50 Foods to Make From Scratch That Save You Money

Making food from scratch is one of the easiest ways to cut down on your grocery bill while enjoying fresher, healthier meals.

From homemade bread to pantry staples like sauces. See what you can start making from scratch to help you become more comfortable.

It’s important to start small so you don’t burn out. I started with making BBQ sauce, then moved on to making different kinds of bread.

Plus, every dish you create from scratch is a step toward saving money and gaining control over what goes into your food.

Cost Comparison Between Homemade and Store-Bought Foods

When you buy pre-made foods, you’re paying for convenience, packaging, and often, a premium markup.

Take bread, for example. A standard loaf of basic white bread from the grocery store might cost around $3-$4.

But if you bake it yourself at home, the cost of flour, yeast, and other ingredients often totals less than $1 per loaf.

Not only are you saving money, but you’re also enjoying fresh bread free from unnecessary fillers.

You tend to save more in larger batches, too. For instance, making your stock from veggie scraps or chicken bones is essentially free and far more flavorful than the store-bought kind.

Similarly, making your meals at home often repurposes scraps.

Stale bread, for example, can be easily transformed into croutons or breadcrumbs. And if you’re anything like me, then bread pudding!!!

When making things from scratch, it’s best to evaluate if it’s worth it. For some people, time is money. While others consider viewing eating healthy and cutting down on food waste as more important.

50 Foods to Make From Scratch That Save You Money

Baking & Bread

Bread – Homemade bread brings warmth to your kitchen and costs a fraction of store-bought loaves. The variety is endless, from chewy sourdough to soft dinner rolls. Making bread is easier than expected; mix, rise, bake, and enjoy fresh slices anytime.

Cakes – Baking cakes at home allows you to customize flavors and control the sweetness. Use pantry staples to whip up celebratory desserts or simple weekday treats. A homemade cake always feels special and saves you from expensive bakery prices.

Cookies – Homemade cookies fill your home with a comforting aroma and can be made in big batches for lunchboxes or snacking. Mix up dough in minutes and bake off wholesome treats whenever you please. Try classic chocolate chip or get creative with add-ins.

Pies – A homemade pie uses basic ingredients and transforms seasonal fruit into a crowd-pleaser. Making your own crust means skipping artificial fillers and preservatives. Share slices with friends as homemade pies are perfect for gatherings.

Muffins – Muffins are quick to make and a great way to use up overripe fruit or pantry basics like cornmeal. Freeze extra muffins for fast breakfasts or snacks. You control the sugar and flavors for a healthier, fresher bite.

Biscuits – Flaky biscuits come together with just flour, fat, and milk. They’re perfect alongside dinner or as a base for breakfast sandwiches. Forget canned biscuits; homemade melts in your mouth and costs very little.

Pancakes & Waffles – A simple batter is all you need for hot, fluffy pancakes or crispy waffles. You can make a large batch and freeze extras for easy weekday breakfasts. Add fruit, nuts, or spices for endless flavor twists.

Brownies – Homemade brownies are rich, fudgy, and endlessly customizable. Bake simple chocolate brownies or add nuts for crunch. They’re cheaper and tastier than box mixes or bakery treats.

Pizza Dough – Pizza night is way better with dough that you make at home. Flour, yeast, and water are all you need for chewy or crispy crusts. Top with whatever’s in your fridge for a quick and affordable meal.

Pasta (Fresh) – Fresh pasta only needs flour and eggs and delivers silky, tender noodles. Knead and roll the dough for fettuccine or stuff with cheese for ravioli. Freeze leftovers for quick homemade dinners anytime.

Tortillas – Homemade tortillas are softer and fresher than store-bought. They require simple ingredients and just a few minutes to cook in a hot skillet. Fill them with anything from beans to grilled chicken.

Crackers– Crispy crackers from your oven cost pennies and are a blank canvas for seasonings. Top with sea salt, cheese, or herbs. They’re great for kids’ snacks or cheese boards and contain zero unnecessary additives.

