The Best Frozen Foods At Trader Joe's

If you haven't tried the cauliflower pizza crust, you don't know what you're missing

By Delia Mooney/Aug. 17, 2017 3:10 pm EST

One of the things we love most about Trader Joe's—other than being able to grocery shop and still afford to pay rent—is that it has everything we need, from apples to za'atar chèvre. The jackpot of all departments, though, is the freezer aisle, stocked with frozen items that put those 90s TV dinners to shame. Plus, with a few quick additions from the dairy or produce section, you can take any item from frozen to finished dish in no time.

Here are seven frozen foods from Trader Joe's we recommend having on hand when "from scratch" just isn't in the cards.

Turkey Burgers ($3)

Whether you're cooking for a crowd or want to make a quick dinner after work, these frozen turkey burgers are a great option. Remember: The trick to making a delicious turkey burger is the toppings, so pile on the fresh vegetables or spice it up with Sriracha mayo.

Cauliflower Pizza Crust ($4)

This gluten-free crust is the best thing to happen to pizza since pepperoni. It's a blank canvas for whatever toppings you desire, whether they be meat or veggies. This item is known to sell out fast, so you might want to grab two at a time.

Organic Riced Cauliflower ($2)

Not only does this healthy rice substitute cook in four minutes, you can top it with pretty much anything. Sauté up some fresh vegetables and toss it with soy sauce and sesame oil to make fried cauliflower rice.

Thai Shrimp Gyoza ($5)

Filled with shrimp, white cabbage, green onion, ginger and garlic, these gyoza are bite-size flavor bombs. Panfry them to get them nice and crispy, and then serve them with your favorite soy or dipping sauce.

Multigrain Toaster Waffles ($5)

Same boring bowl of cereal got you down? Take back breakfast by popping a few of these waffles into the toaster oven. Serve with butter and maple syrup, or top with fresh strawberries and blueberries.

Cauliflower & Broccoli Vegetable Patties ($2)

Calling all vegetarians. If you're tired of black bean or tofu burgers, these vegetable-packed patties are the way to go. Heat them on the stovetop or in the oven and serve on a fresh burger bun, in a salad or alongside roast vegetables.

Mandarin Orange Chicken ($5)

Considering an average take-out order of Chinese food probably costs around $10 to $20, this whole bag of orange chicken is a steal at just $5. Plus, leftovers for lunch tomorrow. Serve it over rice with your favorite vegetables.