When you’re trying to save money, groceries can take a big bite out of your limited budget. The good news is that eating when you’re watching the dollars doesn’t mean sacrificing nutrition or flavor. With some smart choices, you can stock your kitchen with affordable, versatile ingredients that make it easy to create satisfying meals.
Here’s a list of the cheapest foods to buy when you’re keeping a close eye on your spending.
Rice
Rice is a pantry staple for a reason—it’s inexpensive, filling, and works in countless recipes. Whether you prefer white, brown, or jasmine rice, it’s a versatile base for stir-fries, casseroles, soups, or burritos. Buy rice in bulk to maximize savings and store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh for months.
Beans and Lentils
Dried beans and lentils are some of the most budget-friendly and nutritious foods you can buy. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, they’re an excellent meat substitute for soups, stews, and salads. Their health benefits and adaptability make them a staple for anyone looking to eat well on a budget.
- Dried beans are cheaper than canned, though canned beans save time if you’re in a hurry.
- Lentils cook quickly and don’t require soaking, making them perfect for weeknight meals.
- Store these legumes in a cool, dry place for long-lasting value.
Incorporating dried beans and lentils into your diet not only supports a healthy lifestyle but also helps you save money without compromising on flavor or nutrition.
Eggs
An incredibly affordable protein powerhouse is eggs. They’re versatile enough for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and can be used in countless recipes, from omelets to fried rice. Hard-boiled eggs make an easy grab-and-go snack, while scrambled eggs paired with veggies create a quick, budget-friendly meal. Buy eggs in bulk if you go through them quickly, and store them in their original carton in the fridge.
Potatoes
Potatoes are a staple vegetable that is not only affordable but also incredibly versatile, making them a valuable addition to any kitchen. Available year-round, potatoes are filling, delicious, and easy to prepare in countless ways. From roasting and mashing to frying or using them as the base for hearty soups, potatoes can fit into a variety of cuisines and meal types, offering both flavor and nutrition.
- Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes are excellent for baking and mashing.
- Sweet potatoes are slightly more expensive but packed with nutrients and natural sweetness.
- Store potatoes in a cool, dark place to keep them fresh longer.
Whether you’re making a comforting potato soup, crispy roasted wedges, or a nutrient-rich sweet potato casserole, this versatile vegetable proves time and again why it’s a kitchen essential.
Oats
A low-cost option for healthy breakfasts and snacks. A big bag of rolled oats can go a long way, providing a base for oatmeal, granola bars, or even savory dishes like oat risotto. Buy oats in bulk for the best price and store them in a sealed container to keep them fresh for longer. Add toppings like fruit, nuts, or honey for variety without spending unnecessary money.
Pasta
Another inexpensive pantry staple that’s quick to cook and endlessly customizable is pasta. It pairs well with simple, budget-friendly sauces like marinara or olive oil and garlic.
Stocking up on a variety of shapes and types when they’re on sale is a smart way to add diversity to your meals without overspending. Different shapes, such as penne, spaghetti, fusilli, and farfalle, pair well with different sauces and ingredients, allowing you to create a wide range of dishes that feel fresh and exciting.
For a more nutritious option, consider incorporating whole-grain pasta into your rotation. While it’s often only slightly more expensive than traditional pasta, it provides additional nutrients, including more fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Canned Tomatoes
Canned tomatoes are a cost-effective way to add flavor to a wide range of dishes. They’re perfect for making pasta sauce, chili, soups, or stews.
- Look for store-brand or generic versions to save even more.
- Choose no-salt-added varieties if you’re watching your sodium intake.
Canned tomatoes have a long shelf life, making them a great staple to add to your shopping list and to keep on hand.
Frozen Vegetables
Often cheaper than fresh, frozen vegetables can be just as nutritious. They’re picked and frozen at peak ripeness, locking in flavor and nutrients.
- Use them in stir-fries, casseroles, or soups.
- Broccoli, spinach, and mixed veggie blends are versatile choices.
Because they’re already prepped and ready to cook, frozen vegetables save time as well as money.
Bread
Bread is a cost-effective and versatile staple that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, such as sandwiches, toast, or French toast. Purchasing day-old bread at a discount is an excellent way to save money while still enjoying its many uses.
To extend its shelf life, store extra loaves in the freezer and thaw them as needed. Whenever possible, opt for whole-grain varieties to add extra nutrients like fiber and vitamins to your meals.
Bananas
One of the cheapest fruits, bananas, are readily available and a great option for snacks, smoothies, or baking. They’re easy to grab on the go and provide a natural source of energy. Buy bananas slightly green if you don’t plan to eat them right away. Overripe bananas can be frozen and used later in baked goods like banana bread or smoothies.