She Strengthens

Satisfy Your Cravings Without Breaking the Bank

The Ultimate Comfort Food Hack

Who doesn’t love walking into a Trader Joe’s? The fun of browsing the aisles, the excitement of discovering new products, and the thrill of scoring amazing deals on our favorite comfort foods. As a self-proclaimed foodie, I’ve always been drawn to their affordable fridge and frozen selection, which often becomes my go-to alternative to takeout.

Cutting Costs Without Sacrificing Flavor

During the pandemic, I found myself reevaluating my spending habits. With the temptation of happy hour and girls’ nights out off the table, I was determined to save more and splurge less. But, somehow, my budget wasn’t budging. That’s when I realized that meal delivery was one of my biggest spending categories. Yikes! To avoid overspending, I decided to replace some of my regular takeout meals with Trader Joe’s substitutes.

The Best Trader Joe’s Comfort Meals

Here are my top picks for effortless, delicious, and budget-friendly comfort meals that will satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank:

1. Mandarin Orange Chicken

This infamous frozen orange chicken is a game-changer. It tastes like Panda Express, minus the hefty price tag. Pair it with Trader Joe’s exceptional fried rice, potstickers, or frozen honey walnut shrimp for a homemade Panda bowl with leftovers! ($4.99 / 22 oz. bag)

2. Pizza Parlanno

A close second to the wood-fired Naples style uncured pepperoni pizza, this personal favorite boasts not only pepperoni but sausage, peppers, and onions on a crispy, yummy crust. Pizza Hut, who? ($4.99 / box)

3. Wood-Fired Naples Style Uncured Pepperoni Pizza

For the purists, this classic pepperoni pizza is a must-try. With a thick crust that bakes well and isn’t too doughy, it’s loads cheaper than ordering takeout from even the crummiest of pizza joints. ($4.99 / box)

4. Burrata, Prosciutto and Arugula Flatbread

Switch things up with this fancy flatbread, which is really just an elevated pizza. Hearty and flavorful, it includes the titular ingredients along with an impressive blend of cheeses and surprisingly crispy crust! ($4.99 / box)

5. Chicken Enchiladas Verde

These salsa verde enchiladas are a fridge section staple. While enchiladas have never been my go-to choice, the salsa verde element of these is top-notch. (1.99 / 2 pack)

6. Chicken Burrito Bowl

Arguably the healthiest thing on this list, the chicken burrito bowl is a solid item across various internet rankings of the TJ’s freezer section. Add some avocado for extra freshness, and you’ve got a delicious, easy lunch or dinner. ($3.49 / bowl)

7. Thai Noodles

I was skeptical about these instant Thai noodles, but they’re better than expected. Available in three variants, they’re the easiest Thai meal ever prepared. Unwrap, add sauce, microwave, and eat! ($1.99 / box)

8. Korma Fish Curry with Basmati Rice

Don’t let the fear of trying frozen fish keep you away from this find. This korma fish curry with basmati rice is filling, not too shabby calories-wise, and the sauce is stellar. ($4.19 / serving)

9. Korean-Inspired Bulgogi Beef Fried Rice with Kimchi

This mouthful is a personal favorite because it tastes fresh, well-seasoned, and doesn’t leave you feeling unhealthy. Bust out that skillet and quickly heat this blend of grilled beef, veggies, kimchi, and fried rice. ($4.99 / bag)

10. Chicken Tikka Masala

What would this list be without Trader Joe’s crown jewel of frozen delight? This replica of the classic Indian dish is as good a premade version as you’ll get. Say goodbye to takeout fees and hello to a consistent, affordable favorite. ($3.69 / pack)