How many times have you wanted to just order takeout instead of cooking something on a busy weeknight? Probably more than a few. Rather than stress over preparing a meal from scratch, why not rely on some of the best Trader Joe’s frozen food? These meals, snacks, and sides are quick, simple, and easy on the wallet. Best of all, there’s something for everyone, even your pickiest eaters. (Check our top Trader Joe’s food for picky eaters, too!)
Trader Joe’s Frozen Kimbap
These newcomers took the freezer case by storm and were often on backorder, much to the chagrin of TJ’s shoppers. They pack an umami punch and are great to have on hand for quick lunches.
Mac and Cheese Bites
It's the best of both worlds with Trader Joe's Mac and Cheese bites: bite-size bites of cheesy goodness and a crispy crust. With seven types of cheese that include Cheddar, Havarti, Swiss, Gouda, Cream Cheese, Monterey Jack, and Pecorino Romano for good measure, the whole family will meet their dairy quota for the day, all while enjoying the updated panko-style breading.
Beef Bulgogi
This is one pound of seasoned beef, and you’ll love serving it up with some rice (see below) and potstickers.
Trader Joe’s Frozen Rice
You can have jasmine or brown rice on the table in three minutes with these microwaveable packets in the frozen section. They have literally saved so many dinners.
Hash Browns
These hash browns have addicting properties so consider yourself warned. We love them on weekends when you want something to go with your scrambled eggs.
Sublime Ice Cream Sandwiches
While these aren’t a meal per se (though no judgment if you disagree), we had to include them in this list of favorites. You won’t want to share these with the kids so find a safe spot for them behind the broccoli. They are that good.
Vegetable Fried Rice
This quickly cooks up in minutes on your stove and it’s as close to Chinese take-out as you could hope for.
Beef Birria
If you are craving those dippable tiny tacos that you see at all the taco stands, this is a great product to keep on hand. It packs a flavor punch and is great for Mexican rice bowls or burritos.
Spinach & Artichoke Dip
You’ll love having this dip in your freezer for last-minute visitors or it also works well baked with gnocchi and cherry tomatoes for an easy, cheesy dinner.
Spizzico di Pizza
Forget Bagel Bites, these tiny pizzas will please any picky eater. We guarantee it.
Dutch Griddle Cakes
These are a relatively new release and we love them as a quick option for school mornings. They are flavored with maple syrup (think McGriddle) so you don’t even need to add any messy syrup on top. Pop a sausage patty in between for an on-the-go option.
Potato Pancakes
These latkes are delicious any time of year and heat easily in your oven so you don’t have to worry about frying them.
Gyoza Pot Stickers
This bag of potstickers is your future dinner in a flash. We prefer tossing them in with a bag of frozen vegetables and some of Trader Joe's Gyoza sauce for the perfect one-pot dinner. You can also simmer them in some broth to warm you up on a cold night.
Great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this quiche—packed with Swiss cheese, spinach, and two kinds of mushrooms—just hit freezer shelves straight from France. The sweet flower shape of its real butter and wheat flour crust is pretty darling, too. Your tot can don the corresponding aluminum pan as a hat for some entertainment while this dish cooks—it needs 30 minutes in the oven. You’ll find it right next to their Broccoli and Cheddar Cheese and Quiche Lorraine mainstays.
Mini Beef Tacos
If the Shopkins sensation is any indication, kids absolutely love tiny things—so give mini foods a try. These tacos come in beef or chicken varieties and are also easy to load up with nutritious goodness like fresh tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, or Trader Joe’s reduced-guilt chunky guacamole!
We all have those nights when dinner needs to be fast and fun. Thankfully, our cries have been heard with this spin on the perennial kid favorite—the hot dog, but in a mini form. The kids will love watching these pups “puff” up in the oven. Then try widening culinary palates with a variety of dipping options, from ketchup to garlic aioli.
Gluten-Free Cheese Pizza
Food allergies are more common than ever these days it seems, and thankfully so are food options that everyone can enjoy, like this classic cheese pizza with a nutritious cauliflower crust. But the kids don’t have to be gluten-free to absolutely love this version of pizza night. It even made the list of 50 of the best Trader Joe’s products in store history.
Mini Vegetable Samosas
Trader Joe’s doesn’t rest on its food laurels. These vegetable samosas are chock full of peas, carrots, potatoes, lentils, onions, and Indian spices. So, yes, these do have a bit of a kick, perfect for kids who aren’t afraid to spice things up. These also pair deliciously with their Mango Ginger Chutney and other ready-to-heat side dishes.
Just when you think there isn’t anything to make for dinner, you'll remember there are meatballs in the freezer and a bag of pasta or a cup of rice ready to boil. With a stash of these minis on hand, it’s also easy to heat up a portion for a side of protein whenever a little diner needs it. Pair it with Trader Joe’s Island Soyaki for an easy dinner sensation. Toothpicks always make fun mealtime props for kids, too.
Mandarin Orange Chicken
Considering this is THE most popular Trader Joe’s frozen food item for the last several years, chances are you may already know and love this freezer favorite. You fortify it with broccoli, peas, and green peppers. Vegetarians and vegans can also rejoice because Chicken-Less Mandarin Orange Morsels are back in the freezer aisle as well.
Chocolate Croissants
Breakfast anyone? These flaky croissants will have you feeling major French vibes, with just the perfect amount of chocolate. Put out the night before to rise overnight, then toss in the oven before enjoying on the go. There's even an almond version if you prefer.
Gone Berry Crazy!
Trader Joe's
Don’t forget about dessert! How do strawberry halves drenched in dark chocolate sound? These sweet treats are brand new and already a chilly craze for summer days. The best part may be that you can eat them straight from the freezer.
If you’re dealing with a picky eater, chances are you’ve seen them reject enough lovingly prepared meals to send you over the edge. We’d bet your kiddo is either stuck on a diet of buttered noodles and crackers or fluctuating between gobbling up everything one day and nothing the next. (Really, how could you even think of offering the same sandwich they couldn’t get enough of last week?) So how do you handle picky eating in the moment? What you say (or don’t say) can positively or negatively impact their relationship with food. It’s so easy to slip into the habit of blurting out whatever you can to coax them into eating, but truth be told, these words might do more harm than good. Here are four phrases you should avoid saying to your kids if they’re picky eaters.
1. “If you finish your broccoli, you can have chocolate cake for dessert.”
When parents struggle to get their kiddos to eat anything nutritious, they often resort to negotiation. In these instances, they may offer sweets or desserts as a reward for eating veggies. While bribing your kids might seem like a convenient solution, it’s actually not helpful in the long run. When you resort to bribery, you’re sending a message that sweets are more valuable than vegetables, which isn’t the best way to encourage a healthy relationship with food. Kids usually want what they can’t have, which can lead to unhealthy obsessions, especially if they’re restricted.
Instead: Forget about negotiations and present healthy foods, like veggies, in new and different ways. Also, try to involve your kids in the kitchen.
2. “Eat one more bite and you may be excused from the table.”
In an attempt to ensure that our fussy eaters get some nutrition, we might insist that they finish a certain amount of food before they can leave the table. Yes, it’ll ensure that they’ve had a bit more to eat, but the problem is your kid might not be hungry or may feel satisfied with the few bites they’ve already taken. When you tie leaving the table to finishing a specific amount of food, you’re essentially pressuring your child to eat rather than listen to their own bodies and decide when they feel full.
Instead: Allow kids to determine how much they eat. They’re born with the ability to self-regulate, so let’s nurture their internal sense of hunger and fullness.
3. “Good job for eating your carrots!”
When your picky eater finally gives something new a try, you’ll be so tempted to sing their praises or do a little happy dance. But while they’ve taken this huge step forward, it’s important to hold back on showering them with praise for eating. We don’t want our kids’ self-worth or confidence to depend on whether or not they ate something. We also don’t want kiddos to think they’re “good” for eating and “bad” for not.
Instead: While we’re proud of their progress, let’s keep the praise to ourselves.
4. “You’re such a picky eater.”
When you’re truly frustrated with your kid’s selective eating habits, you might throw your hands up and exclaim, “Argh, you’re such a picky eater!” Refrain from labeling your child as “picky” or “fussy” to avoid fostering a self-fulfilling prophecy. If a kiddo constantly hears themselves being referred to as “picky,” they might start to believe it. Plus, just because they’ve refused a certain food ten times it doesn’t mean they’ll reject it the 11th time. Kids will be kids, and you never know—they might just surprise you.
Instead: Keep a neutral attitude and provide opportunities for encouragement.
