Guacamole is a popular avocado-based dip that is commonly served with tortilla chips. It’s a staple at Mexican restaurants and parties. With its creamy texture and fresh flavor, guacamole is loved by many. However, buying pre-made guacamole at the grocery store can get pricey. So is it actually cheaper to make guacamole from scratch at home?
The Main Ingredients
The primary ingredients in guacamole are:
- Avocados
- Onion
- Tomato
- Lime juice
- Cilantro
- Salt
Avocados are by far the most expensive component. The cost of avocados can fluctuate based on supply, demand, and seasonality. According to the USDA, the average price of a single Hass avocado from Mexico was $1.10 in 2022. Other ingredients like onion, tomato, lime, and cilantro are relatively inexpensive.
Cost to Make Homemade Guacamole
To estimate the cost of homemade guacamole, let’s look at a standard recipe that serves 4 people:
- 3 Hass avocados – $3.30
- 1 small onion, diced – $0.30
- 1 Roma tomato, diced – $0.50
- 1 lime, juiced – $0.50
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped – $0.30
- 1/2 tsp salt – $0.05
Total cost = $4.95
This makes about 2 cups or 16 servings of guacamole. Therefore, the cost per serving is:
$4.95 / 16 servings = $0.31 per serving
The cost breakdown per ingredient is:
| Ingredient | Cost |
|---|---|
| Avocados | $3.30 |
| Onion | $0.30 |
| Tomato | $0.50 |
| Lime | $0.50 |
| Cilantro | $0.30 |
| Salt | $0.05 |
As you can see, avocados account for the majority of the cost at $3.30 out of $4.95 total.
Cost of Store-Bought Guacamole
If buying pre-made guacamole at the grocery store, prices typically range from $3.99 to $8.99 for a 16 oz tub:
| Brand | Price (16 oz) | Price Per Ounce |
|---|---|---|
| Store brand | $3.99 | $0.25 |
| Wholly Guacamole | $4.99 | $0.31 |
| Yucatan | $5.99 | $0.37 |
| Sabra | $8.99 | $0.56 |
Based on these prices, store-bought guacamole ranges from $0.25 to $0.56 per ounce. The cost per serving depends on serving size, but a typical 2 tablespoon (1 oz) serving would be $0.25 to $0.56.
Key Factors Affecting the Cost
There are a few key factors that impact the cost comparison between homemade and store-bought guacamole:
Avocado Prices
Avocado prices fluctuate significantly throughout the year, dropping as low as $0.50 each to over $2 each depending on the season. Making guacamole will be most cost effective when avocados are cheap.
Added Ingredients
Homemade guacamole tends to have fewer ingredients and less “fillers” than store-bought options. Additional ingredients like thickeners, preservatives, and flavorings drive up the cost of commercial guacs.
Convenience and Labor
Preparing guacamole at home takes time and labor, which adds value. Store-bought lets you skip the work of washing, chopping, and mixing.
Shelf Life
Store-bought guacamole uses additives for longer shelf life. Homemade only lasts a couple days at most in the fridge.
Packaging
The packaging, shipping, and storage costs of commercial guac contribute to the higher prices.
Brand Name
Premium brand name guacs like Sabra tend to cost more than basic store brands.
Pros of Homemade Guacamole
Making your own guacamole has several advantages:
- Cheaper per serving – On average, homemade costs about 50% less.
- Fresher taste – It’s prepared right before serving.
- Better ingredient quality – You can use fresh, ripe avocados.
- More customization – Adjust flavors to your taste.
- No preservatives or artificial additives
- Healthier fat and nutrition profile
- Satisfaction of making it yourself
Pros of Store-Bought Guacamole
Buying pre-made guacamole offers other benefits:
- Convenient and fast – No prep work required.
- Consistent results – Uniform flavor and texture.
- Longer shelf life – Stays fresh in the fridge for days.
- Time savings – Just open and serve.
- More size options – Individual packs available.
- Can buy year-round – Not dependent on avocado prices or season.
Price Comparison by Situation
Whether it’s cheaper to buy or make guacamole depends a lot on the specific situation:
For Entertaining
Making a couple buckets of guacamole for a party with friends is generally less expensive than buying pre-made. You can control the taste and quality too.
For Just Yourself
If you just need a single serving for yourself, pre-packaged guac is simpler. There’s less waste from leftover ingredients.
When Avocados Are In-Season
During peak avocado season like spring and summer, homemade guacamole becomes very economical. Avocado prices can be half the cost.
When You Have Ripened Avocados
If you happen to have ripe avocados on hand, it’s a no-brainer to whip up a fresh batch of guac and save the cost of buying more ingredients.
For Quick Snacks
Pre-made guac is the way to go when you need a fast snack or don’t have time for food prep. Just grab and go.
When Adding Lots of Mix-Ins
Homemade allows you to experiment with add-ins like mango, bacon, jalapeños, etc. This lets you get creative.
Ways to Save Money on Guacamole
There are also tips for saving money on guacamole in general:
- Buy avocados in bulk when on sale.
- Use coupons for store-bought guacs.
- Select lower-priced brands.
- Make guacamole to taste – don’t waste leftovers.
- Buy small avocados to reduce waste.
- Freeze extra homemade guacamole.
- Use avocado seasonally when prices are lower.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for some avocado.
Conclusion
In most cases, preparing fresh guacamole at home appears to be more cost effective than buying pre-made options at the store. The difference is most noticeable when making guacamole for a party or gathering. Homemade guacamole can cost around 50% less per serving compared to many store-bought brands.
However, pre-packaged guacamole offers convenience that may be worth the premium price in certain situations like needing a quick snack or a single serving. Shelf life is also an advantage since homemade guacamole spoils rapidly.
Guacamole lovers can save money by choosing store brands over premium options, buying in bulk during avocado season, and freezing extra homemade guacamole. With some planning and smart shopping, it’s possible to enjoy delicious guacamole on a budget.