Trader Joe’s Dinner Hacks: Box Mix Magic for Quick & Delicious Meals
Let’s face it: some weeknights, the thought of spending hours in the kitchen preparing a complicated dinner is simply overwhelming. That’s where Trader Joe’s comes to the rescue! TJ’s is a haven for busy cooks, and their box mixes are veritable goldmines for creating quick, easy, and satisfying dinners. Forget the guilt – these shortcuts are all about smart cooking, maximizing flavor with minimal effort. This article will explore some of the best Trader Joe’s box mixes and how to transform them into impressive, delicious, and *fast* dinners. We’ll cover everything from pasta dishes to baked goods, offering variations, substitutions, and tips to elevate your meal from “box mix” to “gourmet-ish.” Get ready to embrace the Trader Joe’s dinner shortcut revolution!
## Why Trader Joe’s Box Mixes Are a Game-Changer
Before we dive into specific recipes, let’s talk about why Trader Joe’s box mixes are so appealing. The key is quality and versatility:
* **High-Quality Ingredients:** Trader Joe’s is known for using decent ingredients in their products. While they might not be entirely organic or locally sourced, they’re generally a step above many other mass-market box mixes. This translates to better flavor and a more satisfying final product.
* **Flavorful and Well-Seasoned:** TJ’s doesn’t skimp on flavor. Their mixes are typically well-seasoned and offer complex flavor profiles, saving you the hassle of measuring out a bunch of spices.
* **Versatile Base:** Most of their box mixes serve as a fantastic base for building upon. You can easily add proteins, vegetables, and other ingredients to customize the dish to your liking and dietary needs.
* **Time-Saving:** Of course, the biggest draw is the time saved. These mixes drastically reduce prep time, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Affordable:** Trader Joe’s offers great value for the money, and their box mixes are no exception. You can create a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
## Must-Have Trader Joe’s Box Mixes for Dinner
Here’s a rundown of some of the best Trader Joe’s box mixes for creating quick and delicious dinners:
* **Trader Joe’s Cacio e Pepe Pasta Sauce Mix:** This mix is a shortcut to a classic Roman pasta dish. It’s creamy, cheesy, and peppery – everything you want in Cacio e Pepe.
* **Trader Joe’s Organic Tomato Soup:** A blank canvas for endless possibilities! This soup is delicious on its own, but it’s also a fantastic base for pasta sauces, stews, and more.
* **Trader Joe’s Yellow Curry Sauce:** A flavorful and aromatic curry sauce that’s ready in minutes. Perfect for pairing with chicken, tofu, or vegetables.
* **Trader Joe’s Cornbread Mix:** This sweet and savory cornbread is a perfect side dish for chili, stews, or even just a simple salad.
* **Trader Joe’s Unexpected Cheddar Broccoli Soup:** A cheesy and comforting soup that’s packed with flavor. It’s delicious on its own or served with a grilled cheese sandwich.
* **Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese:** A seasonal favorite, this mix offers a creamy and cheesy mac and cheese with the added sweetness of butternut squash.
* **Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Gnocchi:** While technically not a box mix, this freezer staple is a dinner shortcut essential! It’s a healthier alternative to traditional gnocchi and cooks up quickly.
* **Trader Joe’s Reduced Guilt Mac & Cheese:** A lighter version of classic mac and cheese that still delivers on flavor and comfort.
* **Trader Joe’s Ricotta & Spinach Filled Tortelloni:** While again a refrigerated item, these tortelloni cook up quickly and pair well with a variety of sauces and toppings.
* **Trader Joe’s Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup:** A super fast soup option that’s light yet satisfying.
* **Trader Joe’s Japanese Style Fried Rice:** An easy-to-prepare and flavorful fried rice base.
* **Trader Joe’s Stuffing Mix:** Not just for Thanksgiving! This stuffing mix can be transformed into a savory bread pudding or used as a topping for casseroles.
## Trader Joe’s Dinner Recipes: Box Mix Edition
Now, let’s get to the good stuff: the recipes! These are just a few ideas to get you started, but feel free to experiment and customize them to your liking.