Remember, your kid’s picky eating may feel like the end of the world right now, but in most cases, it’s just a phase—and they’ll be eating your famous, non-beige bolognese sauce in no time.
Kids can bring us so much joy. But you know what else they bring? So. many. worries. Are they sick? Are they getting enough sleep? Is it okay that all they eat is dinner rolls and noodles? But—and this is easier said than done—we’re here to encourage you to try to relax, parents. Whether you’re freaking out about a fever or stressed about sleep schedules and nap times, experts say much of parents’ anxieties are unfounded. But don’t just take our word for it— see what physicians we reached out to had to say about the most common parent concerns, including when you should and shouldn’t worry.
1. The Worry: Your Child Has a High Fever
It’s easy to get nervous when your child’s temperature sizzles into the 100's, but parents should remember that a fever is just the body’s defense mechanism, and not usually on its own a cause for concern.
“A lot of parents have fever phobia,” said American Academy of Pediatrics spokesperson Christina Johns, a Baltimore pediatrician. “But for an otherwise healthy, fully immunized child older than 3 months old, the actual number becomes less of a concern.” Instead of just looking at the number, Johns said, parents should focus more on how their child is acting. “Are they hydrating well, are they breathing comfortably, what’s their mental status like? Are they still playful, or are they just lying around like they’re uncomfortable—those are the things to focus more on than the actual numbers.”
That said, she advises parents of children under 6 months old to call a doctor—just to be safe—if their child’s fever goes above 100.4.
Sure, the books might say your baby should be able to roll over by six months and walk by one. But some don’t—and that’s okay. All those “milestone” numbers are meant to be a reference, not a deadline. “Don’t make yourself crazy,” Johns said. “Don’t immediately assume the child is delayed if they don’t hit their milestones.”
Of course, with parents posting their child’s every babble, scoot, and toddle on social media, it’s hard not to worry that your kid’s not keeping up. In fact, a recent survey of 2,000 parents of children under three showed that 59 percent of them worried their babies weren’t meeting certain milestones, like saying “mama” or “dada” by their first birthday. But the truth is, there’s a wide range when it comes to when your child will achieve each developmental hurdle. And the exact dates don’t matter as much as the whole picture. That means, if your baby is developing normally in every other way, but doesn’t seem interested in crawling, don’t jump to conclusions.
“My oldest son ate three things and my daughter never crawled; she scooted on her bum,” Johns said. “I knew the data, but I still had a lot of anxiety.”
3. The Worry: Your Child Doesn’t Eat... [Insert Any and All Foods Here]
Got a kiddo who won’t eat anything green? Does your toddler prefer to graze all day rather than eat an actual meal? Does your kid only want carbs? You’re not alone. According to a poll conducted on behalf of C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital, more than half of all parents surveyed said it was hard to get their children to eat a balanced diet. Thirty-five percent called their child a “picky eater,” with 31 percent saying their kids aren’t getting enough fruits and vegetables.
“The old saying is, you can’t make them eat and you can’t make them sleep,” Johns said. “Don’t get into a control battle about that.” Instead, she urges parents to look at the whole picture: if your child is otherwise healthy and following the growth curve, they're likely getting all the nutrients they need.
4. The Worry: It Seems Like Your Child Is Always Sick
If you feel like your preschooler is always sick—you’re probably right. According to experts, toddlers and preschool-aged children get sick as many as 8-12 times per year. Blame their immature immune systems, which have to rack up enough germs to build a proper defense system (They do this by going to daycare or preschool, where they’re bombarded with bacteria and viruses.)
Frequent illnesses don’t usually indicate a problem, as long as your child isn’t getting severely sick, and as long as your kiddo seems to recover after each sickness (even if it’s just for a few days before diving into the next malady). That said, talk to your pediatrician if your child is:
getting sick more than 12 times per year
losing weight and/or not growing normally
getting sicknesses that don’t seem to go away or that need hospitalizations and/or multiple rounds of antibiotics
If lulling little angels into slumber wasn’t such a struggle, books like Go the F**k to Sleep wouldn’t be international bestsellers. You can laugh about it, but it doesn’t make the battle any easier. Here’s the truth: Experts recommend that toddlers and preschoolers get, respectively, 11-14 and 10-13 cumulative hours of sleep per day (nap plus nighttime)—but some kids may get less (or more) and be perfectly healthy. “Kids do color outside the lines in terms of following the guidelines,” Johns said. “If your days are OK and you don’t have a child who is melting down constantly—who is happy playful, growing and healthy—then I am less concerned,”
Additionally, kids who sleep well at night may not need naps during the day, especially after age 2. In fact, it should come as no surprise that an Australian meta-study into children’s naptimes found that kids who napped after age 2 tended to sleep less at nighttime. “I encourage parents to know in general what the recommendations are for amounts of sleep for kids at different ages, but then really be cognizant of the other clues from each of their children that may tell them what approach is best,” Dr. Judith Owens, director of the Center for Pediatric Sleep Disorders at Boston Children’s Hospital said in an article.
Some kids are just night owls—and that isn't always a problem. In general, doctors say that if your kid is acting like they have enough energy during the day (not falling asleep on every car ride or in the middle of dinner), they're likely getting the sleep they need. “We need to change our narrative around sleep,” Bryana Kappadakunnel, a marriage and family therapist and founder of Consciousmommy.com, said in an e-mail. “In our American culture, we are largely control-oriented, and so we tend to be overly anxious about getting our children on a sleep schedule.”
Kappadakunnel said that while it’s important to make sure your child gets enough sleep, parents shouldn’t stress if they have a child who just isn’t sleepy at 7 or 8 p.m.—as long as that child doesn’t seem tired and has enough energy during the day. “If you notice your child is struggling behaviorally or emotionally, start with adjusting your approach to sleep, and see if that helps support them,” she said. “But please remember: 'If it ain't broke, don't fix it.' If what you're doing is working for your family, continue it, no matter what the next 'sleep expert' may tell you.”
Good to Know: If your little night owl seems cranky and tired during the day, or if you suspect that she’s not getting enough sleep despite all your best efforts, talk to your doctor about possible medical or neurological reasons for the sleep resistance. Up to 80 percent of kids with autism and about half of kids with ADD, for instance, have trouble falling asleep.
7. The Worry: Your Child Bumped Her Head
Another day, another boo-boo. It’s only natural that when you mix wobbly balance and never-ending energy, you’ll get a little person who will likely bump into, fall over, or collide with at least one thing every day. But how worried should you be when it comes to a bump on the noggin? “We do have very good data that toddlers especially will have lots of goose eggs on their foreheads,” Johns said. “If they’re minor slips and bumps, those are not something that cause brain damage, for example. The regular bumps of daily life are not something to be concerned about long-term.”
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, if your child hasn’t lost consciousness or vomited—and if she is alert and responding to you— chances are that the head injury is mild. “Your child may cry from pain or fright, but this should last no longer than 10 minutes,” according to the AAP.
Parents should apply a cold compress for about 20 minutes to alleviate swelling, then watch the child for any of the following signs, which could indicate something more serious:
A constant headache, particularly one that gets worse
Slurred speech or confusion
Dizziness that does not go away or happens repeatedly
Extreme irritability or other abnormal behavior
Vomiting more than 2 or 3 times
stumbling or difficulty walking
oozing blood or watery fluid from the nose or ears
difficulty waking up or excessive sleepiness
unequal size of the pupils (the dark center part of the eyes)
double vision or blurry vision
unusual paleness that lasts for more than an hour
convulsions (seizures)
difficulty recognizing familiar people
weakness of arms or legs
persistent ringing in the ears
8. The Worry: Your Child Isn’t Potty Trained Yet
It’s true there are preschools that require kids to be potty-trained to be admitted, but the truth is that most kids aren’t fully potty-trained until about 4, so all that effort Moms and Dads into getting their 2-year-old to use the toilet may not pay off, according to Johns. “I see parents get so frustrated, but I just tell them, it’s OK, your child isn’t ready,” she said. “I tell them, ‘Don’t worry, your children aren’t going to go to college in a diaper.’”
That said, most kids show some signs of readiness between 18-24 months, while others aren’t ready until at least 3. According to the Mayo Clinic, some signs your child may be ready to trade in her diapers for big kid panties include:
Your child can walk to and sit on a toilet.
Your child can pull down and pull up her own pants.
Your child can stay dry for up to two hours.
Your child can understand and follow basic directions.
Your child can communicate when she needs to go.
