Frozen Foods - Brand Guides & More | Eat This, Not That! https://www.eatthis.com/tag/frozen-foods/ Your ultimate source for expert nutrition tips and health advice, covering wellness, healthy recipes, cooking hacks, food news, style trends and shopping. Thu, 26 Mar 2026 12:26:35 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://www.eatthis.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2024/01/ETNT_favicon-1.png?strip=all&cf-bypass&w=32 Frozen Foods - Brand Guides & More | Eat This, Not That! https://www.eatthis.com/tag/frozen-foods/ 32 32 195777497 6 Beloved Frozen Pizzas Hiding Major Red Flags on the Nutrition Label https://www.eatthis.com/unhealthiest-frozen-pizza-2026/ Fri, 27 Mar 2026 11:15:59 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=910627 Frozen pizza is one of the most easy, convenient, and tasty meals you can make...

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Frozen pizza is one of the most easy, convenient, and tasty meals you can make on nights when cooking is out of the question and you don’t want to spend a fortune on delivery—but is your favorite pizza relatively healthy-ish, or not-so-much? I analyzed the nutrition labels on six frozen options, taking into account factors such as sodium and overall calorie count, to compare which ones are the best—here are six popular frozen pizzas, ranked from least unhealthy to most.

Screamin’ Sicilian Holy Pepperoni

Nutrition (Per 1/5 Pizza Serving):
Calories: 330
Fat: 20 g (Saturated Fat: 8 g)
Sodium: 660 mg
Carbs: 25 g (Fiber: 2 g, Sugar: 3 g [Added: 1 g])
Protein: 14 g

Screamin’ Sicilian Holy Pepperoni is also on the lower end calorie-wise, with 330 cals per serving. This pizza has the lowest sodium by a significant margin, and the lowest carbs and sugar, which indicates the crust and sauce are balanced with the cheese and toppings.

Home Run Inn Pepperoni Frozen Pizza

Nutrition (Per 1/6 Pizza Serving):
Calories: 360
Fat: 20 g (Saturated Fat: 7 g)
Sodium: 820 mg
Carbs: 30 g (Fiber: 2 g, Sugar: ~3 g)
Protein: 18 g

Home Run Inn Pepperoni Frozen Pizza is higher in calories and saturated fat than some other options, but has decent fiber from the crust. Sodium is good, and so is protein.

RED BARON® Brick Oven Pepperoni Pizza

Nutrition (Per 1/4 Pizza Serving):
Calories: 330
Fat: 17 g (Saturated Fat: 6 g)
Sodium: 810 mg
Carbs: 33 g (Fiber: 2 g, Sugar: 8 g)
Protein: 13 g

RED BARON® Brick Oven Pepperoni Pizza ties for lowest calories with 330 cals per serving. This option contains moderate sodium levels and reasonable carbs, and slighter higher sugar than the rest.

RELATED: I Tried 7 Popular Frozen Pizzas & The Winner Was Cheesy & Crispy

DiGiorno Rising Crust Ultimate Pepperoni with Cheese

Nutrition (Per 1/5 Pizza Serving):
Calories: 330
Fat: 13 g (Saturated Fat: 5 g)
Sodium: 830 mg
Carbs: 40 g (Fiber: 1 g, Sugar: 6 g [Added: 3 g])

Protein: 14 g

DiGiorno Rising Crust Ultimate Pepperoni with Cheese has the lowest saturated fat on the list, and contains moderate calories and sodium. The crust is not ultraprocessed, which is a bonus, but it is very high in carbs.

Tombstone Pepperoni Pizza

Nutrition (Per 1/4 Pizza Serving):
Calories: 350
Fat: 18 g (Saturated Fat: 8 g)
Sodium: 800 mg
Carbs: 35 g (Fiber: 2 g, Sugar: 4 g [Added: 1 g])
Protein: 15 g

Tombstone Pepperoni Pizza has high carbs, and moderate sodium. The calorie count is not excessive, which is a plus.

Totino’s Pepperoni Party Pizza Pack

Nutrition (Per 1/2 Pizza Serving):
Calories: 360
Fat: 19 g (Saturated Fat: 8 g)
Sodium: 740 mg
Carbs: 38 g (Fiber: 2 g, Sugar: 4 g [Added: 2 g])
Protein: 9 g

Totino’s Pepperoni Party Pizza has the lowest protein from all the pizzas listed, just 9 g per serving, which indicates much less actual cheese and meat. This factor combined with the high carb count means there is more crust, and this pizza is overall lower in nutrition compared to the rest.

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5 Best Frozen Foods Without Junk Ingredients, According to Chefs https://www.eatthis.com/best-frozen-foods-junk-ingredients/ Sat, 21 Mar 2026 12:00:49 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=907238 A good frozen meal can save the day. Whether you’re running out the door and...

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A good frozen meal can save the day. Whether you’re running out the door and don’t have time for breakfast or you’re exhausted when you come home after a busy day and don’t feel like cooking, grabbing something from the freezer and having a tasty meal is unbeatable. However, not all frozen meals deserve to be in your cart. Many options in the freezer aisle are packed with long ingredient lists, preservatives, added sugars, and sodium that can turn a quick meal into something less than nourishing. The good news is that there are plenty of frozen options made with simple, recognizable ingredients that chefs actually keep in their own kitchens. To help you sort through the choices, Eat This, Not That! turned to Rania Batayneh, MPH, home chef, recipe developer, nutritionist and author of the bestselling book, The One One One Diet: The Simple 1:1:1 Formula for Fast and Sustained Weight Loss. She shares her top five frozen meals made without junk ingredients.