### 1. Elevated Cacio e Pepe with Chicken and Asparagus
This recipe takes Trader Joe’s Cacio e Pepe Pasta Sauce Mix to the next level by adding protein and vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box Trader Joe’s Cacio e Pepe Pasta Sauce Mix
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
* 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
* Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
* 1 pound pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or bucatini work well)
* Salt, for pasta water
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. **Sauté the Chicken:** While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
3. **Add the Asparagus:** Add the asparagus to the skillet with the chicken and cook until tender-crisp, about 3-5 minutes.
4. **Prepare the Sauce:** Prepare the Cacio e Pepe sauce according to the package directions. In most cases, this involves adding butter and milk/water to the mix and simmering until thickened.
5. **Combine Everything:** Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and asparagus. Pour the Cacio e Pepe sauce over the pasta and toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
6. **Finish and Serve:** Stir in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and season with freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately, with additional Parmesan cheese and black pepper on top.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Garlic:** Sauté a clove of minced garlic with the chicken for extra flavor.
* **Use Different Vegetables:** Broccoli, peas, or mushrooms would also be delicious in this dish.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
* **Vegetarian Option:** Omit the chicken and add more vegetables, such as roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed spinach.
* **Protein Boost:** Add some cooked shrimp or Italian sausage for added protein.
### 2. Creamy Tomato Soup Pasta with Sausage and Spinach
Transform Trader Joe’s Organic Tomato Soup into a creamy and flavorful pasta sauce with the addition of sausage and spinach.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 carton Trader Joe’s Organic Tomato Soup
* 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings
* 5 ounces baby spinach
* 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or rigatoni work well)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. **Brown the Sausage:** While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
3. **Add Garlic (Optional):** If using, add the minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. **Add the Tomato Soup:** Pour the Trader Joe’s Organic Tomato Soup into the skillet with the sausage. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. **Add the Spinach:** Add the baby spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
6. **Stir in Cream and Cheese:** Stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. **Combine Everything:** Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
8. **Serve:** Serve immediately, with additional Parmesan cheese on top.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use Different Sausage:** Try using spicy Italian sausage for a little heat, or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
* **Add Vegetables:** Sauté some chopped onions, peppers, or mushrooms with the sausage.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Omit the sausage and add a can of drained and rinsed white beans for protein.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
* **Cream Cheese:** Add a dollop of cream cheese for extra creaminess.
### 3. Quick Chicken Curry with Trader Joe’s Yellow Curry Sauce and Rice
This recipe is incredibly easy and quick, perfect for a busy weeknight. Trader Joe’s Yellow Curry Sauce does all the heavy lifting!
**Ingredients:**
* 1 jar Trader Joe’s Yellow Curry Sauce
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
* 1 onion, chopped
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped
* 1 can (13.5 ounces) coconut milk (full-fat or light)
* 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
* Cooked rice, for serving (Trader Joe’s Jasmine Rice is a great option)
* Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Sauté the Vegetables:** Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. **Add the Chicken:** Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. **Add the Curry Sauce and Coconut Milk:** Pour the Trader Joe’s Yellow Curry Sauce and coconut milk into the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly and the chicken is cooked through.
4. **Serve:** Serve the chicken curry over cooked rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use Different Vegetables:** Add other vegetables like broccoli florets, carrots, or green beans.
* **Add Protein:** Tofu or chickpeas can be used in place of chicken.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper to the sauce for a little heat.
* **Sweeten it Up:** Add a teaspoon of brown sugar or honey for a touch of sweetness.
* **Add Lime Juice:** Squeeze a wedge of lime over the curry before serving for a burst of freshness.
### 4. Cornbread Topped Chili Casserole
This hearty and comforting casserole is a delicious way to use Trader Joe’s Cornbread Mix. The slightly sweet cornbread complements the savory chili perfectly.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box Trader Joe’s Cornbread Mix
* 1 can (15 ounces) chili (Trader Joe’s has several options, or use your favorite homemade recipe)
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
* 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Cornbread Mix:** Prepare the cornbread mix according to the package directions.
2. **Assemble the Casserole:** Spread the chili in the bottom of a baking dish (8×8 inch or similar). Sprinkle with 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.
