You don’t need an overstocked pantry or refrigerator to feed yourself – or your family. By keeping these affordable, multi-tasking ingredients on hand, you’re always minutes away from a unique and satisfying meal!

1. Brown Rice

A perfect base or side for each and every dish, this worldly whole-grain rice goes well with any cuisine. Serve alongside (or underneath) your favorite protein to add an extra layer of heartiness to your meal.

Pair your rice with this Chicken and Vegetable Curry One Pan Meal that’s perfect for a simple weeknight dinner.

2. Eggs

Quiches, scrambles, Benedicts – what can’t the incredible egg do? Though a must-have for any breakfast or brunch, this multipurpose ingredient is often called for in dinners and desserts, too.

3. Canned Beans

Full of protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals, canned beans aren’t just rich in flavor, they’re also a great alternative to pricy meats in tacos, salads or even as burger patties!

4. Dried Spices

Dried spices are an easy way to add flavor to any meal – and sometimes, all it takes is a dash. Common varieties to keep on hand include chili powder, basil, cumin, onion and garlic.

This Instant Pot® Turkey Chili Mac brings a combination of dried spices together in one easy meal.

5. Hearty Root Vegetables

Filling and hearty sweet potatoes, potatoes and carrots enhance any dish, and they all have longer than average shelf-lives.

6. Oatmeal

From breakfasts to cookies to no-bake protein balls, oatmeal is welcomed everywhere. Plus, this healthy grain is a great source of important vitamins and minerals, as well as fiber.

7. Frozen Vegetables

There’s no need to worry about your vegetables wilting or getting mushy when they’re frozen – and with a little olive oil and soy sauce, they can create an instant stir-fry.

8. Chicken Thighs

Whether you’re freezing it, meal prepping it or enjoying it the same day, chicken thighs keep well and are easily suited to almost any meal.

Try this easy-to-make Sautéed Chicken Thighs with Quinoa recipe that’s under 400 calories.

9. Canned Tomatoes

If you have canned tomatoes, then you also have the possibility of homemade pasta or pizza sauce, soups, stews and chilis at your fingertips.

10. Ground Meat

From feeding the whole crew to putting weekday meals on the table, quick-cooking ground beef is key. It freezes well, reheats perfectly and is as versatile and easy as they come.

This Hamburger Stroganoff uses ground beef instead of tenderloin, saving time and money without sacrificing flavor.