And check out these recipes for more inspiration. (2024)

This one isn't new, but there is a reason why it's the go-to method for countless households. Going to the supermarket without an idea of what you want to buy will inevitably lead to waste and unnecessary expenses. Plan your week, make a list, stick to it.

Find printable grocery lists here.

You can use Parmesan rind for a flavorful broth or make a delicious salad using broccoli stalks. Sometimes being more creative in your cooking and willing to try new things also means being less wasteful, and saving money.

Learn everything you could do with foods you're throwing away here and get the recipe for the parm broth here.

Check out Ibotta and Checkout 51, two free coupon apps that can help you save a few bucks. And for more coupon tips, check out the Krazy Coupon Lady.

Sure, it's less spontaneous than deciding where and what to eat at the last minute, but this way you won't end up spending a ton of money on delivery and takeout. So plan ahead, make sure you use the same ingredients several times during the week so they don't go to waste, and stick to your menu.

Here's a seven-day meal plan that's doable and won't cost you more than $3.50 per meal.

Watch out for the sales at your local store. For instance, if they're having a sale on meat, fill your freezer now so you don't have to buy any meat in the next couple of months.

And here are some recipes you can make once and freeze all winter.

Two organic chicken breasts at my local NY store cost at least $9. A whole organic chicken is around $15 and makes for much more meat and more dinner options throughout the week.

When you buy a whole chicken, you can go about it two ways: Either debone the raw chicken, place the different cuts in ziplock bags, place what you'll eat within a few days in the fridge, and freeze the rest for later. Or, you can roast a whole chicken and use different cuts throughout the next 3–4 days.

Rotisserie chickens are sometimes cheaper than raw ones and also very low-effort.

Find a whole week's worth of recipes using rotisserie chicken here.

If you have a slow cooker, it'll become your best friend — otherwise a big pot will do. Make a big batch of stew or soup on Sunday and eat the leftovers within the next three or four days (or freeze what you won't eat). If you're dreading the monotony of eating the same thing over and over again, try to get creative with the leftovers: Use your leftover chili to make a sloppy joe, vary the toppings on your cauliflower soup, or switch up what sides you serve your pulled pork with.

Find some freezer-friendly recipes here.

Not everyone has the space, patience, and access to sunlight needed to grow their own herbs. But considering how pricey herbs can be, if you can grow them then it's really worth the investment. And some herbs, like chives, mint, or basil, are very easy to grow.

Learn more about growing your own herbs here.