We've all been there. It's the middle of the week, you just got back from class, work, the gym, etc., and have *zero* desire to cook anything for dinner. Even the "easy" recipes on TikTok look a little intimidating when you have to turn on the oven and the stovetop. All of this is to say, it makes sense that so many of the girlies are obsessed with Trader Joe's. The grocery store is built for busy people who need quick snacks and simple weeknight dinner ideas. Enter the hallowed TJ's frozen aisle. From their cult-followed Mandarin Orange Chicken to their sweet breakfast Chocolate Croissants, there are thrilling finds to add to your cart. However, we need to talk about the Trader Joe's frozen pasta selection. It's amazing for a fast bite or for pairing with grilled chicken, steak, and more. Here are the best ones to keep in your freezer when you can't even begin to think about actually cooking dinner.
1. Spaghetti Cacio E Pepe
This is a fan-favorite for a reason. This frozen Spaghetti Cacio E Pepe is, IMHO, better than fettuccine Alfredo. With a creamy sauce, it has a salty finish with Pecorino Romano and a slight black pepper kick. This is perfect for serving one or two people as a side or you can add some protein and veggies to amp up your pasta entree.
2. Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese
Yes, yes, I know that this is seasonal, but when it arrives in stores, the Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese is basically impossible to keep in stock. It's the perfect fall treat with a deeper flavor than the year-round TJ's Mac & Cheese. That butternut squash really does make a difference. Next time this arrives in stores, be sure to stock up!
3. Spaghetti Carbonara
You can have a taste of Italy with a Trader Joe's frozen pasta pack of Spaghetti Carbonara. The pancetta bits offer delectable bursts of salty, fatty goodness alongside the creamy Pecorino Romano cheese-centric sauce. Plus, with this frozen option, you won't risk accidentally making scrambled eggs in a homemade carbonara sauce.
4. Cheese Filled Fiocchetti with Pink Sauce
This is a staple in my fridge. After all, pink sauce (aka tomato and cream sauce) is the best way to eat pasta, TBH. These filled pasta options are sure to delight cheese lovers. P.S. I often forgo the addition of water in my skillet to maintain a thicker, creamier sauce for the Fiocchetti.
5. Gnocchi al Gorgonzola
Trader Joe's is famous for their frozen Cauliflower Gnocchi, but I personally think their Gnocchi al Gorgonzola deserves the most love. After a long day, you just need to warm these pillowy potato pasta, fry up some TJ's chicken sausage, throw in some spinach, and you have a delightful meal. Who knows, you may even have leftovers.
6. Rigatoni alla Contadina
If you're looking for pasta that is full of delicious veggies, look no further than the Rigatoni alla Contadina. I have at least two bags of this on deck at all times. I find the cream sauce to be lighter than other Trader Joe's options, and it pairs well with the peas and asparagus. I also forgo water in this frozen pasta to keep a thicker sauce. Basically, I love asparagus and think more plates of pasta should have this as their star.
7. Penne Arrabbiata
I know we've talked a lot about creamy cheese sauces, so it's time to give love to the tomato-based Penne Arrabbiata. The tomato sauce is slightly spicy and herbaceous, tasting super fresh. Basically, this is way better than any canned tomato sauce on the market. You could easily fool someone by saying you spent all day making the pasta sauce yourself.