“What should we have for dinner?” is an age-old question asked by parents all over the nation. But with grocery prices skyrocketing, it has become increasingly difficult to make decisions about where and when to buy food. From eggs and produce to beef, it is becoming harder to prepare an affordable meal for a family. But with a few coupons and hacks, saving money at the grocery store can be easier than you might think.

One tip to save a few dollars is to cook a pantry meal before you decide to go shopping. A pantry meal can be made with things you already have. Take a look inside your fridge, freezer and pantry to see what you can throw together to create an easy, fast meal. This is a great way to reduce your food waste and prevent shopping for items you might already have in your kitchen.

Tara Potter-Lanz, a TuHS mom and Tigard community member, shared her favorite meal to cook on a budget.

“I like to make spaghetti because it’s the most cost-effective, high quantity, and my family loves pasta.” Contrary to what you might think, going to the grocery store more often should save you money. Taking smaller, more frequent trips often prevents shoppers from buying unnecessary items, and it will yield the freshest ingredients for meals.

“I probably go to the grocery store twice a week. I think it’s beneficial to go to the store more often, but it can be challenging to find the time in a busy schedule. I like to order my groceries online to save time,” said Potter-Lanz.

Instead of buying basics like bread or produce, consider how you can make or grow them in your own home. Starting a garden to grow your own fruits and vegetables is a cost-effective way to include more vitamins in your daily diet. Creating your own sourdough starter not only saves money, but it also eliminates the preservatives found in store-bought bread varieties.

Getting overwhelmed in the grocery store is a common experience, but going back to basics can be revolutionary for not breaking the bank.