Your child seems interested in using the toilet or wearing "big-kid" underwear.
If your child doesn’t show at least a few of these signs, it's probably not the right time, especially if there’s a change looming in your family (the addition of a sibling, or a move, for instance), which can regress your child’s potty-training progress.
As for night-time accidents, those can still happen even after your child is “good” at using the toilet. While most kids are fully potty-trained by age 5, experts say 15 to 20 percent of children between the ages of 5 and 7 still wet their beds at least occasionally. Bedwetting past age 7 can be genetic (if you or your partner wet the bed, your child might, too). Restricting fluids close to bedtime and encouraging “double-voiding” before bed can help. Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia has some good tips for what else can help.
9. The Worry: Your Child Is Dealing with a Big Change
While we all want life to be smooth sailing for our kids, the truth is that it’s just not always that. Things happen. You might lose your job. Your dog might die. Your child might have to move schools. But kids are resilient—especially with the right kind of support. “All of these kinds of situations, though upsetting, are normal parts of life,” Sherman said. “Therefore, there is no need to worry if your child is occasionally exposed to these stressors.”
Sherman recommends talking to kids about these things using matter-of-fact, age-appropriate language. “Tell them how it makes you feel, and ask them how it makes them feel,” she said. “Tell them their feelings are normal and make sense. Use their questions as a guide when deciding what to share.”
Kappadakunnel, whose approach is rooted in attachment theory parenting, chimed in, adding that it’s how you support your child through these changes that matters. “So many parents are consumed with fear that they're damaging your children,” she said. “We must remember that children are resilient and they will watch you to learn how to get through hard things in life.” She urges parents not to ignore or dismiss their child’s emotions but to instead offer empathy and compassion. “If you honor your child's emotions, offer your empathy and compassion, and support them in getting their needs met during this time, your child will learn a very important message: Even in difficult circumstances, they're never alone and others are reliable and dependable.”
10. The Worry: Your Child Always Cries at Preschool/Daycare Drop-Off
Hey parents, we’ve been there, and we get it. There’s nothing worse than handing your child over to teacher, babysitter, or daycare worker when your child is screaming and flailing as if you’ve just abandoned them at an orphanage. “Many parents worry that they are traumatizing their children at drop-off when their child is screaming, protesting, and resisting the transition,” said Kappadakunnel, who works with children as well as coaching parents. “It can feel anxiety-provoking to see a teacher lovingly release your child's grip from your jacket and bring them inside the classroom.” However, Kappadakunnel said, there is no evidence to suggest that these transitions cause any long-term damage or provoke trauma, “particularly when they are managed in compassionate, supportive ways.”
Of course, it can still be hard. To alleviate the stress on both you and your drop-off, Kappadakunnel suggests preparing your child in advance:
Talk with your child about the plan. Tell them, “I'm going to bring you to school, and your teachers will take you inside. How are you feeling about it?’" Kappadakunnel said. Don't pressure your child to have a good day. Instead, tell them, ‘You're going to have the day you're going to have. And I'll be back to pick you up when school is over.’"
Read books about separating and reuniting (Kappadakunnel recommends The Invisible String).
Have a ritual around separation, such as a particular phrase, like "Mommy always comes back," or a secret handshake, just between the two of you.
If your child is really struggling, consider sending them to school with an attachment object to help the transition. This might be a lovey in a backpack or a special keychain looped on the belt loop. “Be creative and work with your child on what would give them comfort,” Kappadakunnel said.
Lastly, trust that this will pass. “The teachers are trained for these kinds of issues, and they absolutely love and adore your child,” Kappadakunnel said. “Remind your child that you trust them to help with their big feelings, and that they are safe in school.”
11. The Worry: Your Child is Too...[Insert Adjective Here]
It’s easy to put your kids under a microscope to find something wrong. After all, we see them every day, so we’re the ones who notice when they are acting especially shy, when they're making us crazy, or when they’re bouncing off the walls for no apparent reason. But try not to overanalyze. “Your kids aren’t ‘too’ anything,” Los Angeles pediatrician Elham Raker told Tinybeans. “Just support them where they are. They will mature into the person they are meant to be.”
There’s a special place in our hearts for parents of picky eaters. Mealtimes prove extra challenging, but no surprise to anyone, Trader Joe’s is here to save the day. We’ve rounded up tasty snacks and meal ideas that are so delicious that even your most discerning eaters will chow down. Keep reading to see our favorite things at Trader Joe’s for picky eaters.
Whether your little is anti-topping or even anti-cheese, Trader Joe’s pizza dough will come in super handy. Choose from regular or garlic dough, then have a pizza night where everyone can make their pie the way they want. At $1.49 each, this makes family dinner not only easy but cheap, too.
It’s hard to turn down these sweet and crunchy banana chips. Made with minimal ingredients, even a picky eater will think these are a treat, rather than a healthy snack.
Ok here us out: not only do carrots become super sweet when roasted (which makes them more kid-friendly), but we’re pretty sure your picky eater will love that these “coins” also come in fun colors!
When it seems like all you’re making is PB & J, give yourself a break with these TJ’s bars. Each one packs 8 grams of whole grain, is gluten free and way less messy than your regular sandwich. They’re also great for on the go!
Bamba Peanut Snack
Trader Joe's version of the popular Israeli snack food, Bamba is a feast for the senses. Made with corn grits, peanut paste, palm oil and salt, the snack is light and airy and oh so delicious. Think: cheese puff but with peanut butter!
Can you believe it's only $.99 for a bag? Time to stock up on some Bamba!
Organic Popcorn with Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Karly Wood
What kid doesn't enjoy a handful of popcorn? While not your standard movie theater version, this organic popped corn with accompanying organic extra virgin olive oil is a fancy snack that's perfect for adults or kids. Pack in a lunch or take on the go––there's nowhere this popcorn can't go.
A large bag is only $1.99 in the snack section at Trader Joe's.
Original Savory Thin Crackers
Karly Wood
Enjoyed a la mode, with cheese or in a dip, there's nothing these original Savory Thin Crackers can't go. The gluten-free snack is a great size for kids' lunches and perfect for portion control.
A pack of these tasty crackers is only $1.69 in the cracker and snack aisle.
Trader Joe's Contemplates Inner Peas
These baked pea snacks couldn't get much simpler! Made from actual peas and shaped like a pea pod with a touch of salt, your picky eater most likely won't even realize they're getting their dose of green veggies in this tasty snack.
A bag of these is only $1.49!
Organic Lowfat Organic Squishers
Karly Wood
Sneak in that healthy dairy to your picky eater's palette with cherry or strawberry yogurt squishes. The low-fat snack packs calcium in an ideal on-the-go squeeze package that kids find equally fun as they are delicious. You can even freeze them for a cold treat!
An 8-pack of squishes is only $3.19 in the refrigerated dairy section at TJ's.
Organic Fruit Wraps
Oh, hello $.49 snack foods! These Trader Joe's organic fruit wraps (or fruit leathers, as they are also known) come in four fruity flavors and are finger-licking good. Plus, they're ideal for packed lunches and snacks because they don't get smashed!
Stock up on these $.49 wraps near the cash register or snack aisle.
Hummus & Pita Chip Snack Pack
This package of two, four-ounce trays is filled with TJ's popular Mediterranean hummus and their own pita chips on the other. Easy to slip into a lunchbox or grab for an on-the-go snack on the way to after-school activities.
Gluten Free Mac & Cheese
Move over gluten-free Mac & Cheese, TJ's has just released a brand new Gluten-Free Mac & Cheese, and it's SO MUCH BETTER. Made from a blend of Havarti, Swiss, Cheddar and Gouda, this frozen dinner heats up like it was made fresh. It's creamy, flavorful and way better than other boxed versions.
Pack your freezer with several boxes of these for just $3.49.
Turkey Corn Dogs
One of our favorite things from Trader Joe's is their Turkey Corn Dog. Made from an all-turkey dog with no added nitrates, and then dipped in a savory batter, good luck stopping your littles from eating them with gusto.
A pack of 4 is only $2.99 in the freezer section.
Mandarin Orange Chicken
It's no secret that Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken is a real crowd pleaser––it wins for most popular product year after year for the retailer. The sweet and savory frozen dinner is a fan favorite for both adults and kids, even picky ones. Plump chicken is covered in crispy breading and then coated in a delicious sauce.
Pick up this easy dinner for $4.99 in the freezer section.
Ramen Soups
The subtle yet unique flavors in two of Trader Joe's newest products, make these Miso soups perfect for picky eaters. Noodles and savory spices plus a packet of sesame oil make this stand out from other ramen cups and make all the difference.
