day. So, let’s dive into some simple and delicious Trader Joe’s dinners you can whip up in 30 minutes or less!
1. Creamy Chicken & Poblano Ravioli
For just $3.69, these flavorful chicken and poblano ravioli can be steaming hot on your plate in just six minutes. Top with parmesan and serve alongside Trader Joe’s roasted Brussels sprouts for a satisfying weeknight meal.
2. Outside-In Stuffed Gnocchi
Head to TJs and grab as many of these marinara and mozzarella-filled gnocchi as you can, as they fly off the shelves. At $2.99 a bag, they’re a steal and cook up in around 10 minutes. Plus, kids adore them!
3. Salad Night
On days when you aren’t feeling overly hungry, whip up a Greek salad with tangy feta cheese. For added protein, toss in some Trader Joe’s lemon grilled chicken breast. Save some for a refreshing lunch at work the next day.
4. Pan-Fried Quinoa Cowboy Veggie Burger
Craving a burger without the fuss? Try TJ’s seasoned veggie burger made from quinoa, black beans, corn, and red peppers. Serve it on a brioche bun with corn salsa for a delicious treat, all for only $3.69 for four burgers.
5. Crêpe Wafer Cookies with Cocoa Almond Drizzle and Fresh Fruit
Why not satisfy your sweet cravings? Enjoy crêpe wafer cookies drizzled with cocoa almond and topped with fresh bananas or berries. For just $2.49, you might even want to share with the family!
6. Spicy Salmon Burgers with Bloody Mary Salsa
If you’re in the mood for a burger but prefer fish, grab a pack of salmon burgers and pair them with new no-alcohol Bloody Mary Salsa. Assemble with avocado and sprouts on a toasted brioche bun for a quick meal that costs under $15.
7. Spicy Vegan Super Burrito
This frozen vegan burrito is packed with flavors like white and red quinoa, sweet potatoes, and kale, all wrapped in a toasted wheat tortilla. It’s super tasty and filling!
8. Pollo Asado Fajitas
Think you can’t make restaurant-quality chicken fajitas at home? Think again! Combine TJ’s frozen bell peppers with Pollo Asado Autentico and bake. While that’s cooking, prepare tortillas and toppings for a delicious meal.
9. Tikka Masala Burritos
Enjoy Trader Joe’s Chicken or Vegan Tikka Masala wrapped in a tortilla. Layer rice, tikka sauce, peas, and yogurt before rolling it up. For a twist, swap the tortilla for garlic naan!
10. Spring Rolls with Creamy Sesame Dressing
Put together this simple meal: 1) Purchase TJ’s vegetable or shrimp spring rolls. 2) Grab TJ’s Organic Toasted Sesame Salad Dressing. 3) Dip spring rolls in dressing and enjoy!
11. Organic Shells & White Cheddar Mac & Cheese
Indulge in a classic with TJ’s creamy organic mac and cheese for only $1.39 a box — a budget-friendly dinner that the whole family will love.
12. Lemon Ricotta Ravioli Salad
Grab a package of lemon ricotta ravioli and add arugula and shaved parmesan for a fresh meal ready in under 10 minutes.
13. Black Bean & Cheese Taquitos
Elevate Taco Tuesday with these crunchy veggie taquitos. Heat them up in the oven and serve with TJ’s Chipotle Salsa for dipping.
14. Mediterranean Nachos
For a light dinner, prepare Mediterranean nachos with TJ’s Sea Salt Pita Chips, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and crumbled feta for a delicious twist.
15. Mac and Cheese Bites
After a long day, treat yourself to TJ’s fried mac and cheese balls for just $3.99 — pure comfort food!
16. Old Fashioned Potato Salad Done Three Ways
Jazz up TJ’s Old Fashioned Potato Salad for varied flavors. Mix in roasted corn and carne asada for a Mexican twist, or go Greek with olives and feta.
17. Sloppy Joe Sliders
Make a fun meal with TJ’s Turkey Bolognese Sauce and Aloha rolls for sloppy joe sliders. Add a diced bell pepper and some ketchup for tangy flavor.
18. Pumpkin Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookies for Dinner
On days when you’re not up for a full meal, whip up some cookies! Just mix Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookie Mix with butter and an egg, and you’re done.
19. Spizzico di Pizza (Pizza Bites)
Transform your home into a pizzeria with these mini pizza bites. Serve with a salad for a filling meal.
20. Chilaquiles Rojo
Enjoy breakfast for dinner with TJ’s crunchy Chilaquiles. Top with chicken or beans, a fried egg, and sour cream for a meal ready in minutes!
21. Pumpkin Bisque
Warm up with TJ’s rich Pumpkin Bisque and toasted focaccia on chilly nights for a comforting meal.
22. Hot Dogs All the Way
Switch it up with a family hot dog night! Grill or boil TJ’s chicken or beef dogs and serve with toppings like Honey Pale Ale mustard and relish.
23. Savory Egg Sandwiches
Egg sandwiches aren’t just for breakfast! Pair TJ’s Egg Frittata with toasted English muffins and fresh toppings for an easy meal.
24. Pizza, Pizza
When you’re too tired to cook, grab a crispy Trader Joe’s organic cheese pizza for a quick, satisfying dinner.
25. Meatless Beef Burgers
Try TJ’s Protein Patties for a delicious meatless option, perfect with sweet potato fries or tater tots.
26. Cold and Savory Udon Salad
Open a tub of cold udon noodles mixed with veggies for a refreshing, no-cook meal.
27. Mandarin Chicken Orange
You can’t visit Trader Joe’s without trying their famous Mandarin Chicken. Pair it with their fried rice for a quick, satisfying dinner.
28. Turkeyless Protein Burgers
Enjoy a protein-packed turkeyless burger with 23 grams of protein per serving, perfect with your favorite toppings.
29. Spicy Pumpkin Samosas
Samosas are always a good idea! Enjoy these flaky treats anytime for a flavorful snack.
In summary, these 40 quick and easy Trader Joe’s recipes provide a perfect solution for busy moms seeking delicious meals without spending hours in the kitchen. With the help of these convenient items, you’ll find more time for family and less stress over meal prep.
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