13 Dollar Store Pantry Items That Are Surprisingly Worth It

If you're looking to save money on groceries, the easiest way is to buy food items that are affordable. Luckily, buying cheaper doesn't mean giving up quality. If you go to a dollar store, you can find surprisingly high-quality items at a great price.

From spices to baking supplies, here are the 14 pantry items that are worth buying at the dollar store.

Editor's note: Prices and availability are subject to change and may vary by location.

Price: $1.25

Peanut butter is a staple in nearly every American household. Everyone from kids to adults loves it, and it's a budget-friendly filling for sandwiches and a spread for bananas. But the cost seems to be increasing year after year. Luckily, at the Dollar Store, you can get 10 ounces of peanut butter for a price that still seems reasonable.

Price: $1.25

Does summer have you craving margaritas? Mango with a little kick? Tajin is a favorite seasoning of those who love to cook Mexican-inspired dishes. Make every dollar count when you buy your Tajin at the dollar store instead of paying about $3.50 for a small spice jar at most stores.

Price: $1.25

Want to always have a short-order breakfast on hand? Stock up on this pancake mix from Hungry Jack, which makes diner-worthy breakfasts quick and easy. You could pay upwards of $10 to $15 for a pancake meal at your favorite restaurant, or you could spend less than $2 for a DT mix that will last you several weekends.

Price: $1.25

If you've ever tried to make gnocchi from scratch, you know it's an exercise in both skill and patience. That's why it's easier just to buy it.

But who wants to pay Italian restaurant prices every time they crave a creamy plate of gnocchi? Instead, you can pick up this package for less than $2 at Dollar Tree.

Price $1.25

Vegetable oil, like many other items, has become more expensive in the last few years. You'll pay nearly $3 for a 16-ounce bottle at many big-box stores. That adds up over time, especially if you cook most of your meals at home. Save money at the dollar store and add this pantry essential to your cart on your next visit.

Price: $1.25

Some people are fiercely loyal to their ketchup brands, and this one may not be for them. But, if you're willing to abandon the other big H-name in the ketchup world, then you'll be delighted to know you can get a 14-ounce bottle of Hunt's Tomato Ketchup for just $1.25 at the Dollar Tree.

Price: $1.25

When you're craving chicken salad, having a can of chicken in the pantry is the best way to get your fix immediately. Stock up on canned chicken next time you're at the dollar store, where you can find it for just $1.25. For reference, Amazon sells the same brand, but charges $20 for a 5-pack.

Price: $1.25

If you're a big baker, then you know that a can of chunk pineapple comes in surprisingly handy. From hummingbird cake to pineapple upside-down cake, you can make all sorts of delicious sweets with a can of pineapple. When you find these sweet cans for $1.25 at the Dollar Store, stock up.

Price: $1.25

It's always a good idea to have a box of cake mix on hand; after all, you never know when a celebratory occasion or a birthday might pop up. If you buy your cake mix at Dollar Tree, you'll pay just over a dollar per box. Add some oil and an egg, and you have a bakery-worthy confection.

Price: $1.25

Rice is a great budget-friendly food that you can use to add filling to everything from stuffed peppers to tacos. It's almost always affordable, but if you can find it at the dollar store, you can save even more. Dollar Tree sells a two-pound bag that's worth adding to your basket.

Price: $1.25

If you need a quick lunch to keep on hand, there's nothing better than these tuna salad kits. They'll run you over $2 at some grocery stores and big box stores, but at the dollar store, they'll only cost you less and taste just as good. Redditor sanababesh claimed, "Certified banger right there."

Price: $1.25

Whether you have kids or grandkids around the house, mac and cheese is probably a staple. And, if those kids are picky, they might insist on Kraft. Luckily, the dollar store has name-brand Kraft Mac & Cheese for just $1.25, and, even better, it's the thick and creamy style.

Price: $1.25

You might expect the dollar store to have pantry items like rice and pasta, but you might be surprised to know you can also save money on superfoods like quinoa. Even better, this one is an easy meal ready in less than 2 minutes using your microwave (no need for special bowls, it cooks directly in the pack), all for just over a dollar.

When it comes time to make a plan to help your household withstand economic downturns, it helps to shop at dollar stores.

There are other ways to reduce your monthly food bill, like choosing ingredients that get the most bang for your buck, meal planning, and shopping at various stores to find the best deals.