16 Cheap Canned Goods That Professional Chefs Swear By

Treating yourself to a fancy meal doesn't have to be out of reach. 

If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at something you saw on a cooking show without breaking the bank, canned goods can be your ticket to these restaurant-quality dinners.

In fact, many notable chefs use canned groceries for many of their memorable meals. It’s a way to save money on groceries and eat well, and you can do it too.  

Editor’s note: Prices are subject to change and may vary by store or location. Our prices are pulled from Trader Joe’s, Walmart, and Aldi.

Price: $0.95

This can of diced tomatoes comes already seasoned and spiced. Plus, at less than $1, you’ll not only make cooking easier and tastier, but you'll also keep more money in your wallet.

Enjoy a delicious dish with this ready-to-go canned good. Your family may just think you’ve become a seasoned chef with this handy ingredient.

Price: $2.49

Chickpeas are a chef’s favorite, and these come already seasoned with bold spices.

Incorporate this into a wide variety of recipes, including homemade hummus. This may just become your new go-to ingredient.

Price: $1.32

Even the most humble of ingredients can transform a dish.

Many chefs use canned soups to add creaminess and depth to their dishes like this cream of chicken. There’s a reason why this soup is a staple in many households!

Price: $1.95

Many kitchens and chefs around the world utilize this canned ingredient for their desserts.

Sweetened condensed milk is versatile in its use and relatively inexpensive. Pies, puddings, ice creams, and more can benefit from this canned good.

Price: $1.42

This can of fluffy hominy kernels is something celebrity chefs like Aarón Sánchez swear by.

Since it’s pre-cooked, it’s easy to incorporate into your meals and dishes for some lovely texture. Make some of this chef’s famous chili or hominy and pico de gallo with this can.

Price: $1.05

Chefs like Alton Brown love sardines for their saltiness and crunch.

Eat them alone or make dips, spreads, and other fishy recipes with this canned good. And since it comes in oil, half the prep is already handled!

Price: $2.88

Don’t confuse this ingredient for ready-made pumpkin pie filling.

This pure pumpkin puree can be used in a wide range of dishes for a fresh pumpkin taste. Many chefs use this canned good for elevated cuisine without spending too much time or energy.

Price: $4.47

Want to make a quick fruit crumble or pie?

Many chefs love the ease of use of canned fruits like these tart cherries. And canned fruits let you make your favorite desserts no matter the season.

Price: $1.75

Did you know that Julia Child loved using canned tuna?

You can easily add a number of ingredients to turn this dish into an elegant treat. Try it with oil, lemon, spices, and more for a light meal full of flavor.

Price: $3.98

This classic canned meat is popular in Hawaiian dishes, and for good reason.

Make your very own low-cost dinner with this canned ingredient. Try it grilled with rice and seaweed for an unforgettable meal that’ll transport you to Hawaii.

Price: $4.82

This sweeter variety of tomatoes packs a powerful punch that many celebrity chefs praise.

Canned tomatoes are easy to blend into homemade sauces and Italian dishes for a hearty, acidic flavor. Make more elegant meals with this handy and affordable ingredient.

Price: $2.48

Don’t overlook this canned good on your next shopping trip.

Chefs like Rocco DiSpirito love how convenient, low-cost, and fresh these canned clams can be for dishes. And less preparation is needed when you use a can of clams over fresh seafood.

Price: $1.09

Homemade hummus and soup wouldn’t be complete without garbanzo beans, also known as chickpeas.

This staple ingredient is convenient for injecting some fiber, protein, and other nutrients into your everyday diet.

And the canned varieties mean you still get delicious taste and freshness for your high-quality meals.

Price: $1.32

Here’s another handy soup many chefs swear by.

Campbell’s tomato soup is versatile with its acidity and creamy tomato flavor. Incorporate it into your homemade sauces, or add whole milk and spices to elevate this soup.

Price: $1.64

You can cook like Bobby Flay when you use this ingredient!

These chipotle peppers are soaked in adobo sauce, adding authentic flair to any dish. They have a smoky, spicy flavor and richness that can elevate any recipe.

Price: $2.92

When you can’t get fresh fruits, canned fruits can be just as delicious.

One benefit of canned fruits, like these peaches, is the sweet syrup they’re steeped in. This makes them great for less prep for pies, cobblers, and more.

Cooking chef-quality meals for your family doesn’t mean you have to break the bank.

One smart shopping hack is to stock up on many of these canned goods to make quick, easy dishes that taste as delicious as possible.

See what some of your favorite chefs recommend, and visit your local grocery store to buy some of these staples.