blog - BecomeBetty.com

Trader Joe's Diner Mac and Cheese

If there is anything quite as comforting as mac and cheese, then I can't think of what it is. Here is a box I've walked past a whole bunch of times.

For one reason only: the calorie count.

An unopened box of Trader Joe's Diner Mac and Cheese

Taste and review

Yes, if you don't read the back of this package you will consume over 700 calories in a single serving assuming you only bring this for lunch.

If you are willing to exercise more self-control, divide this in half and have something sensible with it, then you are in for a treat. And yes, it is still a treat even if you are just eating the whole container by yourself.

What comes out of this box is probably the closest to the mac and cheese you would expect to make at home. It is creamy, cheesy, the pasta came out just right from the microwave. Just realize this isn't Kraft Mac and Cheese or Velveeta either. This is the real deal cheese blend mixed with a roux to give you this cheese sauce texture.

And what a blend of cheeses that are in this: havarti, swiss, gouda, and cheddar. All items I'd be proud to say are in a homemade variety. So since this is made with real cheese there is an important point to bring up when heating this.

I always pull my mac and cheese items about 30 seconds before the instructions say.

Why? Cheese when overcooked can separate. I'd rather add time than wish to go back into time and undo things.

For $2.99 it's a pretty fair price for a serving or two. If you are looking to keep things a touch cheaper or you have lots of people you are willing to share this with, then perhaps a good copycat recipe will do the trick.

Overall

Otherwise, it is a good occasional treat. If you aren't willing to consume this many calories in a day, then reach for the Reduced Guilt Mac and Cheese which isn't quite as good and cheesy, but will provide for a satisfying grab-and-go lunch.

Would I buy this again? If it weren't for the calorie count, I would absolutely buy this again.

Product photos

The box of Trader Joe's Diner Mac and Cheese:

Trader Joe's Diner Mac and Cheese unopened on a red surface

The nutritional information:

Trader Joe's Diner Mac and Cheese nutritional information

The ingredients:

Trader Joe's Diner Mac and Cheese ingredients

How to prepare:

Trader Joe's Diner Mac and Cheese directions

After being cooked you get:

Want to see more items I've reviewed from Trader Joe's? Click on Thoughts & Reviews of Trader Joe's for a searchable list.

The Bottom Line

Don't forget to share your thoughts by going to the "user review" at the bottom of the box (click on the number of stars you believe this product deserves) and leave a comment below.

You can also FOLLOW ME on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest to see what I'm up to.

Trader Joe’s Pub Cheese Review: Spreadable, Snackable, and Surprisingly Bold

If you're in the mood for something creamy, cheesy, and just a little bit indulgent, Trader Joe's Pub Cheese might be calling your name. This spreadable cheddar cheese dip comes in multiple flavors, but the sharp cheddar with jalapeño version is where things really get interesting, but this tub is way more basic.

At $3.99 per tub, it's a go-to pick for easy entertaining, no-fuss snacks, or just spooning out of the container when no one's looking (don't worry, your secret's safe here).

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Review

There's something inherently satisfying about cheese you can spread. Trader Joe's Pub Cheese takes that experience and gives it a flavorful twist with real cheddar, a smooth whipped texture, and, for the jalapeño version, a decent kick of heat.

The first thing I noticed is the texture: it's creamy but thick, easy to spread on everything from crackers to celery sticks, and stiff enough to hold its shape for cheese boards or dipping. The flavor is bold and tangy, with a noticeable sharp cheddar bite. It doesn't taste overly processed or artificial-just like a good, spreadable cheese.

The jalapeño version offers a warm, peppery heat that intensifies with each bite. It's not overwhelmingly spicy, but it's enough to make it interesting if you're looking for something beyond basic cheddar. I also tried the classic sharp cheddar version, which is slightly milder but just as snackable.

This is one of those Trader Joe's products that's versatile and addictive. I've used it as a dip for chips and pretzels, a spread for sandwiches, and even melted it slightly into a quesadilla for extra gooeyness. It's the kind of thing that disappears fast once it hits the table, especially during game day or a party.

FAQs about Trader Joe's Pub Cheese

The following are frequently asked questions about this product:

Is Trader Joe's Pub Cheese gluten-free?

Yes, the cheese itself is gluten-free, though it's always smart to check labels for cross-contamination notes if you're sensitive.

Does it need to be refrigerated?

Yes, keep it chilled and consume within the recommended time after opening

Can you microwave it?

You can! Just warm it in short 10-15 second bursts and stir to avoid overheating.

How long does it last?

It stays fresh for about 7-10 days after opening if stored properly.

