$20 Dollar Tree Grocery Budget for 2 | Couple's Extreme Budget Meal Plan | Emergency Grocery Haul

Hey friends! I went to the Dollar Tree with a $20 budget to buy a week of groceries for 2 people! My boyfriend and I ate 3 meals a day comprised entirely (with the exception of oil and a few spices) of food from the Dollar Tree.
Grocery shopping from the Dollar Tree isn't always the best value option, but is often the only or best option due to circumstances surrounding accessibility.
This emergency, budget meal plan was just for fun - if you are struggling, please reach out to the resources you have access to for help.
Our meal plan for this video:
Thursday (Dinner Only) - Rice and Pinto Beans w/ Stir Fry Veggies & Flat Bread
Friday - Hard Boiled Eggs; Rice and Pinto Beans w/ Stir Fry Veggies & Flat Bread; Rice and Black Beans w/ Mixed Veggies & Broccoli
Saturday - French Fry Hash w/ Sausage and Eggs; Refried Bean Quesadillas; Pasta & Sauce w/ Mackerel Patties & Black Bean "Meatballs" & Broccoli
Sunday - Cheesey Scrambled Eggs w/ Stir Fry Veggies & Sausage & French Fry Hash; Refried Bean Quesadillas; Leftover Pasta w/ Broccoli & Black Bean "Meatballs"
Monday - Breakfast Taco w/ Saturday Leftovers; Rice & Black Beans w/ Mixed Veggies & Broccoli; Rice and Kidney Beans w/ Stir Fry Veggies & Polish Sausage w/ Flatbread
Tuesday - Pancake "Muffins"; Rice & Pinto Bean Leftovers; Rice & Kidney Bean Leftovers;
Wednesday - Pancake "Muffins; Rice & Kidney Bean Leftovers for me & Refried Kidney Beans for Andrew; 3 Bean Soup
Thursday (Breakfast & Lunch) - Pancake "Muffins"; 3 Bean Soup
You can find me online at:
/ thatlisadawn
/ thatlisadawn
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That Lisa Dawn
PO BOX 99383
Raleigh, NC
27624
Some of my favorite things that you see in my kitchen.
Instant Pot Duo Plus 6qt
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Aroma Rice Cooker
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KitchenAid Stainless Steel Wire Masher
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Rainbow Regular Mouth Mason Jar Lids
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Rainbow Wide Mouth Mason Jar Lids
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Heavy Duty Egg Slicer
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Lodge 12" Cast Iron Skillet
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[@HesterScoresby]

My husband and I are saving for a home and down to $20 until next payday and refuse to tap into savings or credit. I stumbled upon this video just in time. I am 100% making strawberry muffins and homemade spaghetti tomorrow!

[@angiee.4718]

Amen!!!!

[@angiee.4718]

I absolutely love all the help all the videos give!!!

[@CH-sl1ug]

Please dont feel like you cant try out a food bank! Ive gotten very nice stuff from them before! Its pretty quick too nowdays. I heard calling 211 can help but im in oregon/washington area. Idk if that just for my region :) alsp DSHS goves emergency food stamps if you qualify. I get 340 a mo for 1 person :)

[@rachaelnelson3810]

We got free burgers , fixings , potatoe salad Coleslaw from a food pantry 2 weeks ago the burgers was very thick taste was awesome

[@rachaelnelson3810]

@@CH-sl1ug ours is awesome

[@alsoncole]

I love this woman! I'm not sure why her videos started popping up in my feed, but I'm glad they did. It's no secret the cheapest foods are often the unhealthiest and that access to fresh and affordable foods is a challenge with a lot of political and economic implications. But, I love her videos because she's essentially just saying, "Hey, here's what you can do with $10 or $20," which is practical and thoughtful advice. I love her creativity and resourcefulness, and most of all, I love her whole approach and delivery because it's not often that people who may be struggling with food stability are addressed with such respect and dignity as she does in these videos. She seems very genuine and sincere. I also think her reminders to reach out to local resources for help are important. These videos are really well done.

