Russet potatoes are an excellent source of nutrients and typically available for a reasonable price. Potatoes provide significant amounts of vitamins C, B6, and other nutrients.

They also contain fiber , which supports digestion and appetite control 2 , 16 , 17 , 18 , Additionally, potato skins are rich in minerals, especially potassium. In fact, a medium-sized russet potato contains nearly twice the amount of potassium found in a banana 16 , There are several ways to add potatoes to your diet.

They taste great baked or boiled and make a fantastic side dish. Sweet potatoes are extremely healthy and one of the cheapest vegetables you can buy. They are particularly high in beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body. Sweet potatoes also contain a decent amount of B vitamins, vitamin C, potassium and fiber.

Studies show they may have anti-inflammatory effects, which help lower the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and diabetes 21 , 23 , 24, You can pair sweet potatoes with just about any dish, and they are quite easy to prepare by steaming, baking or roasting.

Tomatoes are the most frequently consumed canned vegetable in the American diet. What really makes tomatoes shine is their vitamin C content. They also provide some B vitamins, vitamins A, E and K and many trace minerals 27 , Many of their health benefits are attributed to their lycopene content.

Lycopene is an antioxidant that may reduce inflammation, protect cells from damage and lower the risk of disease Canned tomatoes are a handy staple to have in your kitchen. They can easily be added to soups, casseroles and stews.

If your budget is tight, carrots are a cheap and nutrient-dense vegetable to include in your diet. Carrots are one of the richest sources of beta-carotene, which is responsible for their impressive vitamin A content. Furthermore, carrots contain a significant amount of fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium and manganese Due to their high antioxidant content, eating carrots regularly may help decrease inflammation and reduce the risk of stomach cancer 35 , You can reap the health benefits of carrots by enjoying them raw or cooked.

They make an excellent addition to salads and cooked dishes. High amounts of vitamin C are found in green cabbage, in addition to some B vitamins and trace minerals Cabbage and other cruciferous vegetables are unique because of their glucosinolate content.

Glucosinolates are antioxidants that have been studied for their ability to protect against certain types of cancer 38 , Some studies have also found that cabbage consumption may lead to a significant reduction in the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes 40 , A versatile vegetable, cabbage is easy to add to your diet.

Compared to other winter squash varieties, butternut squash provides a higher amount of nutrients. There are several different ways to enjoy butternut squash. Brown rice is a fantastic, cheap food that provides fiber, vitamins and minerals.

It consists mostly of carbs , with 3. The health benefits of brown rice include reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease, as well as promoting weight control 43 , 47 , 48 , Including brown rice in your diet is simple.

It is quite easy to prepare and can be enjoyed with just about any meal. It contains an impressive amount of nutrients, including B vitamins, iron, manganese, phosphorus, zinc and magnesium Fiber promotes fullness and may help lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels 50 , 51 , 52 , 53 , The combination of fiber, vitamins and minerals in oatmeal may have the potential to reduce the risk of several diseases, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease and obesity 50 , 56 , 57 , In general, oats are enjoyed as a breakfast food.

You can combine them with fruit, milk, yogurt and several other ingredients for a healthy and delicious meal. Canned beans are budget friendly, in addition to being very nutritious.

Beans contain a significant amount of fiber and a variety of vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, magnesium and potassium Furthermore, they are an excellent source of plant-based protein. There are Protein is beneficial for weight maintenance and muscle strength 60 , Consuming beans and other legumes is also associated with a reduced risk of heart disease and diabetes.

This is likely due to their ability to lower cholesterol and promote blood sugar control 62 , 63 , Beans can be incorporated into just about any dish. They are commonly added to soups, salads and burritos.

They also contain an impressive amount of protein and fiber, which is why they are so filling and helpful for weight control This may reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and cancer Research also suggests that eating lentils is associated with improved blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which is important for preventing heart disease The use of lentils is similar to that of beans, and there are several ways that they can be incorporated into the diet, such as in salads and soups.

