"There is nowhere I feel freer than the aisles of Trader Joe’s. I walk into those hallowed halls, and, all of a sudden, I have no budget, no plan, and no health goals in mind. I’m simply a girl committed to filling her basket with anything and everything that piques her interest. As fun (and chaotic) as this method of grocery shopping is, it often leaves me with nothing but peanut butter cups and mini ice cream cones by the time the weekend comes around. So, I’ve done the research to compile some Trader Joe’s dinner ideas to help my shopping list carry me through the week—while still leaving plenty of room for snacks, of course. If you’re looking for quick and easy Trader Joe’s dinners, here’s exactly what to buy:
1. Orange chicken rice bowls
Ingredients:
- Mandarin Orange Chicken
- Vegetable Fried Rice
Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken is a staple in my freezer, and if you’ve tried it, you know exactly why. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner—quick, easy, and delicious. To turn it into a full meal with minimal effort, pair it with this frozen vegetable fried rice. Trust me, it tastes amazing and is way cheaper than ordering takeout from your usual spot.
2. Homemade pizza
Ingredients:
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
- Plain Pizza Dough
- Pizza Sauce
- Toppings of choice
We all know Trader Joe’s frozen pizzas are top-tier, but what’s even better is making your own with TJ’s ingredients. Their premade pizza dough makes things so simple, and you get full control over the toppings. Controversially, I love a little pineapple and pepperoni on mine (don’t judge until you’ve tried it), but feel free to grab whatever toppings suit your fancy.
3. Potsticker soup
Ingredients:
- Chicken Gyoza Potstickers
- Chicken Broth
- Mirepoix Chopping Vegetable Mix
- Toasted Sesame Oil
The weather may be warming up, but a good bowl of soup always hits the spot. You’ve probably already tried TJ’s incredible potstickers, but they’re somehow even better in a soup. Cook the potstickers and veggies with a little sesame oil, then let everything simmer in chicken broth. You can even top off your bowl with a dollop of Crunchy Chili Onion if you like a little spice. It’s a hearty, filling meal that takes just minutes to throw together.
4. Pasta with chicken meatballs
Ingredients:
- Chickpea Fusilli Pasta
- Chicken Meatballs
- Italian Tomato Basil Pasta Sauce
I never go without Trader Joe’s chicken meatballs in my fridge, and one of my favorite ways to use them is with pasta and a classic sauce. It adds some much-needed protein and levels up a lazy Trader Joe’s pasta night. Use any pasta you like, but I love the Trader Joe’s chickpea fusilli for a little protein boost.
5. Falafel wraps
Ingredients:
- Dill Pickle Mini Falafel
- Olive Tapenade Hummus
- Persian Cucumbers
- Tandoori Naan
If you’re a pickle girlie, let me introduce you to your new favorite meal. This easy wrap is super customizable, but my go-to combo is falafel, cucumbers, and olive tapenade hummus wrapped in pita or naan, depending on what I find in the store. You can also add greens or swap the falafel for chicken.
6. Spanish-style shrimp and rice
Ingredients:
- Argentinian Red Shrimp
- Spanish Style Rice
- Chimichurri Sauce
This no-fuss dinner tastes surprisingly elevated for how simple it is. Topping off your shrimp and rice with a spoonful or two of Trader Joe’s Chimichurri Sauce is totally optional but adds a nice kick of flavor. I love eating it in a bowl as is, but you can also serve it in a tortilla or over a bed of greens. No matter how you plate it, a dinner with only two main ingredients is a win in my book.
7. Quinoa veggie burgers
Ingredients:
- Quinoa Cowboy Veggie Burgers
- Brioche Buns
- Seasoned Waffle Cut Fries
I swear these quinoa veggie burgers could convert even the biggest hamburger fans. If you love cowboy caviar salsa, you need to try these burgers made with Southwestern-style ingredients like black beans, roasted corn, and red peppers. I pair them with brioche buns and waffle fries, but you can finish yours off with lettuce, tomato, or whatever condiments you like.
8. Mediterranean lentil salad
Ingredients:
- Crumbled Feta Cheese
- Steamed Lentils
- Bruschetta Sauce
I can’t remember the last time I made a Trader Joe’s run without picking up steamed lentils. They’re the perfect protein to throw into almost any dish, but one of my favorite ways to use them is in this salad. No chopping, no cooking—just mix everything in a bowl, and you’re ready to eat. It’s the perfect easy dinner to throw together on a busy weeknight.
9. Spicy tofu noodles and veggies
Ingredients:
- Squiggly Knife Cut Style Noodles
- Stir Fry Veggie Blend
- Sriracha Flavored Baked Tofu
Instant noodles are the definition of a lazy day dinner, but this combo upgrades it with hardly any extra effort. Heat up the veggie stir-fry blend on the stovetop before mixing it in with the cooked noodles, and if you want to go further, the sriracha-marinated tofu makes a delicious protein source.
10. Salmon mango rice bowl
Ingredients:
- Fresh Atlantic Salmon
- Salmon Rub
- Jasmine Rice
- Mango Jicama Slaw
Literally nothing can come between me and my weekly salmon bowl, and I’ve been loving this summer twist on the usual recipe. The Trader Joe’s salmon rub is essential because it adds so much flavor. Cook some white rice and top it with the salmon and mango jicama slaw. It’s fresh, fruity, and absolutely delicious.
Lauren Blue, Assistant Editor
As an Assistant Editor for The Everygirl, Lauren ideates and writes content for every facet of our readers’ lives. Her articles span the topics of must-read books, movies, home tours, travel itineraries—and everything in between. When she isn’t testing the latest TikTok trend, she can be found scouring Goodreads for new releases to feature on the site.