If you don't watch it, you an easily run up a huge grocery bill over the holidays - but the good news is, it's pretty easy to avoid it and save a nice chunk of change by implementing these simple tips. Give them a try and see if you can't enjoy the same holiday treats and meals on a much smaller grocery budget this year.

1.) Watch the grocery sales flyers and stock up on necessary items. You can often find turkey, ham, stuffing, cool whip, canned pumpkin etc. at exceptionally low prices this time of year. Calculate what you will need and if it can be frozen or is a dry food item, stock up while it is on sale - not last minute the day before Christmas when it isn’t on sale and the store shelves are empty.

2.) When you are home for an evening prepare a meal that can be frozen. Either make an extra pan of what you are making for supper (for example if you are making a casserole or lasagna, make an extra and pop it in the freezer all ready to cook on a busy day) or if you are making soup or chicken breasts make extra and freeze them in individual or family size portions. You can then pull these items out when you’re in a time crunch.

3.) With the holiday rush, you might find yourself eating out more frequently. If at all possible try to eat at home before you go out on your shopping trip or evening activity - it’s cheaper, healthier and really won’t take extra time if you follow our the next tip. If you are going to be gone for quite awhile, take a protein bar or other healthy snack along with you.

4.) Enjoy Potlucks. If you are in charge of hosting a holiday gathering, make it a potluck. Most people enjoy sharing their favorite holiday recipe with others and having others pitch in with the food will most certainly help with the budget and time management.


5.) Make a menu for the week, make a grocery list and stick with it. If you go to the grocery store without a plan, you generally will purchase more than you need. Grab your sales flyer of the store you frequent, plan a menu around the items that are on sale, make a grocery list and stick with it. You will spend less then you would if you went in without a plan and you also will save time each evening as you already know what you are cooking and you for sure have all the necessary ingredients on hand.

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For more information about Homemade Holiday Gifts click here, or go back to our main food article page.