Walmart Dupe Deals September: Recipes That Save You Money!
September is a fantastic month to get back into the swing of things, from school schedules to meal planning. But with inflation still impacting grocery budgets, finding creative ways to save money is crucial. That’s where Walmart’s dupe deals come in! This article focuses on recreating popular, often expensive, recipes using affordable ingredients readily available at Walmart during September’s dupe deals. We’ll explore several delicious and budget-friendly recipes, providing detailed instructions, ingredient lists, and tips to help you make the most of your grocery budget.
## Understanding Walmart Dupe Deals
Before diving into the recipes, let’s define what we mean by “dupe deals.” In this context, a dupe deal refers to purchasing generic or store-brand versions of name-brand ingredients at Walmart to significantly reduce your grocery bill. Walmart’s Great Value brand, for example, offers a wide range of products that are comparable in quality to their name-brand counterparts but at a fraction of the cost. Keep an eye out for these during your September shopping trips.
**Why focus on September?** September often sees back-to-school promotions and deals on pantry staples, making it an ideal time to stock up on ingredients for cost-effective recipes.
## Recipe 1: Creamy Tomato Soup & Grilled Cheese Croutons (Dupe of Panera)
This classic comfort food combination can quickly add up at restaurants like Panera Bread. But with a few smart substitutions, you can enjoy a similar experience at home for a fraction of the price.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 tablespoons olive oil (Great Value)
* 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (Fresh Produce Section)
* 2 cloves garlic, minced (Fresh Produce Section)
* 2 (28 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes (Great Value)
* 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce (Great Value)
* 1 cup vegetable broth (Great Value)
* 1 teaspoon dried basil (Great Value Spices)
* 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (Great Value Spices)
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) (Great Value Spices)
* 1/2 cup heavy cream (Great Value) – *Can substitute with evaporated milk for a lighter version*
* Salt and pepper to taste (Great Value Spices)
* 1 loaf sandwich bread (Great Value)
* 4 tablespoons butter, softened (Great Value)
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (Great Value) or your favorite cheese
**Instructions:**
1. **Sauté Aromatics:** Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
2. **Add Tomatoes and Broth:** Pour in crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in vegetable broth, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. **Simmer and Blend:** Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches and blend until smooth. *Safety Tip: When blending hot liquids, always vent the blender to prevent pressure buildup.*
4. **Add Cream:** Stir in heavy cream (or evaporated milk) until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
5. **Prepare Grilled Cheese Croutons:** While the soup simmers, prepare the grilled cheese croutons. Spread softened butter on one side of each slice of bread. Sprinkle shredded cheese on the unbuttered side of half of the bread slices. Top with the remaining bread slices, butter-side up.
6. **Grill Croutons:** Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the grilled cheese sandwiches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey.
7. **Cut into Croutons:** Once the grilled cheese sandwiches are cooked, let them cool slightly and then cut them into bite-sized croutons.
8. **Serve:** Ladle the creamy tomato soup into bowls and top with grilled cheese croutons. Enjoy!
**Dupe Savings:**
* **Great Value Crushed Tomatoes vs. Hunt’s:** Save significantly on the canned tomatoes.
* **Great Value Vegetable Broth vs. Swanson:** Opt for the store brand broth.
* **Homemade vs. Restaurant:** Avoid the high markups of restaurant prices.
## Recipe 2: Chicken Tortilla Soup (Dupe of Chipotle)
Chicken Tortilla Soup is a flavorful and satisfying meal, but ordering it from Chipotle can be expensive. This homemade version uses budget-friendly ingredients from Walmart to create a delicious and affordable alternative.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 tablespoon olive oil (Great Value)
* 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (Fresh Produce Section)
* 2 cloves garlic, minced (Fresh Produce Section)
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped (Fresh Produce Section)
* 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional) (Fresh Produce Section)
* 1 teaspoon chili powder (Great Value Spices)
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin (Great Value Spices)
* 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (Great Value Spices)
* 4 cups chicken broth (Great Value)
* 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained (Great Value)
* 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained (Great Value)
* 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained (Great Value)
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (Fresh Meat Section)
* Salt and pepper to taste (Great Value Spices)
**Toppings (Optional):**
* Tortilla chips, crushed (Great Value)
* Shredded cheddar cheese (Great Value)
* Sour cream (Great Value)
* Avocado, diced (Fresh Produce Section)
* Lime wedges (Fresh Produce Section)
* Cilantro, chopped (Fresh Produce Section)
**Instructions:**
1. **Sauté Vegetables:** Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion, red bell pepper, and jalapeño (if using) and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. **Add Spices:** Stir in chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. **Add Broth, Tomatoes, Beans, and Corn:** Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), black beans, and corn. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. **Add Chicken:** Add the chicken breasts to the pot. Ensure they are submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture back to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. **Shred Chicken:** Remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.
