8 More Money Saving Ideas

You don't have to break the bank to make a delicious and satisfying meal, and you can even entertain on a budget and still enjoy the food. Here are a few tips to help you save money at the grocery, but still put excellent meals on the table:

1. Shop where the bargains are. You may need to drive a bit farther, but it will be worth it. Consider grocery stores such as Aldi Supermarket or your local Wal-Mart Superstore. They usually have much better prices than you will find in the big name supermarkets, although at a store such as Aldi you'll find the selection may not be as extensive. Shoppers can save as much as 30% on staples at these stores.
2. Clip Coupons! You can even find coupons online, and just print off the ones that work for you. Save on Groceries - Download the CouponBar and never miss another offer!
3. Invest in a crockpot. You can use less costly cuts of meat, and make great tasting meals. You just put everything in the crockpot the night before, or in the morning before you go to work, and then let it cook all day. Click here for a free crockpot cookbook from my friends over at FreeOnlineRecipes.net
4. Use frozen vegetables when possible. They tend to be more cost effective than fresh, but still have the nutrients. I think frozen veggies have better texture and taste than canned vegetables, and they usually have less sodium.
5. Shop at the big wholesale clubs. If you don't have a big family and you think you can't use such large packages of food or staples, consider shopping with a friend or relative and split the items between the families. I often shop with a friend and neighbor at our local Costco. We buy large packages of paper supplies, household cleaning products, and, meat and other food items. Once we get home, we split it up between us, and trust me we save a bundle.
6. Now that the holidays are getting closer, and you may want to entertain more, don't hesitate to allow friends and family to pitch in. Potluck meals are fun, and save everyone. Or you can just let someone bring a salad, drinks or dessert, while you round out the rest of the meal.
7. Casseroles are a great way to stretch the budget either for a large family or for a gathering of friends. Here's a time saving idea - make two, and freeze one for another meal later in the month. Freezer casserole recipes are wonderful time savers.
8. Cook with more pasta and rice - both will stretch your protein and veggies to the max! And, who doesn't like pasta or rice?

These are just a few ideas to get you started. If you have any good money saving tips, post them here in our comments.

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