Aldi is rapidly expanding in the U.S. Already, the no-frills German supermarket chain has nearly 1,800 stores in 35 states offering super-low prices on brand-name knockoffs. Indeed, 90% of Aldi's products are exclusive store brands, and many mimic the packaging and taste of national brands. We found several great items at Aldi that deserve a spot on your grocery list based on quality or value -- or both.

But after checking in with shopping experts, as well doing comparison-shopping (and taste-testing) on our own at stores in Northern Virginia, we found that some deals at Aldi aren't worth it. First, brand-name knockoffs don't always taste as good as the real deal. Second, Aldi doesn't accept manufacturers' coupons or offer a loyalty program. That means you can find certain brand-name products at other retailers at comparable prices to Aldi's knockoffs once you factor in sales, coupons and loyalty perks. We also found some surprising price increases since we last dove into the best and worst things to buy at the deep-discounter. Take a look at what to buy -- and what to avoid -- at Aldi.

What to Buy at Aldi: Seasonal Items

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Aldi rotates seasonal items in and out depending on the time of year. In early spring, it's all about Easter. Aldi spotlights seasonal deals under its "Aldi Finds" banner. For example, nab a Huntington Home tin Easter Basket for $1.99 and pad it with Huntington Home Easter egg and grass assortments ($1.99). Then, fill the basket with Hasbro spring Play-Doh in $3.99 packs, a Bee Happy Easter animal plush ($3.99) and a Bendon Magic Ink coloring pad featuring those pups from