15 Cheapest Foods to Buy when Money is Running Low

When money is tight, it can be tough to figure out what to buy at the grocery store. You want to get the most bang for your buck, but you also don’t want to sacrifice nutrition or taste.

This blog post will discuss 15 of the cheapest foods that you can buy when money is running low. These foods are not only affordable, but they are also healthy and delicious!  So, whether you are looking for a quick snack or something to serve at dinner, these foods will fit the bill!

Budget-Friendly Recipes

While you can focus on buying food that is lower cost, it helps to have some recipes in mind, so you don’t let the food you buy go to waste.

Sites like Google and Pinterest can help you in finding recipes. Though if you are a Kindle Unlimited member, there are also lots of budget-friendly cookbooks included.

You might also check your local library for cookbooks that can help you save, such as Good and Cheap: Eat Well on $4 a Day by Leanne Brown.

1. Beans

Beans are a versatile, affordable food that can be used in many different dishes. They are a great source of protein and fiber, and they can be used in soups, stews, salads, and more.

Try these budget-friendly bean recipes:

• black bean soup
• three-bean salad
• lentil chili

2. Rice

Rice is another versatile, affordable food that can be paired with beans or used in place of pasta. It is a great source of complex carbohydrates and can be used in many different dishes.

Try these budget-friendly rice recipes:

• fried rice
• vegetable stir-fry
• rice pudding

3. Frozen fruits and vegetables

Frozen fruits and vegetables are a great way to get your daily recommended servings of fruits and veggies without breaking the bank. They are often less expensive than fresh produce, they last longer, and can be used in smoothies, salads, or cooked meals.

Try these budget-friendly frozen fruit and vegetable recipes:

• fruit smoothie
• vegetable soup

4. Eggs

Eggs are a versatile, affordable protein source that can be used in many different dishes. They are a great source of vitamins and minerals, and they can be used in breakfast dishes, salads, or main courses. Plus they last for a good while before going bad.

Try these budget-friendly egg recipes:

• egg salad sandwich
• frittata

5. Whole-grain breads and pasta

Whole-grain breads and pasta are a great way to get your daily recommended servings of whole grains. They are often less expensive than white breads and pastas. They are a good source of fiber and are more easily available than other options.

6. Canned tuna/salmon/chicken

Canned tuna, salmon, and chicken are cheap sources of protein that can be added to salads or cooked meals, making it a great way to get your protein without spending tons.

Try these budget-friendly recipes:

• tuna salad
• salmon burgers
• chicken pot pie

7. Bananas

Bananas are a great source of potassium and fiber, and they make a cheap, healthy snack. You can eat them plain, or add them to smoothies, oatmeal, or yogurt or even bake with them.

Try these budget-friendly banana recipes:

• banana bread

­­­­­­­­­­­­8. Potatoes

Potatoes are a cheap, filling food that can be used in many different dishes. They are a great source of vitamins and minerals, and they can be baked, roasted, or mashed.

Try these budget-friendly potato recipes:

• twice-baked potatoes
• mashed potatoes
• potato soup

9. Oats

Oats are a cheap, healthy food that can be used in many different dishes. They are a great source of fiber and protein, and they can be used in oatmeal, granola, or baked goods.

Try these budget-friendly oat recipes:

• oatmeal
• granola bars
• apple crisp

10. Whole Chicken

A whole chicken is a cheap, versatile protein source that can be used in many different dishes. It is cheaper than buying chicken breasts or thighs and can be used for multiple meals.

Try these budget-friendly chicken recipes:

• chicken soup
• chicken salad

11. Spices

Spices are a great way to add flavor to your food, especially since a little can go a long way. They can be used to season meats, vegetables, or grains. However, they can also add up if you buy a bunch at once, so consider looking for spice blends that can be used in a variety of ways.

For Example:

• Johnnys Seasoning Salt
• Santa Maria Seasoning

12. Olive oil/vegetable oil

Olive oil and vegetable oil are great for cooking or adding to salads. They can be used in a variety of dishes and last for a long time.

13. Lemons/limes

Lemons and limes are a great way to add fresh flavor to your food for pennies. They can be used to season meats, vegetables, or grains. You can also use them to make lemonade or limeade. Or even to help clean your house!

Try these budget-friendly lemon recipes:

• lemonade
• lemon chicken
• roasted Brussels sprouts with lemon

Pro tip: use the seeds to grow your own lemon or lime tree and save money in the future too!

14. Peanut butter

Peanut butter is a great source of protein and can be used in a variety of dishes. It is a good spread for toast or sandwiches, and can also be used in baking or as a dip.

Try these budget-friendly peanut butter recipes:

• peanut butter and jelly sandwich
• thai peanut chicken
• no bake cookies

15. Tortillas

Tortillas are a versatile, cheap food that can be used in many different dishes. They can be used as wraps, sandwiches, or even pizza crusts.

Try these tortilla mean ideas:

• chicken wrap
• vegetarian burrito
• breakfast tacos

16. Tomato Sauce

Canned tomato sauce is great because it can be used in many different dishes. It can be used as a pizza sauce, pasta sauce, or even a dip.

Try these budget-friendly tomato sauce recipes:

• easy pizza sauce
• spaghetti with meatballs

Tips to Save When Grocery Shopping

When money is tight, it can be tough to figure out how to afford groceries. But with a few simple tips, you can save money when grocery shopping and get the food you need for less. Here are some tips:

• Make a list before you go to the store and stick to it!
• Plan your meals for the week so that you only buy what you need.
• Compare prices between brands and choose the cheaper option.
• Choose generic or store brand items instead of name brands.
• Use coupons
• Check for manager’s specials or sales

How to Earn Money When Grocery Shopping

There are a few ways that you can actually make money while grocery shopping! Here are a few ideas:

• Sign up for a cashback app like Ibotta or Rakuten and earn money back on your purchases.
• Join a grocery store rewards program and get money off of your groceries.

With a little bit of planning, you can save money on your groceries and even earn a few extra dollars! Try out these tips the next time you go shopping.  

Bottom Line

Cheap and nutritious doesn’t have to mean bland and boring. With a little creativity, you can still eat well even when money is tight!

These are just a few of the cheapest foods that you can buy when money is running low. By incorporating some of these items into your diet, you can save money without sacrificing taste or nutrition! What are some of your favorite cheap foods to buy when money is running low? Let us know in the comments below!

Do you have any tips for eating on a budget? Share them with us in the comments below!