If you're strapped for time, it can seem tempting to splurge on indulgent foods like takeout and pre-made dinners. But the costs of these mealtime purchases can be tough on your wallet, especially in a down economy.

Giant Eagle^® has strategic meal ideas for you. These meals can be made in minutes, so they fit into any busy schedule. Even better, they all rely on simple supermarket staples you can pick up at your local Giant Eagle^® any time. Follow our five handy savings steps, and in no time, you'll be eating deliciously — for less!

1. Buy in bulk

When it comes to grocery shopping, bigger is frequently better. And if you're shopping for pantry or freezer staples — including oatmeal, pasta, rice, canned goods, and frozen veggies — you'll want to select the largest container possible.

Why? As total size increases, the cost per unit of these pantry staples goes down. Your super-saving bonus? Staples seldom spoil — so stock up!

2. Look for savings

Smart shoppers know that lower-cost meals begin with looking for deals. So the next time you head to Giant Eagle^®, grab what's on sale — and plan dinner around those ingredients.

If you like to plan your meals in advance, just shop for savings. See what's on sale in your area, and note the sales. Stock up on lower-cost food options, and incorporate those ingredients into your dinner plans. Make sure to use your Giant Eagle Advantage Card^® as well as applicable register coupons for extra savings.

3. Be substitute savvy

When hunting for recipes, always check the ingredient list, and see if you can substitute a lower-cost option for a more expensive ingredient.

For example, if an entrée calls for processed cheese or cheese singles, substitute Giant Eagle^® real cheese wherever possible. You'll save significantly per portion size. Or, if you're making dessert and the recipe calls for pudding, make your treat with Valu-Time instant pudding instead of the pre-made varieties, and save money on each serving.

4. Check prep times on recipes

When you're making meals on the run, cooking times count. Before you try a recipe for dinner, check the total preparation time. Recipes that are ready in 30 minutes or less are often great choices on busy weeknights.

Want to save even more time? Look for dishes featuring foods that don't require much cooking or prep-work — such as fresh lettuce, cheese, frozen peas, or shredded rotisserie chicken. You'll save precious time while satisfying and nourishing your diners.

5. Follow our lead

Want faster, low-cost meal ideas? Try one — or a few — of these recipes, and save! Each recipe requires a few inexpensive ingredients (or substitutions) and just a little cooking time. Giant Eagle^® brand suggestions are provided wherever possible to help you save more.

• Entrees
  • Speedy Salsa-Chicken Quesadillas — Cooks in 10 minutes. Use shredded rotisserie chicken in this recipe, and substitute one cup Giant Eagle^® shredded cheese for national-brand cheese.
  • Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Macaroni — Cooks in 25 minutes or less. Substitute shredded rotisserie chicken for chicken breasts, and substitute one-half pound Giant Eagle^® mild Cheddar cheese for prepared cheese product in recipe.
  • Bistro Chicken — Cooks in 25 minutes total. Ideal for times when there are sales on chicken breasts in the Giant Eagle^® Meat Department.
  • Salsa Mac Chicken Supper — Cooks in about 20 minutes total. Substitute Giant Eagle^® macaroni and cheese for pasta mix in recipe. Use one pound shredded rotisserie chicken in place of chicken breasts in recipe, and reduce frying time accordingly.
  • Bistro Tomato and Basil Pasta — Prep time is 25 minutes or less. Substitute Giant Eagle^® grated Parmesan cheese for cheese in recipe.
• Vegetables and sides
  • Carrot Sautee with Ginger and Orange — Cooks in 10 minutes.
  • Roasted Broccoli with Lemon — Cooks in 10 minutes.
  • Mustard-Glazed Carrots — Cooks in 15 minutes
  • Cheesy Baked Potatoes — Cooks in 15 minutes total; substitute two ounces Giant Eagle^® mild Cheddar cheese for cheese singles.
• Desserts
  • Super Chocolate Pudding — Prep time is 15 minutes or less. Prepare the night before to ensure pudding is set. Substitute Valu-Time chocolate pudding for mix in recipe, and use Giant Eagle^® milk.
  • Homemade Pudding Pops — Prep time is 10 minutes. Prepare the night before to ensure pudding pops are set. Substitute Valu-Time chocolate pudding for mix in recipe, and use Giant Eagle^® milk.
  • Peaches and Cream Pudding — Prep time is 5 minutes. Prepare the night before to ensure pudding is set. Substitute Valu-Time pudding for mix in recipe, and use Giant Eagle^® milk.