3. **Top with Cornbread:** Pour the cornbread batter evenly over the chili and cheese.
4. **Bake:** Bake in a preheated oven according to the cornbread mix directions, or until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through (usually around 20-25 minutes).
5. **Finish and Serve:** Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the cornbread and bake for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted. Let cool slightly before serving. Top with sour cream and green onions, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Vegetables to the Chili:** Sauté some chopped onions, peppers, or mushrooms and add them to the chili for extra flavor and nutrition.
* **Use Different Cheese:** Try using Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.
* **Add Jalapeños:** Add some chopped jalapeños to the chili for a little heat.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Use a vegetarian chili or a combination of beans and vegetables.
* **Add a Layer of Black Beans and Corn:** Before adding the chili, spread a layer of drained and rinsed black beans and corn over the bottom of the baking dish.
### 5. Cheesy Broccoli Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons
Upgrade Trader Joe’s Unexpected Cheddar Broccoli Soup with homemade grilled cheese croutons for a fun and comforting meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cartons Trader Joe’s Unexpected Cheddar Broccoli Soup
* 4 slices bread (sourdough or cheddar cheese bread work well)
* 2 tablespoons butter, softened
* Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Soup:** Heat the Trader Joe’s Unexpected Cheddar Broccoli Soup according to the package directions.
2. **Make the Grilled Cheese Croutons:** Spread butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread. Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, in a skillet over medium heat. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, if desired. Place the remaining two slices of bread on top, butter-side up.
3. **Grill the Sandwiches:** Cook the grilled cheese sandwiches until golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-5 minutes per side.
4. **Cut into Croutons:** Cut the grilled cheese sandwiches into small squares or cubes to create the croutons.
5. **Serve:** Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the grilled cheese croutons.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add a swirl of cream:** Add a tablespoon of heavy cream or sour cream to each bowl of soup for extra creaminess.
* **Add some herbs:** Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top of the soup.
* **Make it spicy:** Add a dash of hot sauce to the soup.
* **Use different cheese for the grilled cheese:** Try using pepper jack or Gruyere for a different flavor.
* **Add bacon:** Crumble cooked bacon over the soup and croutons for added flavor and crunch.
### 6. Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese with Sausage and Breadcrumbs
Elevate Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese with savory sausage and crunchy breadcrumbs for a complete and satisfying meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese
* 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings
* 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian breadcrumbs)
* 2 tablespoons butter, melted
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Mac & Cheese:** Prepare the Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese according to the package directions.
2. **Brown the Sausage:** While the mac and cheese is cooking, cook the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
3. **Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping:** In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. **Assemble the Dish:** Pour the cooked mac and cheese into a baking dish (8×8 inch or similar). Top with the browned sausage and then sprinkle with the breadcrumb topping.
5. **Bake:** Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and the mac and cheese is bubbly.
6. **Serve:** Let cool slightly before serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Vegetables:** Sauté some chopped onions, spinach, or kale with the sausage.
* **Use Different Sausage:** Try using chicken sausage or spicy Italian sausage.
* **Add a Pinch of Nutmeg:** A pinch of nutmeg enhances the butternut squash flavor.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Omit the sausage and add some roasted butternut squash cubes or chickpeas.
* **Add a Drizzle of Balsamic Glaze:** A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity.
### 7. Cauliflower Gnocchi with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
This recipe is a quick and healthy way to enjoy Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Gnocchi. The pesto and cherry tomatoes add a burst of flavor and color.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 bag Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Gnocchi
* 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
* 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Gnocchi:** Cook the Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Gnocchi according to your preferred method (pan-fried, baked, or air-fried). Pan-frying in olive oil is recommended for best results. Follow package directions.
2. **Sauté the Cherry Tomatoes:** While the gnocchi is cooking, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook until softened and slightly blistered, about 5-7 minutes.
3. **Combine Everything:** Add the cooked cauliflower gnocchi to the skillet with the cherry tomatoes. Toss to combine.
4. **Add Pesto and Cheese:** Stir in the pesto and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. **Serve:** Serve immediately, with additional Parmesan cheese on top.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Protein:** Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans for added protein.
* **Use Different Vegetables:** Sauté some spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers with the cherry tomatoes.
