Do you love making your own food at home?
Well, I sure do! I enjoy making homemade meals for my family because I want to make sure we are eating healthy. My husband has a sensitivity to certain ingredients that are often found in store-bought foods, so it’s important for me to know exactly what goes into our food.
From making homemade yogurts and salad dressings to baking low-carb breads and whipping up meatloaves, I love trying out new recipes and making everything from scratch. Not only is it fun for me, I get to experiment with different flavors and make dishes that my family will love.
Making my own food at home also helps me save money. Instead of constantly buying pre-packaged meals or eating out at restaurants, I buy ingredients in bulk and make large batches of food that last for several meals. This not only saves me trips to the grocery store, it also helps me stick to a budget and reduce food waste.
If you’re someone who also enjoys making homemade food, or if you’re thinking about giving it a try, I’ve got a list of recipes that I’m sure you and your family will love. Here are 100 homemade foods that will help you save money.
Foods to Make Yourself to Save Money
Table of Contents
Dairy
I love dairy because it tastes delicious and is so versatile. Whether I’m enjoying a sweet bowl of ice cream or indulging in a decadent slice of cheesecake, dairy never fails to satisfy my cravings for something rich and comforting.
Homemade dairy is often fresher and more flavorful than store-bought options. Plus, you can customize the recipes to suit your tastes. If you’re ready to give it a try, here are some homemade dairy recipes you can start with.
- Homemade Yogurt from Downshiftology – My favorite because it’s very easy to make. This creamy and delicious yogurt can be enjoyed on its own or mixed with your favorite fruits.
- Homemade Butter from The Recipe Critic– This creamy homemade butter is the perfect addition to your breakfast table.
- Easy Homemade Ice Cream from The Recipe Rebel– Craving something sweet and cold? This velvety homemade ice cream is a great way to cool down on a hot summer day.
- Sugar Free Condensed Milk from All Day I Dream About Food– A creamy and sweet substitute for the store-bought version, without all the added sugar,
- Cheese Spread from A Spicy Perspective – Skip the expensive cheese spread from the store and make your own at home with this simple cheese spread recipe.
- Mozzarella Cheese from Allrecipes– Stretchy and goey, this homemade mozzarella cheese is great for adding to salads or pizzas.
- Mascarpone from The Daring Gourmet– This creamy and decadent Mascarpone cheese is a must-try if you love Italian desserts like tiramisu.
- Blue Cheese Dressing from Inspired Taste – Make your salads pop with this creamy and flavorful blue cheese dressing.
- Feta Cheese from the Spruce Eats – Add some tang to your salads with this homemade feta cheese recipe.
Baking Recipes
If you love baking at home and sharing delicious treats with your loved ones, here are some homemade baked goods that you should definitely try making.
- Banana Bread from Love and Lemons– This is my all-time favorite baked treat. It’s moist, sweet, and bursting with banana flavor. I love how the edges get slightly crispy while the inside stays soft and tender. It’s perfect for breakfast or as snack any time of the day.
- Easy Carrot Cake from Inspired Taste – Rich and decadent, this cake is the perfect blend of sweetness and spice.
- Protein Bread from The Big Man’s World– This bread is packed with protein and low in carbs, making it a great choice for post-workout snack or a quick meal on the go.
- Chia Seed Bread (Gluten and Dairy Free) from Zest for Baking- A gluten-free and nutritious loaf packed with chia seeds for added fiber.
- Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks from Life in the Lofthouse – Are you a fan of cheesy, garlicky goodness? Then you should definitely try these garlic Parmesan breadsticks.
- Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels from Sally’s Baking Addiction – Are you craving a soft, chewy pretzel with a sprinkle of salt? These homemade soft pretzels are a fun snack to enjoy with your favorite dips.
- Mini Cheesecakes from Sally’s Baking Addiction– Need a quick and easy dessert for a party or potluck? Bake some of these mini cheesecakes.
- Lemon Bars from Preppy Kitchen– If you have a hankering for something sweet and tangy, make some of these lemon bars.
- Fluffy Pancakes from Kitchen Fun With My 3 Sons – Is there anything better than waking up to a stack of fluffy pancakes drizzled in maple syrup? These pancakes are light, airy, and so tasty.
