Which are the best Trader Joe’s items under 5 dollars?
Everybody loves Trader Joe’s; there is no point in denying that! It’s more than just a grocery store; it’s a full-blown cultural phenomenon. The moment you walk in, greeted by the crew in their cheerful Hawaiian shirts and the whimsical, hand-drawn signs, you know you’re in for a treat. While there are a lot of people who prefer to order their groceries because strolling around the aisles is time-consuming, I enjoy going to the store and picking up my favorite items. For me, a trip to Trader Joe’s is a mini-adventure, a treasure hunt where you’re guaranteed to find something new and exciting without breaking the bank.
For some products, I’m more than happy to shop at multiple locations (Walmart and Lidl are the other two of my favorite stores), but Trader Joe’s is one location where I have a go-to list of goods that are dependable, delicious, and reasonably priced. Having a list for Trader Joe’s is an absolute game-changer. It helps you stay focused amidst the siren call of seasonal snacks and impulse-buy goodies that line every shelf. This list is my anchor, ensuring I always leave with the essentials that make my weekly meals sing, even if I also happen to leave with a new potted plant and a bag of dark chocolate peanut butter cups I didn’t know I needed.
Since I love sharing my shopping hacks with my favorite readers out there, today I am going to pull together my favorite Trader Joe’s items under 5 dollars that are a must in your cart. These are the tried-and-true heroes of my pantry and fridge—the products I buy on repeat and recommend to anyone who will listen. They prove that you don’t need a huge budget to eat well and enjoy fantastic flavors. So grab your reusable bag and get that shopping list ready. Are you ready for a shopping spree?
Bagel sesame seasoning
Did someone say bagel seasoning? Yup, I am there in the front row as one of the biggest fans of this amazing product from Trader Joe’s! This little jar is pure magic. It’s the perfect blend of sea salt, garlic, onion, and two kinds of sesame seeds. Whenever I am up to get creative with my salad or to bake some goodies for my nephew, I am always up to everything but the bagel sesame seasoning. I can easily put this on the list of some of the best Trader Joe’s items under 5 dollars. Its versatility is truly unmatched. I sprinkle it on my avocado toast every morning, on top of fried or scrambled eggs, and even into my homemade bread dough. It adds an instant savory crunch that elevates literally everything.
It’s always nice to have a little extra in my pantry, so I always get three or four. Trust me, there’s a unique kind of panic that sets in when you realize you’re down to your last few shakes. It’s also fantastic as a crust for chicken or salmon, mixed into cream cheese for a DIY schmear, or shaken over buttered popcorn. At its low price, it’s a tiny investment for a massive flavor payoff.
Dolmas
If you have gone to Greece at least once in your life, and I am saying that since this country can be very addictive, then you have probably already eaten something called “dolmadakia.” These are tender grape leaves wrapped around a savory, herbed rice filling. The good news is that Trader Joe’s thought it would be a good idea to bring a piece of Greece to America, and these dolmas are one of Trader Joe’s items under five dollars available all year round. They perfectly capture that authentic Mediterranean flavor that can transport you straight to a seaside taverna.
This vegan product is canned, very well seasoned, and very tasty too! They’re packed in a flavorful olive oil, which keeps them incredibly moist and delicious. Maybe you know what I am talking about, and if not, next time you’re heading to Trader Joe’s, grab one. They are a fantastic, no-effort appetizer to put out for guests, a wonderful addition to a mezze platter with hummus and feta, or just a sophisticated snack to enjoy straight from the can. It is totally worth it, plus it costs $2.99.
Mini chicken tacos
These are excellent and are one of the Trader Joe’s items under 5 dollars! Found in the freezer aisle, these tiny, crave-able tacos are a staple in my house for a reason. These tacos are really simple to make—you can cook them in the oven or with a little toaster. I personally love getting them super crispy in the air fryer in just a few minutes. You are welcome to add additional toppings, such as shredded cheese or whatever else you choose. A little cotija cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and some freshly chopped cilantro really take them to the next level. Salsa or guacamole can be used as a dip, depending on your preference. It’s simple to cook, particularly if you invite people around for a game night or casual get-together. They disappear from the plate in minutes!
Cauliflower gnocchi
A lot of people say that gnocchi has a weird taste, but while this is true for some preparations, you might want to try these from Trader Joe’s! The secret is all in the cooking method. Please, whatever you do, do not follow the package directions to boil them, as they can turn out gummy. Instead, pan-fry or air-fry them from frozen with a bit of olive oil until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Why am I recommending them? Well, besides being super easy to make, these cauliflower gnocchi are one of the Trader Joe’s items under 5 dollars.
Tired of eating the same things every day? No problem! Trader Joe’s cauliflower gnocchi, available at a reasonable price, seems to be a lifesaver when you’re stuck for meal ideas. They are incredibly versatile. Toss them with pesto, marinara, or a simple brown butter and sage sauce for a complete meal. It’s the ideal method for adding volume to soups, kinds of pasta, and sheet pan dinners. Made with 75% cauliflower, it’s a crispy and delicious way to get more veggies into your diet. Even the pickiest children are going to love them, especially when you tell them they’re eating fluffy, crispy “pillows.”
Crunchy chili onion
Among some of the best Trader Joe’s items under 5 dollars that you won’t find anywhere else is the crunchy chili onion. This condiment is a cult favorite for a very good reason—it’s a texture and flavor explosion in a jar. It’s packed with crispy, dried bits of garlic and onion suspended in a warm, smoky chili-infused oil. This particular spice is the perfect match for dishes like burritos, tacos, pasta, omelets, and homemade ramen. I am one of those people who loves adding the crunchy chili onion spice to most of my meals, and I have to admit it’s the real deal! I’ll spoon it over dumplings, mix it into rice, drizzle it on pizza, and even stir it into hummus for an extra kick. It provides a gentle heat that’s more flavorful than just spicy, making it incredibly addictive.
