Food · Posted on Oct 24, 2021
You're going to want to stock up on a lot of these.
by Hannah LoewentheilBuzzFeed Staff
Confession: I'm sort of obsessed with condiments. Just a little drizzle or schmear can instantly upgrade whatever you're cooking. And that's is part of the reason I absolutely adore Trader Joe's. This heavenly market boasts so many amazing and creative condiments and sauces at affordable prices —but they're not all created equally.
So I went ahead and ranked a ton of popular Trader Joe's condiments, dips, spreads, and dressings from worst to best that I've tried over the years. This way, you know exactly what to stock up on and what to leave on the shelves. (If I missed your favorite, leave it in the comments!) 99. Organic Buffalo Style Hummus Hannah Loewentheil
If you're looking for that delicious buffalo flavor, stick with #57.
98. Organic Balsamic & Fig Dressing Hannah Loewentheil
Sounds appealing but tastes pretty darn bad.
97. Bruschetta Hannah Loewentheil
There's a much better bruschetta to be found at Trader Joe's, and it's located in the refrigerated aisle (keep reading!).
96. Organic Cashew Cream Fiesta Hannah Loewentheil
It's like a dairy-free queso dip, and sadly it's not very good.
95. Cilantro Dressing Hannah Loewentheil
Tastes a bit like soap.
94. Romesco Dip Hannah Loewentheil
My favorite thing about romesco is that really nutty, sun-dried tomato flavor. Sadly, TJ's version is more peppery and less creamy than what I hoped for.
93. Vegan Bolognese Style Pasta Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
This just freaks me out and I can't explain any further.
92. Pimento Cheese Dip Hannah Loewentheil
Better than Velveeta, but not by a whole lot.
91. Red Pepper Spread With Eggplant & Garlic Hannah Loewentheil
This stuff is pretty meh .
90. Rustico Pomodoro Pasta Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
This pasta sauce is perfectly average, but there are way more exciting options in the same aisle.
89. Chili Pepper Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
As far as hot sauce goes, this one is not a must-try.
88. Autumnal Harvest Creamy Pasta Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
If you're looking for a creamy, pumpkin-based pasta sauce, you're better off with #49.
87. Spicy Hummus Dip Hannah Loewentheil
It has a mild kick, but it feels pretty processed and less fresh than the other hummus options.
86. Romano Caesar Dressing Hannah Loewentheil
As someone who prefers creamy Caesar dressing, this version always falls a bit flat for me.
85. Enchilada Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
Better than other store-bought enchilada sauces, but ultimately it's a one trick pony.
84. Everything But The Bagel Greek Style Yogurt Dip Hannah Loewentheil
This Greek yogurt based spread is fine, but it could use more flavor. I always find myself loading it up with even more EBTB seasoning.
83. Chipotle Black Bean Dip Hannah Loewentheil
Dip at your own risk...the smoky flavor is quite overpowering here.
82. Fall Harvest Salsa Hannah Loewentheil
Is it a pasta sauce? A salsa? Something in between? This dip is a bit confused.
81. Asian Style Spicy Peanut Vinaigrette Hannah Loewentheil
There are better salad dressings to be found at TJ's.
80. Spinach & Kale Greek Yogurt Dip Hannah Loewentheil
This stuff is totally fine if you're looking for a better-for-you take on spinach artichoke dip, but it doesn't hold a candle to the sour cream based version below.
79. Carolina Gold Barbecue Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
Because it's a non-vinegar based BBQ sauce it tastes pretty sweet, which may be off-putting. Just know what you're getting into here.
78. Organic Vodka Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
It has a cheesy kick, which is nice, but it's not as rich and decadent as I was hoping for.
77. Everything and the Elote Greek Style Yogurt Dip Hannah Loewentheil
There's only one way to eat this, and it's paired with elote corn dippers.
76. Pesto Alla Genovese Basil Pesto Hannah Loewentheil
Jarred pesto can really only be so impressive.
75. Sriracha Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
Sadly, I'm going to give the upper hand to the name brand version.
74. Whole Grain Dijon Mustard Hannah Loewentheil
You know exactly what you're getting with this whole grain mustard.
73. Cold Brew Coffee BBQ Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
Overall, the flavors here are pretty mild and the cold brew taste disappears as soon as it's cooked.
72. Avocado Tzatziki Hannah Loewentheil
This is basically a lightened-up guacamole, but I much prefer the chunky, spicy version — later in this list.
71. Creamy Cauliflower Jalapeño Dip Hannah Loewentheil
This dip has potential, but it's a bit too watery.
70. Queso Cheese Dip Hannah Loewentheil
It's hard to go wrong with queso, but TJ's version doesn't stand out against the name brands like Tostito's.
69. Pineapple Salsa Hannah Loewentheil
IMO, there's always something startling about overly fruity salsas.
