Smart shopping makes a YUGE difference. I've used generic stuff for years, usually costing average two-thirds of name brands, and check the sales aisles every visit.
Dollar General's "Clover Valley" line is often superior to the well knowns, as is much of Wally's "Great Value" stuff.
Wally’s “Great Value” stuff
I can’t stand any of the Great Value stuff. I like the Clover Valley from DG (even have a daughter that works at a DG). I usually shop Kroger, as their store brand is superior to Great Value from WalMart all day long and about the same price.
At least, here in Texas.
And I obviously prefer HEB (Hill Country Fare) to it all, but HEB is pricier than Kroger or DG.