Sublime ice cream sandwiches
Who doesn’t love ice cream? Especially if it’s on sale! And even when it isn’t on sale, this is a top-tier dessert bargain. No matter the season, I always have some ice cream in the freezer, and guess what? It’s one of the Trader Joe’s items under 5 dollars. These aren’t just any ice cream sandwiches. The combination of two chocolate chip cookies, which remain perfectly soft and chewy even when frozen, rich vanilla ice cream, and a playful coating of tiny chocolate chips makes them close to ideal. They’re a masterpiece of dessert engineering. The cost of each sandwich is $1.25, which is significantly less expensive than visiting the nearby ice cream shop! It’s the perfect individually portioned treat for when that sweet craving hits after dinner.
Multi-purpose cleaner cedarwood & sage
Besides delicious foods and spices, among these Trader Joe’s items under 5 dollars, there is this multi-purpose cleaner that costs $4. I was so excited when I found this because effective, good-smelling, and non-toxic cleaners can be surprisingly hard to come by, especially at this price point. The good thing about this cleaner is that it is made with only natural ingredients and doesn’t have a potent chemical scent. Instead, your kitchen is left with a warm, calming, and woodsy aroma of cedar and herbs. Yes, it’s a non-toxic cleaner, and even if they’re usually super pricey, here at Trader Joe’s (almost) everything is cheaper! It works wonderfully on countertops, tables, and sinks, cutting through everyday grime without leaving any harsh residues behind.
Let me know in the comments if you try it out. It feels so much better cleaning your home when you know you’re using something that’s safe for your family and pets.
…psst! With these Trader Joe’s items under 5 dollars, it’s impossible to resist the urge to buy something, right? The only downside is that they still use paper bags, which can be a bit flimsy when you’re stocking up on all these amazing deals. But for that, you need a proper tote bag to carry all your groceries. Here is my suggestion for a strong set of four shopping bags that’s available on Amazon for just $9.99. They’re sturdy, foldable, and will make your grocery hauls so much easier.
Cold Brew Coffee
Are mornings hard for you? Hi, five, then. Sometimes the process of grinding beans and brewing a fresh pot is just too much to handle before that first sip of caffeine. For those mornings when you don’t feel like making your coffee, stock up on that delicious cold-brew coffee from Trader Joe’s. It’s a lifesaver. Ready to drink, you can either pour it into your favorite cup over ice or take it on the go on the way to work. It’s incredibly smooth with very low acidity, so it’s gentle on your stomach. This coffee is made of Arabica coffee beans only! I love to mix it with a splash of oat milk and a bit of maple syrup for a perfect iced latte at a fraction of the coffee shop price. Last time I checked, it was $4.99.
Refresh citrus body wash
Are you looking for more Trader Joe’s items under 5 dollars? Don’t sleep on their personal care aisle! It’s full of hidden gems that rival products from high-end boutiques. Customers adore the brand’s face and hair serums, body butter, and even simple products like this body wash. The Refresh Citrus scent is so bright and invigorating, filled with notes of grapefruit and tangerine, making it the perfect way to start your day. It’s a wonderful bargain at less than $3, has a nice aroma that wakes up your senses, and on top of that, it doesn’t include any harmful substances like parabens or sulfates. It lathers up beautifully and leaves your skin feeling clean and soft, not stripped and dry.
Pita crackers
With so many products you can choose from in the cracker aisle, it can be overwhelming, but I couldn’t step away from one of my favorites, Trader Joe’s items under 5 dollars which are the pita bite crackers baked with sea salt. These are the perfect foundational cracker. Yes, they are baked, not fried! This gives them a light, airy crunch that’s incredibly satisfying without being greasy. You can eat them with any kind of dip or spread you want. Their sturdy, scoop-like shape makes them ideal for thick dips like hummus, tzatziki, or a chunky baba ghanoush. I love eating them with guacamole, cream cheese, and tomatoes. Mmm…yummy! They’re also fantastic on a cheese board or simply crumbled over a salad for some added texture.
Red chili scalloped crackers
If you’re planning a party and your guests are into charcuterie, then you’re going to love these red chili-scalloped crackers! They are a step up from your average cracker and bring a little something extra to the table. The subtle, warm heat from the red chili is present but not overpowering, and the scalloped shape makes them look extra fancy. They are the perfect addition to any type of cheese, deli meat, or your choice. I especially love pairing them with a creamy brie or a sharp aged cheddar; the spice cuts through the richness of the cheese beautifully. Just put them on the board, add a glass of wine, and voila: a fancy dinner with little money. I’d give it a shot if I were you!
Plus, these crackers are one of those Trader Joe’s items under 5 dollars! When I was there last week, I bought one pack for $1.49. At that price, you can afford to grab a couple of boxes to ensure you always have them on hand for impromptu entertaining or just for a flavorful solo snack.
I hope you liked my list, and if you’re not a fan of Trader Joe’s, after you’ve tried these items, you’ll definitely become one. The magic of the store is finding these high-quality, unique products at prices that feel like a steal. Oh, and be mindful to check the prices before heading to the store. For now, the prices I’ve mentioned here are still accurate, but they can still depend on the store and other weekly discounts and sales. It’s also a good idea to remember that product availability can sometimes vary by location, and some items are seasonal, so if you see something you love, it’s always smart to grab it!
If you enjoyed reading about all the Trader Joe’s items under 5 dollars and you’re on a roll with shopping this time of the year, you may also be interested in checking out 11 Costco Items That Make Even Canadians Cross the Border. Because let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good cross-border shopping hack? Happy bargain hunting!