- Red Velvet Cupcakes from Live Well Bake Often– These vibrant cupcakes are a show-stopper at any party, with a rich and velvety texture.
- Classic French Baguette from King Arthur Baking – Crisp on the outside, soft on the inside, this iconic bread is perfect for slicing and enjoying with your favorite cheeses and spreads.
- Easy Apple Pie from Little Spoon Farm– A classic dessert that never goes out of style, apple pie is perfect for any time of the year.
- Dark Chocolate Brownies from The Pioneer Woman– Rich and fudgy brownies made with dark chocolate for an extra decadent treat.
- Oatmeal Raisin Cookies from Food.com – These chewy cookies are packed with wholesome oats and sweet raisins for the perfect snack.
- Cheesecake Brownies from Cloudy Kitchen– Creamy cheesecake meets decadent chocolate in these irresistible bars.
- Almond Biscotti from She Loves Biscotti – Crunchy and nutty, these traditional Italian cookies are perfect for dunking into your favorite hot beverage.
- Pecan Pie Bars from Food & Wine– All the flavors of traditional pecan pie packed into a convenient and bite-sized bar.
- Apple Crisp from Betty Crocker– Enjoy the warm and comforting flavors and baked apples with a crispy topping.
- Banana Muffins from Inspired Taste– These banana muffins are a great way to use up ripe bananas and make a delicious breakfast or snack.
- Flourless Chocolate Cake from Two Peas & Their Pod– If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try making this flourless chocolate cake.
- Simple Vanilla Cupcakes from Food.com– Simple yet delicious, these vanilla cupcakes are a versatile treat that can be customized with any frosting or sprinkles.
- Cornbread from Sally’s Baking Addiction — A savory side dish that pairs well with soups, stews, and chili, this cornbread recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
- Easy Pumpkin Spice Muffins from KatieBird Bakes – These muffins are packed with pumpkin puree and warm spices, making them a cozy option for a chilly day.
- Homemade Bagels from Love and Lemons– Chewy and flavorful, these bagels are a delicious and satisfying breakfast option.
- Blueberry Scones from Love and Lemons– These buttery scones are bursting with fresh blueberries and make a perfect accompaniment to your morning coffee.
- Homemade Cinnamon Swirl Bread from Pinch of Yum – A comforting treat that fills your home with the scent of cinnamon and sugar as it bakes, making it great for weekend brunches.
Soups and Broths
Soup and broth recipes can be nourishing, delicious, and satisfying, especially on a cold day or when you’re feeling under the weather. So, if you’re looking for some soup and broth recipes to warm you up on a chilly day, here are some options that will surely make you feel cozy inside and out.
- Simple Pumpkin Soup from Minimalist Baker – A velvety soup made with roasted pumpkin, spices, and a touch of cream, a great option for a festive fall meal.
- Easy Vegetable Soup from Inspired Taste – Packed with an assortment of colorful vegetables, simmered to perfection in a rich broth.
- Egg Drop Soup from The Works of Life – Light and simple, with beaten eggs swirled in a seasoned broth for a quick and easy soup.
- Chicken Broth from Taste of Home – A classic staple made with chicken bones, carrots, and onion, simmered to perfection for a savory flavor.
- Simple Homemade Tomato Soup from Once Upon a Chef – A classic favorite with ripe tomatoes, garlic, and herbs for a burst of tangy goodness.
- Fish Broth from Overcoming MS– Made with fish heads, onion, and a touch of herbs, this broth is light and delicate with a subtle oceanic flavor.
- Mushroom Broth from Love and Lemons– Umami-packed and full of depth, this broth is a must-have in your pantry.
- French Onion Soup from Simply Recipes – A rich and savory soup made with caramelized onion, beef broth, and melted cheese on top, a comforting option for a fancy dinner.
- Corn Chowder from Food & Wine– Creamy and satisfying with sweet corn and potatoes for a comforting bowl of goodness.
- Creamy Potato Soup from Sugar Spun Run – Creamy and delicious, perfect for a cozy night in.
- Carrot Ginger Soup from Poppies and Prosecco – Bright and colorful, with a spicy kick from fresh ginger.