Incredifulls Pizza Cupcake

Incredifulls Pizza Cupcakes are a novelty pizza snack that’s quick, portable, and fun to eat, with a softer bakery-style dough than typical frozen pizza bites. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative, according to Batayneh. “Incredifulls takes a more thoughtful approach to frozen pizza snacks with its chef-crafted Pizza Cupcakes, offering a better-for-you frozen option and an easy solution for busy parents that kids actually love,” she explains. “Each Pizza Cupcake delivers classic pizza flavor with imported Italian tomatoes and premium mozzarella baked inside a brioche and sourdough crust.” She adds, “The brand focuses on ingredient quality and transparency, using real, wholesome ingredients and avoiding artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors. The pizza cupcakes feature mozzarella made with milk from cows not treated with rBST, along with uncured pepperoni made without added nitrates or nitrites.”

Baking cookies is a beloved ritual in countless households, and Bakr Cookie Dough makes it easy to enjoy the experience with a little less guilt. “Bakr Cookie Dough stands out in the frozen dessert aisle by focusing on simple, recognizable ingredients,” says Batayneh. “While many frozen cookie dough products rely on long ingredient lists that include preservatives, artificial flavors, hydrogenated oils, and highly refined sweeteners, Bakr takes a more straightforward approach.” She explains,”Made with pantry-style ingredients like real butter and cane sugar, the dough delivers the rich flavor and texture people expect from a freshly baked cookie without relying on unnecessary additives. This ingredient-first approach helps Bakr stand out among frozen cookie dough options for shoppers looking for simpler recipes and bakery-quality results at home.” According to Batayneh, “Bakr delivers convenience without compromise. The dough can go straight from the freezer to the oven or air fryer and be ready in about 11 minutes, making it easy to bake just a few cookies at a time whenever the craving hits.”

RELATED: The #1 Frozen Meal You Should Never Buy, According to Nutritionists

Evergreen Waffles

Evergreen Waffles combine convenience with health-conscious ingredients and creative flavors that feel more like homemade breakfast than typical frozen waffles. “Evergreen offers a more ingredient-conscious take on a frozen breakfast staple without sacrificing flavor,” says Batayneh. “The brand focuses on simple, recognizable ingredients, using 100% whole grains, avocado oil instead of seed oils, and a short ingredient list with no artificial flavors or preservatives. In fact, Evergreen’s Blueberry Thick & Fluffy waffles contain about half the ingredients of the leading frozen waffle brand’s Thick & Fluffy Blueberry flavor, while featuring real wild blueberries and a straightforward ingredient list families can feel good about.” Batayneh explains, “Their full line also includes hidden veggies, adding extra nutrition in a way that still delivers the familiar flavor and texture kids expect from waffles. Evergreen’s new Thick & Fluffy waffle line was created for bigger appetites and is an option the whole family can enjoy, offering a larger waffle with a golden, crisp exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. While the texture feels nostalgic and homestyle, the ingredient profile reflects a more thoughtful approach to frozen breakfast foods with whole grains, real ingredients, and balanced nutrition in every serving.”

Woodstock Farms Organic Frozen Diced Avocado

Avocados can be tricky—they ripen quickly and often go bad before you use them. Frozen diced avocado solves that problem. You can keep a bag in the freezer and use exactly what you need for smoothies, bowls, or toast without worrying about spoilage. Batayneh recommends Woodstock Farms Organic Frozen Diced Avocado because the brand is a standout. “The organic avocados are harvested at peak ripeness, washed, diced, and quickly frozen to help lock in their natural flavor and nutrients until you’re ready to use them,” she says. “Because the avocado is already peeled and diced, it takes the prep work out of using fresh avocados,” Batayneh explains. “Add the frozen cubes directly to smoothies for creaminess, blend into dressings, or thaw slightly to toss into bowls and salads. Made with just one ingredient. Organic avocado. There are no artificial colors or flavors, making it a simple and versatile freezer staple.”

Chef Bombay Mini Butter Chicken Empanadas

People love Chef Bombay Mini Butter Chicken Empanadas because they pack the rich, creamy flavor of butter chicken into a convenient, bite-sized snack. The filling—made with chicken, tomatoes, yogurt, garlic, ginger, and warm spices—is wrapped in naan-style dough that turns crisp on the outside while staying soft and savory inside. The result is a freezer-friendly appetizer that delivers bold flavor in just a few bites. “The filling features halal-certified chicken simmered with tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, yogurt, butter, and warming spices inspired by traditional Indian cooking,” says Batayneh.”Each bite is wrapped in a pastry made with enriched wheat flour, yogurt, and butter that bakes up golden while keeping the savory butter chicken filling warm and flavorful inside.” She adds, “Made with recognizable ingredients like chicken, mozzarella cheese, potatoes, yogurt, cream, and spices, these empanadas offer a restaurant-inspired take on butter chicken in a fun, freezer-friendly format. A serving of four empanadas delivers 27 grams of protein, making them a hearty appetizer worth sharing.”