68. General Tsao Stir Fry Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
This sauce is definitely tasty, but the texture could use some work. It's a bit too goopy and cloying. My advice: stick with #10 for your stir fries.
67. Smoked Salmon Dip Hannah Loewentheil
The flavor is good, but I always wish this smoked salmon dip were a bit more whipped and airy instead of its rather dense texture.
66. Vegan Caramelized Onion Dip Hannah Loewentheil
This dip is too thick. Any fragile chips or crackers won't make it out in one piece.
65. Thai Style Green Chili Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
This Thai-inspired chili sauce is flavorful, but I never really know how to use it. It's similar to a relish, but it feels wrong mixed into rice or noodles.
64. Thai Style Red Curry Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
Good enough to keep on hand for a quick and easy dinner, but it won't hold a candle to your favorite Thai take-out.
63. Gyoza Dipping Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
It tastes great on potstickers but can also be used for stir-fries, marinades, and more.
62. Genova Pesto Hannah Loewentheil
Better than the jarred version, this pesto is good enough to whip up an easy pasta dish , but it's not going to blow you away.
61. Italian Bomba Hot Pepper Sauce Hannah Loewentheil / Via instagram.com
Proceed with caution: This pepper spread packs a serious kick. A little shmear on your sandwich bread takes it to the next level.
60. Vegan Caesar Dressing Hannah Loewentheil
I actually prefer this vegan Caesar dressing to the non-vegan version because it's much creamier, thanks to the silken tofu and miso.
59. Pepita Salsa Hannah Loewentheil
It's called salsa, but it's really more like a creamy, pumpkin spread. I love using a dollop of it on my grain bowls, in tacos, and more.
58. Chili Lime Mayonnaise @traderjoes_addict / Via instagram.com
Three words: Mexican street corn.
57. Buffalo Style Chicken Dip Hannah Loewentheil
Overall, this dip is super flavorful. It's always a bit sparse on the chicken though.
56. Eggplant Garlic Spread Hannah Loewentheil
Grab a bag of pita chips and dip away. Or spread it on falafel, fully cooked gyro, or a wrap stuffed with avocado and veggies.
55. Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
Keep a jar of this creamy sauce on hand for a one-ingredient upgrade to any pasta night.
54. Green Goddess Dip Hannah Loewentheil
It's hard to go wrong with anything green goddess flavored, and this dip is no exception. Elevate your next crudité platter with it.
53. Organic Tahini Hannah Loewentheil
Use it to make hummus or drizzle it on your salads, sandwiches, and more. This creamy tahini is tasty and a great bargain.
52. Thai-Style Yellow Curry Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
Versatile and loaded with coconut and ginger, this yellow curry sauce goes perfectly with just about whatever protein or veggies you have on hand.
51. Hot & Sweet Pepper Jelly @traderjoes_addict / Via instagram.com
Serve it with cheese and crackers, on a sandwich, or even with gyoza for a little sweet and spicy kick.
50. Mango Ginger Chutney Trader Joe's
I prefer the flavor and texture of this mango chutney to any of Trader Joe's fruit-based salsas because it also has a nice spicy kick from the ginger.
49. Pumpkin Alfredo Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
Creamy alfredo sauce gets an autumnal kick. If you're a pumpkin fan, you'll have a good time with this.
48. Vegan Kale, Cashew & Basil Pesto Hannah Loewentheil
It doesn't contain any cheese, but it's still pretty decadent and gets an A+ as far as vegan pesto goes.
47. Roasted Tomatillo Salsa Verde Hannah Loewentheil
Not overly spicy but incredibly flavorful, this green salsa tastes great on any of your favorite Mexican dishes (cue the frozen mini chicken tacos).
46. Alfredo Pasta Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
This is definitely one of the better store-bought alfredo sauces you can find.
45. Masala Simmer Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
This Indian-inspired sauce doesn't contain any cream or dairy (in fact, it happens to be vegan), but it's still bursting with spices and flavor and upgrades whatever protein you cook in it.
44. Organic Cucumber Kefir Dressing Hannah Loewentheil
Imagine a cross between tzatziki, Caesar, and green goddess dressing. Not too shabby.
43. Cowboy Caviar Hannah Loewentheil
It's a fan favorite for a reason, and the combination of black beans and corn make it a nice change from your average tomato-based salsa.
42. Traditional Tunisian Harissa Hannah Loewentheil
This North African chili pepper sauce instantly upgrades anything from chicken to scrambled eggs.
41. Sriracha and Roasted Garlic BBQ Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
Spicy, garlicky, smoky, and sweet, this barbecue sauce checks off all the flavor boxes.
40. Mediterranean Style Hummus Hannah Loewentheil
I'd pick this super creamy and smooth hummus over Sabra any time.
