Trader Joe's is so good about expanding the culinary horizon beyond what you find in the traditional supermarket. If you've ever been in a Trader Joe's, keeping most items stocked is a challenge even for the best run store. Some days you can find an item, some days you can't. In the freezer section, next to the Indian entrees was something I hadn't seen before: Bibimbap. If you have no idea what this is, it's a Korean dish with beef, rice, and veggies. I've never had it elsewhere so I have nothing to compare it to. So here is what I had while enjoying Trader Joe's Bibimbap Bowl...
Trader Joe's Sriracha Potato Chips
I've reviewed a number of things at Trader Joes. If there is a testimony to how much you like something, it's how often you repurchase something. Trader Joe's Sriracha Potato Chips are something I keep buying every time I see it.
The chip aisle is one of the busier aisle in the store. Only the freezer aisle is harder to navigate. Within the chips are odd ball flavors with some more familiar offerings mixed in. Now, I know Sriracha is one of the "hottest" flavors (popularity of it being thrown in everything, not actual heat). This one achieves a unique balance....
Trader Joe’s Gnocchi al Gorgonzola Review: Creamy, Rich, and Surprisingly Bold
Trader Joe's freezer section is known for pasta shortcuts, and their Gnocchi al Gorgonzola is no exception. This creamy, cheesy frozen dish combines pillowy potato gnocchi with a bold gorgonzola cheese sauce for a one-pan meal that's ready in under 10 minutes.
Sold in the freezer aisle for $3.79, this 16-ounce bag is labeled as two servings, but how much flavor are we really getting from this cheesy shortcut?
Review
Gorgonzola is one of those cheeses that doesn't try to please everyone, and I mean that in the best way. It's bold, funky, and not subtle. So I had some pretty strong curiosity (and a little hesitation) going into this bag of Gnocchi al Gorgonzola.
Out of the freezer, the gnocchi and frozen cheese cubes don't look like much. But once everything hits the pan, the sauce melts down into a velvety, thick coating that smells decadent and distinctly blue cheesy.
Let's talk texture first: The gnocchi were surprisingly tender. For a frozen pasta, they held up well and weren't rubbery or overcooked. I used a nonstick pan on medium heat and didn't add anything else, and the result was a creamy, clingy sauce that coated each bite without breaking.
Now the flavor. If you're expecting something like Alfredo, think again. This is a straight-up gorgonzola-forward dish. The funk of the blue cheese comes through loud and clear. It's rich, savory, and lingers-but in a way that'll delight cheese lovers. If you're a fan of brie or bleu, you'll love this. If not, this might be a hard pass.
The richness is real, too. I found it hard to eat a full "serving" (as labeled) without feeling weighed down. This is definitely a dish that benefits from balance. I highly recommend adding something green like sautéed spinach, peas, or arugula, or a squeeze of lemon to cut the richness.
It's a niche product, for sure. But if you're the type who goes straight for the cheese section at Trader Joe's, this will feel like a freezer win.
Ingredients
Key ingredients include:
- Potato gnocchi
- Gorgonzola cheese
- Cream
- Milk
- Butter
- Natural flavors
- Salt and pepper
Contains milk and wheat. Not gluten-free or vegan.
How to Prepare
Stovetop (recommended)
- Pour contents of bag into a nonstick skillet.
- Heat over medium for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sauce will melt and thicken as it cooks-no need to add water or oil.
Microwave
- Heat on high for 4 minutes. Stir. Microwave for another 3 minutes. Stir and serve.
Optional: Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or frozen peas during the last 2-3 minutes to make it a more complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with toasted walnuts for added crunch and contrast.
- Add arugula or spinach to mellow out the richness.
- Pair with grilled chicken or roasted veggies to round it out.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet, tangy contrast.
- Serve with a crisp white wine like sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio.
FAQs about Trader Joe's Gnocchi al Gorgonzola
The following are commonly asked questions about this product:
Does the sauce taste strongly of blue cheese?
Yes. The gorgonzola flavor is assertive, so this is best for those who enjoy bold cheeses.
How many servings are in one bag?
The bag contains about two servings, but due to the richness, you might stretch it further with add-ins.
Can this be microwaved?
Technically yes, but it's best on the stovetop for even melting and better texture.
Does it reheat well?
It can be reheated gently on the stove, though the sauce may thicken. Add a splash of milk to loosen it.
Final Thoughts
Trader Joe's Gnocchi al Gorgonzola is a great example of a product that leans into its identity. It's rich, cheesy, and unapologetically bold. If you're into funky cheeses and want a comforting pasta dish that doesn't require more than one pan and 10 minutes, this is for you.
Just know going in: it's rich. Like, split-a-bag-with-a-salad kind of rich. Add a handful of greens, toast up some nuts, and enjoy it as the centerpiece of a cozy weeknight dinner. For gorgonzola lovers, it's absolutely worth grabbing.
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Trader Joe's Beef Bolognese Ravioli Review: It's a Moo-d
Odds are if you grew up in America with a time pressed parent or grandparent, you may have been served something very unique: Beef Ravioli from a can. While not terrible tasting as a kid, as an adult you may crave that beefy goodness but desire something more complex like a truly fresh pasta. If you are looking to elevate your Chef Boyardee cravings than look no further than Trader Joe's Beef Bolognese Ravioli. For $3.49 you'll get about a dozen ravioli so plan accordingly. You may find that you can easily polish off this box all by yourself and want leftovers for the next day.