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7 Frozen Chicken Nuggets That Refuse to Use Minced Sponge Meat https://www.eatthis.com/healthier-frozen-chicken-nuggets/ Sat, 21 Mar 2026 11:30:08 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=907433 Frozen chicken nuggets aren’t generally thought to be the healthiest food on the planet. When...

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Frozen chicken nuggets aren’t generally thought to be the healthiest food on the planet. When I was young, the only chicken nuggets I remember were made out of ground meat, and I’m not sure what else, but I’m guessing some sort of filler. These days, you can get healthier options in the freezer section of your store that are actually made out of real chicken. What are the best options? Here are 7 frozen chicken nuggets that refuse to use minced sponge meat.

Bell & Evans Breaded Nuggets

Bell & Evans Breaded Chicken Nuggets are “100% whole breast meat pieces,” according to the company, and are “not mechanically chopped or separated meat,” and are air-chilled. The lightly breaded treat is packed with protein, and, while frozen, it is actually raw, so it requires a longer cooking time than other brands.

Just Bare Chicken Breast Chunks

Just Bare is one of the healthiest chicken brands you can find in the freezer section. They are made with chicken breast only and are actual chunks of meat. They contain no antibiotics, hormones, or steroids and no artificial ingredients or preservatives. And, an added perk? Shoppers maintain they taste like Chick-fil-A.

Kirkland Signature Breast Chunks

Kirkland Signature Chicken Chunks are very similar to Just Bare, but cost less. The fully cooked chicken chunks offer 16 grams of protein per serving, cook quickly in the air fryer, and are perfect for tossing into any dish that needs a protein boost – salads, pastas, and rice dishes included. And, like Just Bare, they are regularly compared to Chick-fil-A.

RELATED: 7 Best Chicken Nugget Brands Made With Real White Meat, According to Shoppers

Applegate Naturals Chicken Nuggets

If you are looking for an OG-style nugget that children and picky eaters will consume, grab a bag of Applegate Chicken Nuggets. They are made with humanely raised, antibiotic-free chicken and contain only white meat. They are an excellent option for health-conscious people who prefer ground chicken nuggets to chunks. Other ingredients include wheat flour, water, and rice flour.

Perdue SimplySmart Organics Nuggets

Perdue Simply Smart Organics Gluten Free Breaded Chicken Breast Nuggets are a gluten-free option that even gluten-lovers appreciate. “Delicious nuggets even if you don’t have a gluten allergy,” writes a shopper. “My son is an extremely picky eater. These chicken nuggets are similar to McDonald’s but had double the meat and are not fried. Win win,” adds another. “We recently switched to these from being die-hard Just Bare nugget fans. These are phenomenal! We are completely converts to these!” another says.

Real Good Foods Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Chunks

Real Good Foods Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Chunks are another healthy option that nutritionists approve of. “These are hands down the best and healthiest chicken bites we’ve ever had. We’re a household of three hungry boys and have long been fans of the Bare Chicken Bites and Tenders. But ever since this product hit the shelves, we haven’t looked back. The biggest game-changer? These bites are fried in beef tallow instead of vegetable oil. Not only is that a much healthier choice, but the flavor is also noticeably better — think back to the golden days of McDonald’s fries cooked in beef tallow,” writes a shopper.

Tyson Simple Ingredients Boneless Chicken Bites

Tyson Simple Ingredients Boneless Chicken Bites are another chicken chunk option that people buy on repeat. “Yum! These are perfectly crispy chicken nuggets that are good quality with full-size all white meat chicken breast. My son loves to have nuggets for dinner and I’m always looking for a high-quality brands versus ones that are just pressed together. I made these in the air fryer and they crisp up perfectly and serve them with fries would be great with vegetables as well. I love that they are lightly breaded and the package usually folds up to fit in my freezer! These are well priced for good quality chicken too!” a shopper says.

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7 Best Frozen Fried Chicken Brands That Cook Perfectly in an Air Fryer https://www.eatthis.com/best-frozen-fried-chicken-brands-air-fryer/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 11:00:06 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=906930 How on earth did we cook chicken strips and chicken nuggets before air fryers were...

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How on earth did we cook chicken strips and chicken nuggets before air fryers were a thing? Microwaving them just makes the chicken rubbery, and baking in the oven takes a lot more time (plus you would heat the whole kitchen up just for a few pieces of chicken). Air fryers have made cooking, heating, and re-heating a breeze, especially when it comes to frozen chicken. These items usually take less than ten minutes to cook from frozen, making meal times easy and so convenient. Here are seven of the best frozen fried chicken brands ideal for air fryer cooking.

Just Bare Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Bites

Just Bare Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Bites couldn’t be easier to heat in the air fryer: Just toss them in for 8 minutes at 350F and you’re done! The brand even says air frying is the preferred method of cooking for these popular chicken bites, so it’s definitely going to get you that optimum crispy-on-the-outside, juicy-in-the-inside consistency.

Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken

Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken is supposed to be heated in the oven but we always use the air fryer and it comes out to crispy perfection every time. These delicious little fried chicken bites are then tossed with sauce and served with rice or whatever else you would like. I sometimes don’t even bother with the sauce because they’re so good even without it.

Country Pride Breaded Chicken Breast Tenders

Country Pride Breaded Chicken Breast Tenders take 14 minutes at 375 to cook to the ideal crispy texture. “These are fantastic!! They come out perfectly, especially in the air fryer, and are delicious. They’re generously sized and versatile; I use these in many meals. I’d highly recommend them!!” one Sam’s Club shopper said.

