Aldi has become a surprising haven for plant-based eaters looking to save money without sacrificing flavor. Their Earth Grown line offers everything from dairy-free ice cream to meatless proteins that won’t break the bank. I’ve taste-tested my way through the entire vegan section to bring you this honest ranking of what’s worth grabbing and what you should leave on the shelf.
1. Earth Grown Non-Dairy Dessert
Move over, expensive vegan ice creams! Aldi’s dairy-free pints deliver creamy indulgence at a fraction of the price. The Mocha Fudge swirls rich coffee flavors with chocolate ribbons that actually taste like the real thing.
What makes these pints special is their texture—none of that icy, disappointing mouthfeel that plagues cheaper alternatives. The Raspberry Cheesecake variety combines tangy berry swirls with a convincing cheesecake base that had my non-vegan friends asking for seconds. Pro tip: Let it soften on the counter for 5 minutes before scooping for the perfect consistency.
2. Simply Nature Organic Creamy Peanut Butter
Don’t let the simplicity fool you—this pantry staple is a quiet hero in the Aldi vegan lineup. Made with just one ingredient (organic peanuts), it delivers a rich, roasted flavor that rivals premium brands at a fraction of the cost. The creamy texture spreads effortlessly over toast, adds protein to smoothies, and makes an excellent base for homemade sauces.
It contains no added oils, sugars, or preservatives—just clean, plant-based fuel. Whether you’re eating plant-based or just love a quality nut butter, this jar earns its spot as a must-have in any vegan kitchen.
3. Earth Grown Chik’n Nuggets
Remember the joy of dipping chicken nuggets as a kid? These plant-based nuggets bring that feeling back for vegans and the veg-curious alike.
The outer coating crisps up beautifully in the air fryer, while the inside remains juicy. With 5 grams of protein per serving, they’re substantial enough to satisfy hunger. The flavor is mild but pleasant, making them perfect blank canvases for your favorite dipping sauces—buffalo, BBQ, or even a quick sriracha mayo.
Parents take note: these have fooled many picky eaters who normally turn their noses up at anything labeled “vegan.”
4. Earth Grown Mozzarella & Cheddar Sticks
The holy grail of vegan junk food has arrived! These breaded cheese sticks actually stretch when you pull them apart—something most vegan cheeses fail miserably at.
The cheddar variety offers a sharper flavor profile, while the mozzarella delivers that mild, creamy taste we all remember. Bake them until golden and dip in marinara for an appetizer that will impress even dairy devotees. The outside gets perfectly crispy while protecting that gooey center.
Fair warning: these disappear quickly at parties, so you might want to grab two boxes. At around $3.99 per box, they’re about half the price of similar products at Whole Foods.
5. Earth Grown Southwest Black Bean Chipotle Burgers
Finally, a veggie burger that doesn’t fall apart on the grill! These southwest-inspired patties hold their shape beautifully while delivering a satisfying blend of smoky chipotle heat and earthy black bean flavor.
The texture strikes the perfect balance—substantial without being too dense. Even my carnivore friends grab these at cookouts, especially when topped with avocado and lime. The heat level is just right—enough to notice but not overwhelming.
Unlike many frozen veggie burgers that taste like compressed lawn clippings, these actually taste like food made by humans. They’re perfect for meal prep since they reheat without getting mushy.
6. Earth Grown Asian or Quinoa Crunch Burgers
Can’t decide which variety to try? Get both! The Asian burger bursts with water chestnuts, carrots, and a hint of ginger that makes it stand out from boring veggie patties.
Its slightly sweet profile pairs wonderfully with spicy sriracha mayo. The Quinoa Crunch lives up to its name with a satisfying bite that many vegan burgers lack. Packed with visible grains and seeds, it brings a nutty flavor that shines with simple toppings like avocado and sprouts.
These aren’t trying to mimic meat—they’re celebrating vegetables in their own right. Cook them in a pan with a touch of oil to maximize their crispy exterior.
7. Earth Grown Beefless Crumbles
These plant-based crumbles are the chameleon of vegan proteins, taking on whatever flavors you throw at them. Brown them in a pan with taco seasoning, and even meat-eaters will be none the wiser when stuffed into tortillas with all the fixings.
The texture is spot-on—not too chewy or mushy like some competitors. They absorb sauces beautifully, making them perfect for pasta bolognese, shepherd’s pie, or hearty chili. The neutral base flavor means you’re in control of the seasoning.
For under $3.50, you get enough for multiple meals, making this one of the most budget-friendly ways to add plant protein to family dinners.
8. Belmont Chocolate Cake
Belmont’s Frozen Chocolate Cake from Aldi is the ultimate secret weapon for effortless dessert wins. Straight from the freezer aisle, this rich, decadent cake delivers bakery-level indulgence without the hefty price tag or prep time.
The moist chocolate sponge is layered with a lusciously smooth, dairy-free chocolate ganache that feels far more luxurious than its humble packaging suggests. Even non-vegans will be fooled by the dense texture and deep cocoa flavor that doesn’t scream “from a box.”
Whether you’re hosting last-minute guests or just want a treat with your coffee, this frozen gem proves that convenience can still taste homemade.
9. Earth Grown Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert Bars
These dairy-free ice cream bars promise indulgence on a stick, and they partly deliver. The chocolate coating shatters satisfyingly with each bite, revealing creamy centers in flavors like vanilla and mocha.
However, they can be hit-or-miss. Some bars taste overwhelmingly of coconut oil rather than the advertised flavors. The sweetness level sometimes ventures into too-rich territory, making it hard to finish a whole bar. Still, on a hot summer day when you’re craving something cold and sweet, they’ll do the trick.
At $3.99 for a box of three, they’re cheaper than similar products from brands like So Delicious but not quite as consistent.
10. Earth Grown Vegetable Potstickers
These freezer-friendly dumplings look promising with their neat pleated edges and vibrant filling of cabbage, carrots, and mushrooms. The included dipping sauce adds necessary flavor, offering a tangy-sweet complement to the mild potstickers. Unfortunately, the wrappers tend toward the gummy side, especially when microwaved.
The veggie filling, while colorful, relies heavily on cabbage filler with just hints of more interesting ingredients. They’re not terrible—just underwhelming. For busy weeknights when you need something quick alongside rice or noodles, they’ll suffice. But if you’re expecting the depth of flavor you’d find at your favorite Asian restaurant, you’ll be disappointed.
11. Earth Grown Veggie Burgers (Original)
Remember veggie burgers from the 1990s? These taste like they haven’t evolved since then. The patties have that classic “health food store” vibe—visible vegetable chunks bound together in a mushy matrix that never quite crisps up.
The flavor profile can only be described as aggressively mild. There’s a vague earthiness and not much else, making these burgers entirely dependent on toppings for any personality. The texture problem compounds with each bite, often crumbling apart before you finish your sandwich.
Save your money and grab one of Aldi’s more inspired veggie burger varieties instead, or spend a little more on brands that have mastered the art of plant-based patties.
12. Earth Grown Chickenless Tenders
These plant-based tenders look promising in the package with their golden-brown coating. Sadly, that’s where the excitement ends. Biting into one reveals a texture that’s simultaneously too chewy and too soft, missing that satisfying tear of real chicken. The flavor can only be described as “trying too hard yet not enough.”
There’s a strange artificial note that lingers unpleasantly, which no amount of dipping sauce can fully mask. The redeeming quality? They’re convenient and cook quickly. But with so many better vegan chicken options available—including Aldi’s own nuggets—these tenders should be your last resort when the plant-based protein section is otherwise empty.
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