Choose from either Chicken or Miso Ramen cups for just $1.29 a piece.
Bean & Rice Burritos
Picky meat eaters will chow down on these bean and rice burritos. Made with just the basics, no artificial flavors or preservatives, AND 99% fat free, everyone wins when these burritos are for dinner.
You know you’re an adult when you proudly have a favorite grocery store, and for many of us, it’s Trader Joe’s. While older folks get a kick out of the vast wine selection and the plethora of freezer meals, there are plenty of other reasons to love the neighborhood grocer. We’ve rounded up a handful of Trader Joe’s secrets and tips (including some from a store manager!) that will take your next trip to TJ’s to the next level.
1. You can return anything.
iStock
Do you have a picky eater who no longer scarfs down bags of peanut butter Bamba? Or maybe that soup wasn’t what you thought it was? Never fear, you can take it back to Trader Joe’s for a refund with no questions asked. Just take your item up to the customer service desk and let them know you’d like to return a product.
2. Trader Joe’s accepts manufacturer coupons.
It is most definitely true that TJ’s does not mark down products for sale, but here’s a big Trader Joe’s secret: they take manufacturer coupons. The next time you head to the store, grab those coupons for Annie’s or your Fage yogurt and hand them over at the checkout counter.
3. All Trader Joe’s labeled products are non-GMO.
Tinybeans
Yes, it’s true. A manager confirmed that private-label Trader Joe’s products are all free from genetically modified organisms (GMOs). So why doesn’t the label say so?
According to the company, US government agencies do not currently have clear guidelines addressing food and beverage labeling. Rather than waiting, Trader Joe’s has gone ahead and made the position of non-GMO ingredients a part of what the overall label encompasses.
P.S.: All private-label products also have no artificial flavors or preservatives, MSG, or partially hydrogenated oils!
4. Not sure if you’ll like something? Ask for a sample.
Trader Joe’s takes the guesswork out of spending your hard-earned grocery money on something the kids might hate. Just ask an employee if you can sample a product and 99% of the time, they’ll indulge you! (The jury is still out on whether this includes wine sampling.)
Early in the day or later evening is the name of the Trader Joe’s shopping game. While every store differs slightly depending on its location (suburbs, city, etc.), most employees agree that 8-10 a.m. and the post-dinner hour on weekdays are ideal for no crowds. Weekends are a whole other ballgame, especially the Sunday post-church hour which tends to be uber busy. So drop off the big kids at school, then head over to TJ’s to shop in peace and quiet.
6. The scavenger hunt for kids is real.
You’ve probably heard about the hidden stuffie in your local Trader Joe’s, and it’s the real deal. Employees hide one in every store, changing it weekly, to keep your kids on their toes while you focus on stocking up your cart. When your kiddo finds the hidden animal, they can point it out to an employee for a special prize. It’s one of the best Trader Joe’s secrets of all!
7. Trader Joe’s is serious about seasonal items.
Tinybeans
It only takes one, tasteless January to realize how much you loved those candy cane Joe-Joe’s that you’ll have to wait another year to stock up on. The grocer seriously enjoys spoiling its customers with seasonal and limited edition food, body, decor, and garden products—and it works because we look forward to them every year. That being said, there is no shame in the stock-up game (so long as you leave some for the rest of us!). Grab a few extra boxes of pumpkin pancake mix and minty star cookies the next time they’re in season to hold you over. Afraid you’ll miss the last shipment of your fave item? Don’t be afraid to ask a crew member on if the item is sticking around.
8. Trader Joe’s is staffed by a nautical crew.
When you work for Trader Joe’s, you aren’t just an employee. In fact, the grocer assigns nautical titles! Entry-level employees are called Crew Members, with Merchants being the next level up. Merchants perform the same duties as the Crew but have received special recognition from their community for excellent customer service. Assistant store leaders are called Mates, while store leaders are Captains. Captains are always promoted from within, just another reason to love the company. Ahoy!
Did you know Trader Joe’s employees try ALL new products that hit the shelves? The company firmly believes in empowering all crew members to be able to answer customer questions honestly. So the next time you’re on the fence about the Unexpected Cheddar or a wedge of Italian Truffle Cheese, just ask an employee!
10. The Trader Joe’s bells are important.
No doubt you’ve been shopping and heard a few bell rings near the cash registers. Employees ring them once, twice, or three times to communicate with each other because the stores do not utilize a traditional PA system. A manager says that one ring means to open another register, two rings mean there is a checkout line question and three rings mean a manager is needed at the front of the store.
11. Trader Joe’s loves contests.
The folks at Trader’s love amping up guests, and that’s why you can always count on some sort of wacky contest happening throughout the year. From the most recent “Scent-sational Candle Contest,” and past events like the Milkshake Contest and the Corn Contest (we are serious), customers are often asked to weigh in with their opinions and ideas, for a chance to win a TJ’s gift card. Even tiny Trader shoppers can get in on the mix, with many stores offering monthly coloring contests. Just stop by the manager’s desk when you arrive to grab a page!
When it comes to trying to be creative in the kitchen these days, it’s always smart to have quick and easy family dinner ideas up your sleeve. That’s why we’ve collected dynamite dishes that take very little prep work and guarantee to satisfy the whole family. Even better? Some of these quick meal ideas call for the slow cooker!
Cheese? Check. Pasta? Check. Sounds like a total kid-pleasing easy dinner. Throw some rotisserie chicken in at the end of this recipe from The Cozy Cook to make it a one-pot meal.
We’re always looking for recipes that taste just like (better?) our favorite take-out items. This recipe for Cashew Chicken fits the bill, and it’s made in one skillet. Get the recipe from Modern Honey.
So maybe your kiddo hates peas. Or carrots. Or both. The good news is, this easy family dinner idea from The Cozy Cook is super adaptable, so you can throw in whatever the kids will actually eat.
Chicken Marsala is one of the ultimate comfort foods. This easy dinner recipe from Easy Chicken Recipes uses an Instant Pot to get the meal done in under 30 minutes, so we’re huge fans.
Beef stroganoff is a classic pasta dish, and this ground beef version from Chelsea's Messy Apron comes together quickly. It's a meal that even picky eaters can get behind. Get the recipe here.
It's right there in the title. This chicken is a little bit of heaven. It's also convenient, delicious, and can be adapted for Paleo diets! Grab the recipe by clicking here.
Ham and Swiss cheese nestled into pasta and baked to perfection? Yes, please! This surprisingly simple recipe can be made ahead of time and popped into the oven before dinner time. Get the recipe from The View from Great Island.
You’ll be able to serve up warm, tangy sandwiches in no time with this 30-minute recipe for Chicken Cordon Blue from Sprinkles and the Smiths. Best of all, it can be made in an air fryer, which makes it (almost) healthy.
Sheet pan nachos are a good option for busy families because you can add what you want, divide it up into sections for picky eaters, and of course, they’re ready in under 30 minutes. Get the scoop from Maple + Mango.
This chicken recipe is a keeper when it comes to weeknight dinner recipes! It only has a few ingredients, so you can get this into the Crock Pot in the morning in less than ten minutes! Get the recipe here.
Love your Instant Pot? Then you'll love this weeknight dinner recipe! Just sauté your beef, add veggies, beans, and spices and the pressure cooker will do the rest. Click here for the recipe.
The flavor of the sausage, parmesan cheese, and olive oil gives this dish all the seasoning it needs, which means there's no heavy sauce to make on the side. Get the recipe from Chelsea's Messy Apron.
These meatloaf bites from our friend Catherine McCord of Weelicious are petite versions of your favorite comfort food. And you can bet they're perfect for kids' taste buds!
With BBQ sauce, pineapple, and rotisserie chicken, this pizza couldn't be more simple. Get the kids in on the cooking to make dinnertime extra fun! Click here for the recipe.
This pasta dish isn't too fancy, sports kid-friendly ingredients, and is sure to be a weeknight dinner recipe that you'll make again and again. Bonus: It only gets one pot dirty! Get the how-to here.
Everyone's favorite party app also makes a great dinner-in-a-pinch! And with just two ingredients and four steps, kids can help whip these up! Make your own with this recipe from Bake Me Some Sugar.
Creamy fettuccine Alfredo that's healthy, too? The secret to this recipe is sneaking spinach into the sauce and adding pre-cooked chicken. Get the recipe here.
Think outside the grilled cheese! These rollups have the classic taste kids love, with just a bit of a twist. And they only take 10 minutes to make! Find out how here.
