Budget Cooking
Make delicious, filling meals without breaking the bank with smart strategies and affordable ingredients
Money-Saving Cooking Tips
Smart Shopping
Buy in Bulk
Rice, beans, pasta, lentils, and oats are incredibly affordable when bought in bulk and form the foundation of countless meals.
Shop Seasonal Produce
In-season fruits and vegetables cost significantly less and taste better. Plan your meals around what's currently abundant.
Use Store Brands
Generic brands are often 20-30% cheaper than name brands with identical quality, especially for basics like flour and canned goods.
Budget Ingredients
Eggs - The Perfect Protein
Versatile, cheap, and nutritious. Use in breakfast, lunch, dinner, or baking. A dozen eggs can make multiple meals.
Potatoes - Filling and Cheap
Bake, mash, fry, or roast. Potatoes are filling, nutritious, and one of the most cost-effective vegetables available.
Dried Beans and Lentils
High in protein and fiber, extremely affordable, and can be used in soups, stews, salads, and main dishes.
Meal Planning
Plan Around Sales
Check store flyers before shopping and plan your weekly meals around what's on sale. Stock up when prices are low.
Cook Once, Eat Twice
Make large batches and repurpose leftovers. Today's roast chicken becomes tomorrow's chicken salad or soup.
Use Everything
Save vegetable scraps for stock, use herb stems in cooking, and turn stale bread into breadcrumbs or croutons.
Stretching Meals
Add Grains and Legumes
Bulk up soups and stews with rice, barley, or lentils. They add nutrition, fiber, and make meals more filling.
Use Meat as Flavoring
A small amount of bacon, sausage, or ham can add huge flavor to beans, vegetables, and pasta dishes.
Make Your Own Seasonings
Buy whole spices and herbs in bulk rather than pre-made seasoning packets. Much cheaper and fresher flavor.
Need Budget-Friendly Recipe Ideas?
Use our recommendation tools to discover affordable recipes that fit your budget and taste preferences