Food prices continue to rise, with the average U.S. household spending over $8,000 per year on groceries.1 But don’t despair – there are plenty of clever strategies to save money on groceries without sacrificing quality or taste.
From smart shopping habits to creative cooking techniques, here are 19 tips to help you eat well while keeping your finances in check.
1. Plan Your Meals in Advance
One of the most effective ways to save money on groceries is to plan your meals ahead of time. By creating a weekly meal plan, you can avoid impulse purchases and ensure that you’re only buying what you need.
Take some time each week to sit down and map out your meals, taking into account any leftovers or ingredients you already have on hand.
When planning your meals, try to incorporate ingredients that can be used in multiple dishes throughout the week. For example, if you buy a whole chicken, you can use it for a roast dinner one night and then shred the leftover meat for tacos or soup later in the week.
This approach not only saves you money but also reduces food waste.
2. Make a Shopping List & Stick to it
Once you’ve planned your meals, it’s time to make a shopping list. Be sure to include all the ingredients you’ll need for your planned meals, as well as any staples you may be running low on.
Having a list will help you stay focused and avoid impulse buys when you’re at the store.
When you’re shopping, stick to your list as much as possible. It can be tempting to grab items that catch your eye, but remember that every unplanned purchase adds up.
If you do spot a great deal on something that’s not on your list, consider whether you can incorporate it into your meal plan or if it’s truly a necessity.
3. Buy in Bulk When it Makes Sense
Buying in bulk can be a great way to save money, but it’s important to be strategic about it. Look for non-perishable items or products you use frequently, such as rice, pasta, or canned goods.
Compare the unit price of larger packages to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
However, be cautious when buying perishable items in bulk. It’s only a good deal if you can use the food before it goes bad. Consider splitting bulk purchases with friends or family members to avoid waste and maximize savings.
4. Opt for Generic or Store-Brand Products
Name-brand products often come with a higher price tag, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re better quality. Many generic or store-brand products are just as good as their name-brand counterparts but at a fraction of the cost.
In fact, some store-brand products are even made by the same manufacturers as the name-brand versions.
When shopping, compare the ingredients and nutritional information of generic and name-brand products. You may be surprised to find that the cheaper option is nearly identical.
Over time, switching to generic products can lead to significant savings without compromising on taste or quality.
5. Shop Seasonal Produce
Fruits and vegetables that are in season are typically cheaper than those that are out of season. This is because seasonal produce is more abundant and requires less transportation and storage costs.
Plus, seasonal produce often tastes better and is more nutritious since it’s harvested at peak ripeness.
To take advantage of seasonal savings, familiarize yourself with the produce that’s in season in your area. Plan your meals around these ingredients and look for creative ways to incorporate them into your dishes.
You can also stock up on seasonal produce when it’s at its cheapest and freeze it for later use.
6. Reduce Meat Consumption
Meat is often one of the most expensive items on a grocery list, so reducing your meat consumption can lead to significant savings. Try incorporating more plant-based proteins into your meals, such as beans, lentils, and tofu.
These options are not only cheaper than meat but also packed with nutrients and fiber.
When you do buy meat, opt for cheaper cuts like chicken thighs instead of breasts or stew meat instead of steak. These cuts may require a bit more cooking time, but they can be just as delicious and tender when prepared properly.
You can also stretch your meat further by using it as a flavoring agent rather than the main focus of a dish, such as in soups, stews, or stir-fries.
7. Embrace Leftovers
Leftovers are a budget-friendly cook’s best friend. Instead of letting extra food go to waste, get creative with how you repurpose it. Transform leftover roasted chicken into a hearty soup or salad, or use leftover vegetables to make a frittata or fried rice.
When cooking, intentionally make extra portions so you have leftovers for lunches or quick dinners later in the week. This not only saves you money but also time, as you won’t have to cook from scratch every day.
Just be sure to store your leftovers properly and eat them within a few days to ensure freshness and safety.
8. Cook from Scratch
Cooking from scratch is often cheaper than buying pre-made or processed foods. While it may take a bit more time and effort, the savings can add up quickly.
Plus, when you cook from scratch, you have complete control over the ingredients and can tailor recipes to your tastes and dietary needs.
Start by mastering a few simple recipes, like homemade pasta sauce or soup. As you become more comfortable in the kitchen, branch out and try new dishes.
Look for recipes that use inexpensive ingredients like rice, beans, and potatoes as a base, and add in vegetables and proteins as your budget allows.
9. Grow Your Own Herbs & Vegetables
If you have a bit of outdoor space or even a sunny windowsill, consider growing your own herbs and vegetables. Not only is gardening a fun and rewarding hobby, but it can also save you money on produce.
Start with easy-to-grow options like lettuce, tomatoes, or herbs like basil and parsley.
Growing your own food allows you to enjoy fresh, organic produce at a fraction of the cost of store-bought options. Plus, you can harvest exactly what you need, reducing waste and ensuring peak freshness.
If you have excess produce, consider preserving it by freezing, canning, or dehydrating for later use.
