The New $6.99 Trader Joe’s Find I Can’t Get Enough Of

What I love about Trader Joe’s—besides the ube pretzels and dangerously snackable dark chocolate peanut butter cups—is the passionate community of shoppers who are just as obsessed with the brand as I am. Whether it’s a new seasonal drop or the return of a cult favorite, you can always count on the internet to be buzzing with excitement over the latest Trader Joe’s trends. 

My latest obsession? A behemoth of a meatball calzone that only Trader Joe’s could pull off. The moment I spotted this bold, savory newcomer to the ready-made section, I knew it had a home in my trusty TJ’s tote. 

Everything You Need To Know about Trader Joe’s New Meatball Calzone

Weighing in at a hefty 16 ounces and priced at a reasonable $6.99, this calzone delivers on everything it promises, and then some. It has a 9.5-inch wingspan, sits 3 inches wide, and stands 2 inches tall, realistically making it a solid meal for one or a satisfying snack split between two. The box says one serving is just one-third of the calzone, but let’s be real—at that point, you’re basically eating an appetizer.

Inside the calzone, you’ll find a generous pile of tender meatballs made from a blend of pork and beef seasoned with Parmesan, garlic, onions, parsley, and a kick of black pepper. They’re smothered in a rich tomato sauce and melty mozzarella cheese, then wrapped in a soft, comforting wheat dough that holds everything together with ease.

How To Enjoy Trader Joe’s Meatball Calzone

I’m not exaggerating when I say that every bite is packed to the brim with authentic flavors and fresh ingredients. Some meatballs stayed perfectly intact, while others broke down into a delicious, saucy mix, leaving no shortage of filling anywhere inside.

Because of its size, you’re looking at at least a 20-minute cook time in a 350°F oven, or about 15 minutes in your air fryer at the same temp. I personally left mine in the air fryer for an extra five minutes to ensure a perfectly cooked center, and was pleasantly surprised a few minutes later when I dug in.

Of course, no review is complete without calling out a downside. This calzone definitely needs a dip on the side due to its thick crust. Trader Joe’s suggests topping it with torn basil or shredded Parmesan and serving it with their Thick, Bold & Spicy Red Sauce. But honestly, any classic dip works—marinara, garlic butter, ranch, or pesto. I went with Hidden Valley’s new Cracked Black Pepper Ranch and instantly found a winning combo.

_{To learn more about our approach to product recommendations, see HERE.}