The great thing about popcorn is that it's very versatile. You can add toppings such as sea salt and cheese for a savory treat, or cinnamon and sugar for a delicious sweet treat.

It can be expensive to buy pre-popped popcorn in bags or microwaveable pouches, so purchasing kernels helps make this nutritious snack more affordable. You can pop the kernels yourself in the microwave with just a brown bag. Frozen berries are easy to keep on hand and can be very cost-effective when compared to fresh fruit.

A couple of great choices to keep on hand are frozen blueberries and frozen strawberries. Check the bags and buy berries without added sugar. Blueberries may be small in size, but they are rich in nutrients and are a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Blueberries have been linked to improved cardiovascular health and can contribute to an overall healthy lifestyle.

Strawberries are also high in vitamin C and fiber, as well as folate. They are also rich in antioxidants. A review in Nutrients of studies done with strawberries and blueberries found they helped reduce inflammation, improved insulin sensitivity and helped keep blood pressure in check, among other benefits.

Add frozen berries to your favorite smoothie recipe or make a yogurt parfait with them. Frozen berries can be used to make jams, pies and other desserts. Tuna is a smart choice for those wanting to increase their fish intake while still keeping their groceries affordable.

Tuna is a great source of protein, and it also contains some omega-3 fatty acids , which are important for brain health and reducing inflammation. Tuna also provides a fair amount of the minerals selenium, phosphorus and potassium.

Choose canned tuna for salads, sandwiches and pasta dishes. Eggs are a staple item in most homes. They're extremely nutritious and typically cost less than 20 cents per egg. A whole large egg contains 6 grams of protein and delivers some vitamin D as well.

Eggs also contain the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, which support eye health and decrease the risk of age-related macular degeneration. We often think of eggs for breakfast, but they can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.

Look to eggs to make a savory dinner quiche, vegetable-packed fried rice or egg salad sandwiches. Now that we've got a list of healthy, budget-friendly foods to keep on hand, let's explore a few more ways to help you save even more money on your grocery bill.

Most people don't realize this, but the ingredients in store-brand products are usually similar to brand-name products. So, instead of paying extra money for well-known brands, look for generic or store-brand products instead.

Before you head to the grocery store, take inventory of everything that you have on hand. You may be surprised to find a few extra cans of chickpeas, or some leftover broccoli that may be on the verge of going bad. To help avoid food waste and save a little money, try to make recipes with these items first.

Get creative with what you have. Nonperishable items, such as grains, rice, nuts and beans, are typically cheaper when purchased in bulk or larger containers. Even though a larger container of rice will be more expensive, look for the unit price when you shop. That will tell you how much you're paying per pound or ounce so you can compare packages and get the best deal.

When you bring bulk items home, distribute them into smaller portions to help with storage, then use them as needed. Buying fruits and vegetables that are in season can help keep the price down.

Sometimes, but not always, shopping for local produce at your farmers' market can be more affordable. To help fresh produce last longer, some fruits and vegetables, like strawberries, peaches and onions, can be frozen.

You can try washing and storing them in a freezer bag, and placing them in the freezer until you're ready to use them. When fruits and veggies aren't in season, stock up on nutritious frozen produce. Meal prepping is a great way to save money. Planning your meals can help prevent those unnecessary grocery trips during the week.

Meal prepping doesn't have to be hard. But if you do for example, buying two rotisserie chickens in one week because of a really good deal , they can be be pre-shredded or chopped and frozen for future quick and easy meals, like fried rice, stir-fries, and burritos.

But we highly recommend giving it a try! Tofu is a wonderful meatless source of protein and fiber, and a pound of tofu is significantly cheaper than a pound of any meat. Tofu is great in stir-fries, salads, or really any dish that you would normally add meat to, so try it and your bank account will thank you for it!

To ensure that your tofu cooking goes smoothly and deliciously, check out our video here on how to prep tofu :. Here are some charts to help you know when fruits and veggies are in season:. Infographic Vegetables by Month US.

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Infographic Fruits by Month US.

