The 5 Trader Joe’s Frozen Appetizers I Serve Every Thanksgiving

Call us strange, but my family has never been a big fan of the traditional Thanksgiving spread. Instead, we choose to cook a different cuisine each year. While our main dishes change, there are a few Trader Joe’s appetizers that always appear at our table (even if they don’t fit the theme). Not only are these delicious appetizers crowdpleasers, but they’re also budget-friendly freezer finds that are super low-lift.

Trader Joe’s is known for offering a wide selection of year-round and seasonal appetizers, and our favorites land in both categories, which means they’re always available during the holidays. These instantly recognizable classics, extra cheesy dips, and even a vegan option are sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving table.

1. Crispy Vegetable Pouches

Vegans and carnivores alike will love this cute, crispy appetizer. These pouches are made with pastry dough that turns golden and flaky when baked. They are stuffed with a blend of vegetables, including cabbage, carrots, onions, and shiitake mushrooms. The vegetables are infused with garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. For extra flavor, I recommend serving them with Trader Joe’s Sweet Chili Sauce or sriracha for a spicy kick.

2. Brie en Croûte

Trader Joe’s Brie en Croûte—brie wrapped in a pastry crust—is a fancy-looking appetizer that’s perfect for Thanksgiving. Maybe it’s the warm, creamy cheese that oozes when you cut into it, or the flaky crust that looks like you spent all day carefully rolling and wrapping it around the cheese—it’s sure to impress. The good news is there’s no work on your part: simply place it on a foil or parchment-lined baking sheet and bake. Top it with a big dollop of berry preserves for a sweet-and-salty treat.

3. Parmesan Pastry Pups

Even with a guest list of picky eaters, this is one appetizer you can’t go wrong with. That’s because it’s an instantly recognizable classic also known as “pigs in a blanket.” Trader Joe’s version uses mini hot dogs wrapped in all-butter puff pastry, topped with a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese. They puff up in just 10 to 12 minutes in the oven, and even quicker in the air fryer. As for dips, take a hint from the Brits and dunk them in mustard or cranberry sauce.

4. Creamy Spinach & Artichoke Dip

An appetizer that tastes amazing fresh out of the microwave? Yes, it’s true! Trader Joe’s Creamy Spinach & Artichoke Dip needs nothing more than a quick zap in the microwave to deliver the best dip with an amazing cheese pull. It’s packed with chopped artichokes and spinach, adding even more flavor and texture. It pairs well with everything from tortilla chips to crusty bread, so you can reach for whatever you already have on hand—or whatever’s on sale.

5. Mac and Cheese Bites

I’ve yet to meet anyone who doesn’t like macaroni and cheese—at least not in my circle of family and friends. And that’s why I know these Mac and Cheese Bites will never disappoint, especially Trader Joe’s new-and-improved version. The creamy center is packed with seven types of cheese, including classic cheddar and nutty Gouda, and is coated in a thin layer of crispy, panko-style bread crumbs.