RELATED: 6 Best Frozen Fried Chicken Strips, According to Shoppers

Great Value Southern Style Breaded Chicken Breast Fillet

Great Value Southern Style Breaded Chicken Breast Fillet takes about 15 minutes at 375F to heat up in the air fryer. “These breast filets cook up great in the air fryer and make awesome sliders!!! They’re also great as a main dish for any meal, great flavor, big portions, easy dinner,” one Walmart shopper said.

Feel Good Foods Crispy Chicken Bites

Feel Good Foods Crispy Chicken Bites are another excellent air fryer option, taking about 11 minutes to heat up at 375F. “I stock up on these when I want a fast, at-home dinner that tastes like takeout! One of my gluten-free favs,” one Sprouts shopper said.

Kirkland Signature Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Chunks

Kirkland Signature Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Chunks take around 10 minutes to cook at 360F for delicious chicken nugget-type bites. “Just bought my first air fryer–the Gourmia that’s on sale at this time. Picked up these chicken chunks for my first air-fried food. They’re very tasty, yummy seasoning, and it’s good-quality whole pieces of chicken,” one Costco shopper said.

Foster Farms Chicken Breast Nuggets

Foster Farms Chicken Breast Nuggets take just seven minutes to heat in the air fryer at 360F. “These are great as long as you cook them longer than what the package shows,” one Target shopper said. “Decent in the microwave, but amazing air fried. Don’t microwave them unless you are hangry.”

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7 Best Frozen Meal Bowls, According to Shoppers https://www.eatthis.com/best-frozen-bowls-shoppers/ Thu, 19 Mar 2026 12:45:49 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=907038 There are so many frozen meals to choose from at your local grocery store. However,...

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There are so many frozen meals to choose from at your local grocery store. However, some are tastier than others, and some are better for you. I love a good frozen bowl, which is usually a pre-portioned serving of veggies, protein, and some kind of starch. Bowls are a balanced approach to eating and generally are available in a variety of cuisines, ranging from Asian and Indian to Mexican. Here are the 7 best frozen bowls, according to shoppers.

Healthy Choice Protein Bowls Spicy Beef Teriyaki

Healthy Choice Protein Bowls Spicy Beef Teriyaki, 13g Protein, High-Protein Frozen Meal, 9.25-oz. Bowl

Healthy Choice Protein Bowls Spicy Beef Teriyaki is a top-rated low-carb option, pairing a hefty dose of protein with cauliflower rice for a healthier swap. “So tasty…5 minutes and voila,” writes a Walmart shopper. “The first time I made this, my husband thought it was great… I didn’t tell him it was a frozen meal. A couple days later he asked me to make it again, but he wanted more than what I made the first time so what did I do? I went to the store and bought four and microwaved all four. I put it on a plate and once again pretended that I made it. I’m in too deep. I would tell him but this is the only good dish that I can make,” another says. “Love the riced cauliflower and mixture of green veggies. Spicy beef not to spicy. Very filling protein meal,” a third agrees.

Trader Joe’s Chicken Burrito Bowl

Trader Joe's Chicken Burrito Bowl

Trader Joe’s Chicken Burrito Bowl offers an authentic Chipotle flavor with big chunks of chicken, brown rice, red quinoa, black beans, corn, bell peppers, and cheddar cheese. It tastes like something you would get at a Mexican restaurant. “Really impressed with this meal. very tempted to just give it a 10/10 for the value,” a Redditor says, adding that “every component in the bowl tasted fresh from the veggies to the chicken, rice, and quinoa.” They noted that the “chicken portions were good and it wasn’t gristly” and the “vegetables tasted good and were crisp too.”

Amy’s Mexican Casserole Bowl

Amy's Mexican Casserole Bowl

I have tried almost all of Amy’s freezer items, and the Amy’s Mexican Casserole Bowl, basically a gluten-free, vegetarian tamale that you eat with a spoon, is one of my favorites. Like all of the health-oriented brands’ frozen meals, it is wholesome, hearty, and delicious, and you won’t feel gross after eating it. Ingredients include organic white corn masa, black beans, sweet golden corn, olives, tomatoes, and a carefully chosen blend of chili peppers and spices.

RELATED: 7 Best Frozen Pizzas Without the Junk

Saffron Road Chicken Tikka Masala

Saffron Road Chicken Tikka Masala

Premium high-protein globally inspired pick

Craving Indian food? You don’t need to dine out with the help of Saffron Road. The Chicken Tikka Masala bowls are a favorite, made with antibiotic-free chicken and a savory-meets-sweet sauce with yogurt, tomato, and spices. There are no mystery chemicals, just real Indian spices and flavor.

Evol Fire-Grilled Steak Bowl

evol fire grilled steak

Evol is another brand you can rely on for healthier versions of frozen favorites. Instead of hitting Chipotle, try the Evol Fire Grilled Steak Bowl, which features antibiotic-free beef paired with recognizable ingredients like black beans, peppers, rice, and a cilantro lime pesto—no weird fillers included.