You can fulfill your Korean food cravings in 15-20 minutes with this beef bowl recipe. And you probably have the ingredient list in your pantry! Click here for the recipe.
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Fish
iStock
Want to introduce the kiddos to fish? Try this mild white fish covered in a crunchy parmesan crust. The ingredients are simple, and the flavors are excellent! Get the recipe here. Or, if you want to try salmon, check out our family-friendly salmon recipes here.
Is there anything more comforting than chicken and rice? We don't think so. This quick one-pot version from Scrummy Lane is one of our favorite easy family dinner ideas.
Crock Pot Chicken Teriyaki
iStock
Fact: Kids love teriyaki. Another fact? This recipe from Our Little Acre uses the slow cooker and is super simple to make. What's not to love?
The best baby feeding supplies for mitigating messes
When it comes to finding the best baby feeding supplies, there’s absolutely no shortage of options. Whether it’s your first little one or your newest addition, feeding gear is always evolving. Of course, that’s a good thing, but it can leave you feeling a little overwhelmed with choices. But you have us, so you can relax and let us handle the hard part.
Most of us would agree that the best options have a few key features. We’re looking for suction-bottom plates and bowls (babies are mighty flingy as far as bowls and plates go), high-quality baby-safe materials, soft-on-the-gums utensils, and weighted sippy cups (because of that flingy thing again). A lot of feeding supplies are created with food-grade silicone, since it’s soft, but we also found stainless steel and bamboo options for those of us looking to skip the plastic. There are even options that also keep your comfort in mind. From bibs to bowls to snack containers, these are some seriously clever products for feeding your little one. Check out our list of the best baby feeding supplies below.
Best Utensils: Baby Spoons & Forks
Avanchy Bamboo Baby Spoons
Avanchy on Amazon
Shorter handles and wider scoops make these perfect for babies just starting out all the way to the toddler stage. Multiple colors and set options are available, too.
Made in Denmark, these aesthetic toddler and baby utensils are as pretty as they are functional. They're so simple that they're easy for little ones to hang onto while they learn their way around solid foods. They come in lots of soft colors, too.
These chunky little baby spoons and forks are ideal for little grips. The shape helps them hang onto their utensils and the kiddo-friendly colors (there are lots of them!) help to keep them engaged.
Munchkin baby spoons are a parent favorite: gentle on baby's gums, ergonomically shaped, and long enough to reach the bottom of those food jars. What's not to love?
Created by moms who just get it, these curved spoons are great for littles learning to feed themselves. They help develop motor skills without exhausting their wrist, shoulders, or elbows with overly complicated movements. Available in 2 sets of different colors.
The best baby feeding supplies let you say goodbye to flying baby bowls. The suction cup bottom keeps these securely in place, while the quick-release tab makes it easy for you to clean up when mealtime is over.
Suction bottoms are a theme here, of course, but the WeeSprout plates offer a divided design and matching lids for on-the-go carrying, leftovers, and meal prep. Lots of color combos are available, too.
Trying to avoid plastic? This bamboo and stainless steel bowl set from Avanchy is a great way to go. The bundle includes both bowls and a lid for easy transport or leftovers. Several colors are available, too.
You probably already know ezpz, and this beauty doesn't just include a suction bottom, but it also has a built-in placemat to majorly mitigate spills. Available in 4 colors.
Warm up baby food by steaming over a saucepan or steamer with this bowl. And don't worry—the bowl itself doesn't get hot as it steams, either, so it won't get overheated.
These snack cups are soft and collapsible, with an interchangeable snack cup or straw sip lid. Plus the secure snack lid keeps goodies contained and is perfect for little hands.
As far as baby snack containers go, this isn't just one that keeps the Cheerios from flying out. With a straw, storage lid, and snack dispenser lid, you can use it for everything from Goldfish to soup to smoothies and beyond. Lots of cute color combinations are available, too.
Oh, mushie and their soft colors that we just can't get enough of. The double handles are super helpful for little ones, too. Tons of color options with this one.
The rounded sides of the plate make it easy for scooping and containing food, and this set also includes a stable cup for learning to drink, and easy-to-hold utensils. It comes in 4 colors.
The best baby feeding supplies are multi-functional, and Busy Baby agrees. This bundle includes Busy Baby's best sellers: Mat (original size) with 4 Tethers, Mini Mat, Teether & Training Spoon, Bungee Bib & Utensils, Bottle Bungee, and Toy Bungee. Not only are they excellent feeding tools, but the bungees keep toys, utensils, and more from falling on the floor.
The Lalo First Bites set is one of the most popular out there. It includes utensils, bib, 4oz cup, suction plate and bowl and is available in 5 colors.
Designed for babies 4+ months, the MICHEF set comes complete with 2 baby food feeders with 3 different sized replacement silicone sacs, baby spoons, and a bowl with masher.
Cover them alllllll the way up with these best selling long sleeve bibs. There's a good chance they'll still find a way to drip something somewhere, but this set mitigates the possibility. Lots of colors are available.
Looking for serious bib coverage? Look no further. This one is designed to cover your babe and their highchair, plus its machine washable. Multiple color options, too.
Fabric bibs are classic for a reason: these waterproof fabric bibs are soft and strong and include a crumb-catcher pocket. Machine wash them over and over. Plus, they come in lots of adorable colors and prints.
We're really into this apron style bib with little arm holes that are totally tug-proof. The sweet colors and prints are a major selling point here, too.
Learning is is the name of the game when it comes to baby water cups, and this one is designed by pediatric experts. The weighted base prevents tip-overs and your little one can see inside the cup to know what's in it and how much is left (which is a big deal when they're learning to drink for themselves). 5 colors available.
Made of Tritan that's clear as glass yet strong as stainless steel, the Evorie Sippy Cup is an award-winning cup with a straw that allows babies to drink from an angle while minimizing extra air that can lead to tummy upsets. Multiple colors and designs are available.
The weighted straw idea is brilliant, honestly. It lets your little one drink from any angle or position and keeps spills and leaks to a minimum. There are 7 colors available.
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
Nutritious, prepared meals directly to your home? Yes, please! These meal delivery services make it easy
Meal delivery is a parent’s best friend, especially this time of year. You can put in as much or as little effort as you’d like and still get dinner that’s mostly homemade on your table (or your lap—let’s be honest!). It’s 2023 and we’re working a lot smarter (and far less hard). We asked the country’s savviest moms to dish on the best meal delivery services so you can find one that’s right for you.
Did we mention most deliver throughout the United States? They’ve figured out how to pack, ship, and deliver your goodies so even when they travel across the country, they can still show up at your door like you swung by the grocery store yourself (which is definitely something we’re trying to cut down on here). Read on for amazing meal planning ideas so you can cut down on the time in the kitchen and spend more time where it counts: with your family.
Bite-Sized Finger Foods for Little Ones Learning to Self-Feed: Nurture Life
Nurture Life
Why we love it: If you're tired of yogurt drops and dinosaur nuggets, Nurture Life is the meal delivery service designed just for babies and toddlers (though the food's good enough for mom and dad, too).
What makes it unique: Choose from four categories when placing your order: Kid's Meals, Finger Foods, Mighty Bites Snacks, and Smoothies. The kid's meals include tried-and-true favorites like chicken and mac, as well as ones they know are winners with picky eaters like penne bolognese. Finger foods are ideal for little ones who have just progressed beyond purees as they are soft enough to mash, small enough to prevent choking, and easy to pick up. Get your kids hooked on their Mighty Bites Snacks since they look like the cookies cookies but are full of good-for-you ingredients.
For a Service That Actually Grows with Your Kids: Little Spoon
Little Spoon
Why we love it: You may know Little Spoon for their direct-to-consumer organic baby food. Good news for parents out of the baby food stage: they also offer Plates—meals for toddlers and big kids. Plates are healthy and nutritious, heat-and-eat meals made with the quality ingredients Little Spoon is known for. Plates has lots of different kiddo-approved recipes with a focus on seasonal, local, and organic ingredients. Dishes include Spaghetti and Turkey Meatballs, Chicken Teriyaki, Chicken Pot Stickers, and Cauli Croquettes. And, of course, they still offer Babyblends Organic Baby Food.
What makes it unique: Baby food, finger food, big kid meals, snacks—what can't Little Spoon do? From their Babyblends Organic Baby Food, to Biteables Early Finger Food, to Plates Toddler + Kids Meals, to Lunchers Build-and-Eat Meals, to Smoothies Organic Pouches, to Snacks for a junk-free snacktime, Little Spoon grows with your little ones from 6+ months and beyond. It's also perfect for families with multiple kiddos.