Canned Tomatoes Purchasing preserved tomatoes can save you time and money and lets you add bursts of flavor to a dish at any time. Infographic Guide to Cooking with Whole Grains Learn more about this food group and how to make whole grains a healthy part of your diet.

Potatoes Potatoes often get a bad rap due to infamous french fries and chips. Eggs Eggs are an excellent source of lean protein — each one gives you 6 grams of protein and less than 2 grams of saturated fat if you hard-boil them.

Rotisserie Chicken Rotisserie chickens are a great bang for your buck because they take no prep and can feed your family for several meals. Video How to Prepare Tofu Learn how to prep and cook tofu the right way with this short video.

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Beans, lentils, rice, eggs, cabbage, potatoes, carrots and bananas are typically very cheap. Shop sales to get good Missing Cucumbers. Cucumbers are one of the cheapest foods you can buy, especially if you purchase them at a farmer's

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10 Cheap & Healthy Foods to Buy, According to a Dietitian · 1. Canned Tomatoes · 2. Oats · 3. Peanut Butter · 4. Canned Frozen foods · Berries and mango (both great in smoothies) · Edamame (a healthy plant-based protein) · Cauliflower Plan, plan, plan · Compare similar products · Stretch your food dollars · Grow your own in your home · Buy in bulk · Look for on-sale: ) Budget-friendly food products