6. **Season:** Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
7. **Serve:** Ladle the chicken tortilla soup into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as crushed tortilla chips, shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, lime wedges, and cilantro.
**Dupe Savings:**
* **Great Value Chicken Broth vs. Campbell’s:** Save on the base of the soup.
* **Canned Beans and Corn vs. Restaurant Markup:** Canned goods are far cheaper than restaurant portions.
* **Homemade vs. Restaurant:** The largest saving comes from skipping the restaurant meal altogether.
## Recipe 3: Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL)
The infamous PSL is a fall favorite, but the daily coffee shop run can quickly drain your wallet. Recreate the magic at home with this dupe recipe using affordable ingredients from Walmart.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup milk (Great Value – dairy or non-dairy)
* 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree (Great Value)
* 2 tablespoons sugar (Great Value) or maple syrup
* 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (Great Value Spices)
* 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (Great Value)
* 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee or 2 shots of espresso (Your choice – consider Great Value brand coffee)
* Whipped cream (Great Value) for topping (optional)
* Additional pumpkin pie spice for garnish (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a small saucepan, combine milk, pumpkin puree, sugar (or maple syrup), pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract.
2. **Heat and Whisk:** Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it is warm and frothy. Be careful not to boil.
3. **Brew Coffee:** Brew strong coffee or prepare espresso shots.
4. **Combine and Serve:** Pour the coffee or espresso into a mug. Top with the warm pumpkin spice milk mixture.
5. **Add Toppings:** Garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, if desired.
**Dupe Savings:**
* **Great Value Milk vs. Specialty Brands:** Opt for Walmart’s brand of milk.
* **Homemade vs. Coffee Shop:** The savings here are HUGE compared to daily Starbucks trips.
* **Reusable Coffee Cup:** Use a reusable cup for your homemade latte to feel even more like you’re at Starbucks (and help the environment!).
## Recipe 4: Olive Garden Inspired Salad Dressing
That tangy, slightly sweet, and herbaceous Olive Garden salad dressing is addictive. But buying bottles of it can get pricey. Here’s how to make a copycat version at home using Walmart ingredients.
**Ingredients:**
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise (Great Value)
* 1/4 cup white vinegar (Great Value)
* 1/4 cup vegetable oil (Great Value)
* 2 tablespoons water
* 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (Great Value)
* 1 tablespoon sugar (Great Value)
* 1 teaspoon dried parsley (Great Value Spices)
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (Great Value Spices)
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (Great Value Spices)
* 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano (Great Value Spices)
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (Great Value Spices)
* Pinch of salt (Great Value Spices)
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a jar or small bowl, combine all ingredients.
2. **Mix Well:** Whisk vigorously until well combined and emulsified. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender for a smoother dressing.
3. **Chill:** Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This also helps the dressing thicken slightly.
4. **Serve:** Toss with your favorite salad ingredients, just like Olive Garden! Romaine lettuce, tomatoes, olives, croutons, and red onion work perfectly.
**Dupe Savings:**
* **Great Value Mayonnaise and Oil:** Save on the base ingredients.
* **Dried Herbs vs. Fresh:** Using dried herbs is a cost-effective alternative, especially for everyday use.
* **Homemade vs. Bottled:** Making your own dressing is significantly cheaper than buying pre-made versions.
## Recipe 5: Homemade Granola Bars (Dupe of Nature Valley)
Pre-packaged granola bars are a convenient snack, but they can be expensive and often contain high levels of sugar. Make your own healthier and more affordable granola bars at home with these Walmart staples.
**Ingredients:**
* 3 cups rolled oats (Great Value)
* 1 cup mixed nuts (Great Value) – chopped (almonds, walnuts, pecans, etc.)
* 1/2 cup seeds (Great Value) – sunflower, pumpkin, chia, flax
* 1/2 cup dried fruit (Great Value) – cranberries, raisins, apricots, chopped
* 1/2 cup honey (Great Value) or maple syrup
* 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted (Great Value)
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Great Value)
* 1/2 teaspoon salt (Great Value Spices)
**Optional Add-ins:**
* Chocolate chips (Great Value)
* Shredded coconut (Great Value)
* Nut butter (peanut, almond, etc.) (Great Value)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.
3. **Combine Wet Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together honey (or maple syrup), melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. **Mix Together:** Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and mix well until everything is evenly coated.
5. **Press into Pan:** Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan and press firmly and evenly into the pan. Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to ensure a compact layer. The firmer you pack them, the less crumbly they will be.
6. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Watch them carefully to prevent burning.
7. **Cool and Cut:** Let the granola bars cool completely in the pan before cutting them into bars. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into desired size using a sharp knife.
**Dupe Savings:**
* **Rolled Oats and Nuts from Great Value:** Buying these in bulk is very cost-effective.
* **Homemade vs. Pre-packaged:** You’ll save a significant amount by making these yourself, and you control the ingredients.
* **Control Sugar Content:** Make them healthier by using less honey and adding healthier ingredients.
