Learn how to make an efficient and healthy grocery list in just 5 minutes each week with these tips, plus get my free grocery list template!
Grocery shopping made easy
Leave the days of frantic grocery store runs behind! With my five simple steps for making your grocery list, you'll be in and out in less than 30 minutes, all while sticking to your budget.
How to make a grocery list
- Figure out what ingredients you need.
- Write down or copy and paste all the ingredients.
- Take inventory of what you already have so you don't double up.
- Organize by category (i.e. produce together, meat together, etc.).
- Be flexible when it comes to ingredients! If something is on sale, swap it out.
BONUS TIP: Stock up on protein when itās on sale and freeze it for later. It can be expensive, so if you see it on sale, snag it while you can.
Organizing your list
When it comes to grocery lists, organization is key. I like to use the Notes app since it syncs to my phone or a Word doc, but a pen and paper will work just as well.
Once you've figured out what ingredients you need, organize your list by category (produce, meat, dry goods, etc.). You can even organize it by visualizing yourself moving through the store, so you don't have to double back to the same area.
Grocery shopping tips & tricks
Here are some of my top tips for an easier shopping trip:
- Use the Notes app: If you have a Mac, use the Notes app, which automatically syncs to your phone.
- Hunt for deals: Check your grocery store's flyer online to find out what's on sale.
- Skip the crowds: If you can, shop during off-hours like first thing in the morning or mid-day.
- Try online ordering: It's a great way to eliminate impulse purchases and save time!
Master grocery list
Here are all the staples I typically have on hand for my daily meals if you need any grocery list ideas! Make sure to stock up on them (and these pantry staples) so you can whip something up on a whim.
Dry goods
- Flour
- Sugar (white and brown)
- Rice
- Cornstarch
- Pasta
Canned Goods
- Beans
- Lentils
- Pasta sauce
- Chicken, beef and vegetable broth
- Salsa
Condiments
- Neutral cooking oil like olive oil or canola oil
- Soy sauce or tamari
- Hot sauce
- Ketchup
- Mustard
- Mayonnaise
- Honey
- Peanut Butter
Proteins
- Chicken breasts and/or chicken thighs
- Ground beef and/or turkey
- Frozen raw shrimp
Spices
- Salt & pepper
- Chili powder
- Curry powder
- Fennel
- Cinnamon
- Cumin
- Ground ginger
- Oregano
- Paprika
- Thyme
Dairy
- Milk (or your favourite dairy-free alternative)
- Plain yogurt
- Eggs
- Cheese (parmesan and mozzarella are my basic go-to's)
Produce
- Onions
- Fresh garlic
- Apples
- Bananas
- Avocados
- Bell peppers
- Leafy greens
- Mixed frozen vegetables
Download your free grocery list template
Comments & Reviews
Page says
The protein list seems to be the same as the condiment list. I was curious if you could change it to the proteins because this looks like a great page and I want to share it with my daughter who has been asking me about what a starter kitchen pantry would look like. Thanks in advance! Page
Katie Didow says
Hi Page! Sorry about that, it’s been corrected now! š Hope your daughter finds this helpful!