Granola – Homemade granola lets you avoid added sugars and choose healthy mix-ins. Stir oats, honey, and nuts together, then bake until golden. Use it for breakfast, parfaits, or snacking on the go.

Cinnamon Rolls – Warm cinnamon rolls are a treat that’s easy to make ahead. The dough is forgiving, and the aroma is irresistible. Skip store mixes for gooey, homemade swirls drizzled with simple icing.

Pretzels – Soft homemade pretzels are chewy, salty, and fun to shape. With simple dough and a quick bake, you’ll have a snack that rivals any mall kiosk. Freeze extras for a ready-to-toast treat.

Sauces, Condiments & Spreads

Tomato Sauce – With ripe tomatoes or canned ones, you can cook up a sauce bursting with real flavor. Season to taste and skip added sugars or fillers. Freeze leftovers for quick pasta nights.

Pesto – Fresh pesto mixes basil, garlic, nuts, and olive oil for a bright, herby spread. It’s cheaper and tastier than anything pre-made. Use it on pasta, pizza, or layered in sandwiches.

Mayonnaise – Homemade mayo uses eggs, oil, and vinegar for a creamy, pure condiment. Whip it up in minutes and flavor it your way. Skip the preservatives found in jarred versions.

Ketchup – Making ketchup lets you control the sweetness and spice. Cook it from tomato paste, vinegar, and basic pantry spices for a healthier dip. Save money and customize the flavor every time.

Mustard – Seed, vinegar, and a touch of honey come together for a tangy homemade mustard. It takes just minutes to stir up and lasts weeks in the fridge. Play with spice blends for unique results.

Salad Dressings– Skip pricey bottled dressings. Whisk olive oil, vinegar, and seasoning for vinaigrette. Fresh dressings taste brighter and cost much less.

Barbecue Sauce – Homemade BBQ sauce can be sweet, tangy, or smoky to suit your taste. Mix ketchup, vinegar, sugar, and spices for a crowd-pleasing companion to grilled foods. Bottled sauce can’t compete with fresh.

Hot Sauce – Blending peppers, vinegar, and a pinch of salt gives you a homemade hot sauce with kick. Adjust the spice to your liking. Store in a jar for drizzling over eggs, tacos, or veggies.

Jam/Jelly – Berries, sugar, and lemon juice cook down into simple homemade jam. Control the sweetness and skip added thickeners. Spoon over yogurt, toast, or desserts for a burst of real fruit flavor.

Peanut Butter (and other nut butters) – Fresh nut butter takes just minutes in a food processor. You choose the texture, salt, and sweetness. Homemade means no added oils or sugar; just pure nuts.

Hummus – Blend chickpeas, tahini, and lemon for creamy, protein-rich hummus. It’s more affordable and customizable than store-bought. Enjoy with veggies, bread, or as a sandwich spread.

Salsa – Chop tomatoes, onions, and cilantro for a fast, flavorful salsa. It keeps well and tastes fresher than jarred dips. Adjust the heat to please everyone at the table.

Guacamole – Mash ripe avocados with lime, onion, and coriander for classic guac. It takes five minutes, costs less, and never has fillers. Fresh guacamole is a must for taco night or snacking.

Chicken Broth/Stock – Simmer leftover bones with vegetables for a delicious, zero-waste chicken stock. Homemade broth is richer and free from excess sodium. Freeze in portions for soup or sauces.

Vegetable Broth/Stock – Save veggie scraps to simmer into a flavorful broth. It’s an easy way to reduce waste and create a base for many recipes. No need to buy cartons at the store again.

Main Dishes & Sides

Soup (various kinds) – Homemade soups are adaptable and made with simple, affordable ingredients. Use what’s in your pantry for endless combinations. Make extra to freeze for busy weeks.

