As the oldest of 11 kids, I learned early on how to make a little food stretch a long way. I spent countless evenings in the kitchen with my mom, helping her turn simple, inexpensive ingredients into hearty meals that could feed a crowd.
\]Those lessons stuck with me, and even now I find myself reaching for the same budget-friendly staples when I need to stretch the grocery budget. Here are 13 cheap foods that go the distance — filling, versatile, and perfect for keeping your family well-fed without overspending.
1. Rice
Rice is a staple food in many parts of the world, and for good reason. It’s cheap, versatile and filling. A bag of rice can last a long time, providing many meals for your family. Plus, it can be used in a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to stews to side dishes.
There are also different types of rice to choose from, such as brown rice, which is high in fiber and whole grains. So next time you’re at the grocery store, don’t forget to stock up on this budget-friendly staple.
2. Beans
Beans are another great food that can stretch your grocery budget. They are high in protein and fiber, making them a cheap and healthy alternative to meat. Whether canned or dried, beans are a cost-effective way to add nutrition to your meals.
From black beans to chickpeas to lentils, there are many types of beans to choose from. They can be used in a variety of dishes, such as soups, stews, salads, and more. Check out these healthy dinner ideas for some tasty bean recipes.
3. Oats
If you’re looking for a cheap and nutritious breakfast option, look no further than oats. Oats are not only inexpensive, but they’re also high in fiber and can keep you feeling full for longer. This makes them a great choice for those busy mornings when you need a quick and satisfying meal.
Oats can be enjoyed in many ways, from a simple bowl of oatmeal to a batch of homemade granola bars. Plus, they’re easy to customize with your favorite toppings, such as fruits, nuts, and honey.
4. Eggs
Eggs are another great food that can help stretch your grocery budget. They are high in protein and can be used in a variety of dishes, from breakfast to dinner. Plus, they’re quick and easy to prepare, making them a convenient choice for busy families.
Whether you like them scrambled, boiled, poached, or baked, eggs are a versatile and economical food choice. For more ideas on how to use eggs in your meals, check out this guide on how to lower your family’s grocery bill.
5. Frozen Vegetables
When it comes to vegetables, buying frozen can be a great way to save money. Frozen vegetables are often cheaper than fresh ones, and they can last a lot longer. Plus, they’re just as nutritious as fresh vegetables, so you don’t have to worry about missing out on any vital nutrients.
From peas to carrots to broccoli, there are many types of frozen vegetables to choose from. They can be used in a variety of dishes, such as stir-fries, soups, and side dishes. So next time you’re at the grocery store, don’t forget to stock up on some frozen veggies.
6. Potatoes
Potatoes are another great food that can stretch your grocery budget. They are cheap, filling, and can be used in a variety of dishes. Plus, they’re high in fiber and other nutrients, making them a healthy choice for your family.
Whether you like them mashed, baked, roasted, or fried, potatoes are a versatile and economical food choice. For more ideas on how to use potatoes in your meals, check out these meals under $15.
7. Canned Tuna
If you’re looking for a cheap source of protein, canned tuna is a great option. It’s high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a healthy choice for your family. Plus, it’s versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from sandwiches to salads to pasta dishes.
When buying canned tuna, look for varieties that are packed in water, not oil, to keep the calorie count down. And remember, like all canned goods, tuna can last a long time in your pantry, so it’s a good idea to stock up when it’s on sale.
8. Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is another great food that can help stretch your grocery budget. It’s high in protein and healthy fats, making it a nutritious and filling choice for your family. Plus, it’s versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from sandwiches to smoothies to baked goods.
When buying peanut butter, look for natural varieties with no added sugar or oils. And remember, a little goes a long way, so a jar of peanut butter can last a long time in your pantry.
9. Pasta
Pasta is a staple food in many households, and for good reason. It’s cheap, filling, and can be used in a variety of dishes. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a convenient choice for busy families.
From spaghetti to macaroni to lasagna, there are many types of pasta to choose from. They can be paired with a variety of sauces and toppings, from tomato sauce to cheese to vegetables. So next time you’re in need of a quick and cheap meal, don’t forget about pasta.
10. Lentils
Lentils are another great food that can stretch your grocery budget. They are high in protein and fiber, making them a cheap and healthy alternative to meat. Plus, they cook quickly and can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups to stews to salads.
There are also different types of lentils to choose from, such as green lentils, red lentils, and black lentils. Each type has its own unique flavor and texture, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different types in your meals.
11. Bananas
When it comes to fruit, bananas are often the most affordable option. They are cheap, sweet, and filling, making them a great snack or addition to your meals. Plus, they’re high in potassium and other nutrients, making them a healthy choice for your family.
Bananas can be enjoyed on their own, or they can be used in a variety of dishes, from smoothies to pancakes to baked goods. And remember, if you have some bananas that are getting too ripe, you can freeze them for later use in smoothies or banana bread.
12. Chicken Thighs
If you’re looking for a cheap cut of meat, chicken thighs are a great option. They are often cheaper than chicken breasts, and they’re just as high in protein. Plus, they’re flavorful and juicy, making them a delicious choice for your meals.
Chicken thighs can be used in a variety of dishes, from stews to stir-fries to roasts. For more ideas on how to use chicken thighs in your meals, check out these meals under $15.
13. Cabbage
Last but not least, cabbage is a great food that can stretch your grocery budget. It’s cheap, filling, and high in nutrients, making it a healthy choice for your family. Plus, it’s versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to stews to stir-fries.
There are also different types of cabbage to choose from, such as green cabbage, red cabbage, and savoy cabbage. Each type has its own unique flavor and texture, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different types in your meals.