Producta All Reject All Show Purposes. By signing up Reduced-cost meal solutions Meal deals for lessBudget-frendly can instantly start receiving coupons and discounts on Download free gaming demos produdts. Store food properly. Story continues. They also contain antioxidants that may help to fight inflammation and reduce the onset of chronic diseases. Black beans can be used in tacos, burritos, salads, soups and more. They make for a more rich flavor than fresh tomatoes.	Sausage is an affordable and delicious option for your cheap grocery list that can be used in everything from breakfast dishes to dinner casseroles. Tea is not only a great way to relax at the end of the day, but it can also help you stay hydrated and save some money on expensive sodas and coffees. Eggs are flush with nutrients like anti-inflammatory omega-3 fats, Vitamin D, protein, and B vitamins, particularly one called choline that supports the nervous system , improves mood, and helps produce neurotransmitters. Cottage cheese is a great source of protein, providing Potatoes provide significant amounts of vitamins C, B6, and other nutrients. Cottage cheese is also an easy grab-and-go food — so if you tolerate dairy, stocking up on this easy-going food is a no-brainer.	Beans, lentils, rice, eggs, cabbage, potatoes, carrots and bananas are typically very cheap. Shop sales to get good Missing Cucumbers. Cucumbers are one of the cheapest foods you can buy, especially if you purchase them at a farmer's	1. Potatoes. Potatoes make a nourishing and wallet-friendly food. · 2. Eggs. These nutrient-dense delights are filled 14 Musts for a Budget Pantry · Eating on a Budget · Brown Rice (or Other Whole Grains) · Canned Beans · Dried Spices · Do Not Sell or Share 10 Cheap & Healthy Foods to Buy, According to a Dietitian · 1. Canned Tomatoes · 2. Oats · 3. Peanut Butter · 4. Canned	21 Cheap Foods to Buy if You're Broke or on a Budget · 1. Apples · 2. Bananas · 3. Beans · 4. Brown Rice · 5. Chicken Cheapest Foods to Live On: · Oatmeal · Eggs · Bread · Rice · Bananas · Beans · Apples · Pasta. Fill me up. Again, while fresh produce 1–9: Vegetables · 1. Broccoli · 2. Onions · 3. Bagged spinach · 4. Russet potatoes · 5. Sweet potatoes · 6. Canned tomatoes · 7
Reduced-cost meal solutions Fried potatoes and French Fries. Sign Up. Open toolbar Budget-friendlyy Tools. There are several ways to add potatoes to your diet. The use of quinoa in cooking is similar to that of rice.	Consuming milk and other dairy products on a regular basis may help prevent several chronic diseases, including osteoporosis, heart disease, diabetes, dementia and certain cancers , , , Was this page helpful? The use of lentils is similar to that of beans, and there are several ways that they can be incorporated into the diet, such as in salads and soups. Use profiles to select personalised advertising. They are very affordable and provide a great source of protein, fiber, iron and manganese.	Beans, lentils, rice, eggs, cabbage, potatoes, carrots and bananas are typically very cheap. Shop sales to get good Missing Cucumbers. Cucumbers are one of the cheapest foods you can buy, especially if you purchase them at a farmer's	1. Cheese: · Pizza Margherita | The Original Nachos | Broccoli and Cheddar Soup. 2. Butter: ; 5. Ground meat: · Korean Healthy Fats · Olive oil · Peanuts (other types of nuts cost more) · Peanut butter (other nut butter may cost more) 14 Musts for a Budget Pantry · Eating on a Budget · Brown Rice (or Other Whole Grains) · Canned Beans · Dried Spices · Do Not Sell or Share	Beans, lentils, rice, eggs, cabbage, potatoes, carrots and bananas are typically very cheap. Shop sales to get good Missing Cucumbers. Cucumbers are one of the cheapest foods you can buy, especially if you purchase them at a farmer's
They Budget-fiendly provide ) Budget-friendly food products, antioxidants Budget-frriendly ) Budget-friendly food products of other nutrients, Download free gaming demos B vitamins, calcium and potassium These choices will Free gardening apps signaled to our partners and will not affect browsing data. Store food properly. Both types of potatoes are versatile. Even in tough times, it's possible to find affordable and healthy groceries with a few smart strategies. Go to account.	Aside from the economic benefits, cabbages have anti-inflammatory nutrients and contain glucosinolates, which are sulfur compounds that help to neutralize and eliminate carcinogens. Lentils can be used in a variety of ways and are very easy to prepare. There are only 53 calories in one cup of cantaloupe, making it a weight loss friendly food 92 , Learn more about our review process. Meal prepping and batch cooking… Read More. You can pair canned fish with salads, sandwiches, crackers and avocado or use it in several dishes, such as seafood cakes and stir-fries. Clean-Out-the-Fridge Vegetable Stew.	Beans, lentils, rice, eggs, cabbage, potatoes, carrots and bananas are typically very cheap. Shop sales to get good Missing Cucumbers. Cucumbers are one of the cheapest foods you can buy, especially if you purchase them at a farmer's	Beans, lentils, rice, eggs, cabbage, potatoes, carrots and bananas are typically very cheap. Shop sales to get good Healthy Fats · Olive oil · Peanuts (other types of nuts cost more) · Peanut butter (other nut butter may cost more) Missing	Top 10 Budget-Friendly Foods · Tofu · 9. Rotisserie Chicken · 8. Canned Tuna · 7. Eggs · 6. Potatoes · 5. Pastas & Grains · 4 Healthy Fats · Olive oil · Peanuts (other types of nuts cost more) · Peanut butter (other nut butter may cost more) 25 Cheap Foods To Buy When You're Broke · Pasta · Pork Shoulder · Lentils · Pancakes · Oatmeal · Cabbage · Eggs

) Budget-friendly food products - 1–9: Vegetables · 1. Broccoli · 2. Onions · 3. Bagged spinach · 4. Russet potatoes · 5. Sweet potatoes · 6. Canned tomatoes · 7 Beans, lentils, rice, eggs, cabbage, potatoes, carrots and bananas are typically very cheap. Shop sales to get good Missing Cucumbers. Cucumbers are one of the cheapest foods you can buy, especially if you purchase them at a farmer's

Sunflower seeds are a good source of Vitamin E, Vitamin B6 and magnesium, which can help boost mood , reduce acid reflux , and balance hormones.

Sesame seeds contain a number of minerals that are important for bone health such as calcium, magnesium and zinc, plus they are high in energy-boosting iron. Carrots contain a collection of beneficial nutrients such as fibre, the antioxidant Vitamin C, B vitamins for energy and supporting stress, as well as carotenoids our bodies transform to Vitamin A for immunity, vision, cell growth, and combatting inflammation.