Stew (beef, vegetable, etc.) – Hearty homemade stews are comforting, filling, and low-cost. Use tougher cuts of meat, beans, and root veggies for deep flavor. Stews are ideal for slow cookers or stovetops.

Chili – Whip up a pot of chili with beans, tomatoes, and spices. Homemade options let you control the spice and boost nutrition. Great for meal prep and feeds a crowd cheaply.

Macaroni and Cheese – Skip the powdered box for a creamy mac and cheese from real cheese and milk. Choose your favorite pasta shapes and add veggies or protein if you like. It’s rich, comforting, and budget-friendly.

Mashed Potatoes – Fresh, homemade mashed potatoes are miles above the instant kind. They’re creamy, fluffy, and easy to season how you like. Use butter, garlic, or herbs for a flavor upgrade.

Potato Salad – Making potato salad at home means perfectly cooked potatoes and your choice of dressing. Add in eggs, celery, or pickles. Homemade versions cost less and are always fresher.

Coleslaw – Prepare cabbage slaw in minutes for a crisp, tangy side. Customize with different veggies or dressings. Homemade coleslaw is unbeatable at picnics and BBQs.

Baked Beans – Slow-cooked beans with a touch of sweet and smoky sauce make a filling, protein-packed side. Use dried beans for extra savings. Enjoy alone or as a classic barbecue pairing.

Meatloaf – Mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings for a homestyle main dish that stretches your protein budget. Customize with veggies or cheese. Homemade meatloaf is comforting, hearty, and freezer-friendly.

Hamburgers (patties) – Form your own burger patties for a juicier, tastier result. Season as you like and grill or pan-fry for a quick meal. Skip the expensive frozen burgers for freshness every time.

Pasta Sauce (Bolognese, Marinara, Alfredo) – Simmer tomatoes for marinara or cream and cheese for Alfredo to top pasta cheaply and deliciously. Meat sauce (Bolognese) is easy to batch-cook and freeze. Scratch-made sauces elevate simple noodles to restaurant status.

Risotto – Creamy risotto starts with budget-friendly rice and slowly cooks with broth and veggies. Stirring helps develop richness- add cheese, herbs, or seafood for variety. Leftovers make tasty arancini (rice balls).

Quiche – Use eggs, milk, and fridge veggies or meats to bake a savory quiche. Homemade crust is easy, or use ready-made if needed. Quiche is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a light dinner.

Shepherd’s Pie – Comfort food at its best: layer seasoned meat and veggies under creamy mashed potatoes, then bake until golden. Skip boxed mixes for homemade flavor. Use leftover meats and veggies to reduce waste.

Beverages & Other

Lemonade – Fresh lemon juice, water, and a touch of sugar create the most refreshing lemonade. Tweak sweetness to taste and add berries or herbs for fun flavors. Homemade beats store-bought every time.

Iced Tea – Brew tea bags or leaves, chill, and sweeten as you like for a satisfying cold drink. It’s much less expensive and healthier than bottled versions. Customize with lemon, mint, or peach slices.

Infused Water – Add fruit, herbs, or cucumber to water for a fresh, natural flavor. It encourages hydration while saving money on sugary drinks. Mix and match for endless variety.

Popcorn – Buy kernels in bulk and flavor them yourself instead of splurging on microwave bags.

Energy Balls – Blend dates, oats, and chocolate chips for healthy, no-bake treats.

Fruit Roll-Ups – Dehydrate fruit purees for homemade, wallet-friendly snacks your kids will adore.

Final Thoughts on Making Food From Scratch

By taking control of ingredients and reducing reliance on processed or pre-packaged options, you’re cutting expenses while improving the quality and nutrition of your diet.

Start small. Pick one food item to make at home, like bread or a simple sauce, and build from there. The shift doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

Every step you take toward homemade meals adds value to your life, both financially and nutritionally.

If you love this post, then check out this article on how to preserve eggs for practical, cost-saving ideas.