Ingredients

The main ingredients here are:

Cultured pasteurized milk
Cheese culture
Salt
Enzymes
Cream

Contains: milk

Trader Joe's Pub Cheese nutritional information

How to Use

Spread on crackers, pretzels, or bagel chips
Add to sandwiches or burgers for a cheesy kick
Warm and drizzle over nachos or baked potatoes
Use as a dip for sliced veggies or tortilla chips
Stir into scrambled eggs or breakfast wraps for extra flavor

Trader Joe's Pub Cheese with the package open

Final Thoughts

Trader Joe's Pub Cheese is a low-effort, high-reward kind of product. It's flavorful, versatile, and downright craveable-whether you're building a cheese board or just need something to dip your pretzels in at midnight.

With options like jalapeño or classic cheddar, there's something for every cheese lover. It might not be the fanciest cheese in your fridge, but it's probably the first one to disappear.

Do you love these reviews?

Don't forget to share your thoughts by going to the "user review" at the bottom of the box (click on the number of stars you believe this product deserves) and leave a comment below.

You can also FOLLOW ME on the following platforms by clicking the icons below:

Trader Joe's Marinara Sauce

I work just outside of Little Italy. Needless to say, there is some really good food there. But the sauce, and marinara sauce at that, is a source of both pride and debate. Some people call it sauce while others refer to it as gravy.

Taste and review

What makes a good marinara sauce is usually up for some debate in terms of preparation and ingredients that go into it too. For me, I tend to prefer anything with San Marzano tomatoes. But that is not the case here.

Don't get me wrong, here is a product that is good. If Trader Joe's didn't sell so many fun and unique items maybe I would feel differently about this.

Maybe good isn't the right word. This product is basic. This isn't made from the pricey San Marzano tomatoes that I love and am willing to shell out the premium for.

This is just basic sauce at the end of the day. It's chunky enough to let you know there are crushed tomatoes here. It's a bit acidic too. Their olive oil is in there but not to the extent that the now discontinued Puttanesca sauce had.

There is some basil flavor, but that is something that is best added at the end. So overall, it's a good sauce but nothing that stands out. It's not looking to reinvent the wheel. It's a nice fresh sauce. A touch of fresh basil isn't a bad move either.

Overall

For me personally, I'll still reach for the Marinara with Barolo Wine over this. For $3.99 this is more expensive than the jarred varieties. It was good, but it didn't blow me away. And for the price and size, yes, 50 cents more and 50% larger, the jarred marinara is a better deal too.

Product photos

The container of Trader Joe's Marinara Sauce:

The nutritional information:

Trader Joe's Marinara Sauce nutritional information

Trader Joe's Marinara Sauce nutritional inforamation

The ingredients (sorry, the container is a weird shape and not the most conducive to taking great picture) and how to prepare:

Trader Joe's Marinara Sauce ingredients and how to prepare

After being heated and mixed with some leftover Black Squid Ink Pasta you get:

An overhead shot of Trader Joe's Marinara Sauce in a bowl full of black spaghetti

Trader Joe's Marinara Sauce on top of a bowl of black spaghetti on a red surface

Would I buy this again? No, I would not buy Trader Joe's Marinara Sauce again. It was good for what it was, but there are other variations that I just like better like TJ's Marinara with Barolo Wine.

Want to see more items I've reviewed from Trader Joe's? Click on Thoughts & Reviews of Trader Joe's for a searchable list.

The Bottom Line

Don't forget to share your thoughts by going to the "user review" at the bottom of the box (click on the number of stars you believe this product deserves) and leave a comment below.

You can also FOLLOW ME on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest to see what I'm up to.

The Best Cookie Butter Recipes

I'm always looking for other ways to use cookie butter aside from eating it straight from the jar. You gotta share the love, right? Even those yummy little Speculoos cookies are worthy of being elevated right?

Plus, if you are reading this and turning on an oven sounds like a terrible idea there are plenty of no-bake options posted here. Some items here are enjoyed ice cold. Some are perfect for the over 21 crowds too.

So whether you are making something decadent for yourself or to give to someone else, this list is nothing short of mouthwatering ideas to enjoy! Heck, maybe you'll even win your office bake-off. Or give a kid some serious bragging rights. And aren't food gifts the best anyways?

Here are some ideas from around the web on how to use either the Speculoos cookies or the more famous spread cookie butter spread. You may see Biscoff mentioned too. Bottom line is, don't be afraid to experiment with those jars to turn them into something mouth-watering. You are already starting out with an amazing ingredient.

Below is my roundup of the 25 most awesome and mouthwatering ideas from around the web.

Cookie Butter Cold Brew Coffee recipe image — Cookie Butter Cold Brew Coffee Source: © The Flavor Bender

But seriously, though. Trader Joe's sells a solid cold brew. Why not make quite possibly the most decadent coffee creamer ever? Yes, Cookie Butter Coffee Creamer.

