14 Store-Bought Shortcuts I’m Not Ashamed to Use

As a working professional, finding shortcuts in the kitchen can be a game-changer for maintaining a balanced, efficient lifestyle. Here, I’m sharing my favorite store-bought shortcuts that have proven essential in my meal preparation and home management.

1. Pre-Chopped Vegetables

One of my favorite store-bought shortcuts is pre-chopped vegetables. I can’t count the number of times these have come to my rescue, especially on busy weekdays. The variety is fantastic – you can find everything from peppers to onions, to mixed stir-fry packs. They significantly speed up meal preparation, allowing me to toss them into a pan without the hassle of peeling, washing, and cutting.

While it’s true that pre-chopped veggies may cost a bit more than their whole counterparts, the convenience and time saved make them worth every penny. Plus, they help ensure my family and I are eating plenty of fresh produce, even on our most hectic days.

2. Ready-Made Pasta Sauce

Ready-made pasta sauce is another lifesaver. With a wide range of flavors and options available, I can easily whip up a spaghetti Bolognese or penne arrabbiata in no time. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when I need to get dinner on the table quickly.

Of course, it’s essential to read the labels when choosing a sauce, as some brands might have higher sugar or sodium content. I always opt for sauces with natural ingredients and no added sugars, ensuring my family gets a healthy and delicious meal.

3. Frozen Pizza

Having a frozen pizza in the freezer is like a safety net. On nights when I’m too tired to cook or when unexpected guests drop by, a high-quality frozen pizza can be a real lifesaver. Plus, there are several gourmet options available that taste just as good as a pizzeria pie.

Adding extra toppings can enhance a basic frozen pizza. Fresh veggies, leftover meats, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze can transform it into a gourmet meal in minutes.

4. Canned Soup

Canned soup offers comfort and convenience in a can. Whether for a quick lunch or dinner on a cold day, it’s a staple in my pantry. But I’m mindful of the nutritional aspect, so I choose options with low sodium and real ingredients.

Even though it’s canned, I like to add a personal touch to my soup. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of yogurt can make a canned soup feel more homemade and comforting.

5. Boxed Cake Mixes

There’s something wonderfully simple and reliable about a boxed cake mix. The instructions are easy to follow, and the results are consistently good. It’s a far cry from the stress of baking a cake from scratch, especially when preparing for special occasions.

Boxed cake mixes are also extremely versatile. You can add in extras like chocolate chips, nuts, or fruits to customize the flavor. Plus, the time saved by using a boxed mix means I can focus on the fun part – decorating!

6. Pre-Cooked Rice and Quinoa

Pre-cooked grains like rice and quinoa are another time-saving godsend. They’re excellent for adding substance to salads, making quick stir-fries, or serving as a side dish. Plus, they’re usually cooked and ready to eat in just a few minutes.

Having these pre-cooked grains on hand has saved me countless hours in the kitchen. They’re a quick and easy way to create hearty, healthy meals without the long cooking and cleanup time.

7. Rotisserie Chicken

A rotisserie chicken is one of the most versatile items in the grocery store. I can shred it for chicken salad, chop it for tacos, or serve it as is with some veggies and potatoes. It’s an easy way to provide multiple meals with minimal effort.

Having a pre-cooked chicken on hand also saves a lot of time. It allows me to focus on creating flavorful sides and sauces without worrying about the main protein.

8. Frozen Fruit and Vegetables

Frozen produce is a must-have in my freezer. They retain most of their nutritional value, meaning I’m not sacrificing health for convenience. Plus, they’re always there when I need them, reducing the stress of running out of fresh ingredients.

From smoothies and stir-fries to pies and casseroles, frozen fruits and veggies can be used in a myriad of dishes. They’re a simple and effective way to ensure I always have a variety of produce on hand.

9. Store-Bought Bread

While there’s nothing quite like the smell and taste of freshly baked homemade bread, store-bought bread is a time-saving staple I can’t live without. The variety available is impressive, from whole grain loaves to artisanal sourdough.

Store-bought bread is perfect for quick breakfasts, sandwiches, or even as a side for dinner. It’s one of those simple conveniences that make a big difference in my daily routine.

10. Pre-Made Dough and Pie Crust

Pre-made dough and pie crusts are a baker’s best friend. Whether I’m making a homemade pizza, quiche, or dessert pie, these ready-made bases save me a lot of time and effort.

Despite being store-bought, they can still be customized. I can add my choice of toppings to the pizza dough, fill the pie crust with my favorite fillings, and create a delicious homemade dish without the hassle of making dough from scratch.

11. Frozen Meals

The frozen meal landscape has evolved over the years. Now, there are plenty of healthier and tastier options available. They’re great to have on hand for those days when I’m too exhausted to cook, or when I need a quick meal before rushing off to an evening commitment.

From vegetarian lasagnas to shrimp stir-fries, the variety in the frozen meal aisle is surprisingly impressive. It’s a convenient solution for those inevitable busy days.

12. Instant Coffee and Tea

The convenience and speed of instant coffee and tea can’t be overstated. While it may not replace a freshly brewed cup, the quality of instant beverages has significantly improved over the years.

Whether it’s a busy morning or a lazy afternoon, instant coffee or tea can be a quick way to get my caffeine fix. They have become an integral part of my daily routine, providing a quick and easy pick-me-up whenever I need it.

13. Spice Mixes

Pre-mixed spices can be a real time-saver in the kitchen. From taco seasoning to Italian herbs, these blends can add a lot of flavor to a dish without the need to measure and mix individual spices.

There’s a wide variety of spice mixes available, making it easy to experiment with different cuisines. They’re a great way to add a quick flavor boost to meals, especially when I’m short on time.

14. Salad Kits

Last but not least, pre-packaged salad kits are a convenient way to enjoy a healthy, balanced meal. They come with everything you need – mixed greens, dressing, and toppings, making meal prep a breeze.

The variety and versatility of salad kits are impressive. From Caesar to Southwest, there’s a kit for every craving. They’re a great way to incorporate more greens into my diet without the hassle of washing, chopping, and mixing different ingredients.

Remember, it’s all about finding ways to make your life easier, and if that means taking a few shortcuts in the kitchen, then so be it.