10. Use Coupons & Discount Apps Wisely
Coupons and discount apps can be a great way to save money, but it’s important to use them wisely. Only clip coupons for products you actually need and will use, rather than buying something just because you have a coupon.
Compare prices between brands and stores to ensure you’re getting the best deal, even with a coupon.
There are also many apps available that offer cash back or discounts on groceries, such as Ibotta, Checkout 51, and Rakuten. These apps often have deals on specific products or at certain stores, so check them before you shop to maximize your savings.
Just be sure to read the fine print and understand any restrictions or requirements before using these apps.
11. Shop at Discount Grocery Stores
Discount grocery stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Grocery Outlet offer a wide variety of products at significantly lower prices than traditional supermarkets. These stores often have a smaller selection and fewer name-brand options, but the savings can be substantial.
When shopping at discount stores, be open to trying new brands and products. You may discover some new favorites at a fraction of the cost.
Just be sure to compare prices and read labels carefully, as not every item may be a better deal than what you’d find at your regular grocery store.
12. Buy Frozen Fruits & Vegetables
Frozen fruits and vegetables are often cheaper than their fresh counterparts, and they can be just as nutritious. In fact, frozen produce is typically picked at peak ripeness and flash-frozen to preserve nutrients.
This means you can enjoy out-of-season produce year-round without breaking the bank.
When buying frozen produce, look for options without added sauces or seasonings, as these can add extra calories and cost. Use frozen fruits in smoothies, oatmeal, or baked goods, and add frozen vegetables to soups, stir-fries, or casseroles for an easy nutrient boost.
13. Make Your Own Snacks & Treats
Pre-packaged snacks and treats can be expensive and often loaded with added sugars and preservatives. Instead, try making your own snacks at home using simple, whole-food ingredients. Homemade granola bars, trail mix, and popcorn are all easy and inexpensive options.
When it comes to sweet treats, opt for homemade versions of your favorites. Bake a batch of cookies or muffins instead of buying them from the store, or whip up a simple fruit crisp using in-season produce.
Not only will you save money, but you’ll also have control over the ingredients and portion sizes.
14. Drink More Water
Beverages like soda, juice, and alcohol can add up quickly on your grocery bill. Instead, make water your go-to drink. Not only is it free, but it’s also essential for staying hydrated and maintaining overall health.
If plain water isn’t appealing, try infusing it with fresh fruit, herbs, or cucumber slices for a refreshing twist. You can also make your own iced tea or coffee at home for a fraction of the cost of store-bought or cafe versions.
15. Use a Slow Cooker or Pressure Cooker
Slow cookers and pressure cookers are invaluable tools for budget-friendly cooking. These appliances allow you to transform inexpensive ingredients like tough cuts of meat, beans, and root vegetables into delicious, tender meals with minimal effort.
Slow cookers are great for making soups, stews, and braised meats, while pressure cookers can quickly cook dried beans, tougher cuts of meat, and even whole grains. Both appliances can help you save time and energy in the kitchen, making it easier to cook from scratch and avoid the temptation of expensive takeout or pre-made meals.
16. Shop at Farmers’ Markets
Shopping at farmers’ markets is a great way to support local farmers while getting fresh, seasonal produce at competitive prices. Many farmers’ markets offer deals on produce that’s in abundance or nearing the end of its season, so it pays to shop around.
In addition to fruits and vegetables, farmers’ markets often sell locally made bread, cheese, honey, and other artisanal products that can add variety to your meals. Bring cash and reusable bags, and don’t be afraid to ask vendors for cooking tips or recipe ideas.
17. Join a CSA Program
Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs allow you to buy a share of a local farm’s harvest in advance, typically at a discounted price. Each week during the growing season, you’ll receive a box of fresh, seasonal produce that’s been picked at peak ripeness.
CSA programs are a great way to try new fruits and vegetables and support local agriculture. Some programs even offer additional products like eggs, meat, or flowers.
Keep in mind that you’ll need to be flexible with your meal planning, as the contents of your box will vary each week based on what’s in season.
18. Learn to Love Legumes
Legumes like beans, lentils, and peas are some of the most budget-friendly and nutritious foods around. They’re packed with protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates, making them a filling and satisfying addition to any meal.
Dried legumes are cheaper than canned and can be cooked in large batches and frozen for later use. Use them in soups, stews, salads, or as a meat replacement in tacos or burgers.
Experiment with different varieties and seasonings to find your favorites.
19. Make Your Own Stock & Broth
Store-bought stock and broth can be expensive and often contain added sodium and preservatives. Instead, make your own using kitchen scraps like vegetable peels, herb stems, and chicken or beef bones.
Keep a bag in your freezer for collecting scraps, and when it’s full, simmer them in water with some salt and pepper for a few hours to make a flavorful, nutritious stock. Strain out the solids and freeze the liquid in small portions for easy use in soups, sauces, and other recipes.
Implementing even a few of these strategies can make a big impact on your food budget over time. Remember, saving money on groceries doesn’t have to mean sacrificing taste or nutrition.
With a little creativity and planning, you can eat well while keeping your finances in check.
Source:
Don’t Miss These:
Nancy has been a plant person from an early age. That interest blossomed into a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Nancy worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.