39. Chunky Spicy Guacamole Autentico Hannah Loewentheil
Nothing beats homemade guacamole from scratch, but if you're going to go for a store bought version, this one's a winner. It has a good amount of spice and it's loaded with thick, creamy chunks of avocado.
38. Indian-Style Garlic Achaar Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
Grab a box of samosas or a bag of frozen naan and go to town.
37. Arrabiata Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
Try pairing this delicious canned pasta sauce with your favorite seafood pasta to give it a little kick.
36. Greek Style Feta Dressing Hannah Loewentheil
This stuff is really, really good, and for $2 it's the best bargain around as far as salad dressing is concerned.
35. Spicy Pumpkin Curry Simmer Sauce @traderjoeslist / Via instagram.com
This pumpkin-infused curry simmer sauce makes for an easy, hearty, and comforting weeknight meal. Toss it into a pot with rice and veggies and call it dinner.
34. Toasted Sesame Dressing Hannah Loewentheil
This Asian-inspired dressing can be used for so much more than salad: use it as a marinade for chicken, shrimp, tofu, or salmon or add it to rice noodle bowls.
33. Bolognese Style Tomato and Beef Pasta Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
As far as jarred Bolognese sauce goes, this one tastes surprisingly fresh, bright, and zesty.
32. Caramelized Onion Dip Hannah Loewentheil
If you grew up eating dips made with Lipton onion soup mix like I did, you'll surely appreciate this equally as indulgent Trader Joe's version.
31. Three Cheese Pomodoro Pasta Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
Every store bought pasta sauce should be this cheesy.
30. Chunky Blue Cheese Dressing and Dip Hannah Loewentheil
I mean really, what could be bad about blue cheese dip?
29. Blue Cheese Roasted Pecan Dip Hannah Loewentheil
Blue cheese lovers, rejoice. This rich and indulgent dip was discontinued for a bit, but finally it's back and as good as ever.
28. Jalapeño Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
Creamy and mild, it's the perfect accompaniment to anything from tacos to grilled chicken.
27. Spicy Honey Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
Watch out, Mike's Hot Honey, Trader Joe's is serious competition. Oh, did I mention it's only $3 per bottle?
26. Carrot Ginger Miso Dressing Hannah Loewentheil
I could eat this with a spoonful, no shame.
25. Honey Aleppo Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
A fan favorite, this sauce packs a very subtle heat and it's incredible versatile. Try it as a marinade (hello, world's best chicken wings), a glaze, or even a dipping sauce.
24. Spicy Cashew Butter Dressing Hannah Loewentheil
This vegan dressing is so creamy, you'd never know it doesn't contain dairy. Don't stop at salad: this stuff makes an amazing marinade for anything from chicken to fish.
23. Chili Sesame Oil Hannah Loewentheil
There is simply no dish that doesn't taste better with a little chili sesame oil drizzle.
22. Hot Pico De Gallo Salsa Hannah Loewentheil
As far as store bought salsa goes, TJ's hot and spicy pico de gallo tastes shockingly homemade.
21. Garlic Spread Dip Hannah Loewentheil
While it tastes great by the spoonful, I urge you to think of this product as a garlic-packed condiment that can upgrade anything from pizza and pasta to baked potatoes.
20. Organic Kansas City Style BBQ Sauce @ez_nadan / Via instagram.com
The best TJ's barbecue sauce hands down, no question.
19. Green Dragon Hot Sauce Hannah Loewentheil / Via instagram.com
If I could live the rest of the my life just buying one Trader Joe's hot sauce, this would be it.
18. Tzatziki Creamy Garlic Cucumber Dip Hannah Loewentheil
Unlike your average Greek yogurt spread, there's tons of thinly sliced cucumber in here that take it to the next level.
17. Green Goddess Salad Dressing Hannah Loewentheil
Light, bright, and herbaceous, this cold pressed dressing takes even the most boring salad to the next level.
16. Magnifisauce Hannah Loewentheil
Animal style fries, comin' right up.
15. 5-Layer Dip @traderjoesgeek / Via instagram.com
Turn any gathering into an instant fiesta with this dip, which contains layers ofhummus, guacamole, pico de gallo, sour cream and cheese.
14. Yuzu Hot Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
This Japanese-inspired citrus hot sauce is mild and tangy and the perfect compliment to anything from dumplings to fried chicken.
13. Thai Green Curry Simmer Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
The best of all Trader Joe's simmer sauces, this green curry version is the closest thing to restaurant-quality Thai food at home.
12. Corn and Chile Tomato-Less Salsa Hannah Loewentheil
Add a spoonful of this corn and chile salsa to fish tacos and thank me later.
