Free bread crumbs

Every bread sack has a few crumbs in it when it's "empty". Shake these crumbs into a container and freeze them until you need bread crumbs for a meatloaf, stuffing or topping. It's like getting them for free.

Bread crumbs and cubes

Need bread crumbs? First off, don't buy them! They're just what they say: bread crumbs. If you ever have bread in the house, you have bread crumbs. If you need more than what is in the bottom of the bread sack, put a slice or two on a plate and set it on the refrigerator or other out of the way place for a few days, or put them in the oven on very low. Spread them thinly and they'll dry faster. Do you need bread cubes (croutons)? Cut into cubes, season and bake at a low temperature until they're crisp.

Cheaper bread

If you don't bake all your own bread, go to a day old bakery outlet and see if they'll let you have or buy bakery items that would otherwise be thrown out. Some of these outlets won't; some will. Take advantage of what you can, you might be able to buy a truckload for a few dollars. Share with friends. They'll be more inclined to share their windfalls with you.

Popcorn to cornmeal

Got popcorn that won't pop? Mill it into cornmeal and make yourself some delicious corn bread! If you don't have a flour mill, put the corn in a cloth bag or wrap it loosely in cloth, then crack it by hitting it with the flat side of a hammer or something similar. Finish milling it in your blender or food processor. Sift out the larger pieces process again.

Milk substitute

Use water in which you've boiled potatoes (peeled) instead of milk when you make bread or gravy. Potato water gravy doesn't look exactly the same as milk gravy, but it's close and it tastes good. For yeast breads and most quick breads, you won't know the difference.