- Italian Wedding Soup from Once Upon a Chef – A comforting soup filled with mini meatballs, tender pasta, nutrient-rich greens like spinach or kale.
Snacks
Homemade snacks are not only healthier but they’re also fun to prepare. Here are some easy and tasty homemade snack recipes that you can make right in your own kitchen!
- Homemade Baked Potato Chips from The Simple Veganista– Thinly slice potatoes, season with salt and pepper, and bake in the oven until crispy.
- Homemade Tortilla Chips from Gimme Some Oven – Crunchy and crispy, these homemade tortilla chips are a great snack for movie nights or parties.
- Homemade Granola Bars from What’s Gaby Cooking – These oat-filled bars are great for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
- Sweet Potato Fries from Well Plated by Erin– These sweet potato fries are the perfect combination of savory and sweet.
- Baked Apple Chips from Iowa Girl Eats – Thinly slice apples, sprinkle with cinnamon, and bake until crispy for a healthy and delicious on-the-go snack.
- Baked Veggie Chips from Taste of Home – Crispy and healthy, these homemade veggie chips are the perfect guilt-free snack.
- Mini Quesadillas from A Paige of Positivity– These bite-sized delights are perfect for satisfying your craving for something cheesy and savory.
- Baked Zucchini Fries – These crispy and flavorful fries are a healthier alternative to traditional french fries, making them a guilt-free snack.
- Vegan Italian Meatloaf Cups from Making Thyme for Health — These Italian meatloaf cups are packed with tasty Italian flavors and are perfect for a healthy snack.
Condiments
Want to spice up your meals with some homemade goodness? I’ve got just the thing for you! These homemade condiments are not only super easy to make, but are also a delicious way to add some extra flavor to your favorite dishes.
- Sriracha Mayo from Hungry Huy – A spicy and creamy condiment that adds a kick to sandwiches or as a dip for fries.
- Homemade Ketchup from Tastes Better from Scratch– Forget the store-bought stuff, this homemade version is packed with fresh tomato flavor.
- Homemade Ranch Dressing from Cookie and Kate– Mayo sour cream, herbs, and spices create a creamy and tangy dressing that is perfect for salads.
- Honey Mustard from The Novice Chef– A delicious blend of sweet honey and tangy mustard that is perfect for dipping chicken tenders.
- Salsa Verde from Cooking Classy– A tangy and flavorful green salsa that is great for topping tacos or grilled meats.
- Worcestershire Sauce from Simply Recipes — This savory sauce is perfect for adding depth to your favorite dishes.
Pasta
Are you a pasta lover? If so, you’re in for a treat because I’ve got a list of easy and delicious pasta recipes that you are going to absolutely love!
- Pasta Carbonara – A rich and creamy sauce made with eggs, pancetta and Parmesan cheese for a decadent meal
- Grandma’s Homemade Noodles from The Birch Cottage– These simple homemade noodles are made with just flour, eggs, and a pinch of salt, creating a nostalgic dish straight from grandma’s kitchen.
- Spinach Fettuccine from Pasta et Al – Blanched spinach leaves pureed into a green pasta dough.
- Homemade Fusilli from Pharm-to-Table– Twisted and fun, fusilli is great for catching bits of meat and vegetables.
- Ravioli Dough from The Happy Mustard Seed – A classic Italian favorite, it’s easy to make and is perfect for stuffing with your favorite fillings.
- Homemade Orzo from KitchenAid – Tiny and delicate, orzo is great for soups and salads.
- Homemade Gnocchi from Damn Delicious– Soft potato dumplings served with a variety of sauces for a delightful and filling meal.
Mixes
Want to shake things up in your kitchen? How about trying these awesome homemade mixes that are super easy to whip up?
- Easy Homemade Chai Tea Mix from the House and Homestead — Feeling fancy? How about trying a chai tea mix? It’s a perfect way to unwind and relax after a long day.
- Simple Vanilla Milkshake Mix from Love Struck Smoothies- If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll love making a vanilla milkshake mix. Creamy and indulgent, it’s a treat for all ages.
