I’m always asked, “Is it cheaper to just eat the convenience boxed foods at couponing prices or to cook from scratch?” The truth is, if you’re using coupons and following sales, the price probably ends up about the same either way. One way to enjoy cooking from scratch, though, is to always have a pantry stocked with the little things that a recipe might call for.

I don’t mean having the random can of sliced apricots that you’ll never open, but the true pantry staples that are common in many recipes you’ll want to try. To help you get organized, I’ve put together two resources that will help achieve this goal: a pantry staples inventory and a buy price list.

Stocking Your Kitchen with Pantry Staples

The great thing about having a kitchen stocked with pantry staples is that when it comes time to make a meal plan and then a grocery list, you already have most of the items on your list. This is where couponing and from-scratch cooking combine to truly save you money! If you buy these items at their lowest prices, then you end up buying very little at full retail price.

Tip: Go through sections at of the list at a time.  This doesn’t have to be overwhelming but is a great way to make sure you really do have everything.  I spent 10 minutes tonight looking for minced garlic, looks like it’s time for me to inventory things again too!

Printable Pantry Staples Inventory

Saving yourself from running to the store for that one item will not only save time, but it will also save a ton of money. Whenever I “run to the store,” I will pay retail for things that I need.

Remember that when you see these items at a great price, buy enough to last you about 6-8 weeks. Then you’ll be set until they go on sale again!