As food prices soar in 2025, keeping a pantry stocked with affordable staples is key to making delicious meals without blowing your budget. Here are ten budget-friendly pantry staples and easy ways to use them every day:

1. Rice

   Use for: Stir-fries, rice bowls, or quick fried rice with leftover veggies and eggs.

   
   

2. Dried Beans

   Use for: Hearty bean chili, tacos, or blended into a creamy bean dip.

   
   

3. Pasta

   Use for: Simple garlic and olive oil pasta, baked ziti, or a quick pasta salad.

   
   

4. Canned Tomatoes

   Use for: Tomato soup, marinara sauce, or a base for slow-cooked stews.

   
   

5. Oats

   Use for: Overnight oats, oatmeal cookies, or a crunchy granola topping.

   
   

6. Peanut Butter

   Use for: PB&J sandwiches, peanut sauce for noodles, or energy balls with oats.

   
   

7. Frozen Vegetables

   Use for: Quick stir-fries, veggie omelets, or added to soups for extra nutrition.

   
   

8. Flour

   Use for: Pancakes, homemade bread, or crispy coatings for fried foods.

   
   

9. Canned Fish

   Use for: Tuna salad sandwiches, pasta with tuna, or fish cakes.

   
   

10. Lentils

    Use for: Lentil soup, veggie burgers, or a simple warm lentil salad.

Stocking these staples ensures you’ll always have the ingredients for affordable, easy meals — even when food prices climb.