13 Trader Joe's Seasonings, Ranked

Just because the capability exists to do something unique does not necessarily mean one should venture out and actually do it. As it just so happens, ketchup is a perfectly fine condiment in sauce form, and there is really no use in converting it into a powdered seasoning blend. That is the main takeaway with the Ketchup Flavored Sprinkle Seasoning Blend from Trader Joe's. Does it taste like ketchup? Sure, the idea of ketchup is certainly there. The main ingredients are powdered tomato, salt, sugar, and vinegar powder, which is the same as regular ketchup, just in a dry form.

All this seasoning does is beg the question: Why does it exist? Practically every kitchen in America has a bottle of ketchup, so it eliminates the need for this seasoning. If you wanted to infuse the flavor of ketchup into a different sauce, then this seasoning blend might have a purpose. But ultimately it tastes odd at best, and even if you are a big fan of ketchup, you are much better off sticking to the OG version of the condiment.

Did Trader Joe's do the impossible? Did they put the flavor of an entire pizza into a bottle? Well, sort of, but not exactly. The Pizza Sprinkle Seasoning Blend sounds too good to be true. It's made with tomato powder, granulated garlic, paprika, sea salt, rice concentrate, coriander, black pepper, dried parsley, dried basil, and dried oregano. That sure sounds like the makings of a pizza, but when tasting it, that unmistakable pizza flavor does come through in a meaningful way.

The other challenge with the Pizza Sprinkle Seasoning Blend is finding a good use for it. The argument one could make here is that the flavor of pizza should go with everything, but with such a mild flavor, it is hard to determine what the best use is. Straight out of the bottle and on top of whatever you are eating does not suffice. Instead, you are better off mixing the seasoning into a sauce or dip of some kind. However, keep in mind that you will need to add a considerable amount of seasoning in order to really taste it. The pizza blend is a novel idea, but it winds up being exactly that: a novelty. It does not move the needle in any meaningful way in the world of cooking. Try it for a good laugh; it is only $2.99 so it will not break your grocery budget. But do not expect this to suddenly find its way into your weekly meal rotation.

Want a little zest added to your meal? One of Trader Joe's newer seasonings is the Sriracha Sprinkle Seasoning Blend, containing all of the usual fixings to bring a manageable level of heat to your food. Those fixings can be found in the cayenne pepper that is included in this seasoning blend, but the rest of the ingredients are rather mild. So, this is a very approachable blend that should not be too hot to handle.

Taking a look at the ingredients, however, you are likely to fashion your own sriracha-inspired blend without too much trouble. Sure, buying them pre-mixed can save time, but ultimately this is not an entirely necessary blend to add to your pantry if you already have some of the more common seasonings. That said, it does provide a nice taste and is very noticeable, so if you do decide to purchase it, it will definitely add a pop of flavor to your meal.

Fans of traditional ranch dressing will be quick to tell you how versatile the sauce is, good with not only salads but pizza, chicken wings, vegetables, or even as a dip for french fries. But why have the potential for so much mess with the dressing when you can have a much simpler ranch in powder form? Trader Joe's Ranch Seasoning Blend is made with a myriad of ingredients that really brings that signature ranch flavor-forward, including buttermilk flavor, granulated onion and garlic, and dried dill.

Before you even try this seasoning blend, you are hit with that whiff of buttermilk and dill that can only be ranch. Once you take a bite, whether it is on vegetables, popcorn, or baked potato, the Ranch Seasoning Blend has an unmistakable taste. Trader Joe's even includes a quick and easy recipe on the label to follow if you want to make a creamy ranch dressing with this spice, which amplifies this blend's usefulness. Sure, it might taste exactly like a Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning blend, but the unique flavor profile is hard to replicate with the other spices you likely have in your pantry right now.

Citrus fans, this is the seasoning blend for you! The Cuban Style Citrusy Garlic Seasoning Blend delivers on its name and then some. With the first two ingredients being garlic and citrus acid, it takes no time for the flavor to make itself known. Right away as you take a bite, you are hit with a strong burst of citrus, making it a great summer option for your next cookout. But be warned: A little goes a long way. This spice clearly gets major points for its bold flavor, just be careful not to overdo it.

Because of the strong flavor, it might not be a runaway hit with everyone. But those who like it will end up loving it. Those who do not care for the strong citrus flavor, however, might be turned off quickly. It is not a seasoning blend for everyone, but what it is able to accomplish is rather special in the world of Trader Joe's seasonings.

In order to understand what the Mushroom & Company Multipurpose Umami Seasoning Blend from Trader Joe's is trying to achieve, it is important to have a basic foundational knowledge of umami. It is considered one of five basic flavors in Japanese cuisine, in addition to sweet, salty, sour, and bitter. The best and simplest way to describe umami is savory. Adding a dash of umami to any meal will enhance its savory qualities, bringing out a pleasant flavor. And that is exactly what the Multipurpose Umami Seasoning Blend achieves.

There is admittedly no standout utility for this seasoning, unlike some of the other spices on this list that have a very distinct flavor. But its versatility is what makes it so beloved and one of the best-tasting seasoning blends Trader Joe's sells. It works with just about anything you add it to: meats, soups, vegetables, and more. As the name implies, this seasoning is perhaps the closest to an all-purpose blend that you will find at Trader Joe's.

There had to be a top dog among Trader Joe's seasoning blends, and to some this top choice will come as no surprise. Of all of the Trader Joe's seasonings to have a bit of a cult following, the Everything But the Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend takes the cake. It has permeated into other grocery items at Trader Joe's, including its own flavor of potato chips, nut mixes, and even smoked salmon. It is clearly a popular choice among regular Trader Joe's shoppers, but what is it about this seasoning that ranks it higher than the rest?

For starters, the Everything But the Bagel seasoning has multiple ingredients you might not have laying around your kitchen, which makes for a unique flavor that is hard to match. Sesame seeds and poppy seeds aside, the dried minced garlic and onion give it a flavor boost that pairs wonderfully with more dishes than you might think. It goes great on a bagel, as one would imagine, but it can also go well on salads, dips, or plated meals like your morning eggs, pasta, baked potatoes, or your favorite protein. It is no wonder that it is one of Trader Joe's most popular items, with its bold flavor and versatility giving it high marks.