10 Underrated Trader Joe’s Finds You Should Try ASAP

Even if you’re a long-time Trader Joe’s lover like me, there’s always something new to discover at TJ’s. Between their seasonal drops and impressive array of unique fresh and packaged products, you could spend what seems like a lifetime trying everything the grocer has to offer. 

While a handful of their products receive lots of media attention, TJ’s is full of convenient buys that are truly underrated. I have been shopping there for years, and I don’t even have a full inventory of its treasures. In search of new gems to sample, I reached out to a true Trader Joe’s expert and asked her to share her under-the-radar TJ’s favorites.

An Expert’s Favorite Trader Joe’s Finds

The content creator behind the Trader Joe’s Aficionado Instagram account, Patty Castillo gives her followers the lowdown on all things TJ’s, from new releases to popular classics. She keeps a list of her favorite Trader Joe’s finds, and the top 10 is both eclectic and eye-opening:

1. Cornbread Mix

While cornbread is scrumptious all year long, Castillo especially loves this simple baking mix in November and December. “It’s a holiday staple,” she explains. Whether you make a whole loaf or adorable muffins, this cornbread mix couldn’t be easier to prepare. With bits of actual corn kernels included, it delivers the same cake-like, crumbly texture and ever-so-slight sweetness every time you use it.

2. Overnight Oats

If you struggle to find the time to whip up breakfast in the morning, Castillo recommends TJ’s overnight oats. “This is a quick, easy breakfast, and it’s tasty,” Castillo explains. Choose from four delicious gluten-free flavors including apple, peanut butter, pumpkin, and vanilla. 

3. Small Curd Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese couldn’t be trendier these days as a satisfying standalone snack or high-protein addition to recipes. Trader Joe’s small-curd variety is among the most toothsome options out there, according to Castillo. “It’s one of the best I’ve had,” she declares. This tangy yet versatile dairy product can be used in either sweet or savory applications.

4. French Vanilla Ice Cream

There are plenty of sweet treats to choose from at TJ’s, but Castillo can’t overemphasize how much she likes their simple vanilla ice cream. “It’s always available, and it’s under-acknowledged how great of an ice cream this is,” she emphasizes. With its creamy texture, this frozen treat pairs well with nearly every warm baked dessert you can think of and is also perfectly delicious on its own.

5. Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Hot cocoa season is nearly here, and if you’re lucky, your local TJ’s might just carry their famed peppermint hot chocolate. “This product rivals Williams Sonoma’s. It’s amazing,” Castillo assures. Top it with some mini marshmallows, and you have the makings for a cozy evening. If your store doesn’t carry the peppermint variety, their organic hot cocoa will also do the trick.

6. Organic Elote Corn Dippers

When snack cravings come knocking, Castillo affirms that the Trader Joe’s Organic Elote Corn Dippers will be sure to satisfy. “They’re a must-have for every party,” she raves. Whether you munch on them straight out of the bag or serve them alongside your favorite dip, these scoopable delights are full of addictive, zesty flavor.

7. Cold-Pressed Juice

Castillo loves to sip on TJ’s cold-pressed juices, especially the watermelon variety in the warmer months. “It’s sweet and refreshing,” she says. Though the seasonal watermelon juice is gone in the summer, their Organic Cold-Pressed Green Juice Beverage is sitting on most Trader Joe’s shelves nationwide year-round, ready to be enjoyed!

8. Butter Toffee Pretzels

If salty-sweet is your favorite flavor combination, then these Butter Toffee Pretzels are a must-buy. “They’re on my all-time favorites list, and they’re seasonal, so be sure to stock up,” Castillo advises, who buys her stash each fall when they appear in stores. Delicious right from the bag, these crunchy morsels are also fantastic additions to chocolate bark, cookies, and most other baked goods.

9. Italian Style Turkey Meatloaf

For a quick, easy protein, look no further than Trader Joe’s Italian Style Turkey Meatloaf. “This dish is perfect for dinner or a hearty sandwich,” says Castillo. Serving it over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes makes for a hearty meal your family will love.

10. Joe’s Os Cereal Bars

Castillo adds Joe’s Os Cereal Bars to her cart for an indulgent, energy-boosting snack. “I love a good cereal bar to throw in my bag for hiking or a snack at work,” she says. The peanut butter–flavored variety is on the sweeter side but still very worth trying, she notes.

With all these new suggestions, I’m looking forward to my next visit to my local TJ’s. I am sure I will be adding a few of them to my regular shopping list—while always keeping an eye out for enticing finds of my own!