Does it seem like you spend more for food every time you go to the store? Is your grocery bill getting larger and larger and you need a way to stretch your budget? If so, I have good news! There are tons of money-saving tips to take advantage of that actually help to stretch your grocery budget. Here are a few to consider.
Shop Local
Find a few local food co ops or farmers markets. The co ops usually operate you pay a certain price and can fill a box. Here in Phoenix we have Market on the Move. For 10$ you get 60lbs of produce. There are other similar ones. Some items may be closer to expiration but perfect for sauces and freezing. Most of the items are usually perfect. Farmers markets often have sell down markets. They usually will mark items down on the last day close to closing time. This will enable you to find some fresh, delicious produce at a discounted rate.
Eat Before You Shop
This might be one of the oldest tricks in the book. But, it really works!
If you’re hungry when you go to the grocery store, it’s almost a given that you’re going to buy a lot more. Why? The answer is simple. Everything looks (and smells) SO good!
Grow Your Own Vegetables
Of course, this tip isn’t for everyone. However, if you have enough space and the inclination to do so, planting your own vegetables will save you money. Not only that, they taste better too.
Meal Prep
Make a weekly or even monthly menu and then prep for them. I like to prepare freezer meals 
so if I have a busy day I can take it out put it in the crockpot or oven and be good to go. Having a specific list of ingredients will help prevent buying unnecessary items. This will help cut down on the weekly food cost. I also make big batches so one to cook that week and one to freeze. If funds are running low having a few frozen prepared meals can help level things out.
Use Your Crockpot
A crockpot is wonderful for cooking less-expensive cuts of meat that aren’t traditionally tender. Cooking on low, for several hours, transforms almost any kind of meat into a deliciously melt-in-your-mouth creation. Click Here are a few crockpot meals my family enjoys.
Freeze Leftovers
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with freezing leftovers! Foods such as casseroles are perfect for this. Freeze in individual portions for those nights that you really don’t feel like cooking. You’ll be glad you did.
Shop Thrifty
Coupons, sales, and savings apps are all amazing ways to help trim that grocery bill. Stacking coupons with sales can help save you hundreds if done properly. Apps like Ibotta,Ebates, and Fetch provide you with rewards for shopping. This can be a great way to recoup some of the money you spend
These are just a few tips to help you cut your grocery bill. As you can see, coupons aren’t the only way to stretch your grocery budget. There are plenty more. You just have to take the time to take advantage of them. Your piggy bank will thank you for it!