* **Add Pine Nuts:** Toast some pine nuts and sprinkle them over the dish for added crunch.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
* **Use Different Pesto:** Try using sun-dried tomato pesto or kale pesto.
### 8. Reduced Guilt Mac & Cheese with Roasted Broccoli and Chickpeas
This healthier take on mac and cheese is made even better with roasted broccoli and chickpeas for added nutrients and flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box Trader Joe’s Reduced Guilt Mac & Cheese
* 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
* 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon paprika
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Roast the Broccoli and Chickpeas:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the broccoli florets and chickpeas with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
2. **Roast:** Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and slightly browned and the chickpeas are crispy.
3. **Cook the Mac & Cheese:** Prepare the Trader Joe’s Reduced Guilt Mac & Cheese according to the package directions.
4. **Combine Everything:** Add the roasted broccoli and chickpeas to the mac and cheese and toss to combine.
5. **Serve:** Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add a Sprinkle of Parmesan Cheese:** Adds a little extra flavor and richness.
* **Use Different Spices:** Try using cumin, chili powder, or Italian seasoning on the broccoli and chickpeas.
* **Add a squeeze of lemon:** A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish.
* **Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes:** Gives it a little kick.
* **Roast Other Vegetables:** Try roasting Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes along with the broccoli and chickpeas.
### 9. Tortelloni with Brown Butter Sage Sauce
Trader Joe’s Ricotta & Spinach Filled Tortelloni get a gourmet upgrade with a simple brown butter sage sauce.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package Trader Joe’s Ricotta & Spinach Filled Tortelloni
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
* 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Tortelloni:** Cook the Trader Joe’s Ricotta & Spinach Filled Tortelloni according to the package directions.
2. **Make the Brown Butter Sage Sauce:** While the tortelloni is cooking, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Continue cooking, swirling the pan occasionally, until the butter turns a golden brown color and smells nutty. Be careful not to burn the butter.
3. **Add the Sage:** Add the sage leaves to the browned butter and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. **Combine Everything:** Drain the cooked tortelloni and add it to the skillet with the brown butter sage sauce. Toss to combine.
5. **Add Parmesan Cheese and Season:** Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. **Serve:** Serve immediately, with additional Parmesan cheese on top.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Lemon Juice:** A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the sauce.
* **Add Toasted Pine Nuts:** Sprinkle toasted pine nuts over the dish for added crunch.
* **Use Different Herbs:** Try using rosemary or thyme instead of sage.
* **Add Crispy Prosciutto:** Crumble crispy prosciutto over the dish for added flavor and texture.
* **Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze:** A touch of sweetness complements the savory flavors.
### 10. Wonton Soup Upgrade with Extra Veggies and Tofu
Enhance Trader Joe’s Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup with extra vegetables and tofu for a more substantial and nutritious meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package Trader Joe’s Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup
* 1 cup chopped bok choy or spinach
* 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
* 1/2 block firm tofu, pressed and cubed
* 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
* 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
* Sliced green onions, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Soup:** Prepare the Trader Joe’s Chicken & Vegetable Wonton Soup according to the package directions.
2. **Add Vegetables and Tofu:** Add the chopped bok choy (or spinach) and sliced mushrooms to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking. Add the cubed tofu at the same time.
3. **Season (Optional):** Add soy sauce and sesame oil, if desired, to taste.
4. **Serve:** Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Other Vegetables:** Try adding shredded carrots, bean sprouts, or snow peas.
* **Use Different Protein:** Add cooked shrimp, chicken, or beef.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a dash of sriracha or chili garlic sauce.
* **Add Noodles:** Add some rice noodles or ramen noodles for a heartier soup.
* **Top with Crispy Fried Onions:** Adds texture and flavor.
### 11. Japanese Fried Rice with Shrimp and Edamame
Take Trader Joe’s Japanese Style Fried Rice to the next level by adding shrimp and edamame for a complete and satisfying meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package Trader Joe’s Japanese Style Fried Rice
* 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 1 cup shelled edamame
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce
* 1 tablespoon sesame oil
* 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 2 green onions, sliced
* 1 egg, lightly beaten (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Shrimp:** Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
2. **Cook the Fried Rice:** Prepare the Trader Joe’s Japanese Style Fried Rice according to package directions in the same skillet or wok.