What's the deal? Get 50% off your your first order (up to $40) with code NYE50
If You're Looking for Groceries That Turn into Meals: Hungryroot
Hungryroot
Why we love it: Hungryroot is the all-in-one grocery and recipe service. Browse their grocery aisles + their entire recipe catalog (that puts your groceries to delicious use). There are hundreds to choose from, and most of them cook up in as little as 10 minutes. But you're always in control. Take Hungryroot's suggestions, or choose exactly what you want, same as you do when you're grocery shopping at the store.
What makes it unique: Start by taking the Hungryroot quiz and telling them about yourself (your goals, how many people you're feeding, dietary needs, what you and your family like to eat for dinner). They'll create a cart filled with suggested groceries and recipes that fit your needs. Go ahead and check out, or edit your cart to create a box that works perfectly for you. All of it comes straight to your door.
What's the deal? 30% off + a free gift in every delivery for a limited time.
For Parents Who Want to Expose Little Ones to Big Flavors: Tiny Organics
Tiny Organics
Why we love it: We all want to raise adventurous eaters, but few of us have time to add bold or new dishes to the rotation. Tiny Organics steps in to help make it happen, with the goal of introducing your tot to their 100 first flavors before the age of 2. Their organic, plant-based finger-food blends are just right for littles perfecting their pincer grasp, whether they’re chomping on Coconut Curry, a Baby Burrito Bowl, or a Bananas Foster Breakfast Bowl.
What it costs: 12 meals every one, two, or four weeks/ $4-6 per meal; 24 meals every one, two, or four weeks/ $4.66 per meal.
What makes it unique: This stuff is serious brain food. Tiny Organics is a member of the Food and Nutrition Innovation Council at the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University, and all meals were created with input from a team of neonatal nutritionists (as well as a chef).
What's the deal? Save $20 when you opt for the 24-pack of meals.
If You Want All Sustainable Ingredients: Sunbasket
Sun Basket
Why we love it: Sunbasket focuses on organic, sustainably sourced ingredients. All meal kit recipes are approved by in-house dietitians to comply with USDA dietary guidelines, and meals are typically between 500 and 800 calories. It offers a good variety for people on specific diets including those following paleo, vegetarian, and gluten-free meal plans. All you need is salt, pepper, and oil—the kit provides the rest, plus step-by-step instructions (and most meals take less than 30 minutes to prepare and cook). You can select two to four recipes per week to feed two to four people. You can also mix and match across meal categories, ensuring there’s something for everyone at your table, whether it’s Spicy Kung Pao Chicken with Cashews and Black Rice or Pappardelle with Pork Sausage, Brussels Sprouts, and Feta.
What makes it unique? Sunbasket ensures their packaging is almost completely recyclable and sources only humanely raised meat. If you like to support companies who “do good always,” Sunbasket could be your jam.
What’s the deal? $90 off across 4 boxes plus free shipping.
Why we love it:HelloFresh’s meal kits help you make tasty, satisfying food that’s simple without being boring. Some home cooks find their meals among the least intimidating of all meal delivery services, and dishes like Miso Peach Pork Chops or Eggplant and Creamy Tuscan Spaghetti and Meatballs are just enough out of the ordinary to be interesting without requiring a heroic effort on your part.
What makes it unique? Their back-to-school snack and meal bundles are here to save you from your school lunch rut. The snacks and bundles start as low as $3.99 and are available in HelloFresh’s recently launched HelloFresh Market.
What’s the deal? Up to $200 off and free breakfast for life when you subscribe.
Why we love it: This cook-at-home food delivery service partnered with Martha Stewart is here to help harried families discover their inner Martha. The menu features 29 choices every week and the website tags meals as family-friendly, vegan, vegetarian, and other categories. Favorites include Sheet Pan Fish Tacos and Cheesy Butternut Squash Gnocchi. The website provides big, colorful step-by-step photos for careless cooks and kids who want to help.
Why we love it: Purple Carrot’s recipes are entirely plant-based, and their team chooses meals for you, eliminating the need for you to log in by a certain date to make your own choices. Plus, they put an innovative spin on plant-based meals with dishes like Spicy Mango Tempeh with Roasted Broccoli Flatbreads with Cashew Cheese and Arugula.
What makes it unique? Don't want to cook? They have prepared meals as well!
Why We Love It: Parents rave that Gobble is the fastest and tastiest meal delivery service out there. They feature DIY dinner kits that cook in three steps and under 15 minutes (many of them in one pan). Gobble takes the prep work out by providing pre-cooked sauces, grains, pasta, pre-chopped ingredients, and/or pre-sliced vegetables and meat. It's currently available in all of the continental US except Montana.
What Makes It Unique: Watching your weight? There are also 15-minute lean and clean recipes that are 600 calories or less, low carb, and feature lean proteins and no filler grains.
Why we love it: Blue Apron pioneered the concept of sending a week’s worth of meals to your doorstep in an effort to get more people cooking by removing many hassles of meal prep. Their years of experience mean they know what they’re doing and their large size also means they’re able to take some innovative, high-tech steps to shape how food is grown, harvested, and distributed.
What makes it unique? With a decade of deliveries, Blue Apron is pretty much a sure bet for delicious meals with stellar instructions. And you might just up your cooking game while you're at it!
What’s the deal? Up to 25 free meals across 6 orders plus free shipping on the first order.
For Parents Making Specific Eating Choices: Green Chef
Green Chef
Why we love it: Whatever dietary choices you’re making at home, Green Chef has a plan for you. Meal plans include Keto, Vegetarian, Quick & Easy, Protein-Packed, Mediterranean, and Gluten Free. Plus, it’s easy to whip up the meals after a busy day because each recipe and kit bag are color-coded, so you’ll know what to grab from the fridge.
Why it’s unique: Besides offering such a diverse range of dietary preferences, it was the first and only Keto-approved meal delivery service. And, the meals come with one-of-a-kind sauces that add diverse flavors to the meals.
What's the deal? Get $250 off and free shipping on the first box.
Why we love it: With lots of tasty meal choices and customization options, Home Chef meal delivery service appeals to busy moms and picky eaters alike. Choose from meal kits like Pork and Guacamole Tostadas, Gouda Truffle Fondue Beef Burgers, or Chile Lime Butter Mahi-Mahi. You pick the serving size, meal frequency, and your family’s eating style (omnivore, meat eaters, pescatarian, etc.). We like that Home Chef specifies how long each meal kit will take to make and that you can specify if you are calorie- or carb-conscious.
What makes it unique? With meal options, delivery-day options, and the ability to add on meals, cooked proteins, and treats like smoothies and fresh fruit, Home Chef is a winner for new moms. Menus are set five weeks in advance so you can plan out your meals for weeks at a time.
What’s the deal? $30 off your first order and $10 off your second.
Why we love it: How about 100 percent plant-based, organic, non-GMO, chef-prepared entrees, soups, and juices that just show up at your front door whenever you want them to? Then look no further than Veestro.
There are no, zero, zilch animal products of any kind here, ever! Chick'n Nuggets with chipotle dipping sauce complete with veganaise will do the trick every time for your kiddos and no one will miss the meat. Veestro food is available a la carte and they also carry a surprisingly delicious weight loss menu plan. As with most vegetarian cuisine: most meals have nuts in them so be careful with a nut allergy, but all meals are completely dairy-free and don't contain other allergens.
Why we love it: Yumble has kid friendly cuisine down to a science. The New York-based company (which now ships nationwide) specializes in ready-to-pack lunches that kids won't trade in the cafeteria. PB&J croissants, mac and cheese, pizza—the stuff they usually ask for that we don't always have time to whip up and pack—delivered ready to grab-and-go.
What makes it unique: Complete your lunch by selecting 2 sides from Yumble's range of fruit or veggie inspired options, and don't forget to add a snack. Oh, and did we mention there's no refrigeration required? How easy is that?
Why we love it: Long for the microwave dinners of the old days—without the "Guess That Meat" flavor of your high school cafeteria? Freshology—also called Diet To Go—delivers chef-prepared meals, ready to reheat and eat. Freshology drops tasty, calorie-controlled, already-prepared dishes (breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert, and snacks) onto your doorstep. They’re all about helping you discover nutritious and affordable meals that’ll help you lose weight or support your healthy lifestyle.
What makes it unique: There's a variety of menus, including Keto-friendly, vegetarian, and diabetes-friendly. This gives “heat and eat” a whole new meaning.
