The 10 Pantry Staples That Cut Your Grocery Bill in Half
Want to make **high-protein, delicious meals** — but tired of spending $100+ on groceries every week?
The secret isn’t coupons or store brands — it’s your **pantry**.
In this post, you’ll get:
- ✅ The 10 essential pantry staples (cheap, long-lasting, versatile)
- ✅ 3 easy recipes using only pantry items
- 📥 Free printable "Pantry Staples Shopping List"
- 🔗 Links to your favorite cookbooks and meal planners
✨ Love Budget Meals?
Grab the 100 Beginner’s Instant Pot Bean and Grain Cookbook — just $0.99! Packed with meals under $2/serving using pantry staples.
The 10 Pantry Staples That Save You Money
These 10 items are the foundation of cheap, fast, healthy meals. Stock them once, eat for months.
| Staple | Cost per Serving | Shelf Life | Why It’s Essential |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dried Beans (black, kidney, pinto) | $0.25 | 1–2 years | High-protein, fiber-rich, perfect for soups and bowls |
| Rice (white or brown) | $0.20 | 6–12 months | Great base for stir-fries, bowls, and sides |
| Pasta | $0.30 | 1–2 years | Quick, filling, works with any sauce or protein |
| Canned Tomatoes | $0.50 | 1–2 years | Base for soups, stews, and sauces |
| Vegetable or Chicken Broth | $0.40 | 1 year | Adds flavor to beans, rice, and soups |
| Oats (rolled or instant) | $0.30 | 1–2 years | Perfect for breakfast, baking, or thickening soups |
| Lentils (red or green) | $0.40 | 1–2 years | Cooks fast, high-protein, great in curries and stews |
| Canned Tuna or Salmon | $1.00 | 3–5 years | Ready-to-eat protein for salads, sandwiches, or pasta |
| Frozen Veggies (mixed, peas, corn) | $0.75 | 8–12 months | Just as nutritious as fresh, no waste |
| Basic Spices (salt, pepper, garlic, cumin) | $0.10 | 2–3 years | Turn bland meals into delicious ones |
Pro Tip: Buy in bulk and store in clear, labeled containers — you’ll always know what you have!
Recipe 1: 20-Minute Bean & Rice Bowl (Instant Pot)
Servings: 4 | Cost: $1.60/serving | Prep: 5 mins | Cook: 20 mins
Appliance: Instant Pot
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dry black beans (or 2 cans)
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups water or broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup frozen corn
- Salt & pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Add beans, rice, water, and spices to Instant Pot.
- Pressure cook 15 mins, natural release 5 mins.
- Stir in corn and serve.
Recipe 2: One-Pot Pasta e Fagioli
Servings: 6 | Cost: $1.80/serving | Prep: 5 mins | Cook: 25 mins
Appliance: Stockpot
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 can kidney beans, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Add all ingredients to stockpot.
- Simmer 20–25 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Serve with grated Parmesan.
Recipe 3: 15-Minute Lentil Stir-Fry (Ninja Speedi)
Servings: 4 | Cost: $1.70/serving | Prep: 5 mins | Cook: 15 mins
Appliance: Ninja Speedi
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- 2 cups frozen stir-fry veggies
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp ginger
- 1 tsp garlic
- Cooked rice, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Add all ingredients to Ninja Speedi bowl.
- Cook on Stir-Fry or Rapid Cook 15 minutes.
- Serve over rice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 10 essential pantry staples?
The 10 essentials are: dried beans, rice, pasta, canned tomatoes, broth, oats, lentils, canned tuna, frozen veggies, and basic spices. All are cheap, long-lasting, and versatile.
How long do canned beans last in the pantry?
Unopened canned beans last 2–5 years. Store in a cool, dry place. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 3–4 days.
Can I freeze cooked rice?
Yes! Cool rice quickly, portion into freezer bags, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in microwave with a splash of water.
How do I organize my pantry for meal prep?
Group by category (grains, beans, canned goods), use clear containers, label everything, and keep a running shopping list on the door.
📥 Get Your Free Printable: "Pantry Staples Shopping List"
I’ve created a free downloadable guide with:
- ✅ The 10 pantry staples list (printable)
- ✅ Organized shopping list (by aisle)
- ✅ Shelf life guide
- ✅ 5 bonus pantry-based recipes
📅 More Easy Meals? Try Our Monthly Planners
Love quick, high-protein meals? Explore our free monthly guides:
- Full Year Index: All 12 Months
- January — New Year Reset
- September — Back-to-Routine Batchers
- December — Cozy, Festive, Freezer-Smart
🍳 More Budget Hacks You’ll Love
Want more genius tricks?
- Instant Pot Rice Recipes That Don’t Burn
- Stockpot Soup Recipes That Freeze Well
- The Best Cheap Dinner Ideas for Family
Craving more budget-friendly meals?
Check out the 100 Beginner’s Instant Pot Bean and Grain Cookbook — just $0.99! Perfect for feeding a family on a budget.
— Rossi Voss | Author of the $0.99 Cookbook Series
rossivoss.blogspot.com