3. **Add Garlic and Ginger:** Add the minced garlic and ginger to the fried rice and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. **Add Soy Sauce and Sesame Oil:** Stir in the soy sauce and sesame oil.
5. **Add Shrimp and Edamame:** Add the cooked shrimp and edamame to the fried rice and toss to combine.
6. **Optional Egg:** Push the fried rice to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten egg onto the other side. Scramble the egg until cooked through and then mix it into the fried rice.
7. **Garnish and Serve:** Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Vegetables:** Sauté some chopped onions, carrots, or bell peppers with the shrimp.
* **Use Different Protein:** Try using chicken, tofu, or pork.
* **Add a Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes:** Gives it a little kick.
* **Top with a Fried Egg:** A fried egg adds extra protein and richness.
* **Use Different Sauces:** Try using teriyaki sauce or hoisin sauce.
### 12. Stuffing Mix Frittata
Turn Trader Joe’s Stuffing Mix into a quick and flavorful frittata, perfect for a light dinner or brunch.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box Trader Joe’s Stuffing Mix, prepared according to package directions
* 6 eggs
* 1/4 cup milk or cream
* 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyere)
* 1/4 cup chopped cooked ham or bacon (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Prepare Stuffing Mix:** Prepare the Trader Joe’s Stuffing Mix according to the package directions.
3. **Whisk Eggs:** In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or cream, salt, and pepper.
4. **Combine Ingredients:** In a skillet (oven-safe), heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the prepared stuffing mix to the skillet, spreading it evenly. Pour the egg mixture over the stuffing mix.
5. **Add Cheese and Ham/Bacon:** Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the egg mixture and add chopped ham or bacon if desired.
6. **Bake:** Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the frittata is set and golden brown.
7. **Serve:** Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Vegetables:** Sauté some chopped onions, peppers, mushrooms, or spinach and add them to the stuffing mix.
* **Use Different Cheese:** Try using goat cheese, feta cheese, or Parmesan cheese.
* **Add Herbs:** Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary add flavor.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Omit the ham or bacon and add extra vegetables.
## General Tips for Elevating Trader Joe’s Box Mix Dinners
* **Fresh Herbs are Your Friend:** A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, basil, or chives can instantly elevate the flavor and appearance of any dish.
* **Don’t Be Afraid to Season:** Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes are all great additions.
* **Add a Protein Boost:** Adding cooked chicken, shrimp, sausage, tofu, or beans can transform a simple side dish into a complete meal.
* **Roast Your Vegetables:** Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor that you can’t get from steaming or sautéing.
* **Don’t Overcook the Pasta:** Always cook pasta al dente, which means “to the tooth” in Italian. It should be firm and slightly chewy.
* **Reserve Pasta Water:** Save some of the pasta water before draining. It’s starchy and can be used to thin out sauces and help them cling to the pasta.
* **Garnish, Garnish, Garnish:** A simple garnish like a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, or a scattering of fresh herbs can make a big difference in the overall presentation of the dish.
* **Read the Reviews:** Before you buy a new box mix, check online reviews to see what other people think of it. This can help you avoid duds and discover hidden gems.
* **Embrace Experimentation:** Don’t be afraid to try new things and customize the recipes to your liking. The best way to discover your favorite Trader Joe’s dinner hacks is to experiment!
* **Consider Dietary Restrictions:** Many of these recipes can be easily adapted to meet dietary needs. For example, you can use gluten-free pasta, plant-based protein, or dairy-free alternatives. Always check the ingredients list of the box mixes to ensure they meet your dietary requirements.
## Conclusion: Trader Joe’s Box Mixes – Your Secret Weapon for Weeknight Dinners
Trader Joe’s box mixes are more than just convenient – they’re a gateway to quick, delicious, and satisfying weeknight dinners. With a little creativity and a few simple additions, you can transform these humble mixes into gourmet-ish meals that even the pickiest eaters will love. So, ditch the dinner dread and embrace the Trader Joe’s dinner shortcut revolution! Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you.