The Best $20 You Can Spend on Pantry Essentials That Will Last

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Food prices are on the rise. If you’ve tried to buy eggs recently, you know how expensive a carton is, but in general, groceries are up. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, prices increased 1.2% in 2024 over 2023 prices. While grocery bills vary depending on where you shop, the average American household spends a hefty amount.

According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual cost of groceries for a consumer unit, similar to a household, was $6,053 in 2023, which equates to around $504 a month.

In this economy of inflated prices, every dollar counts and many may be looking for ways to save money. One way to help offset costs is to have a stocked pantry with items that can last longer.

Here are five pantry essentials that cost $20 or less that you can plan meals around and stretch your money further.

Member’s Mark All-Purpose Flour

• Price: $9.98

Flour is a pantry must-have for baking. Whether you love to make breads, muffins, pizza dough or desserts, a 25-pound bag of Member’s Mark all-purpose flour can make countless baked goods.

If you prefer a smaller size or don’t have a membership to Sam’s Club, Walmart has a 5-pound bag for $2.38. 

Barilla Classic Penne Pasta

• Price: $1.84

Pasta is a favorite comfort food, but it’s also cheap, versatile and delicious. From pasta salads to classic spaghetti and meatballs, you can prepare endless tasty dishes. Plus, it has a long shelf life.

Right now, you can pick up a 16-ounce box of Barilla penne pasta for just $1.84 at Walmart. For a healthier option, Walmart also has a 16-ounce box of whole grain penne pasta for the same price.

La Tourangelle Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• Price: $14.15

Whether you use olive oil for dressings, baking, greasing a pan or drizzling over bread, it’s a daily go-to. There’s no shortage of brands and types of olive oil, so go with one that’s right for you. Currently, Amazon has a 16.9-fluid-ounce bottle of La Tourangelle organic extra virgin olive oil for just over $14.

Mahatma Enriched White Rice

• Price: $4.98

Rice is another pantry essential that lasts, so buying in bulk can save you money. Rice is easy to cook, is a great base for many dishes and is relatively inexpensive. At Walmart, shoppers can get a 5-pound bag of Mahatma enriched white rice for just under $5.

Good & Gather Canned Black Beans

• Price: $0.89

Black beans are super flavorful, packed with protein and the ideal addition to so many meals, like burrito bowls, salads and any grilled meat entrees. Black beans are an ideal pantry essential because they’re convenient, enhance any dish and last. Target has Good & Gather canned black beans for $0.89, and a few cans go a long way. 

Having a well-stocked pantry and taking inventory of what’s on your shelves can lead to fewer impulse buys, reduced food waste and less frequent trips to the store, which means more money in your pocket.

Editor’s note: Pricing and availability may vary depending on location.

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