It's not all that common that a shopper can walk into a home goods store and walk out with an entirely new selection of foods for their freezer, too. This is, however, something that has made IKEA somewhat of a commodity in the U.S. and other parts of the world, as it's the one store that offers so much more than a deal on the great, chic new computer chair.
IKEA's food court gets the most attention when it comes to eating in-store but its frozen food section is an underrated way to get many of those classic favorites at home. There's something about being able to whip up a full Swedish dinner or pull out a fully-prepared dessert that you just know is going to be delicious, without ever having to leave your home. So make some space in your freezer and throw out those leftovers you'll never eat, because IKEA is moving in.
Frozen Meatballs (KÖTTBULLAR)
IKEA's Swedish meatballs are absolutely legendary and there's no denying that a trip to this enormous store is never complete without getting them for lunch. There's just something so satisfying and delightful about cutting into one of these tender, flavorful balls of meat, and the gravy, don't even get us started. This is a longtime favorite of IKEA fans everywhere and the good news is that those same meatballs are available by the bag so be sure to grab a few.
Vegetable Balls (ALLEMANSRÄTTEN)
Another newer alternative is IKEA's Vegetable Balls, which are a great meatless option. These are also available in the IKEA kitchen and for those who consider this their go-to, there's good news: they're also available in frozen bags! These are also entirely vegan so they fit a wide range of lifestyles and with a blend of green peas, carrots, chickpeas, corn, bell peppers, and kale, they're also gluten-free, soy-free, and nut-free. So, in short, they're the ideal alternative to the other IKEA meatball selections.
Almond Cake
Speaking of gluten-free, IKEA's almond cake is exactly that and serving it couldn't be easier. This almond cake only needs to be defrosted before it's ready to it and trust us, it'll be hard to stick to just one slice. The cake has layers of deliciously sweet cream in the middle with the perfect topping of almond flakes for crunch and nuttiness.
Potato Fritters (RÖSTI)
It's not surprising that IKEA has a great option when it comes to what's considered the national dish of Sweden, but these potato fritters go above and beyond what one would expect from a frozen potato patty. They're full of flavor, crisp up to the perfect golden-brown and, quite honestly, no one would ever guess that they were frozen first. These fritters are also super versatile and can be served for a quick breakfast or can be broken out and quickly cooked for unexpected company.
Pancakes (PANNKAKOR)
If potatoes aren't your thing then maybe it's IKEA's pancakes that are calling to you. These pancakes, which are actually more like crepes, are great for practically anything - and they'll save you the time of having to make them. Their neutral, mild flavor lends well to both sweet and savory fillings, and they can even be stacked to create unique and interesting desserts.
Cinnamon Bun (KAFFEREP)
There should be a disclaimer on these cinnamon buns that, no, they're not like the typical iced-and-frosted cinnamon buns that you can find in the dairy section at most grocery stores. However, they are addicting and super delicious, and their simplicity is all part of that. When reheated, these cinnamon buns are the perfect combination of slightly browned, sweet, and a bit spicy thanks to layers of cinnamon. They're topped with a bit of sugar so while they won't be the cavity-inducing buns most people are used to, they are perfect with a cup of tea or coffee in the morning.
Cream Cake (KAFFEREP)
When it comes to sweet desserts, though, IKEA's cream cake with almond paste is a must-try. This cake is just as pretty as it is delicious and it's covered with a pink marzipan layer while the inside is filled with vanilla custard and raspberry jam, all surrounded by a sponge cake. The end result is sweet, tart, nutty, and delightful, all things that anyone would love in a frozen dessert.
Mashed Potatoes (ALLEMANSRÄTTEN)
You need something to go with all of those meatballs, right? In answer to that, we present IKEA's mashed potatoes. Sure, it's usually no big deal to cook and mash 'em up yourself but why bother when this awesome mix is ready and waiting?