Everyone is on a budget these days. That being said, you still need to eat and sometimes that can make your bank account feel hungry.
Sure, there are budget meals you can get at places like Costco, but more often than not, takeout is the easiest choice to feed you and your family.
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But did you know that the Dollar Tree is actually a great place to shop for groceries or grab a quick bite to eat? That’s because Dollar Tree is able to deliver quality foods at discounted prices, so you know you’re getting delicious things to eat without the expensive grocery bill.
Cancel your next driving trip. Close the phone on delivery. Because there are several Dollar Tree grocery items here that are cheaper than takeout.
Ramen noodles
“Dollar Tree offers a five-pack of Ramen Noodles for $1.25,” says Samantha Landau, consumer expert at TopCashback, noting that for that price, the dish works out to 25 cents per serving.
What’s great about Ramen noodles is your ability to customize the bowls yourself. Add some veggies or chop up some protein and you’ve got a meal that’s quick, flavorful, and all your own.
“These noodles are not only a cheap alternative to takeout, but they’re also quick and easy to make,” explains Landau, noting that Dollar Tree’s Ramen noodles have a 4.7 out of 5 rating.
Original SkinnyPop Popcorn
“I usually reach for individually wrapped Skinny Pop packs as my afternoon snack,” says Radwa Khalil, founder of Healthy Life Trainer. “I love that the original versions and kettle corn are often available at the Dollar Tree and that they are pre-portioned single servings.”
That’s because a 1-ounce bag of Skinny Pop contains no artificial ingredients and is gluten-free and GMO-free. Plus, one cup has only 39 calories. A great treat for home movie nights or parties on the go.
“They’re also a big hit with my kids, who often pack them as an on-the-go snack or pop them in their lunch boxes,” Khalil adds. “With portion control, it has all the taste and quality of a big bag of Skinny Pop from the grocery store. Plus, the individual packaging ensures that there are no stale, unsealed packets of popcorn in my pantry.”
Campbell’s Chicken Rice Soup
As the cold weather season approaches, this boxed meal is the smart alternative to fast food or winter delivery.
“For an easy and balanced meal from the Dollar Tree, Campbell’s Chicken Soup with Rice is a great option,” says Landau. “For $1.25 you get 3 servings of Antibiotic Free Chicken Soup.”
Now in 30% larger cans and the price remains the same, Dollar Tree is where you’ll want to fill your pantry with Campbell’s classic soups.
Original Campbell’s SpaghettiOs pasta
Want a hearty Italian meal without all the hassle of mixing pasta, sauce and meat? Campbell’s and Dollar Tree have you covered with the original SpaghettiOs. This classic, fun food comes with no artificial flavors, no preservatives, and no added synthetic colors.
“Dollar Tree sells a lot of canned foods that are cheaper than takeout and can make quick and easy meals,” said Kathryn Rall, registered dietitian with Happy V. “You can find most of these items at your local grocery store. groceries, but they’ll probably be a little more expensive there, so shopping them at the Dollar Tree is a steal.”
Rall notes that “while such canned foods may not turn out to be the healthiest, most well-rounded meals, they can be great meals to have on hand if you’re ever in a pinch.”
Southgate Chili with Beans
Landau explains that a can of chili is a simple food for a protein-rich diet.
“A can of Southgate Chili Beans, which costs $1.25 at Dollar Tree, gives you 2 servings of chili that you can enjoy on its own or serve with other dishes,” said Landau, adding that it has 4.2 stars by reviewers.
But chili is more than just chili. You can add it to cheese dishes, casseroles and make your own spicy sauces for fun with it.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 5 Dollar Tree Food Items That Are Cheaper Than Buying Takeout
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