Cookie Butter Milk Shake Source: © Salty Canary

As a native NYer, there is a lot of internet buzz over Black Tap's Milkshakes. Why wait in line, when you can make something this outrageous at home?

Cookie Butter Rolls Source: © Kitchen Gidget

Ok, maybe dessert for breakfast. I'm guilty of indulging in my fair share of Chocolate or Almond Croissants in the morning. But why haven't they thought of cookie butter croissants? Check out this 2 ingredient recipe for the croissant you didn't know you needed in your life.

Pumpkin Cookie Butter Cinnamon Buns with Cookie Butter Glaze Source: © Grumpy's Honeybunch

If cinnamon rolls are too basic for you, then maybe cookie butter belongs on (and in) your cinnamon rolls too. Oh, and make that a Pumpkin Cookie Butter Cinnamon Buns with Cookie Butter Glaze.

No Bake Biscoff Rocky Road Recipe — Quick No-Bake Biscoff Rocky Road Source: © Kitchen Mason

No-Bake Biscoff Rocky Road squares keep it simple without losing that familiar rocky road goodness. White Chocolate. Marshmallows. Biscoff cookies. No baking required. Best of all, cut them up and they can be your afternoon indulgence. Nothing but sweet decadence.

Cookie Butter Rice Krispies Treats — Cookie Butter Rice Krispie Treats Source: © House of Nash Eats

I remember coming home from school and there would be Rice Krispies Treats. Those were the days. Even when they appeared in my lunch box it was a good day. How do you improve on a classic? Make them as Cookie Butter Rice Krispies Treats.

Cookie Butter Granola Bars Source: © Freutcake

Once you've had homemade granola bars, there is almost no going back to the prepackaged stuff. Add some cookie butter and you've got quite the snack bar in your hands.

Speculoos Cookie Butter Popcorn Recipe Source: © Major Hoff Takes A Wife

Five Minutes. Three Ingredients. It doesn't get easier or more delicious than this Speculoos Cookie Butter Popcorn recipe.

BISCOFF & WHITE CHOCOLATE BLONDIES — Biscoff and White Chocolate Blondies Source: © Scrummy Lane

A happy place between a cookie and brownie must be a blondie right? Because snacking should satisfy like this Biscoff and White Chocolate Blondies.

Cookie Butter Caramel Swirled Brownies Source: © Grumpy's Honeybunch

If you adored the Cookie Butter and Chocolate Swirl, then this recipe might hold a special place for you. Chocolate and cookie butter play so well together, why not turn them into a swirled brownie? You can get the recipe here.

Cookie Butter Cheesecake Bars Source: © My Suburban Kitchen

If you've enjoyed Trader Joe's Cookie Butter Cheesecake bites, then you know they are good. But we all know homemade is always better than store-bought. 7 ingredients, 5 steps to this easy Cookie Butter Cheesecake Bars.

No Bake Biscoff Cheesecake — Biscoff No Bake Cheesecake Source: © Kitchen Mason

Cookie Butter two ways: cookies and butter. Best of all, no baking is required. It's the easiest way to enjoy cheesecake's amazingness. You can get the recipe for this Biscoff No Bake Cheesecake here.

(Almost) No Bake Cookie Butter Pie — (Almost) No-Bake Cookie Butter Pie Source: © The Unlikely Baker

The crust needs a bake, but everything else just needs to chill. This pie would be stunning to present to someone. You can get the recipe for this (almost) No-Bake Cookie Butter Pie here.

No Bake Cookie Butter Oatmeal Cookies — No-Bake Cookie Butter Oatmeal Wreath Cookies Source: ©EasyandDelish.com

No-bake. Picture perfect. Is there really a better gift than the homemade ones? Check out this No-Bake Cookie Butter Oatmeal Wreath Cookie recipes. Did I mention these are also gluten-free, egg-free, and can be made dairy-free?

Chocolate Biscoff Pinwheel Cookies Source: ©Vegan Yack Attack

How about picture-perfect AND vegan, soy-free and dairy-free? These pinwheel cookies are perfect for a party, bake sale, cookie swap, or just want stunning cookies to put out. Check out these Chocolate Biscoff Pinwheel Cookies recipes.

Cookie Butter Sea Salt Truffles Source: © Confessions of a Baking Queen

Imagine getting a few of these. I can't imagine a better way to be thanked than with these Eggless Cookie Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough balls. I mean c'mon cookie dough rules. You can check out the recipe here.

Soft and Chewy Cookie Butter Blondies Source: © The Unlikely Baker

The smell of blondies is intoxicating. Add some cookie butter and some white chocolate will leave you with these decadent soft and chewy cookie butter blondies.

Let them eat cake? Nobody said you had to share. Check out this stunning Cookie Butter Cake recipe from Liv for Cake.