Daily Harvest Harvest Bowls Broccoli + Cheeze

Daily Harvest Frozen Gluten Free Broccoli and Cheeze Harvest Bowl

Daily Harvest Harvest Bowls aren’t available at your local grocery store and must be ordered directly from the company, but they are worth the extra effort. The plant-based frozen meals are about as healthy as you can get. Each is flash-frozen and made from plant-based, whole ingredients—no gums, stabilizers, or fake cheese. For example, the ingredient list for broccoli + cheese includes broccoli, cauliflower, sweet potato, olive oil, tomato, and nutritional yeast.

Amy’s Light in Sodium Brown Rice & Vegetables Bowl

Amys brown rice vegetables frozen dinner

Another great Amy’s meal made with organic ingredients and minimal additives? Amy’s Light in Sodium Brown Rice & Vegetable bowl, a plant-based, Asian-inspired meal featuring brown rice, broccoli, carrots, and tofu—all without artificial preservatives. The clean meal is delicious and won’t leave you feeling bloated or overly full.

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I Tried 6 Frozen Fried Fish Filet Brands & the Best Was Crispy and Golden https://www.eatthis.com/best-frozen-fried-fish-fillet-brands/ Thu, 19 Mar 2026 10:00:01 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=906831 Leading up to Easter, ’tis the season of fish fries, but that doesn’t mean they...

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Leading up to Easter, ’tis the season of fish fries, but that doesn’t mean they can’t become a staple in your freezer year round. Having some quick dinner options like fried frozen fish fillets to make into a sandwich topped with creamy coleslaw or served with veggies and french fries can be a reliable weeknight meal solution in a pinch. I tried six different frozen fried fish fillets for Eat This, Not That! and ranked them from my least favorite to my absolute favorite. Here’s how they stacked up!

Stouffer’s Breaded Fish Fillet with Macaroni & Cheese

Stouffer's

Calories: About 470

The Stouffer’s fish fillet meal features a breaded fillet of Alaskan pollock served with creamy macaroni and cheese. It can be cooked either in the microwave or the oven, but assuming most people buying this are likely looking for fast convenience, I cooked it in the microwave (probably a mistake).

The fish itself actually had a nice flavor and wasn’t overly fishy, which was a pleasant surprise. However, the texture was extremely flimsy after microwaving. If you were to cook this in the oven, it would probably improve the texture significantly, but that also takes about 30 minutes compared to 5. Overall, it’s not bad, but compared to the other options, it’s clearly the weakest on the list.

Gorton’s Parmesan Crusted Fish Fillets

Gorton's Parmesan Crusted Fish Fillets

Calories: 2 fillets for about 260

These Gorton’s parmesan crusted fish fillets are made with wild-caught Alaskan pollock and real Parmesan cheese. They’re whole fillets rather than minced fish, and Gorton’s recommends cooking it in the oven or the air fryer. At first glance, they’re not holding their shape fresh out of the air fryer, but we’ll see if they taste better than they look.

Unfortunately, these weren’t my favorite. The fillets had a slightly fishy flavor that was difficult to ignore, and they fell apart very easily, especially when trying to move them in and out of the air fryer. They weren’t terrible, but the flavor and structure of the filets left something to be desired.

RELATED: 5 Best Frozen Battered Halibut Brands, According to Shoppers

Gorton’s Air Fried Fish Fillets

Gorton's Air Fried Fish Fillets

Calories: 2 fillets for about 190

Another from Gorton’s, these air fried fish fillets were a step up when it comes to texture at first glance. They look nice and crispy and are specifically designed for the air fryer, making it easy to cook some up fast for dinner.

When it comes to texture, they were a nice step up from the last two fish fillets. The fish tasted clean and fresh, with a crispy exterior. They did still crumble and fall apart a bit when transferring them from the air fryer to the plate, and had a mysterious, almost like a slight cheddar cheese kind of taste. Overall, they landed somewhere in the middle, not as good as other competitors, but better than some.

Gorton’s Crispy Battered Fish Fillets

Gorton's Crispy Battered Fish Fillets

Calories: 1 fillet for about 130

The Gorton’s crispy battered fish fillets are made with wild-caught pollock and can be cooked in either the oven or the air fryer. Right away I noticed that this fish fillet has a much stronger coating, keeping its shape well.

This is where the rankings start to get much stronger in my opinion. These fillets were crispy and held their shape when cutting into them, which made them much easier to cook and handle. The batter is light and almost tempura-like, making this a great choice if you’re looking for a simple, classic fish fillet to have on hand.

Gorton’s Potato Crunch Fish Fillets

Gorton's Potato Crunch Fish Fillets

Calories: 2 fillets for about 240

Another from Gorton’s, the potato crunch fish fillets are made with wild-caught pollock. Best prepared in the oven or air fryer, these fish fillets come out smelling like fresh french fries and a fish fry all in one. I’m excited to give them a taste!

The fish itself cooked beautifully in the air fryer, and the potato coating added noticeable flavor and texture. It gives the fillet a little something extra without tasting artificial or overly processed. Sometimes frozen foods with added flavorings can taste fake, but that wasn’t the case here. The coating actually tastes genuinely savory and satisfying. This was easily my favorite option from Gorton’s.

Van de Kamp’s Beer Battered Fish Fillets

Van de Kamp's Beer Battered Fish Fillets

Calories: 2 fillets for about 200

Taking the top spot are these beer-battered fillets from Van de Kamp’s. Best cooked in the oven or an air fryer, these fish fillets deliver everything you want in a frozen fish option.

