6 Trader Joe’s Food Staples That Feel Expensive but Cost Less Than You Think

Trader Joe's has mastered the art of offering an ever-changing selection of high-quality foods at significantly lower prices than its big-box competitors.
Thus, many of the food staples you buy at a regular grocery store turn out to be not only luxurious, tasty or of high culinary appeal, but cheaper.
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Here are six Trader Joe’s food staples that feel expensive but cost less than you think.
Premium Angus Beef Boneless Chuck Roast
Price: $8.99 per pound
For meat-eating families, a good-quality piece of Angus chuck roast can be a pricey meal to plate. However, at Trader Joe’s, you can pick up a sizable chunk ready to slap on the grill, chop up for stew or simply sauté to pinkish perfection for a competitive price.
Whipped Cream Cheese
Price: $2.49
Whether you have picky eaters who like their cream cheese with simple carbs, or those with a more refined palate who might enjoy a creamy dish, this 8-ounce tub of airily whipped cream cheese will make your family say, “yes, chef!” And the price will keep your budget on track.
Pappardelle Pasta
Price: $2.49
There are few staples more commonly eaten among American households than pasta, but even pasta can get a little dull at times. Not this hand-made pappardelle pasta, made in small batches and dried for a perfect wide noodle that’s uniquely tasty. The smaller batches mean you won’t end up with a vat of spaghetti that goes to waste.
Seasoned and Shredded Rotisserie Chicken
Price: $8.99
Rotisserie chicken is the meat that goes in just about everything, from entrees to side dishes, in salads, pasta or rice, to name a few. Trader Joe's has already done the bulk of the work for you, too — this neatly shredded and seasoned rotisserie chicken is 16 ounces of meat literally ready to eat. You’ll thank yourself later when you make multiple meals out of a single bird for an unequalled price.
Imported Olive Oil Packed in Italy
Price: $9.99
There are a few meals that don’t require or can’t be enhanced by some good quality olive oil. This lovely pale green oil is imported directly from Italy, rich and ready to elevate every meal. And it's nearly a steal at this price per 33.8 fluid ounces.
Traditional Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese
Price: $3.99
The best staples can be adapted into multiple recipes, and whole milk ricotta cheese is great for dairy lovers to have on hand. It makes for savory recipes like lasagna just as well as sweet ones like homemade cheesecake. Each 16-ounce tub promises a tasty meal to follow.
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Editor’s note: Prices and availability are subject to change.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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