Cookie Butter Twist Bread — Speculoos Butter Twist Bread Source: © Baking Queen 74

How do you make bread better? Use cookie butter and add a twist. You can get this Speculoos Butter Twist Bread by clicking the read more.

Cookie Butter Lava Cake Source: © Confessions of a Baking Queen

You had me at molten delicious cookie butter filling. At just 7 ingredients, 5 steps and it makes two servings. Perfect for date night or an extra dessert. After you finish the first one. You can check out the recipe here.

If pudding is your thing, then you can elevate it with crushed Speculoos cookies in this Speculoos Tiramisu Pudding recipe which might be perfect for a gathering.

Speculoos Cookie and Magnum Cream Liqueur Dessert Source: © Christina's Cucina

If you are feeling a little in need of chilled and over 21 desserts, then this recipe takes advantage of cream liqueur to make these Speculoos cookies even better. You can get the recipe here.

No fancy equipment is required to make these Homemade Cookie Butter and Chocolate Fudge Pops. As long as you have some plastic cups as molds you are ready to make these. And if you are wondering, yes these can be made vegan too.

Do you love these posts?

Don't forget to share your thoughts by leaving a comment below.

You can also FOLLOW ME on the following platforms by clicking the icons below:

Trader Joe's Soyaki

At the school where I work at we are fortunate to offer the kids a foreign language. Of all the languages we could have picked, we opted for Mandarin.

As part of the curriculum, the teacher goes through what is authentic and not authentic Chinese food. At some point, after this lesson, we go on a field trip to Chinatown and take the kids shopping through Asian markets, stores, and a restaurant. All while flexing their newly acquired language abilities.

I've been lucky enough to sit through her class and pick up on some things here and there. But I think it was really important to sit through the lesson on authenticity. What we often associate with a certain ethnicity's cultural food might not translate if you were to visit the country of origin.

Taste and review

Now, teriyaki is Japanese in origin has the Trader Joe San name suggestions.

However, the product name here is more of an American hybrid. This isn't teriyaki, this is soyaki. So, no this isn't fully authentic to teriyaki. A true teriyaki is a thickened sauce.

What comes out of this bottle is thin like soy sauce. But unlike just plain soy sauce, you have a lot of overlapping ingredients that are often found in teriyaki recipes such as garlic, ginger, and sugar. Often times when I've been served teriyaki there are sesame seeds on top of the freshly prepared food which is also found in this marinade.

Now, as a point of clarification according to Just One Cookbook, the word Teriyaki actually refers to the cooking method and how it is prepared. She also clarifies the point of the authenticity of teriyaki compared to what Americans think of as Teriyaki.

So as a hybrid American concoction, it's not bad. If you were hoping for that glaze, you'll be disappointed. But if you love the flavor of teriyaki but the thin nature of soy sauce this is one to try.

Overall

For $2.99 it's not a bad marinade to keep around if you can handle the sodium levels here. I'm not sure if anyone marinades their meat using a tablespoon as a guide. I know I haven't. So there is that danger here of consuming a lot of salt. But for a product that is primarily soy sauce, that isn't unexpected either.

It's a flexible marinade that could be used on pretty much any protein or most veggies. I used mine with some ground pork. And would this be a good marinade to use to make fillings for dumplings? Absolutely.

If you can't get to a Trader Joe's, this item is available on Amazon through third-party sellers.

Product photos

The bottle of Trader Joe's Soyaki:

The nutritional information:

Trader Joe's Soyaki nutritional information

The ingredients:

How Trader Joe's describes this product:

After being cooked with some ground pork you get:

Trader Joe's Soyaki cooked in some ground pork with some fried rice

Would I buy this again? Yes, I would buy Trader Joe's Soyaki again. We liked the fact that this was not terribly sweet like so many teriyakis.

Want to see more items I've reviewed from Trader Joe's? Click on Thoughts & Reviews of Trader Joe's for a searchable list.

The Bottom Line

Don't forget to share your thoughts by going to the "user review" at the bottom of the box (click on the number of stars you believe this product deserves) and leave a comment below.

You can also FOLLOW ME on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest to see what I'm up to.

Taste and review

Overall

Product photos

The Bottom Line

Review

FAQs about Trader Joe's Pub Cheese

Ingredients

How to Use

Final Thoughts

Do you love these reviews?

You can also FOLLOW ME on the following platforms by clicking the icons below:

Taste and review

Overall

Product photos

The Bottom Line

Drink Your Cookie Butter

Cookie Butter for Breakfast

Cookie Butter as a Snack

No-Bake Ideas

Almost No-Bake Ideas

Gift-Worthy Cookie Butter Ideas

Some Like It Hot. From the Oven.

Some Like it Cold. The Best Chilled Recipes

Do you love these posts?

You can also FOLLOW ME on the following platforms by clicking the icons below:

Taste and review

Overall

Product photos

The Bottom Line