5 Trader Joe’s Meals Under $5 That Are Tastier Than Takeout

I shop almost exclusively at Trader Joe’s. My love for the quirky grocery chain knows no limits, from trying a vast selection of TJ’s dips to raving over seasonal releases. And I’ve found that Trader Joe’s is often cheaper than other stores.

But what really sets TJ’s apart from other grocery stores is the constant rotation of new crave-worthy snacks, amazing finds less than $5, and perhaps best of all: the easy dinner shortcuts that make weeknights a breeze.

We’ve all been there: The post-work slump hits, and takeout looks more and more appealing by the minute—even though it puts a strain on your wallet. That’s why I always have some easy meals on hand for lazy dinner nights. And almost all of them come from Trader Joe’s.

Here are my favorite Trader Joe’s meals under $5 that definitely satiate that takeout urge. I’d argue they’re even better.

Roti With Thai Red Curry

The first time I tried Trader Joe’s Roti With Thai Red Curry, I swooned. It was miles better than I’d anticipated. The only bad thing I can say about this dish is that there’s too much roti for the amount of curry provided. However, if you love the flaky fried bread, that’s hardly a drawback. The curry itself packs a punch of bright flavor, and it’s pleasantly spicy—even for me, someone who can rarely handle hot foods.

I’m not the only one who loves this $4.29 find. Fans on Reddit rave about the meal, even though most agree with me about having far too much roti for the curry you’re given. One Reddit thread dedicated to the frozen food gives it a “10/10,” and commenters have admitted enjoying it too much.

“I actually had too many and got totally burnt out on them,” said one Redditor, “because it was so good.”

Spinach & Ricotta Raviolini

This is the only recommendation on my list that I haven’t tried firsthand, but after reading so many stellar reviews, I’ve added it to my next shopping list. I’d buy Trader Joe’s Spinach & Ricotta Raviolini based on the miniature size alone, but its cheesy spinach béchamel filling just seals the deal. Even better: It’s only $3.49.

Several Redditors, who swear by the product, recommend enjoying it without too many accoutrements. And one Redditor said the raviolini are “tasty, similar to what I experienced in Italy.”

Tarte aux Champignons

Sure, Trader Joe’s Tarte aux Champignons probably isn’t intended to be a whole meal, but I’ve never been able to get more than one serving out of it. It’s simply too good. And it’s both indulgent and sophisticated. The cheesy mushroom flatbread is undeniably gorgeous, with braided edges that offer the perfect gentle crispiness after baking. And, yes, you’ll always find one of these in my freezer. At $4.79, it’s a steal.

I agree with Redditors who’ve suggested baking it for slightly longer than instructed to get that maximum crisp factor. Still, TJ’s fans on Reddit love this flatbread, with one person suggesting you pair it with a bubbly white wine for “a perfect impromptu festive dinner.”

I whip this up when I need to feel accomplished at the end of disappointing days, or when I need to imagine I’m traipsing around Umbria.

Butter Chicken With Basmati Rice

I’m of the opinion that Trader Joe’s Butter Chicken With Basmati Rice would benefit from slightly more butter chicken, but given that the meal only costs $4.49, I can hardly complain. It’s only slightly milder than the average butter chicken, but it’s still packed with flavor, and way cheaper than takeout from your local Indian joint. It’s certainly a meal in its own right; however, I prefer to enjoy it with Trader Joe’s frozen garlic naan.

Even Redditors who have tried multiple frozen butter chicken brands vouch for the Trader Joe’s version, with one person claiming it’s definitely the best they’ve tried. Others suggest easy ways to stretch out the meal by adding frozen peas or broccoli. No matter how you eat it, the verdict seems to be universal. Or, in the words of one Redditor, “The butter chicken with garlic naan is my favorite ‘lazy meal.'”

Cheese-Filled Fiocchetti With Pink Sauce

The first time I had Trader Joe’s Cheese-Filled Fiocchetti With Pink Sauce, I made a valiant effort to save some for later. Unfortunately, I was unsuccessful. I adore this pasta, which the chain itself calls “little bundles of cheesy joy” on the product page. Three Italian cheeses stuff each fiocchetto, which complemented by the pink cream and tomato sauce, tastes as indulgent as a pasta dinner in Italy. The unassuming diner would never know you only needed one pan to sauté and serve this dish—nor would they guess it only cost you $4.79.

Not only is this meal better than takeout, but Redditors also say it rivals pasta dishes at upscale Italian restaurants. Commenters have numerous suggestions on how to jazz it up with meatballs, shaved Parmesan, peas, or even langostino tails, but no matter how you prepare it, you’re in for an indulgent meal. If you want to add some easy protein, one Redditor has a great suggestion, sharing they “really like this pasta with a little browned Italian sausage to help stretch [it] for two meals.”