FRUGAL WAYS TO SAVE ON COOKING

There are always ways to save when you want to feed your family. From buying in bulk or going meatless on Mondays; plenty of frugal ways to save on cooking exist for you and your family.

Below are some great tips I’ve pulled together on how to start preparing meal more frugally.

• Use your slow cooker as much as possible. This cooking technique saves time and money. You can prepare everything the night before. Right before you head out for the day, turn on your slow cooker. Your homemade meal will be ready and hot when you return home from work.
• Did you know that if you add powdered potatoes you can thicken soups. This is a great way to stretch your soup a little further.
• Consider cooking pastas or risottos for dinner. Both meals fill up the family and serve well with a great in-season, fresh vegetable.
• How much money does your family spend eating out? Cut out those fast food trips and Friday nights out. Instead why not make Friday night homemade pizza? You’ll also save tons of calories by not going to the drive through.
• You can save at least $50 a week by not eating out at lunch when you are working. Take your lunch to work everyday. You’ll see the difference in your bank account and your waistline.
• Stop buying soda! Drink water throughout the day. You’ll hydrate yourself as well! You need at least eight glasses a day. And, that’s assuming you don’t have some sort of regular workout routine. At that point, you will need more.
• If you have a free day during the weekend, cook your meals for the coming week. Then freeze the prepared meals. If you use a good list and think ahead of time, you won’t wast as much food in your fridge. The family will love having homemade suppers every night. Great ideas for pre-made suppers include lasagnas, chicken casserole, soups like chili and minestrone. These can all be made in large batches and served throughout the winter for a quick meal.

We would love to hear from our readers if you have any cooking on a budget ideas. Please comment on our Frugal Fabulous Finds Facebook page!