If you’re raising a teenager right now — especially one who can clear a dinner table before you’ve had a chance to sit down — you’re not imagining things. Feeding a growing teen can feel like trying to stock a vending machine during halftime. Except the vending machine is your kitchen, and halftime happens every afternoon.

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed. The grocery bills creep higher, and the food seems to disappear faster than you can unpack it. But here’s the good news: You don’t have to overspend to keep your teen fed and your fridge from looking like it’s been raided by raccoons.

With a little planning and a few smart habits, it’s possible to nourish your teen — body and soul — without draining your bank account. Here are some of my go-to frugal strategies that make life a little easier during these wonderfully hungry years.

START WITH FILLING STAPLES

When you’re feeding someone with a bottomless appetite, bulk and balance matter. Focus on pantry basics like rice, pasta, oats, potatoes and beans. They’re inexpensive and filling, and they stretch meals beautifully.

A little ground beef can go a long way in a hearty pot of chili. Stir-fries with rice and vegetables are easy to scale up. And casseroles are your friend — especially the kind that lets you sneak in some veggies and use what’s already in the pantry.

LET THE SLOW COOKER DO THE HEAVY LIFTING

A slow cooker is a gift on busy nights. Just add a roast or some chicken thighs, throw in some chopped vegetables and broth, and let it work its magic. You’ll end up with a comforting, homecooked meal that tastes like you spent hours — without actually doing that. And the leftovers? Perfect for tomorrow’s lunch or freezing for a rainy day.

DOUBLE UP WHEN YOU COOK

If you’re already cooking, it doesn’t take much more time or effort to make a double batch. Freeze the extra sauce, taco meat or soup. Having readymade meals tucked away can make all the difference on those evenings when your teen walks in the door, drops a backpack and says, “I’m starving.” You’ll thank yourself later.

BREAKFAST FOR DINNER IS ALWAYS A WIN

There’s something so comforting about breakfast foods, and thankfully, they’re also budget-friendly. Eggs, pancakes and French toast are quick, inexpensive and usually a hit with everyone at the table. Let them add their own toppings or sides — it turns a simple meal into something they’ll look forward to.

KEEP SMART SNACKS ON HAND

Teens snack. A lot. And while it’s tempting to load up on prepackaged snacks, the cost adds up quickly. Instead, keep boiled eggs, cut fruit, peanut butter toast, popcorn and homemade muffins in rotation. If you bake a batch of muffins or bars, freeze half for later — they’ll be ready when you need them. Having healthier, filling snacks available keeps them satisfied and your budget in check.

BUY IN BULK, THOUGHTFULLY

Buying in bulk can absolutely help — if you’re strategic. Stick to the items you know they eat consistently: oats, pasta, flour, rice and cheese. A large block of cheese costs less than pre-shredded and stores well. Just avoid falling into the trap of novelty-sized snacks that lose their charm (and shelf life) in a week.

GET THEM INVOLVED IN THE KITCHEN

One of the best ways to ease the pressure is to teach your teen how to cook. Start simple: grilled cheese, scrambled eggs, quesadillas. Then hand them a recipe and let them take the lead once in a while. Not only will they learn a valuable skill, but they’ll gain a little appreciation for what goes into putting food on the table. And who knows? You may get the night off once in a while.

TRY A DIY PIZZA NIGHT

Homemade pizza dough is budget-friendly and easy to make (or buy premade if that’s easier). Let your teen pile on their own toppings — whatever you have on hand works just fine. Pizza night at home is not only cheaper than delivery, it’s fun and filling too. Tip: Your local pizza takeout joint is likely to sell fresh dough for a couple of bucks. Or check your supermarket in the deli area.

MAKE A MEAL PLAN

Meal planning may sound like a chore, but it’s one of the best ways to save money and reduce stress. Look at the week’s grocery ads, build meals around what’s on sale, and get your teen involved in the planning.

If they help choose a meal, they’ll be more likely to eat it without complaint. (No guarantees, but it helps.)

A GENTLE REMINDER: THIS IS A SEASON

These high-appetite years don’t last forever. One day, they’ll be off cooking for themselves — and you might even miss the sound of the refrigerator door opening every 15 minutes.

Until then, feed them well, love them through it, and know that you’re doing a beautiful job — one affordable, filling meal at a time.