## Recipe 6: Copycat Chick-fil-A Nuggets
These nuggets are a family favorite. You can duplicate the flavor with this simple recipe.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces (Fresh Meat Section)
* 1 cup pickle juice (dill pickle juice from Great Value pickles)
* 1 large egg, beaten (Great Value)
* 1/2 cup milk (Great Value)
* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (Great Value)
* 1/4 cup powdered sugar (Great Value)
* 2 tablespoons cornstarch (Great Value)
* 1 teaspoon salt (Great Value Spices)
* 1 teaspoon black pepper (Great Value Spices)
* 1 teaspoon paprika (Great Value Spices)
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (Great Value Spices)
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (Great Value Spices)
* Vegetable oil, for frying (Great Value)
**Instructions:**
1. **Marinate Chicken:** Place the chicken pieces in a bowl or resealable bag. Pour the pickle juice over the chicken and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. This is key for the Chick-fil-A flavor!
2. **Prepare Breading:** In a shallow dish, whisk together the egg and milk.
3. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In another shallow dish, combine the flour, powdered sugar, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk to combine.
4. **Bread Chicken:** Remove the chicken from the pickle juice marinade and discard the marinade. Dip each piece of chicken in the egg mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture, making sure it is fully coated. Press the flour mixture onto the chicken to ensure it adheres well.
5. **Fry Chicken:** Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the breaded chicken pieces to the hot oil in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
6. **Cook Until Golden Brown:** Fry the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
7. **Drain on Paper Towels:** Remove the chicken nuggets from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. **Serve:** Serve the homemade Chick-fil-A nuggets hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or Polynesian sauce.
**Dupe Savings:**
* **Bulk Chicken Breasts:** Buying larger packs of chicken breasts is usually more economical.
* **Homemade vs. Restaurant:** Significantly cheaper than buying nuggets from Chick-fil-A.
* **Utilizing Pickle Juice:** Don’t throw away that pickle juice! It adds fantastic flavor.
## Recipe 7: Better-Than-Boxed Mac and Cheese
Skip the boxed mac and cheese and create a creamy, cheesy version from scratch. It’s easier than you think!
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound elbow macaroni (Great Value)
* 1/4 cup butter (Great Value)
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (Great Value)
* 3 cups milk (Great Value)
* 1 teaspoon salt (Great Value Spices)
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (Great Value Spices)
* 1/4 teaspoon paprika (Great Value Spices)
* 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese (Great Value), divided (you can also use a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Gruyere for a more complex flavor)
**Optional Toppings:**
* Breadcrumbs (Great Value)
* Butter, melted (Great Value)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook Macaroni:** Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions. Drain well and set aside.
2. **Make Roux:** While the macaroni is cooking, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a smooth paste (a roux). This will help thicken the sauce.
3. **Add Milk Gradually:** Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, until the roux is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth. Continue whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
4. **Thicken Sauce:** Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. **Add Seasonings:** Stir in the salt, pepper, and paprika.
6. **Add Cheese:** Remove the saucepan from the heat and gradually stir in 3 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add more cheese if you want it extra cheesy!
7. **Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce:** Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
8. **Bake (Optional):** For baked mac and cheese, transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and melted butter (if using). Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the mac and cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the mac and cheese is bubbly.
9. **Serve:** Serve the mac and cheese hot. Garnish with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese, if desired.
**Dupe Savings:**
* **Great Value Pasta and Cheese:** These are pantry staples that are always cheaper at Walmart.
* **Homemade vs. Boxed:** Much tastier and often cheaper than buying boxed mac and cheese.
* **Control Ingredients:** You know exactly what’s going into your mac and cheese.
## Tips for Maximizing Savings at Walmart
* **Use the Walmart App:** The Walmart app allows you to scan items to compare prices and find deals.
* **Check Clearance Sections:** Regularly browse the clearance sections for discounted items.
* **Meal Plan Around Sales:** Plan your meals based on what’s on sale that week.
* **Buy in Bulk (Where Appropriate):** Items like oats, rice, and beans are often cheaper when purchased in bulk.
* **Consider Frozen Fruits and Vegetables:** Frozen produce is often just as nutritious as fresh and can be more affordable. Plus, it lasts longer!
* **Use Coupons:** Look for coupons online or in newspapers to further reduce your grocery bill.
* **Compare Unit Prices:** Pay attention to the unit price (price per ounce, pound, etc.) to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
* **Shop with a List:** Stick to your shopping list to avoid impulse purchases.
* **Embrace Store Brands:** Don’t be afraid to try Walmart’s Great Value brand. You’ll often be pleasantly surprised by the quality.
## Conclusion
By leveraging Walmart’s dupe deals and embracing homemade versions of your favorite recipes, you can significantly reduce your grocery bill without sacrificing flavor or quality. These seven recipes are just a starting point. Get creative, experiment with different ingredients, and find even more ways to save money while enjoying delicious and satisfying meals. Happy cooking and happy saving!