Tasting the fillets backed my first impressions. The batter is light and crispy, and the fish tastes fresh and clean. Another advantage is the structure. While other fillets broke and fell apart, these fillets held together well. It was a very close call between Van de Kamp’s and the potato-crusted  fillets from Gorton’s, but if you’re looking for a classic fish fry experience, this one takes the crown.

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5 Best Frozen Crab Cakes Made With 100% Real Crab Meat https://www.eatthis.com/best-frozen-crab-cakes-real-crab-meat/ Wed, 18 Mar 2026 12:15:16 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=906666 Crab cakes are always a good idea: Perfect for an appetizer with a little dipping...

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Crab cakes are always a good idea: Perfect for an appetizer with a little dipping sauce, or a full meal with some french fries, whether spicy, savory, or sweet, crab cakes are endlessly versatile and delicious. When made with real crab, the outside is seasoned and crunchy and the inside should be sweet, tender, and flakey. There’s definitely a place for substitutes like surimi, but crab cakes aren’t it—you need the real thing. Here are five of the best frozen crab cakes made with 100% real crab meat, no imitation.

Phillips Frozen Crab Cakes

Phillips Frozen Crab Cakes are made with real premium lump crab meat, Maryland-style, with hints of tangy mustard and zesty lemon and a touch of butter. “If you follow the instructions just as listed they come out perfectly crispy, hot, and delicious. My goodness I didn’t think I could crave frozen food, but these crab cakes are out of this world!” one Target shopper said.

Sprouts Maryland Style Crab Cakes

Sprouts Maryland Style Crab Cakes are hand-made with 100% real crab meat. “These are better crab cakes than most that I’ve had in a restaurant because they don’t have all filler, it is a perfect amount with just tons of real crab,” one Sprouts shopper said. “I have served these to many different people who just raved about them.”

RELATED: 7 Seafood Chains That Serve the Best Crab Cakes

Open Nature Crab Cakes

Open Nature Crab Cakes are made from premium crab, Maryland-style. I’ve served these as appetizers several times and they always hit the spot—lightly crunchy on the outside and sweet and flakey on the inside. “Having lived a stone’s throw from the Potomac River in Virginia for over 20 years, I’ve enjoyed plenty of Virginia/Maryland crab, these crab cakes bring back that great taste … love’m,” one Vons shopper said.

Member’s Mark Wild Caught Handmade Crab Cakes

Member’s Mark Wild Caught Handmade Crab Cakes are made with fresh, wild-caught, blue swimming crab meat. “After my first mouthful I knew these crab cakes would become a standard purchase!” one Sam’s Club shopper said. “They are tasty and have a wonderful texture. One of the finest crab cakes I’ve tasted and at a bargain price.”

Rastelli’s Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes

Rastelli’s Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes are made with premium blue crab meat and handmade in the United States. “We love these crabcakes,” one Costco shopper said. “I order them every year as part of our Christmas Eve 7-Fishes Feast. They are made with a very generous amount of crabmeat and enough bread filling to bind everything together. All the family can say is ‘More Please!'”

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I Tried 7 Popular Frozen Pizzas & The Winner Was Cheesy & Crispy https://www.eatthis.com/tried-frozen-pizzas-best/ Wed, 18 Mar 2026 11:45:08 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=906703 Going out to dinner is getting insanely expensive nowadays. Some local pizza spots or national...

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Going out to dinner is getting insanely expensive nowadays. Some local pizza spots or national pizza chains will have the occasional deal, but by the time you add toppings, select the crust you like, or make any changes whatsoever it seems like the price stacks up. That’s where frozen pizza comes in. Sure, it’s not going to always taste like freshly made pizzas from your favorite delivery place, but in a pinch, they work well for a quick dinner. I tried seven different frozen pizza brands to find out which one was the best, and there was a clear winner.

Tombstone Original Pizza Crust Pepperoni

Calories: 340 calories per 1/4 pizza

Tombstone’s original crust pepperoni pizza is recommended to be cooked in the oven, but even crisping it up in the oven unfortunately couldn’t save this. It’s starting off as the weakest on the list due to its thin, flimsy looking crust and pale appearance. Sadly, my first impressions held up, and the pizza was not good. The crust was ok, not as bad as it looked, but the biggest problem for me was the pepperoni. It says that it’s made with pork, chicken, and beef, but I wonder what else because it tasted noticeably artificial and had, almost like a chemical taste. Out of all the pizzas I tried, this one felt the most processed and least enjoyable.

Ellio’s Pepperoni Pizza

Calories: 280 calories per 2 slices

Ellio’s can be cooked in the oven, air fryer, or toaster oven, and it definitely brings a lot of nostalgia to the table. It reminds me of school cafeteria pizza, which can be oddly comforting. In fact, I’m about 99% sure it’s the same kind my high school sold. That said, the crust is cardboard-ish, and the pizza tends to be extremely light on cheese. The pepperoni flavor is good, but it always needs a little extra cheese added towards the end of the cook time. It’s enjoyable if you’re chasing nostalgia, but overall there are better frozen pizzas available.

RELATED: 5 Best Frozen Pizzas for Under $10

Red Baron Classic Crust Supreme Pizza

Calories: 310 calories per 1/5 pizza

I tried to stick with pepperoni, but since the pepperoni version wasn’t available, I tried the supreme version of the classic crust Red Baron pizza with sausage, pepperoni, green peppers, red peppers, and onions. It can be cooked either directly on the oven rack or in a pan, and from first appearances, looks pretty good. This pizza was a noticeable improvement over the previous options, but still just ok. The vegetables added a lot of flavor, and the sausage was particularly good. The pepperoni tasted slightly off, which kept it from ranking higher on the list, but overall the mix of toppings helped balance the flavor.

