Plan one lower-cost meal

Choose one meal this week that uses lower-cost staples and ingredients you already have.

Why it can help

Changing one meal is a manageable way to test whether meal planning can reduce grocery spending.

How to try it

Start with cupboard staples, frozen vegetables, pulses, eggs or other ingredients your household actually eats. Compare the whole meal cost, not just one ingredient.

Things to consider

Nutrition, dietary needs and enjoyment matter. The cheapest possible meal is not automatically the best choice.