Cooking on a Budget
Good food doesn’t have to cost a lot
Cooking on a budget is about making the most of what you have, not going without. With a little planning and a few simple habits, you can save money, waste less and still enjoy tasty, filling meals at home.
Slow Cookers
A slow cooker is one of the easiest ways to make hot, filling meals without spending much on energy. It uses only a small amount of electricity, about the same as a light bulb, and lets you cook hearty dishes while you get on with your day.
Because it cooks food gently over several hours, you can use cheaper cuts of meat, tinned ingredients or dried beans and still get tender, flavourful results. Stews, soups, curries and casseroles all work beautifully, and you can cook extra portions to freeze for later.
Slow cookers are safe, simple and perfect for busy days. Just add your ingredients in the morning and come home to a warm meal ready to eat.
Slow Cooker Cook Book
Download our recipe book to help you get started with your slow cooker.
Plan before you cook
Take a few minutes to look at what is already in your fridge, freezer and cupboards. Plan meals for a few days at a time and make a short shopping list. Cooking with what you already have saves money and cuts down on waste.
Waste less, save more
Take a few minutes to look at what is already in your fridge, freezer and cupboards. Plan meals for a few days at a time and make a short shopping list. Cooking with what you already have saves money and cuts down on waste.
Make ingredients go further
Stretching meals is easier than you might think. Add lentils or beans to mince or stews, turn leftover vegetables into soup, or batch-cook extra portions to freeze for another day. Cooking a bit more when the oven is on saves both time and money later.
Enjoy simple, healthy meals
Affordable cooking can still be colourful and full of flavour. Dishes like soups, curries, pasta bakes, omelettes and stir fries are easy to make, filling and kind to your wallet. Keep a few staples such as rice, oats and tinned beans on hand, they form the base of many quick meals.
Shop smart
Compare prices by weight or volume to find real value. Try supermarket own brands, they are often just as good. Frozen and tinned fruit or vegetables are usually cheaper and last longer. Look out for yellow-sticker items you can freeze or cook straight away.
If you would like more ideas or support, our Centre for Warmth team can help. We can share free recipes, cooking tips and information about local food banks if you ever need a bit of extra help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the cheapest ingredients to cook with?
Simple staples like pasta, rice, oats, tinned beans, lentils, frozen vegetables and eggs are affordable, filling and can be used in lots of different meals.
Can I still eat healthy food on a small budget?
Yes. Frozen and tinned fruit or vegetables count toward your five-a-day and often cost less than fresh. Planning meals and avoiding waste also helps make healthier choices easier.
How can I make my food last longer?
Keep an eye on dates, store food properly, and freeze things you will not use straight away. Bread, fruit and leftovers can all be frozen to use later.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can become something new. Extra vegetables can turn into soup, rice can become fried rice, and cooked chicken can be added to sandwiches or pasta.
Where can I find cheap or free meals near me?
You can visit:
- Middlesbrough Community Grocery, St Barnabas Church, Linthorpe
- South Bank Community Grocery, Normanby Road
- Middlesbrough Foodbank, Newport Way, Cannon Park
If you are unsure where to start, contact our Centre for Warmth team at warmth@hope-foundation.org.uk and we will help you find local support.