They are sweet, delicious, and versatile — carrots work in most contexts, from energy bites to smoothies to condiments to soups. Apples are easy to find in most grocery stores at a decent price and are rich in antioxidants, fibre for good digestion and blood sugar balance , and compounds that benefit our hearts.

Apples are a wonderful kitchen staple to eat on their own, with breakfast foods like oatmeal , to make into snacks like apple chips or fruit leather, or used for baked goods or side dishes.

Apples are very cost-effective when purchased in bulk, and if you have extras, they can be cooked down into applesauce and then frozen for baking or snacks. Dark leafy greens contain a massive amount of nutrients including antioxidants, healthy fats, fibre, anti-cancer compounds, amino acids, anti-inflammatory phytochemicals, blood-building minerals, and an array of vitamins and minerals.

You can read all about dark leafy greens and how to use them here. Purchasing greens in clamshells are typically expensive, not to mention the amount of plastic waste they create. Opt for bunches of greens in the produce section and learn how to store them properly so they last.

Eggs are flush with nutrients like anti-inflammatory omega-3 fats, Vitamin D, protein, and B vitamins, particularly one called choline that supports the nervous system , improves mood, and helps produce neurotransmitters. Eggs are easy to cook with and can be eaten on their own as a snack or as part of a larger meal, and they are very satisfying.

Animal products can be expensive, especially if you are buying high-quality meats that are organic, grass-fed, and hormone-free. However, chicken can be more cost-effective if you buy a whole chicken rather than choosing pricier cuts like chicken breast.

Oats are known for their ability to help with digestion, weight loss , blood sugar control, and cardiovascular health, and they are easy to cook.

They are widely available in bulk and are one of our pantry go-tos. Cabbages are cheap and because they are typically large, you can get a lot of use out of one head. Aside from the economic benefits, cabbages have anti-inflammatory nutrients and contain glucosinolates, which are sulfur compounds that help to neutralize and eliminate carcinogens.

Sprouts are incredibly nutrient-dense, aiding digestion and better nutrient absorption. They are a rich source of antioxidants , making them great for the immune system, and inhibit cancer in the breast , prostate, and bladder. Sprouts are incredibly simple and inexpensive to make at home — you can learn how in this guide to sprouting.

And, if you enjoy the sprouting process, you may like to save more money and try growing other easy foods indoors. Though small, flaxseeds have a lot to offer including a boost of fibre, anti-inflammatory omega-3s, and special compounds called lignans that reduce our cancer risk.

Flax is good for digestion, hormone balance , detoxification , and cardiovascular health. Plus, they make a great egg replacer in gluten-free and Paleo baking.

When bought in bulk and stored properly, flax is inexpensive and can last awhile. Cook from scratch. Packaged foods, snacks, restaurant meals, and takeout are more expensive than cooking at home. Meal prep and meal plan. Grab these 5 essential meal prepping tips to help you get started.

Batch cook. It takes some time and investment upfront, but in the long term, it saves you both time and money. Get your free guide to healthy batch cooking here. Buy in bulk. If you have the storage space, purchasing foods in bulk can save you cash.

Dried goods like beans, grains , and herbs are good bulk options because they last longer, and nuts and seeds are often much less expensive when you buy in large quantities. Store food properly. There is an art to storing fresh produce in your fridge so it lasts.

Say goodbye to wilted herbs! Try growing your own food. The cost of seeds is generally low and with a little practice, you can grow a number of fresh fruits and vegetables to save on trips to the grocery store. Whether you have a windowsill, a balcony, a yard, or access to a community garden, there are ways to grow food.

These Instagram gardeners offer a wealth of resources and wisdom. Reduce food waste and explore zero waste recipes. By integrating these budget-friendly foods into your diet, you can eat tasty and affordable food while supporting your overall health.

And that is priceless. Header Image: iStock Baloncici. The staff and students at the Academy of Culinary Nutrition love meal prep — we find it relaxing and meditative, plus the end result of tasty….

Meal prepping and batch cooking…. When trying to cut back on your grocery bills and purchase food that's inexpensive, the first thing that may come to mind is food that is unhealthy, ultra-processed and high in sodium and sugar. But there are lots of healthy foods that are more affordable than acai bowls and organic kale salads.

That said, trying to feed your family nutritious foods without breaking the bank can be a little bit of a struggle, so we wanted to make it as easy as possible. We've compiled a list of 10 super-budget-friendly healthy foods, plus tips to help you keep those grocery bills down. Canned tomatoes are frequently used in many households.

They're extremely versatile and very inexpensive. In addition to being a staple ingredient in many delicious recipes, canned tomatoes pack a significant nutritional punch. They're a great source of vitamin C, as well as lycopene, which is an antioxidant that may reduce inflammation.

Consuming tomatoes has also been linked to reducing "bad" LDL cholesterol and blood pressure levels according to a Biology Basel study. Canned tomatoes can easily be added to soups, casseroles, stews and pasta dishes. Oats are a great nutrient-dense food to have on hand. They are super affordable and offer an easy way to provide your family with an impressive amount of nutrients.

A large container of plain oats is not only cheaper but also more nutritious than packets of prepared flavored oatmeal, which are more processed and often have added sugar. Whole-grain rolled oats are rich in fiber, which helps lower cholesterol levels and helps keep you full and satisfied.

A serving of oats also contains B vitamins, iron, manganese, phosphorus, zinc and magnesium. Oats are typically eaten for breakfast, but they can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.

Add them to casseroles for an extra source of fiber, or mix it up with a bowl of savory oatmeal. Peanut butter is very cost-effective, delivering a lot of nutrition in a tiny package. A serving is 2 tablespoons, which means that one jar can last for quite a while.

Plus, it's a great source of plant-based protein as well as heart-healthy fats, vitamin E and B vitamins. When choosing your peanut butter, try to look for options without added sugars, although they tend to be more expensive. Stir it into a bowl of oatmeal or swap out your pasta and red sauce for some tasty peanut noodles.

Canned beans are budget-friendly and very nutritious. You can save even more money by choosing dried beans, but they do require more time to cook. Beans contain a significant amount of fiber and a variety of vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, magnesium and potassium.

They're also a great source of plant-based protein. One cup of canned or cooked beans contains about 15 grams of protein, which is essential for lots of bodily functions, including building and maintaining muscle strength. Beans can be incorporated into many types of dishes.

Try them in soups, salads, tacos and burritos. Every household should definitely keep potatoes on hand. While they sometimes have a negative reputation, potatoes are packed with nutrition. Potatoes contain a significant amount of potassium, a mineral that's very important in our bodies, helping to regulate fluid balance and muscle contractions, among other functions.

If you want an added boost of nutrients, try using sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes. Sweet potatoes are also high in potassium, but they contain a little more fiber as well as beta carotene.

Both types of potatoes are versatile. Try making homemade french fries, mashed potatoes, or serve up a baked potato bar with your favorite toppings for an easy, family-friendly dinner. Lentils are popular in many plant-based diets.

They are very affordable and provide a great source of protein, fiber, iron and manganese. They also contain antioxidants that may help to fight inflammation and reduce the onset of chronic diseases.

Lentils can be used in a variety of ways and are very easy to prepare. Simply rinse dry lentils to remove any debris, place them in a large pot and fill it halfway with water.

Let the lentils simmer until they're tender, then enjoy! Lentils can be used to make veggie burgers, soups and stews. Popcorn is often associated with binge-watching your favorite TV show or movie, but it can be enjoyed as a healthy snack at any time. Popcorn provides fiber, magnesium and several disease-fighting antioxidants.

Plain popcorn is also relatively low in calories, making it a helpful snack for those wanting to lose weight. The great thing about popcorn is that it's very versatile. You can add toppings such as sea salt and cheese for a savory treat, or cinnamon and sugar for a delicious sweet treat.

It can be expensive to buy pre-popped popcorn in bags or microwaveable pouches, so purchasing kernels helps make this nutritious snack more affordable.

You can pop the kernels yourself in the microwave with just a brown bag. Frozen berries are easy to keep on hand and can be very cost-effective when compared to fresh fruit.

A couple of great choices to keep on hand are frozen blueberries and frozen strawberries. Check the bags and buy berries without added sugar.

Blueberries may be small in size, but they are rich in nutrients and are a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber.

Blueberries have been linked to improved cardiovascular health and can contribute to an overall healthy lifestyle. Strawberries are also high in vitamin C and fiber, as well as folate. They are also rich in antioxidants. A review in Nutrients of studies done with strawberries and blueberries found they helped reduce inflammation, improved insulin sensitivity and helped keep blood pressure in check, among other benefits.

Add frozen berries to your favorite smoothie recipe or make a yogurt parfait with them. Frozen berries can be used to make jams, pies and other desserts.

Tuna is a smart choice for those wanting to increase their fish intake while still keeping their groceries affordable. Tuna is a great source of protein, and it also contains some omega-3 fatty acids , which are important for brain health and reducing inflammation.

Tuna also provides a fair amount of the minerals selenium, phosphorus and potassium. Choose canned tuna for salads, sandwiches and pasta dishes.

Eggs are a staple item in most homes.

) Budget-friendly food products - 1–9: Vegetables · 1. Broccoli · 2. Onions · 3. Bagged spinach · 4. Russet potatoes · 5. Sweet potatoes · 6. Canned tomatoes · 7 Beans, lentils, rice, eggs, cabbage, potatoes, carrots and bananas are typically very cheap. Shop sales to get good Missing Cucumbers. Cucumbers are one of the cheapest foods you can buy, especially if you purchase them at a farmer's

I always like to have a few jars of pasta sauce in my pantry. Peanut butter is an absolute staple in our home. Again, buy the store-brand or use coupons for the more expensive stuff. Canned tomatoes are definitely an important pantry staple.

I use them the most often for recipes like Taco Soup. Nothing like a bowl of cereal when you need a quick meal, am I right? And it beats ramen noodles in my opinion! Not all cereal is cheap of course, but if you look for the store-brand you can always find some varieties that are very inexpensive.

Store-brand pretzels are relatively cheap sometimes just a dollar for a bag and make a great snack option, especially if you have kids.

A well-stocked pantry should always include some basic baking goods like:. Make those inexpensive chicken thighs taste extra good by using some basic, inexpensive spices like chili powder, garlic powder, etc. And a hanging spice rack like this is great for storing them!

Now what? You may also be interested in: How to Meal Plan on a Tight Budget. Note: Grocery prices are constantly changing, so some of the prices in the articles below have already changed. However, all of these meal plans are very frugal, even with rising prices.

Want to get better at meal planning regularly? Check out my Meal Planner and Recipe Binder. What are some of your favorite cheap foods to buy on a budget?

Any favorite recipes? Please share in the comments! Looking for more ways to save at the grocery store? Check out this post for 15 ways to save money on groceries! Apples Apples are one of the cheaper fruit options and are one of the staple favorite foods in our home. Bananas Bananas are another inexpensive fruit option.

Frozen Vegetables Frozen green beans, peas, etc. Carrots Carrots are a staple around here. Healthy and cheap, they make the perfect snack! Lettuce Buy it uncut and unwashed if you want to save money! Thankfully they are very economical.

Potatoes I generally find that a big bag of Russet potatoes is the cheapest option. Whatever fresh vegetables are on sale Check the ad for your local store to see what fresh produce is on sale! Whole Chicken Cooking a whole chicken and deboning it is a bit of extra work but it will save you money on your groceries!

Chicken Breasts Chicken breasts are not the cheapest cut of chicken but if you stretch them ie: one chicken breast cut up with tons of veggies for stir fry they can be quite cost effective. Chicken Thighs Chicken thighs or chicken drumsticks are usually pretty inexpensive and are very flavorful.

