8 Ridiculously Easy Trader Joe’s Meals You Can Make in Minutes, Using 3 Ingredients or Less

There are countless reasons to shop at Trader Joe’s, but one of the biggest reasons is that they make it incredibly easy to throw together a meal in minutes. From the impressively stocked freezer section to pre-packaged goods, it’s never been easier to get a delicious, well-rounded meal on the table, even on the busiest of days. Aside from the convenience factor, TJ’s is also known for their reasonably priced products, helping to make grocery bills more affordable, and giving you more bang for your buck. 

So, whether you need some inspiration for simple meals, or are looking to cut costs on your next grocery bill, here are a handful of delicious dishes you can make with just three TJ’s ingredients or less!

Southwestern Chopped Salad With Avocado

The pre-made salad kits from TJ’s are always a lifesaver, especially when you need something quick to enjoy during the week. And while the Southwestern Chopped Salad Kit already comes with Cotija cheese, tortilla strips, cilantro, and a spicy dressing, it never hurts to add more satiating protein, courtesy of flavorful black beans and fresh avocado.

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad

TJ’s Buffalo Chicken Dip is so good with a side of crackers and veggies, but did you know you could also use it in spicy, flavorful pasta salad? Grab a box of your favorite pasta and cook it according to the directions on the box; be sure to reserve some of the pasta water for later. Once the pasta is al dente, run it under cold water so the noodles come to room temperature. Add the cooled pasta, a container of the Buffalo Chicken Dip, and a small amount of pasta water to a bowl and begin mixing until the noodles are well-coated. Throw some chopped celery on top or mix it in, if desired. 

Sriracha BBQ Meatballs

Whether you’re making them as a side or a main dish, these Sriracha BBQ meatballs are bound to be a hit. Break out your stash of frozen TJ’s Italian Style Meatballs, and crack open a bottle of the chain’s Organic Sriracha & Roasted Garlic BBQ Sauce. Simply cook the meatballs per the directions on the bag, and add them to a saucepan to coat ’em with sauce. 

Pico de Gallo Egg Salad Bagel

Perfect for a quick breakfast or lunch—egg salad on a bagel is the ultimate comfort meal, and TJ’s makes it effortless. Toast an everything bagel (or any TJ’s bagel of your choosing) and schmear on a generous helping TJ’s pre-made egg salad and Pico de Gallo. The creaminess of the egg salad paired with the spiciness of the pico is better than you can even imagine. 

1-Minute Lentil Salad

Cooking dry lentils can be time-consuming, but TJ’s offers Steamed Lentils in a convenient, fully cooked package which makes them easy to enjoy, even in a pinch. This lentil salad can be whipped up as quickly as you can say “yum”—all you need is some crumbled Feta cheese and a container of TJ’s Bruschetta Sauce. Mix everything up in a big bowl, and enjoy with crackers or by the spoonful. 

Chana Masala Tomato Soup

Whoever thought to combine TJ’s Organic Tomato & Roasted Red Pepper Soup and pre-made channa masala should get a promotion and a raise. Within minutes, you can have a filling and comforting meal that the whole family will love. Once you’ve heated up the tomato soup and chana masala, distribute them equally into shallow bowls and top with TJ’s Strained Thick & Creamy Greek Yogurt or sour cream. Naan is totally an option, but always a good idea. 

Calabrian Chili Pasta With Burrata

TJ’s has an impressive variety of pastas and jarred sauces, and each one is better than the next. If you love foods with a little heat, make a big pot of pasta and coat it with this silky yet bold Calabrian Chili Spicy Pasta Sauce. If you like cheese, add a generous portion of burrata on top. The creamy texture of the cheese helps cool down the spiciness of the sauce, all while adding a depth of flavor. 

Mandarin Orange Chicken With Vegetable Fried Rice

Skip the takeout by making TJ’s beloved Mandarin Orange Chicken with Vegetable Fried Rice instead. Not only will this dish taste better than anything you could have delivered, but it’s more cost-effective too. Just prepare both the chicken and fried rice according to the package instructions, and serve ‘em alongside some steamed broccoli or snap peas for even more veggies.