Tony’s Pepperoni Pizza

Calories: 330 calories per 1/4 pizza

Tony’s, another well-known brand, recommends baking their pizzas in the oven. As I pulled it out of the oven, the thin crust had a bit of a cardboard-like texture, and it didn’t automatically look super appetizing. That said, there’s also something nostalgic about it. It reminded me of a giant Pizza Lunchable, flavor-wise. The pepperoni was noticeably better than the previous pizzas, making this a solid, inexpensive frozen pizza option. Still though, don’t expect much.

PICS Rising Crust Pepperoni Pizza

Calories: 330 calories per 1/6 pizza

When it comes to PICS Rising Crust Pepperoni Pizza, this store-brand frozen pizza must be baked in the oven (the instructions specifically say not to microwave it). The rising crust is fluffy and substantial, which makes the pizza feel much closer to a real pizzeria-style slice. The pepperoni grease soaked into the crust a bit, giving it extra flavor, and the cheese melted evenly. For a grocery store brand, this pizza was a pleasant surprise and easily outperformed some big brand competitors.

DiGiorno Rising Crust Ultimate Pepperoni

Calories: 330 calories per 1/5 pizza

DiGiorno is one of the most popular frozen pizza brands in the game, and this Ultimate Pepperoni Rising Crust version exemplifies why. The crust is soft, airy, and thick, making it feel much closer to delivery-style pizza. The pepperoni tastes fresh and flavorful without any of the artificial, fake taste some of the other frozen pizza toppings had. It’s a major step up in quality compared to most frozen pizzas. DiGiorno clearly has their reputation for a reason.

Screamin’ Sicilian Pizza Company Holy Pepperoni Pizza

Calories: 330 calories per 1/5 pizza

Taking the top spot is the Screamin’ Sicilian Holy Pepperoni Pizza, which lives up to its name. It comes loaded with piles of pepperoni, real mozzarella cheese, and a flavorful tomato sauce. The standout feature here is the quality of the pepperoni. It has a noticeable kick of spice and tastes much more natural than many frozen pizza options. This pizza delivers bold bright flavor, generous toppings, and an overall high quality taste that stood out from the others. It was a close call between the Screamin’ Sicilian and DiGiorno, but the amount and the flavor of the pepperoni pushed this one into first place.

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6 Best Frozen Fried Chicken Patties Made With 100% White Meat https://www.eatthis.com/best-frozen-fried-chicken-patties-white-meat/ Wed, 18 Mar 2026 11:00:21 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=906763 If you are craving a crispy chicken patty or sandwich, you don’t have to dine...

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If you are craving a crispy chicken patty or sandwich, you don’t have to dine out. Enjoy frozen chicken patties, which you can easily heat up in the oven or air fryer in the comfort of your own home. There are so many delicious options at the grocery store, many of which people maintain are dupes of your favorite restaurant chains. Where can you get the best white-meat chicken patties? Here are the 6 best frozen fried chicken patties made with 100% white meat.

Just Bare Lightly Breaded Fillets

Just Bare Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Fillets are “AMAZING” and “INSANELY Delicious!” according to shoppers, and many claim they taste just like your favorite fast food brand. “My husband who is a chef can’t believe that the sandwich I made him was a frozen breaded chicken cutlet. These are beyond delicious that they remind me of Chick-fil-A. My family is absolutely obsessed,” one Target shopper writes. “I’m actually shocked at how great these are. They are so fresh tasting, flavorful, a little crispy on the outside and very tender inside. They do taste like Chick-fil-A-a maybe even better, or something you made homemade,” another agrees.

Bell & Evans Breaded Chicken Patties

Bell & Evans Breaded Chicken Patties are made with whole breast meat that is air-chilled for better flavor. “They are expensive, but to me it’s worth the quality and more importantly the consistency (texture, taste and thickness/size is the same every time). These have been a staple for me for well over 15 years, and I’m so thankful for them,” one Redditor says.

Applegate Naturals Chicken Patties

Applegate Natural Breaded Chicken Patties are tender, all-white meat chicken patties with a golden, crispy crust. “We source from family farms, where animals are raised with care and respect. We believe this leads to great tasting products and peace of mind— all part of our mission,” the brand says. There are no antibiotics or added hormones, no chemical nitrites or nitrates, and no GMO ingredients are used.

RELATED: 5 Best Frozen Chicken Pot Pies

Kirkland Signature Lightly Breaded Fillets

Kirkland Signature Lightly Breaded Fillets are huge breasts of juicy white meat chicken that also taste like they are from a restaurant. “These are super similar to chickfila sandwiches and they’re so good!” a shopper writes. “They are delicious! So moist, even in the air fryer! A quick 7-10 minutes, crunchy breading and moist meat, and dinner is ready! Many uses, chicken salad, sandwiches, added to pasta dishes, etc.” another adds.

