Finding affordable meal options becomes increasingly essential as grocery prices climb. Canned foods present a practical solution for both quick dinner ideas and satisfying snacks. Dollar Tree stands out in the budget grocery scene, providing shoppers with a wide selection of canned foods that are not only affordable but also delicious. To help maximize your next grocery haul, here are 14 canned foods you should be grabbing at Dollar Tree — perfect for adding variety to your pantry without breaking the bank.
1. Swanson Chicken à la King
A fantastic dinner option that cooks in minutes, Swanson chicken à la king is made with tender white and dark meats, mushrooms, and red and green peppers in a creamy gravy. Priced below other retailers like Walmart, this 10.5-ounce can is a budget-friendly dinner solution. Simply heat it up and serve with rice, biscuits, or add mixed veggies for more nutrition. Rave reviews highlight nostalgic flavors, with one satisfied customer saying it taste almost like grandma's homemade version.
2. Libby's Yellow Cling Sliced Peaches
Don't overlook the sweetness of canned fruits. Grab Libby's yellow cling sliced peaches in heavy syrup for a versatile pantry staple. Ideal for making fruit desserts, drinks, or even enjoyed directly from the can, this product offers considerable savings compared to major grocery chains. The syrup can also be used to sweeten iced tea or add flavor to a variety of dishes, ensuring you use every last drop.
3. Prego Classic Alfredo Sauce
For a creamy and flavorful sauce option without the high price tag, Prego classic Alfredo sauce is a standout. At Dollar Tree, it’s nearly half the price of other retailers such as Albertsons. This sauce is versatile — perfect for pasta dishes, as a pizza base, or to enhance your vegetable meals. Reviewers rave about its comparable taste to jarred versions, confirming it’s a must-have for your pantry.
4. StarKist Chunk Light Tuna in Water
StarKist chunk light tuna is a staple in many households due to its high protein content and affordability. Although you might find it cheaper at Walmart, Dollar Tree's price is still very competitive, especially for those stocking up on several cans. This 5-ounce can is not just for tuna salads; it's perfect for casseroles, tuna croquettes, or simple sandwiches — a nutritious addition to your pantry.
5. Chicken of the Sea Wild-Caught Sardines in Louisiana Hot Sauce
Cans of Chicken of the Sea wild-caught sardines in Louisiana hot sauce deliver great taste and nutrition. These sardines are rich in protein and healthy fats and can be enjoyed right from the can or mashed for easy consumption. They’re also more affordable at Dollar Tree compared to retailers like Albertsons, making them an excellent choice for health-conscious shoppers.
6. Clemente Jacques Pickled Whole Jalapeños
Spice up mundane meals with Clemente Jacques pickled whole jalapeños. This 26-ounce can adds a kick and a tangy flavor to a variety of dishes. They offer a great alternative to fresh jalapeños, saving you time in the kitchen. Use them to enhance salsas or complement other main dishes, and enjoy their crunchiness noted by user reviews.
7. Island Choice Diced Fruit Cocktail in Light Syrup
Island Choice's diced fruit cocktail is a convenient way to enjoy a mix of fruits. This 15-ounce can features pears, peaches, pineapples, grapes, and cherries, adaptable for various snacks and recipes. Use it to liven up a punch bowl or serve over yogurt for a pleasing dessert. It’s an easy way to serve multiple fruits without the hassle of preparation.
8. La Sierra Premium Refried Beans
For an easy side dish, consider La Sierra's premium refried beans at Dollar Tree. Each 20.5-ounce can provides multiple servings at a low price, offering 4 grams of fiber and 6 grams of plant-based protein per half-cup serving. With reviews calling them some of the best-tasting on the market, these beans can be a delicious and filling addition to your meals.
9. Bruce's Yams Sweet Potatoes in Orange Pineapple Sauce
Forget about tedious prep work; Bruce's Yams provides you with that sweet potato goodness all year round. The canned sweet potatoes come in a delightful pineapple orange sauce, enhancing the dish's sweetness. Try incorporating them into pancakes or smoothies for a twist on traditional recipes — a great time-saver and a flavorful option.
10. Campbell's Kitchen Classics Chicken Noodle Soup
Nothing beats a comforting bowl of soup, especially when it’s Campbell's Kitchen Classics chicken noodle soup. This 14.2-ounce can brings you classic flavors packed with noodles, chicken cubes, and vegetables. For a great price at Dollar Tree, stock up on this fan-favorite meal that’s perfect for any season. Users highlight its versatility, suggesting that a simple addition of lemon juice or hot sauce can give each bowl a unique twist.
11. California Farms Evaporated Filled Milk
Ideal for a range of dishes, California Farms evaporated filled milk is a versatile pantry item at Dollar Tree. This 12-ounce can is shelf-stable, making it convenient for those times you need milk but don’t want the hassle of refrigeration. Perfect for desserts or savory dishes, it’s a money-saving solution for those in need of a creamy addition without worrying about spoilage.
12. Mother's Maid Cherry Filling or Topping
Mother's Maid cherry filling is more than just for pies; it's a versatile ingredient for various desserts. Use it in cakes, over ice cream, or in fruit cobblers. Shoppers appreciate the affordability of this 15-ounce can compared to similar products at other stores, making it a sweet addition to your shopping list.
13. Margaret Holmes Tomatoes, Okra, and Corn
Why settle for plain veggies when you can combine them? Margaret Holmes tomatoes, okra, and corn provides a satisfying mix in one convenient can. It's priced competitively at Dollar Tree and can serve as a quick side or foundational ingredient for soups and gumbos. This Southern-style mix comes pre-seasoned, saving you prep time without sacrificing flavor.
14. Healthy Choice Chicken with Rice Soup
Healthy Choice chicken with rice soup is a go-to meal option packed with hearty ingredients. This soup boasts a low sodium count, making it suitable for those monitoring their salt intake. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this soup is an excellent choice any time of the year, satisfying both taste and health considerations.
Employing a strategy to stock up on these 14 canned foods you should be grabbing at Dollar Tree can make meal preparation significantly easier and more affordable. Not only are these products convenient and versatile, but shopping at Dollar Tree can also help you avoid the high prices of major grocery chains. Next time you’re ready for a grocery haul, consider loading up on these excellent products to enhance your cooking options without straining your budget.