Betty Twist: I can only imagine how amazing these would be fried. Just saying. And planning. And goal setting.
In the refrigerated aisle it looks like this:
There are almost a dozen, mine had 11 in the package so plan accordingly. They smell like delicious meat ravioli when you open the package.
A quick look at the nutritional information and the ingredients along with cooking directions hidden by the pot reminds you to boil these for 4-6 minutes:
Get a pot of water boiling and then place Trader Joe's Beef Bolognese Ravioli in boiling water. Remove after 4-6 minutes and enjoy with almost any sauce be it butter, cream, or tomato based.
So what does it taste like? A beef ravioli but so much better. Imagine the smoothest filling imaginable with the complexity of a good bolognese. This is a definite must buy at Trader Joes if you like beef ravioli. A good sauce would compliment this dish (butter, alfredo, red sauce) but the ravioli are definitely the star here so don't overwhelm them. I encourage you to run out and try them. I always say run, because you never know when they will stop stocking these fun flavors. Highly recommend and I'm so going out and buying another few boxes of these.
Want to see more items I've reviewed from Trader Joe's? Click on Thoughts & Reviews of Trader Joe's for a searchable list.
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Trader Joe’s Frozen Steelcut Oatmeal- Is It the Ultimate Lazy Breakfast Hack?
Breakfast can be a rushed affair, especially on busy mornings when time is limited. If you're someone who enjoys the hearty texture of steel-cut oats but doesn't have time for the long stovetop process, Trader Joe's Steelcut Oatmeal is a lifesaver. Priced at $2.29 per package, this frozen oatmeal offers the comfort and satisfaction of a homemade breakfast in just minutes. But how does it measure up in terms of taste, convenience, and value?
What is Trader Joe's Steel Cut Oatmeal?
Trader Joe's Steel Cut Oatmeal comes pre-cooked and frozen, making it a convenient option for those who want a healthy, filling breakfast without the hassle of cooking steel-cut oats from scratch. Each box contains two individually portioned pouches, which are microwave-ready and provide a chewy, rich texture similar to risotto-perfect for those who prefer their oatmeal with more bite than traditional instant oatmeal.
Tasting Notes and Texture
Trader Joe's Steelcut Oatmeal has a rich, chewy texture that sets it apart from mushier instant varieties. It's closer to a risotto consistency, which makes each bite more satisfying and hearty. However, the flavor is quite plain on its own, with only a hint of sweetness from the subtle brown sugar and maple flavoring. This makes it a great base for customization, but if you prefer sweeter oatmeal, you'll likely want to add your sweeteners and toppings.
Ingredients and Nutritional Information
Ingredients:
Trader Joe's Steel Cut Oatmeal keeps it simple with just three ingredients: steel-cut oats, water, and salt. This minimal ingredient list makes it a wholesome, no-frills option for breakfast.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 2.5g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
With only 150 calories per serving, this oatmeal is a lower-calorie option that still provides the fiber and protein needed to keep you full until lunch.
The ingredients:
How to Prepare Trader Joe's Steel-Cut Oatmeal
Preparation couldn't be easier. Simply remove one of the two frozen pouches from the box and follow these steps:
- Microwave Instructions: Place the frozen oatmeal in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Let it sit for a minute to cool, then enjoy.
- Stovetop Instructions: If you prefer stovetop preparation, place the frozen oatmeal in a small pot with a few tablespoons of water or milk. Heat over low until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Trader Joe's Steel Cut Oatmeal is like a blank canvas, perfect for adding your favorite toppings. Here are some ideas to jazz up your morning bowl:
- Fruit: Fresh berries, bananas, or diced apples add natural sweetness and extra nutrients.
- Nuts and Seeds: Top with almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, or flaxseeds for added crunch and healthy fats.
- Sweeteners: Drizzle with honey, maple syrup, or a sprinkle of brown sugar for extra sweetness.
- Spices: Add warmth and flavor with a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom.
- Yogurt or Nut Butter: Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or almond butter for extra creaminess and protein.
What it looks like out of the box in which there are 2 pouches:
After 2 minutes in the microwave:
It needed another minute in the microwave to bring it up to being warm. The finished product:
Frequently Asked Questions
The following are some commonly asked questions about this project.
Is Trader Joe's Steel Cut Oatmeal gluten-free?
No, while oats are naturally gluten-free, this product is not certified gluten-free and may contain traces of gluten due to cross-contamination during processing.
Can I prepare this oatmeal on the stovetop?
Yes! Simply heat the frozen oatmeal in a small pot with a splash of water or milk over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
How long does Trader Joe's Steel Cut Oatmeal last in the freezer?
It can last for several months in the freezer. Be sure to check the best-by date on the packaging for optimal freshness.
Conclusion
Trader Joe's Steel Cut Oatmeal is a convenient and satisfying breakfast option for anyone who enjoys the texture and heartiness of steel-cut oats. While the flavor may be a bit plain on its own, it serves as a great base for your favorite toppings and mix-ins. At $2.29 per serving, it's an affordable way to enjoy a hearty, nutritious breakfast without the long cooking time.
Now, two servings are more expensive than buying the full package of uncooked Steelcut oats, but you are paying for convenience. But if you want a hearty breakfast with minimal effort this is a great item.
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