- Homemade Self-Rising Flour from One Happy Dish– A versatile mix that can be used in a variety of baking recipes.
- Homemade Cake Mix from All Things Mamma — A versatile mix that can be used to make a variety of cakes from vanilla to chocolate to red velvet.
- Country Gravy Mix from Jeni Gough– A creamy and savory mix that pairs perfectly with biscuits, fried chicken, or mashed potatoes.
- Instant Chocolate Pudding Mix from Food.com — A creamy and chocolaty treat that’s ready in minuted for the ultimate dessert fix.
Dips, Sauces, and Syrups
Add some flavor to your meal with these homemade dips, sauces, and syrups.
- Homemade Teriyaki Sauce from The Foodie Takes Flight– A sweet and savory sauce that is great for marinating meats or drizzling over rice bowls.
- Chimichurri from the Forked Spoon– A zesty and herb- packed sauce that is a delicious accompaniment to grilled meats and veggies.
- Classic Guacamole from Martha Stewart– A creamy avocado dip with a hint of lime and cilantro for that perfect balance of flavor.
- Tzatziki Sauce from Budget Bytes– A refreshing Greek yogurt-based dip with cucumber and dill.
- Easy Hummus from The Mediterranean Dish– A smooth and savory chickpea dip with garlic and lemon flavors.
- Alfredo Sauce from The Cookie Rookie — Creamy and rich, this sauce adds taste to your favorite pasta dishes.
- Homemade Pesto from 101 Cookbooks– A flavorful sauce made with fresh basil, garlic, nuts, and cheese.
- Cilantro Lime Crema from Love and Lemons – A creamy and zesty sauce that adds a burst of flavor to tacos or grilled corn.
- Homemade Caramel Sauce from Life Love and Sugar — A rich and buttery sauce ideal for drizzling over apple slices.
- Maple Syrup from Mel’s Kitchen Cafe– This classic syrup adds a touch of sweetness to any dish.
- Lavender Syrup from Gimme Some Oven — Floral and fragrant lavender syrup for a unique twist.
- Vanilla Syrup from foodiewithlove.com– A classic syrup that pairs well with almost anything,
- Raspberry Syrup from A Couple of Cooks– Bold and bright, perfect for adding a splash of color to your dishes.
- Coffee Syrup from The Spruce Eats — Rich and intense, this syrup adds an extra kick to your morning cup of Joe.
- Homemade Almond Syrup from Fork in the Kitchen– Nutty and sweet, this syrup is a great addition to your favorite baked goods.
Seasonings
These simple yet flavorful blends are perfect for adding a little extra pizzazz to your favorite recipes.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice from Crazy for Crust – A warm and aromatic blend of spices that is perfect for adding a cozy and festive flavor to baked goods.
- Homemade Garlic Powder from Grow a Good Life– A little sprinkle of this aromatic seasoning will add a burst of flavor to any dish.
- Homemade Onion Powder from I Am Homesteader – Enhance the taste of your meals with this savory and versatile seasoning.
- Taco Seasoning from Smart In the Kitchen– Spice up your tacos with this zesty and flavorful mix of spices.
- BBQ Rub from Grillseeker– Elevate your grilled meats with this smoky and sweet seasoning blend.
- Homemade Chili Powder from Minimalist Baker — Great for adding a kick to tacos and soups.
Drinks
Craving a homemade drink to cool you down on a hot day or just relax with? From fruity to creamy, these drinks are sure to quench your thirst and satisfy your cravings.
- Watermelon Mint Cooler from An Appetizing Life– Cool off on a hot day with this hydrating and minty drink that screams summer in a glass.
- Easy Homemade Strawberry Lemonade from Simple Acres Blog — A refreshing blend of sweet strawberries and tangy lemon that will make you feel like your sipping on sunshine.
- Tropical Pineapple Coconut Smoothie from Del’s cooking twist — Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this creamy and tropical treat.
- Homemade Eggnog from Tastes Better From Scratch — A creamy and festive drink that is great for the holidays.
When you’re looking to save some money, one of the best ways to do so is by making homemade food. Not only will you be cutting costs, but you’ll also be able to enjoy healthy and delicious dishes made right in your own kitchen.