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Member’s Mark Spicy Breaded Chicken Breast Fillets

If you like a little kick, Member’s Mark Spicy Breaded Chicken Breast Fillets are a hit at Sam’s Club, with shoppers comparing them to the Chick-fil-A spicy breast. “Awesome spicy chicken patty,” a shopper writes. “Worth the buy! This was soo tasty, we used an air fryer to cook. We’ve made delicious chicken sandwiches, used it over rice and vegetables, even noodle dishes. It got a bit spicy towards the end for me but my wife loved it.” Another adds that it is a “cost effective alternative to Chick-fil-A,” in a 5-star review. “These Spicy Chicken Breast tastes so much like our favorite fast food spot! Not only do we eat them on burger buns but we chop them up & throw them in wraps and salads. So delicious!”

Good & Gather (Target) Chicken Breast Patties

Are you more of a McDonald’s chicken sandwich fan? Good & Gather Breaded Chicken Patties are the “best McChicken dupe,” Target shoppers claim. “We love these chicken patties for an easy supper meal. Good price for the portion,’ one says. “I love Good & Gather products. These chicken patties taste as good as the name brand, without the higher price,” another adds. “Awesome chicken patties that taste great. Better than the cheap ones from fast food,” a third says.

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6 Best Frozen French Toast Products, According to Shoppers https://www.eatthis.com/best-frozen-french-toast-sticks-shoppers/ Tue, 17 Mar 2026 12:45:13 +0000 https://www.eatthis.com/?p=906542 When I was a kid, french toast sticks were my absolute favorite. Sure, french toast...

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When I was a kid, french toast sticks were my absolute favorite. Sure, french toast is delicious. But there is something about eating it in finger-food form that makes the whole experience magical. Some people eat it with strawberries and whipped cream. I prefer dipping the sticks in a warm maple syrup. No matter how you like it, there are options in the freezer section that require little to no effort. Here are the 6 best frozen french toast sticks, according to shoppers.

Kroger Cinnamon French Toast Sticks

Jillian Pretzel, one of our Eat This, Not That! reviewers, selected Kroger Cinnamon French Toast Sticks as her favorite out of all the brands. “These sticks look exactly how French toast sticks should. They came out of the oven with a beautiful brown color, dark, crispy edges, and a good thick shape,” she writes in her review. The taste? Perfection. “It’s crispy with not too much sweetness and the right amount of cinnamon,” she continued. “Overall, I say this is a perfect French toast to satisfy your cinnamon cravings.”

Member’s Mark Cinnamon Sticks

Member’s Mark Cinnamon Sticks are wildly popular with Sams Club shoppers. “Fantastic and easy breakfast,” writes one. “Wasn’t sure how these would turn out, but after the first serving, I’m hooked and plan to make these a regular purchase.” Another calls them “so good” in a five-star review. “Perfect amount of cinnamon and tastes good even without syrup. Prefect for quick breakfast. They are best in the air fryer but microwave works in a pinch.”

RELATED: 7 Chain Restaurants Serving the Best Country Breakfasts, According to Breakfast Fans

Farm Rich Original French Toast Sticks

Farm Rich Original French Toast Sticks are another pick of Pretzel’s. “The sticks have a soft, battered texture and dark brown edges. Some sticks vary in size but I liked that. Some slight imperfections make it seem less processed and, perhaps, suggests they’re fresher,” she writes. “With a nice cinnamon flavor and a good texture, Farm Rich’s French toast sticks get high marks in my book. I used a toaster oven to prepare these and I liked the way they came out, with a soft, bready middle to contrast the crispy ends.”

Kodiak Protein-Packed French Toast Sticks

If you need to amp up your protein intake, grab a box of Kodiak Protein-Packed Frozen Buttermilk French Toast Sticks, a whole grain option with 10 grams of protein. “These are such a great find for kids breakfast! My kids love these and I’ve eaten them a few times myself. Very tasty and I love that they have the added protein and better quality ingredients than the old brands,” writes a shopper. “I just made these for the first time after purchasing yesterday and cooked them in the toaster oven. I was shocked! They get so crispy and are dusted and sugar and have the best flavor ever I could absolutely not tell they were like a protein product. Better than any frozen French toast I have ever had!” another adds.

Eggo Frozen French Toaster Sticks Cinnamon

Eggo is famous for frozen waffles, but the brand’s french toast game is on point. Eggo Frozen French Toaster Sticks Cinnamon are a fan favorite. “This was very tasty! Great for a quick and easy breakfast. Definitely exceeded my expectations! Eat plain with syrup or add your favorite toppings!” writes a shopper. “My kids love these and honestly I do too. The cinnamon ones are my favorite. The flavor is so good. I like that they have pre-cut lines on them so I can just tear them apart easily and serve to my toddlers without needing a knife. I also like that they are thinner than regular French toast sticks. Great product,” adds another.

Great Value Cinnamon French Toast Sticks

Walmart shoppers are all about Great Value Cinnamon French Toast Sticks, which offer a lot of bang for the buck. “These are good. They cook up quickly, 4 minutes on each side in the oven. You could microwave them, but they’re better baked. We’ve tried all available french toast stick brands in a search for ones like the food service ones my kids’ school serves because my child likes them but the school rarely has them. These are exactly the same. They don’t get mushy or have a wet feeling inside and they have plenty of flavor without being too sweet. The fact that they’re the store brand is great,” writes a shopper. “Best option for French toast sticks that I’ve found yet. The cinnamon flavor is just right, and the texture is fluffy on the inside and crispy on the ends, not completely flat like other brands,” another adds.

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