Get yourself a bread machine; the bread is better for you, as it has no preservatives. In the long run it’s cheaper even if you buy your bread from the day old bakery store. The smell of baking bread is terrific. Read the recipe book that comes with the machine.

Don’t buy the prepared bread mixes, it is so much cheaper to make from scratch and only takes a few minutes.

The one I have is the Breadman 2-lb. Bread Machine and I just love it. It's so handy you can even make a loaf of bread on the super-rapid cycle so your bread is prepared, baked and ready by the time you've finished preparing the rest of the meal. It also features a Keep Warm button and comes with a large viewing window on top and a nonstick loaf pan that cleans easily.

Buy yourself a pasta machine; it is healthier for you, as it has no preservatives and is cheaper in the long run. I have one and believe me, the taste of the spaghetti or noodles are so much better than the store bought.

Don’t say it is too much trouble because it isn’t. Try it you will like it. Not only will you save those pennies, but you are feeding your family healthier.

You don’t have to buy a new pasta maker, again go on e-bay and find one that suits you. Make sure it includes all the instructions and cookbook.

Food Processor; A great kitchen machine to have is a food processor, but not a necessity. You can use a knife to chop and a blender does a pretty good job in making bread crumbs and that sort of thing. But, to grind, it is not very effective.

I just find it easier and faster to use my food processor. Especially if you are into a lot of cooking and baking. If you are into canning, it is almost indispensable.

You can go out and buy a new one, or you can go on e-bay and find a good one. Sometimes they are used and sometimes they are new. Just make sure it has all the attachments, instructions and usually they have a cook book.

I have the Oster Kitchen Center; I have had it for years and really like it. Unfortunately Oster does not make it anymore. I burned out my base motor and was very disappointed. After 25 years, I guess it was time. I went on e-bay and managed to find the whole set (found the base motor as well), for less money than buying just the base motor.

The one below is the closest to mine and will be my next one, if my Oster gives up the ghost. If you want more information on the Bosch you can click on the BUY button.

Bosch Two Speed Food Processor Plus Blender And Juicer - MCM 5100 - FREE SHIPPING Key Benefits High capacity for large quantities Container does not discolor Optimum processing when chopping fast Strong kneading Fast and powerful double drive All accessories are dishwasher safe Easy to use citrus juicer Multifuntion blade for slicing, chopping and grinding Beater whisk for egg whites, whipping cream and light batters Dough hook for thorough yet gentle mixing of dough Stainless steel reversible slicing disc for even slices Stainless steel reversible grating disc for fine or coarse shredding Appearance Color: White Unbreakable six-cup blender with stainless steel blade Automatic cord rewind Space saving cord storage Lid lock on bowl and blender Performance 2 speed levels Momentary pulse function Double drive Highest safety standards Accessories Three-quart bowl capacity Universal blade Whipping whisk Dough hook Citrus juicer Plastic blender Reversible slicing and grating discs Technical Information 530 watt motor Dimensions: 9-1/2" Depth 15-1/2" Width 13" Height Weight: 10 lbs.

This is not a machine (but I didn’t know where else to list it) but what a time and money saver, I highly recommend that you . . .

Buy a crock pot, they are fairly inexpensive today. You can find them on sale sometimes, may even find one at Big Lots. Get a large one; don’t waste your money on the small ones. Also make sure they have the removable crock liner, makes clean-up a lot easier.

The crock pot will come with a recipe book, but experiment. This will be one of the best money saving buys you ever made, especially if you are a working person. The way I feel no kitchen should be without one. Below are three books I've found and think they are outstanding with all of the crock pot recipes in them.

Betty Crocker More Slow Cooker Recipes Filled with more than 50 full-page, 4-color photos and packaged in a convenient lie-flat concealed wire binding, this collection of easy-to-prepare, family-appealing recipes for the slow cooker has it all. The slow cooker is one of the most popular convenience appliances, with over 6 million new machines sold each year. The slow cooker allows hands-off meals that require just a little initial preparation followed by several hours of unattended cooking time. The result is a home-cooked, hearty meal ready and waiting at dinnertime, without the stress and fuss of last-minute preparation. The Betty Crocker readership uses slow cookers for everyday meals and casual get-togethers, and needs new recipes and ideas for using this favorite appliance.

Ultimate Slow Cooker Cookbook When you come home after a long day at work, wouldn't you love to have a delicious, healthy dinner all ready and waiting, filling the air with an irresistible aroma? You can–by tossing some vegetables, meat, or fish into a slow cooker in the morning and then just letting it simmer into a robust stew, light soup, or pasta sauce. Not only do these recipes require little preparation time, but each has an incredible marriage of flavors that results only from lengthy cooking.

Tried & True Slow Cooker & Casserole Take the work out of cooking with Tried & true--Slow Cooker & Casserole. More than 200 delicious recipes like Beezie’s Black Bean Soup, Parmesan Chicken, and Slow-Cooked German Short Ribs are great for make-ahead meals, casual dinner parties, or festive potlucks. Invaluable preparation, cooking, and storage tips will simplify meal planning and turn you into a slow cooker and casserole authority.

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