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Cooking meals at home can result in healthier meals, lower food costs and better family bonding. But studies show that Americans are eating fewer meals at home now than in previous decades — and the meals eaten away from home have more calories, fat and added sugar than do the home-cooked meals.

People who don't cook often buy more convenience foods when shopping, tend to graze instead of eating balanced meals, and often are less satisfied with the quality and taste of their diets.

The biggest barrier to cooking at home is a lack of time and the belief that cooking from scratch takes more time than ordering in or going to the drive-through. Other common obstacles include not knowing how to get started with meal planning and food shopping. Plus, some people simply do not enjoy cooking, and it can be tricky to do for just one or two people in a household.

With minimal time and effort, anyone can adopt a few strategies to start cooking at home. Try these tips this week: