How to Cut Your Grocery Bill Without Giving Up the Food You Like

By Jawad, Time Saver Labs

This post has affiliate links. If you buy through them, I earn a commission at no extra cost to you. More here.

Most advice on saving money on food comes down to eating less of what you enjoy. That might work for a week, but it rarely sticks. The changes that last are the ones you barely notice.

Here's what actually makes a difference.

Know where the money goes

Before cutting anything, look at your last two or three grocery receipts. Circle the items you buy every week. That's usually where the savings are, not in the one off treats.

Shop with a list

It sounds too simple, but walking in without a list is how a quick trip turns into a full cart. Write the list from what you plan to cook this week, and stick to it.

Check the unit price

The bigger pack isn't always the better deal. The small print on the shelf label shows the price per ounce or per pound. That number tells you the truth.

Try store brands for the basics

For things like flour, rice, oats, beans, canned tomatoes and frozen vegetables, the store brand is often very close in quality for less money. Try one item at a time and see if you can tell the difference.

Buy produce in season

Fruit and vegetables in season are usually cheaper and taste better. Out of season, frozen is often a good, cheaper option.

Waste less

A lot of grocery money ends up in the trash. A few habits help:

1. Keep a bag in the freezer for vegetable scraps and turn it into stock when it's full.
2. Freeze extra herbs in olive oil in an ice cube tray.
3. Plan one "use it up" meal a week, like soup, fried rice or a frittata.
4. Store produce properly. Keep potatoes and onions apart, and wrap greens in a damp towel.

Grow a little of your own

You don't need a big garden. A few pots of herbs and a container of salad greens can replace some of the most expensive items on your list. I wrote more about that in 7 Things to Grow First If You Want to Save Money.

Keep a simple pantry

Rice, beans, oats, flour, pasta and canned tomatoes cover a lot of meals. When the pantry is stocked, you're less likely to order takeaway on a busy night.

If you like the idea of foods that keep for a long time without a fridge, The Lost SuperFoods is a book that covers old time foods and how to make and store them.

The free guide below has 25 more ideas you can start with this week.