12 ways to cut your food bill—whether you’re single or a big family

By Molly Triffin | MarketWatch

After a long day, swinging by your favorite takeout spot or restaurant can seem way more appealing than cooking at home. According to a new study, the average millennial eats out as much as five times a week. But that can add up.

While strategically ordering meals you can stretch over a few days won’t wreck your budget, more often than not, this convenience will cost you: A PlateIQ analysis found restaurants mark up food by an average of 300%.

On the other hand, cooking at home has countless benefits, not just for your money, but for your health and happiness, too. So we came up with a game plan to make the process easier, cheaper and even more enjoyable—no matter what your situation.

The starter chef cooking for one

The Goal: Successfully cook for one, without getting buried in leftovers you’ll never finish.

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