Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner looking to experiment, the secret to your next culinary masterpiece might just be sitting on the shelves of your local Trader Joe’s. Known for its quality products and affordable prices, Trader Joe’s has become a go-to grocery store for millions. But it’s not just us regular folks who love it – professional chefs are also turning to this supermarket chain for key ingredients in their dishes.
This list is based on real-world trends, culinary expert interviews, and comprehensive surveys. We’ve sought out the top 10 Trader Joe’s products that chefs secretly use to elevate their dishes. Expect to discover some hidden gems and gain new insights into how you can transform your own home cooking.
1. Trader Joe’s Unexpected Cheddar Cheese
The Unexpected Cheddar Cheese from Trader Joe’s is a unique blend of aged cheddar with a hint of parmesan. Its distinct flavor profile is what sets it apart from other cheeses on the market. Often overlooked by casual shoppers, this cheese is a secret weapon for many chefs who use it to add a surprising twist to classic dishes.
With the current trend of home cooking and experimenting with new recipes, the Unexpected Cheddar Cheese can be a gamechanger. Its rich, tangy flavor adds depth to everything from pasta to cheese boards. It’s a high-quality product at an affordable price – a perfect example of the value that Trader Joe’s offers. Learn more about this cheese from the official Trader Joe’s page.
2. Trader Joe’s Organic Virgin Coconut Oil
Trader Joe’s Organic Virgin Coconut Oil is a pantry staple that’s versatile and healthy. It’s not just for use in baking and cooking, it can also be used as a dairy substitute, a beauty product, and even a supplement. Despite its wide range of uses, this product often gets overlooked due to misconceptions about its health benefits.
As more people are becoming health-conscious and leaning towards organic and natural products, the trend for coconut oil has seen a significant rise. Chefs use it as a healthier alternative to other cooking oils. Its high smoke point and unique flavor make it ideal for a variety of dishes. Find out more about its benefits from this Harvard Health article.
3. Trader Joe’s Everything but the Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend
Trader Joe’s Everything but the Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend is a mix of sesame seeds, dried garlic and onions, sea salt flakes, and poppy seeds. It’s a flavor-packed product that, despite its popularity among bagel enthusiasts, is often bypassed by shoppers unaware of its versatility.
This seasoning is gaining popularity now due to the rise in home cooking and meal prepping. Chefs use this blend to add a burst of flavor to everything from roasted vegetables to grilled meats. It’s an easy way to elevate any dish. Get recipe ideas from this Bon Appétit article.
4. Trader Joe’s Organic Maple Syrup
Trader Joe’s Organic Maple Syrup is a 100% pure, grade A, amber color syrup. It’s a far cry from the high-fructose corn syrup masquerading as maple syrup found in many supermarkets. Unfortunately, many shoppers miss out on this product due to its slightly higher price point compared to non-organic alternatives.
With the trend towards organic and natural products, this maple syrup is increasingly being used by chefs. It’s not just for pancakes – it can add a sweet, complex flavor to savory dishes, sauces, and glazes. Learn about its uses from this HuffPost article.
5. Trader Joe’s Speculoos Cookie Butter
Trader Joe’s Speculoos Cookie Butter is a creamy spread made from crushed Speculoos cookies. It’s a decadent treat that’s often overlooked by shoppers who aren’t familiar with the traditional Belgian cookies it’s based on.
The trend for unique and global flavors has put this cookie butter in the spotlight. Chefs love it for its rich, spiced flavor and use it in everything from desserts to savory applications. Discover unique ways to use it in this Today.com article.
6. Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Gnocchi
Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Gnocchi is a gluten-free, lower-carb alternative to traditional gnocchi. It’s often bypassed by shoppers who stick to conventional pasta options, but it’s a favorite among chefs who appreciate its nutritional profile and unique texture.
With the rise in popularity of low-carb and gluten-free diets, this cauliflower gnocchi is gaining traction. Chefs use it as a base for a variety of dishes, showcasing that healthy swaps don’t have to compromise on taste. Learn how to prepare it from this Food Network guide.
7. Trader Joe’s Green Dragon Hot Sauce
Trader Joe’s Green Dragon Hot Sauce is a unique blend of spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. Despite its standout taste, it’s often overlooked by shoppers who stick to more familiar hot sauce brands.
As the hot sauce market continues to grow, with consumers seeking out unique flavors, this Green Dragon Hot Sauce is a favorite among chefs. It’s a versatile condiment that can add a kick to a wide range of dishes. Discover more about its flavor profile from this Chowhound discussion.
8. Trader Joe’s Vegan Kale, Cashew and Basil Pesto
Trader Joe’s Vegan Kale, Cashew and Basil Pesto is a plant-based alternative to traditional pesto. It’s often missed by shoppers who don’t venture into the vegan section, but it’s a hit with chefs for its depth of flavor and versatility.
With the increasing popularity of plant-based diets, this vegan pesto is more relevant than ever. Chefs use it to add rich, herbaceous flavor to a variety of dishes. Learn how to incorporate it into your recipes from this Well+Good article.
9. Trader Joe’s Organic Tomato & Roasted Red Pepper Soup
Trader Joe’s Organic Tomato & Roasted Red Pepper Soup is a convenient, ready-to-heat soup that’s often overlooked because it’s canned. However, chefs appreciate its rich, robust flavor and the time it saves in the kitchen.
In today’s fast-paced world, quick and easy meal options like this soup are gaining popularity. Chefs use it as a base for other dishes, or enhance it with simple additions for a gourmet meal in minutes. Get inspiration from this Kitchn article.
10. Trader Joe’s Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds
Trader Joe’s Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds are a sweet treat that’s often overlooked by shoppers who stick to classic chocolate bars. However, chefs value them for their balanced flavor and crunchy texture.
With the trend towards healthier dessert options, these chocolate covered almonds are a great choice. Chefs use them to add a gourmet touch to desserts or as a standalone snack. Read more about their benefits in this Healthline article.
As a mom of three busy boys, I know how chaotic life can get — but I’ve learned that it’s possible to create a beautiful, cozy home even with kids running around. That’s why I started Cultivated Comfort — to share practical tips, simple systems, and a little encouragement for parents like me who want to make their home feel warm, inviting, and effortlessly stylish. Whether it’s managing toy chaos, streamlining everyday routines, or finding little moments of calm, I’m here to help you simplify your space and create a sense of comfort.
But home is just part of the story. I’m also passionate about seeing the world and creating beautiful meals to share with the people I love. Through Cultivated Comfort, I share my journey of balancing motherhood with building a home that feels rich and peaceful — and finding joy in exploring new places and flavors along the way.