11. Chunky Artichoke & Jalapeño Dip Hannah Loewentheil
Cheesy, thick, creamy, perfectly spicy, and totally decadent, this artichoke and jalapeño medley is everything you could want in a party dip.
10. Soyaki Hannah Loewentheil
A soy sauce-teriyaki hybrid, Trader Joe's soyaki gives the popular brand name Soy Vay sauce a serious run for its money.
9. Peri-Peri Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
A little bit of this Peruvian-inspired sauce takes any basic entree and completely elevates it. Try it with simple roast chicken to see what I mean.
8. Sweet Chili Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
You'll never find my fridge without a bottle of this sweet chili sauce inside.
7. Sour Cream Spinach Dip Hannah Loewentheil
Ditto for this super decadent spinach dip.
6. Zhoug Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
Trader Joe's nailed it with their take on zhoug, a Middle Eastern condiment made of cilantro, garlic, chili peppers, spices and olive oil. Put it on anything from meat or rice to eggs and roasted veggies.
5. Aioli Garlic Mustard Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
An OG for a reason, this aioli garlic mustard is perfection.
4. Bruschetta Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
There is something so good about this bruschetta sauce. I could (and do) eat it straight by the spoonful.
3. Cacio e Pepe Pasta Sauce Hannah Loewentheil
Rich, creamy, thick, cheesy, peppery, and everything you could want for your homemade cacio e pepe.
2. Balsamic Glaze Hannah Loewentheil
Sometimes simple is best, like in the case of this thick, sweet, and tangy balsamic glaze.
1. Chili Onion Crunch Hannah Loewentheil
Are there better chili oils out there? Sure. But not for $4. I stock up on a new jar every time I go to Trader Joe's, then I put it on anything and everything.
Do you have a favorite Trader Joe's condiment, sauce, spread, dressing, dip, etc... that I didn't mention? Drop it into the comments!
FAQs
Trader Joe's Magnifisauce is a truly special sauce whose flavors harken to an array of classic burger condiments, with the subtle tang of vinegar, and a spread of spices . In other words, it's made with slow-food ingredients, but a squeeze of the bottle gets you the best of the fast-food experience.
What is Trader Joe's magnifisauce? ›
Trader Joe's Magnifisauce is a truly special sauce whose flavors harken to an array of classic burger condiments, with the subtle tang of vinegar, and a spread of spices . In other words, it's made with slow-food ingredients, but a squeeze of the bottle gets you the best of the fast-food experience.
What is the difference between dips and condiments? ›
Condiment vs Sauce vs Dip A sauce is something that is put on top of food while preparing it. Dips are used with the food to enhance the taste. And if there's something that can be used for both purposes, it will be called a condiment.
Does Trader Joe's sell condiments? ›
Below, find out which Trader Joe's condiments are worth your time and money and which ones you should probably leave on the shelf.
What is the most sold item at Trader Joe's? ›
The #1 Overall award went to Chili & Lime Flavored Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips .
What is hidden in Trader Joe's? ›
A lot of customers don't realize it, even if they shop at Trader Joe's regularly, but somewhere in the store, the employees have hidden a stuffed animal . Any kid who finds the stuffed animal is given a special treat, like a lollipop, as a prize. This is brilliant. Shopping with kids can be difficult.
What is Trader Joe's Incredisauce used for? ›
It's a dynamic dipping sauce for Trader Joe's Chicken Drummellas or Gluten Free Chicken Nuggets . It also adds verve when spread on hot or cold sandwiches. Quinoa Cowboy Veggie Burgers come to mind!
What's the best selling condiment in the United States? ›
Sales of condiment and dressing categories in the U.S. from 2019-2021. In 2021, mayonnaise was the top condiment in the United States, with sales of approximately 164 million U.S. dollars.
Why is Trader Joe's special? ›
At Trader Joe's, you won't find a lot of branded items. Instead, you'll discover a store full of unique and interesting products, along with everyday basics, in the Trader Joe's label . Our buyers travel the world searching for products we think are exceptional and will find a following among our customers.
Does Trader Joe's magnifisauce taste like Big Mac sauce? ›
There have been a number of fast-food fans who've compared the Magnifisauce to either In-N-Out Burgers's famous secret sauce or McDonald's Big Mac burger sauce – which sounds pretty tasty and means you can recreate some of your favorites right at home.
It's shelf stable until it's opened, and it's best if used within 90 days .
What does Trader Joe's call their employees? ›
Crew. As a member of the Crew , you do a little of everything—and handle a lot. So does everyone along with you. From running the register, to stocking shelves, to creating a beautiful display; all while making sure that every customer has a fun, friendly and informative shopping experience.
What is so special about Trader Joe's brand labels? ›
Trader Joe's private label products promise great quality fare for exceptional, everyday prices . We taste everything before we put our name on it and offer only what we feel is extraordinary.
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