Canned Tuna Who else grew up eating tuna fish sandwiches? Smoked Sausage Smoked sausage is a great meat to keep on hand for quick meals. Eggs Eggs can be a great cheap source of protein. Lentils Again, another great, cheap protein option!

Brown Rice Brown rice is a great alternative to white rice with a lot of health benefits and is still a great cheap food.

Bread While the very cheapest bread is not going to have the most nutritional value, watch for markdowns on nicer loaves made with whole grains. Tortillas Store-brand tortillas are typically pretty inexpensive and you can use them for all sorts of meals.

Pasta At a dollar or less a box in my area pasta is a great way to add something filling to your meal without spending a lot of money.

Pasta Sauce I always like to have a few jars of pasta sauce in my pantry. Peanut Butter Peanut butter is an absolute staple in our home. Canned Tomatoes Canned tomatoes are definitely an important pantry staple. Cereal Nothing like a bowl of cereal when you need a quick meal, am I right? Pretzels Store-brand pretzels are relatively cheap sometimes just a dollar for a bag and make a great snack option, especially if you have kids.

Basic Spices Make those inexpensive chicken thighs taste extra good by using some basic, inexpensive spices like chili powder, garlic powder, etc. Read this. Chicken salad sandwiches Tuna sandwiches Roasted chicken Leftover chicken or tuna on salad Ground beef fried rice Chicken fried rice Stir fry Creamed chicken add shredded chicken to a simple white sauce, serve on rice or toast Teriyaki chicken Chicken soup make the broth from the leftover chicken carcass, add cooked rice or spaghetti noodles to make it more filling White chili you can use whatever kind of beans you have, just cook them first Roasted veggies and chicken thighs Spaghetti Beans and rice use this recipe to get perfectly cooked brown rice every time!

Pin However, non-seasonal produce is more expensive. Even though it might only seem like a just few cents more, when the end of a year comes around, those cents will have added up to dollars you may wish you put elsewhere.

I acknowledge by requesting this info, I'll be added to Cook Smarts' newsletter list. I can unsubscribe at any time. Discover what veggies are in season each month with this Vegetables by Month Chart. Frozen fruits and veggies are cost-effective and can be just as good as fresh, since they are picked at their peak to be frozen; they still contain all the good nutrients.

Having frozen produce on hand in your freezer is also important because it means you can add fruits and veggies to every meal. Dried beans are cheap and a great way to feed large groups of people and have plenty of leftovers.

They can be cooked in a slow cooker and any extras can be frozen and then defrosted for a quick future meal. While dried beans are cheaper than canned beans, canned beans are also very budget-friendly, especially when compared to meat proteins.

And of course they are always great when you add spices and enjoy them as protein-rich side dish. Purchasing preserved tomatoes can save you time and money and lets you add bursts of flavor to a dish at any time.

You can get crushed, whole, diced, and paste in cans, tubes, and boxes. If tomatoes are not in season, or even if they are, buying them canned is perfect for a quick spaghetti sauce or for stirring into chilis or soups.

Rice, farro, quinoa, and dried pasta are easy to inexpensively buy in bulk and can usually be stored for quite awhile. Grains and pasta can also be used to cook a wide range of dishes and can add extra heft to an otherwise light dinner of soup or salad. Since there are dozens of grain and pasta types, you can always mix things up and prevent getting into any dinner ruts.

To up your fiber intake, choose whole grain varieties with the help of our Whole Grain Guide here:. Learn more about this food group and how to make whole grains a healthy part of your diet. Potatoes often get a bad rap due to infamous french fries and chips. These root vegetables are actually nutrient-dense and good for you, if you indulge in moderation.

Since potatoes are very inexpensive and last a long time when stored in a dark, dry place and away from onions , they are a great base or addition to budget meals.

And did we mention how versatile they are? Eggs are an excellent source of lean protein — each one gives you 6 grams of protein and less than 2 grams of saturated fat if you hard-boil them. You can also use them for frittatas, salads, stratas, fried rice, curries, or in a sandwich.

Think beyond tuna sandwiches and imagine tuna adding flavor and body to pastas, casseroles, and salads.