Why we love it: Tovala is perfect for the non-chef or new mama because it literally requires one minute of prep and no cutting or chopping. Order your meals (or even shop like normal), then use the signature Smart Oven to completely cook your meal to perfection. Meals cook in 20 minutes or less and you can choose from tons of options, with 14 new items being added every week.
What makes it unique: No other meal delivery services offer the ability to cook on their own! The Tovala Smart Oven allows you to scan meal cards or regular grocery store codes and then cooks each item accordingly. Currently, you can scan more than 750 grocery items from brands like Annie's, Pillsbury, and Dr. Praeger's, and use it to steam, toast, bake, and broil.
What's the deal? Save $200 during their Holiday Sale.
For Plant-Based Meals That Actually Taste Great: Splendid Spoon
Splendid Spoon
Why we love it: Splendid Spoon’s meals and smoothies come ready to eat (absolutely no meal prep here!). Their delicious plant-based meals are a great opportunity to integrate more plants into your diet without the hassle of recipe research or multiple trips to the store. Everything on their menu is vegan, gluten-free, and GMO-free, and tastes 100 percent delicious.
What parents are saying: You won’t be bored with Splendid Spoon’s variety. They offer a rotating menu of 40+ ready-to-eat smoothies, soups, and grain bowls. Meals are customizable and we love that they’re delivered cold to your door (read: if you’re at the office or out and aren’t home to accept delivery, the package won’t spoil right away). While there’s no dedicated kids’ menu, the meals and smoothies are kid-friendly. You may even get your kids to try a new flavor combo!
What's the Deal? First-time subscribers receive $105 off their first three boxes
Why we love it: HelloFresh’s latest meal delivery service is one of the newest and most affordable on the market and offers simple meals with wholesome ingredients that are totally appealing to families. Choose from 26 different recipes that change every week and include offerings like herb-crusted parmesan chicken, chicken, bacon, and gouda sandwiches, and sweet-soy glazed meatballs. If you're looking for something specific, they divide the meals into categories: spicy, vegetarian, family friendly, and customer favorites. There's even an option to choose add-ons like garlic bread, Caesar salad, and white cheddar mac and cheese.
What parents are saying: While there’s no dedicated kids’ menu, each meal (chicken sausage soup with couscous, dijon butter steak, and linguine Italiano are examples) is very kid friendly.
What's the deal? You can click on the "mystery box" to unlock a deal, and meals start at $5, so overall, it's a winner
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
It’s no surprise that we’re obsessed with Crock Pot recipes. They save a ton of time on busy weeknights (just like these other incredible make-ahead dinner recipes and one-pan meals) and make cleanup a breeze. Meal prep is easy when there are only a few ingredients: just dump them in, turn it on, and forget about it until you’re home for the evening. We’ve rounded up a list of our all-time favorite slow cooker recipes, from whole roasted chickens to pot roasts and tacos. And if you’re looking to save time in the morning as well, you can try these make-ahead breakfast recipes, too.
This is a fix-it-and-forget-it recipe if we’ve ever seen one. For kids who think wild rice is weird, substitute long-grain white rice. Get the recipe from Eating Bird Food.
Lasagna that’s made in a slow cooker? That’s served in a bowl? This has all the makings of our new favorite weeknight dinner recipe. Get the details from The Cozy Cook.
A baked potato with all the fixings is always a good idea, and this Crock Pot recipe for baked potato soup is so easy and so perfect for chilly days, you’ll be thanking us for finding it. Get the recipe from Slow Cooker Meals.
This hearty and flavorful soup from Foxes Love Lemons features ingredients like apple, carrot, and fresh garlic. It’s a guaranteed fall classic slow cooker recipe and a great way to warm up on a chilly day!
If there's another soup that is as big of a crowd-pleaser as chicken noodle soup, we haven't found it. Weelicious serves up this easy slow cooker version you'll want to add to your recipe rotation immediately.
After trying this Crock Pot recipe from My Whole Food Life you'll never want to make soup on your stovetop again. Simply prep your veggies and then let the slow cooker do the work.
Sometimes a chilly winter day calls for hearty pasta! This recipe from Kristine's Kitchen Blog is the perfect stick-to-your-ribs meal, with a healthier twist. (Think: ground turkey and whole wheat pasta.)
This tagine from Feed Me Phoebe is one of those great Crock Pot recipes to make ahead for the weekend. There's protein and veggie goodness in every bite, and you can adjust the seasoning to accommodate tiny taste buds.
This delish chicken recipe from One Lovely Life is bound to become a weekday Crock Pot staple. The rich, flavorful sauce and tender chicken pair perfectly with rice and veggies.
Ready for the best ramen news ever? You can make your fave noodle soup right in your own slow cooker! All you need for broth that's drink-from-the-bowl good is this recipe from A Spicy Perspective. Then just add noodles, chicken, and soft-boiled eggs!
Reason #1 to fall in love with this dish? It only takes 10 minutes to prep! These slow cooker chicken enchiladas from Urban Cookery are one of the more simple recipes to make and taste delicious topped with cheddar cheese, enchilada sauce, sour cream or salsa.
This crock pot recipe from Shared Appetite will quickly become a staple in your house. Since all of the work is done by the slow cooker over four hours, it's one of those recipes fit for entertaining. With toppings like aioli, bean sprouts, and avocado, your guests (and kids!) won't be able to resist these sliders.
A few lemons, a whole chicken, and a little salt and pepper turn into something magical after a few hours in the slow cooker. This dish pairs perfectly with jasmine rice and roasted veggies.
Chicken teriyaki is always a hit with our kids, and this slow cooker recipe makes it easier than ever. With just five ingredients, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Get it here.
Slow cooker recipes are our favorite, and this chicken recipe from Hello Spoonful is a keeper—with only six ingredients, you can get this into the crock pot in the morning in less than 10 minutes. Once it’s time for dinner, serve it over rice, with salad, or in sandwiches—the sky’s the limit!
Forget Panda Express—this orange chicken recipe from Kirbie’s Cravings is off-the-charts delicious and way healthier than anything you’d get in a restaurant. It’s the best way to brighten up your plate on a dreary weeknight.
Forget roasting the chicken in the oven. Check out this recipe for throwing the entire chicken in the Crock Pot instead. The result is a delicious fall-off-the-bone dinner.
On a cold day, there’s no better way to warm up than with a hearty beef stew. This Crock Pot version is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, with tender chunks of beef, plenty of veggies, and a flavorful tomato base.
What could be more down-home than a batch of sloppy joes? These amazing (and amazingly simple) sloppy joes from Dragonfly Home Recipes are our new favorite meal!
For a hearty side, try making these yummy scalloped potatoes from Well Plated. They’re made using a mix of Yukon Gold and sweet potatoes, and the cheesy sauce makes them an instant kid favorite.
We would have never thought to make mashed potatoes in the Crock Pot, but this recipe from Life Is But a Dish works like a charm. And since nobody likes cold ‘taters, the cooker keeps them warm until you’re ready to eat.
Chicken pot pie is the ultimate comfort food, but who has time to roll out a pie crust and bake it to perfection? That’s why we can’t resist this stew, which incorporates all our favorite elements of a chicken pot pie without the hassle.
Who says turkey is just for Thanksgiving? This delicious recipe from Skinny Taste helps keep the turkey moist by cooking it in the gravy mixture.
Chicken Parm
A three-ingredient recipe that’s oh-so-yummy? Sign us up! While this recipe may not satisfy chicken parm traditionalists, we love how easy it is. And, the outcome is just as good as the real (non-crock pot) thing.
The slow cooker isn’t just for main dishes—try out this awesome slow -cooker-made party mix from Oh, Sweet Basil. You can customize it by adding your favorite crunchy snacks, and the tangy ranch coating is super addictive.
This genius recipe from Slow Cooker Gourmet is perfect for feeding a crowd, whether it’s game day or a family gathering. Serve it with warm crusty bread and tortilla chips for an appetizer that will disappear in a flash.
While everyone loves barbecue ribs, not everyone loves the prep time involved with this favorite meal. Nix the hassle and opt for the slow cooker. You won’t be disappointed.
This just might be the easiest dinner recipe ever—only three ingredients are needed! Brown sugar and salsa come together to create a tasty sweet-but-spicy (depending on what kind of salsa you choose) glaze for the pork.
Ditch the boxed mac and cheese and opt instead for this recipe from Khit of A Bountiful Love food blog. Not only is this recipe easy but it's budget-friendly.
