With the everyday hassles of work and family competing for attention, life is busier than ever. We are constantly on the lookout for ways to save time and make the best use of the hours we are given in the day, especially in the kitchen. Whether you enjoy cooking or not, it is likely that you are interested in cutting down on the time you spend preparing meals. If you want to cut down on cooking time on a budget, below is a great list of inexpensive gadgets that will help you prepare tasty food for you and your family in a flash.

Adjustable Handheld Mandoline Slicer:

For thin, even slices of almost any fruit or vegetable, a mandoline slicer is definitely the way to go. These hand-held slicers allow you to produce perfect slices of even the softest or hardest fruits and vegetables. Say goodbye to messy tomato slices, and hello to making thin and perfectly cut slices of anything from onions to radishes. Slicing fruits and vegetables is a breeze, and best of all, this fantastic gadget can be yours for less than $25.

The Chop Wizard:

When preparing meals, you do not always want slices. Sometimes you are in need of finely-chopped vegetables to put the finishing touches on your perfect dish. The Chop Wizard is an amazing gadget that can help you achieve perfection in the kitchen. This gadget allows you to quickly chop onions, potatoes, and any other vegetables to a fine dice, quickly and easily, with no knives or messy clean-up. Priced at only $19.95 this is a great buy, as it saves you time, and offers safety in the kitchen!

Cherry & Olive Pitter:

While some of the best gadgets are those you use every day, others are of the kind that you use only on special and rare occasions. While the cherry & olive pitter may not be used on a daily basis, it makes removing the pits from olives and cherries quick and easy with absolutely no risk of squashing the fruit. Perfectly pitted cherries and olives every time at only $15 make this product an unbeatable buy!

Three-Tier Oven Rack:

Family gatherings or dinner parties are often hectic, especially when you have planned an elaborate menu. It's not always easy to make sure every dish comes out perfectly cooked at the right time! Make the job much easier and less time-consuming by spending just $20 on a three-tier oven rack that allows you to bake more food at the same time. You will save baking time and won't need to worry about reheating pre-cooked food.

Batter Dispenser:

Make perfect pancakes every single time with a no-mess, no-fuss batter dispenser. Mix the batter right in the dispenser then just squeeze the handle to dispense uniform amounts for easy, delicious pancakes. Clean-up is a breeze, and there are no messy drips and splatters to worry about. The dispenser is also great for crepes, muffins, and cupcakes, and at just $12.95 there is no reason not to get one!

Funnel Pitchers:

A great accompaniment to the batter dispenser is a funnel pitcher. This dishwasher-safe plastic pitcher has an extra-long, narrow spout that helps you aim and pour all kinds of batter, sauces, gravies, and more, with no drips and splatters. It is perfect for any kind of liquid dispensing, and at just $9.95 for a set of two pitchers, this is another great buy.

Scoop & Release Dough Dropper:

If you love baking cookies, and want a quick and easy way to dispense sticky cookie dough, look no further. The scoop & release dough dropper is just what you need. Dispense uniform scoops of dough every time without having to smear sticky dough all over the pan, your fingers, the counter, or your clothes. For just under $8 you can buy your own, and save time not only in making the cookies, but on clean-up too.

Food Decorating Pen:

Decorating cakes and cookies can be a lot of fun as well as a family bonding experience. This process is usually less fun if your tasty creations end up looking unattractive! If you plan to add text to cakes, cupcakes, and cookies, then spending $10 on a food decorating pen is a must. This large syringe-like gadget allows you to quickly and easily write your message on any confection, with no mess, no do-over's, and no waste.

Brownie Mix:

Sometimes, you just do not have the time to bake. When an unexpected guest drops by and you need something tasty in a hurry, or when your child needs baked goods for a school or club bake sale, or when you simply want a fresh, home-cooked treat, you can invest in a box of brownie mix for a time-saving delicious experience. For $5 to $7 you can buy a package of the most divinely decadent brownie mix that requires the addition of just water, egg, and oil, before baking. The easiest brownie you will ever make!