This Asian-inspired dish from The Skinny Fork incorporates tastes that kids love, from savory soy sauce to sweet honey. The juicy chicken pairs perfectly with broccoli and steamed rice.
Get adventurous with your slow cooker with this fun recipe for Mongolian beef. The little ones will love the delicious combination of sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors.
Talk about getting your hands dirty—kids will love dunking their sandwiches in a super tasty beef jus made in a slow cooker. Plus, these French dip sandwiches are definitely a unique twist on your usual beef roast.
Pulled pork isn't just for barbecue—this pulled pork taco Crock Pot recipe is super simple and fun for kids to customize with their own toppings. Add some veggies, cheese, and guac, and you've got a complete meal.
Meat eaters and omnivores alike will love this filling soup from Away from the Box. You can finish it with tasty toppings like avocado, sour cream, and pico de gallo.
Slow cooker recipes aren’t just for dinner! The mornings are often as hectic (if not more) as the evenings. Try prepping your breakfast the night before with this breakfast recipe made for the slow cooker.
This cobbler from Spiced is as comforting as homemade pie but way easier to make—sign us up! Topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s a guaranteed win with kids and adults alike.
Dinner can be a challenge, but with these make-ahead meals to keep in the freezer, you’ll always have something delicious on deck!
Whip out your weekly meal planner, it’s time to get prepping! We know firsthand how busy life gets, whether you’re dealing with busy school nights or trapped under a baby for multiple daily naps. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get a handle on your daily dinners. With some meal prep and a few well-crafted make-ahead meals, you’ll be serving up great food in no time. If you’re looking for more inspo when it comes to quick dinners, check out these one-pot meals and these recipes that take 30 minutes or less.
This delicious dinner can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer. When you're ready, defrost and toss into the slow cooker. Service with rice and broccoli and dinner is done.
Perfect for meal prepping for a week's worth of lunches, Budget Bytes' One Pot Sausage and Sun Dried Tomato Pasta is a meal even your picky eaters will enjoy. From the savory sausage to the sweet sun-dried tomatoes, this beautifully colored dish is made using just one pan and makes tons of leftovers.
The classic American dish has never been easier than with Yummy Healthy Easy's recipe for Sloppy Joe's. Add browned meat and spices to a crockpot before heading out for school pickup, after-school sports, or weekend activities, and return home to a hot dinner with minimal effort.
A creamy pasta that easily camouflages vegetables, Six Sisters' Stuff recipe for 20-Minute Tuscan Pasta is an easy choice for meal prep. Make the full recipe and save half for the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, take out and allow to thaw in the fridge for 24 hours then reheat for 30 minutes in the oven. Dinner is served!
Chicken+pizza does a happy child make! These Pesto Chicken Pizza Rolls from the Lean Green Bean are not only awesome looking, but they are great to make in a big batch and serve all week for snacks or lunch. Enjoy reheated or cold, they'll make any hungry little happy.
Perfect for the freezer, these mini sandwiches from Make-Ahead Mom are made with sweet buns for an extra punch of flavor. Topped with a savory sauce, they heat up to melty goodness in the oven straight from the freezer, and are great for lunches, appetizers, and tailgating!
We know, kiddos usually shy away from salads but this fresh meal from Gimme Some Oven is perfect for warm nights. We can't help but think they'll love throwing this together ahead of time and tossing in the canned mandarin oranges, edamame, and crunchy ramen.
There’s nothing better than breakfast for dinner! Whip up a batch of these freezer-friendly burritos from Inquiring Chef, then heat them up any time of the day for a super satisfying meal. Best of all, you can heat them up straight from the freezer, making them the perfect choice for busy weeknights.
This freezer meal from Pinch of Yum is the ultimate in comfort food, with hearty chunks of beef, plenty of carrots and celery and luscious tomato-based gravy. If you have an Instant Pot, this is a great time to use it (it’ll be ready in 45 minutes flat!), but there are also instructions to make it in a slow cooker.
Everyone loves a good quiche, and this one from This Farm Girl Cooks is a make-ahead dream. It reheats well in the microwave after it’s been cooled, or you can freeze the uncooked egg mixture and thaw it when you’re ready to bake. Any way you slice it, it’s bound to be an instant favorite.
If your kids balk at the idea of salad, then this colorful Thai-inspired dish from Vanilla and Beanjust might get them to give it a try. It’s filled with veggies, rice noodles and a tangy, garlicky peanut lime sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. Best of all, it keeps well for days to come.
Give leftover rotisserie chicken an upgrade with the perfect kid-pleaser: pizza! This idea from A Taste of Madness is super easy and a great option for your weekly meal prep.
All hail Damn Delicious and this idea for freezer breakfast sandwiches. They do their name justice (hello, easy breakfast!) but also work as a quick and quirky lunch or dinner. The kids can even help assemble the ingredients!
Put down the takeout menu! Thanks to Kitchen Sanctuary, we’ve got something much better for your hungry family. This beef dish is great for a crowd and can be used with your slow cooker. (Bonus points if you add bok choy or another green veggie!)
You can never have too many mac and cheese recipes! We’re digging this one from Kristine’s Kitchen because it’s a snap to make and you can refrigerate it up to two days before baking. It's a cheesy win-win!
Psst! Not only is this a one-pot dish from Sweet Peas and Saffron bursting with flavor, but it can also be assembled ahead of time and frozen! So when a crazy weeknight hits, all you have to do is place everything in a pot and get cooking.
Cooking for a crowd? Need a quick meal on a chaotic weeknight? This spaghetti, courtesy of Kitchen Sanctuary, is the answer! It’s über flavorful and can even be frozen. Plus, it’s full of veggies and crispy bacon.
Bagel bites and kids go together like cheese and pepperoni, which means you’ve got to try this idea from Life Made Simple. Way better than store-bought, these pizza bagel bites are customizable, freezable, and a cinch to make.
Fish gotta swim, birds gotta fly, and sometimes families gotta have mashed potatoes. That’s where this casserole from Dinner at the Zoo comes in. It’s loaded with wow factor (a.k.a. bacon, cheese, sour cream, and chives), but easy to make for any holiday or weeknight.
We love these meatballs from Thriving Home Blog, which are baked, delicious and the best thing to happen to your freezer in a long time. Add them to your spaghetti, make a sandwich or just eat ‘em straight for a perfect weeknight meal.
You know those store-bought frozen pizzas that you keep around for supper emergencies? Well, this homemade version from Love and Olive Oil is so much better! With tons of customization options and homemade flavor, these make-ahead pizzas are sure to please the whole family.
The beauty of this chicken and veggie pasta casserole from Jo Cooks is that it makes a bonanza amount of food and gives kids a good dose of veggies, too. Reinvent the leftovers during the week or freeze a portion and save for later!
For all the times you need comfort food in a pinch, this chicken soup from Mrs. Schwartz’s Kitchen has you covered. Freeze the stock mixture, add the noodles when you’re ready to eat, and voila—dinner is served!
As everyone knows, there are plenty of fish sticks in the sea—or at least there are plenty of homemade fish sticks in the freezer, thanks to Katy She Cooks. Bonus: This recipe is way healthier than what you'll find in the frozen food aisle.
Here’s an updated tongue twister for you: She eats stuffed shells on busy school nights. You can make it happen, with the help of Kristine’s Kitchen Blog. (Psst! You can even lighten them up with cottage cheese.)
Let’s face it, kids love kid-size food—and these mini meatloaf muffins from Our Family Eats are no exception. Not only are they packed with protein and vegetables, but they can also be frozen for about two months. We promise, your minis will love them.
You've got to bookmark this hearty tortellini, spinach, and black bean soup from How To: Simplify. It's a great thing to have on hand for the mid-week rush, and it offers a tasty way to scarf up spinach.
Load up on your veggies with this delish lasagna from Tastes Lovely! The cheesy layers are a total kid-pleaser—and they make great camouflage for the green stuff.
Who doesn’t love mac and cheese? Especially when it’s healthy, delicious, and freezable? This Thriving Home recipe involves Greek yogurt and sweet potato, among other ingredients. We guarantee the kiddos will want seconds!
This make-ahead meal combines simple ingredients to make a truly magical soup—not a bad kitchen lesson for your little chefs! It’s easy to whip up and freezes beautifully so you can slurp it up any day of the week. Get the recipe here.
How cute are these hand pies from Two Healthy Kitchens? They’ve got all the tastiness of chicken pot pie (hello, flavorful veggies, tender chicken, and thyme crust!) but are totally kid-sized.