[@kandacepatterson7965]

Well said

[@libertywest5835]

feel the sameee ! she’s awesome!

[@LindaFoyle]

Yes, for anyone, please use your local free food banks, go to your city hall for resource list or churches will help you. They are there for you. Dial 211 also for locations ❤️

[@purpledancerbmw5279]

Amen

[@calibby85]

I couldn't have said it better!

[@dgirls4life134]

The Dollar Tree has been a blessing to me and my kids....I can get most of everything we need from their...you going to always walk out of the $ tree with a meal, personal items, cleaning supplies,and a some change...

[@Goldenretriever-k8m]

and they even have yarn if you are into crafts like crochet or knitting

[@debbielittle9592]

My home as well you can't live off Social Security anymore in a little bit of savings that we've managed is gone during covid

[@FrenchToastedSouls]

i don't know if you have 99 cents only stores in your area but they are like a $5 and under version of grocery outlet and they get really affordable fresh produce and sometimes good meat. i normally swing by them before traditional grocery for cleaning products and pantry items as well as shelf stable half gallons of milk that you only need to fridge once opened

[@lilyflores7018]

great products to!

[@dawnvega383]

Doing this and keep doing it, will give you the chance to save money and make it generational wealth! Not to mention great vacation, buy cars in cash. This is a wonderful way for to live within my disability social security! This is awesome!

[@jessicamessicaYT]

I’m so impressed by the “tortilla”!!!

[@crystallemon7132]

First off, THANK YOU! I have been food insecure for almost my whole life. Now I provide for myself and my love on a budget of $7 each per week. I find myself struggling more now as I have no counter space and only a stove, oven, and microwave for appliances (so I have to cook beans and rice the long way). I super appreciate how you address accessibility and don't use "basic staples" in your recipes as everyone has different things in their kitchen and not everyone can afford to keep them around even if they want to. I am happy to say that you have provided a few more ideas to me: so thank you again.

[@MelissaThompson432]

Prepare your rice for cooking as usual, but in a deep m/w safe bowl. Put in in the m/w with a plate under it to catch overflow. Turn it on for 2-4 minutes, depending on the power of your oven, and then after allowing it to cool slightly so it boils over less, turn it on again for 2 more minutes; repeat until done (mine is usually 4-2-2-2.) It still takes awhile, but you can use the m/w and the stove at the same time, and, it might make a mess, but it won't burn.

[@heidimeigs5192]

It hurts my heart that you have never had a stable source of food. For this to happen in the USA is obscene. I don’t get any sense that you feel sorry for yourself or that you have given up. I pray the Lord will keep you always.

[@imaginarycanary9956]

Your videos are helping a lot of people especially with food prices increasing. Please ignore nitpicking comments and keep up the good work.

[@catherinemccarty2307]

Lisa, you rock!! I hope you do a lot more of these! I have an idea. Maybe you could partner with your local food pantry, see what they give in a typical box then buy those items and make some meals. I know it would only be suggestions and not actual reciepes but it would be interesting. You could even include a link for donations to the food pantry.

[@ThatLisaDawn]

That's definitely on my list to do one day! 😊 Thanks for watching 💙

[@biancarodriguez2797]

I LOVE THAT IDEA!!!!!!♥️♥️♥️♥️

[@barbarakidder2115]

She is amazing! Very educational for those with less. You might just continue to use these valuable tips when your food budget is 20 times more than $10.00 a week, I did.

[@cherieniola7393]

Thats a good idea

[@justmendeegarcia4190]

This is an awesome idea

[@DvLnDsGyZ]

If you see Goya Sazon seasoning at your Dollar Tree, get it and add a packet to your pinto beans along with tomato sauce (a can of water too), onions and peppers. Some garlic, salt and pepper to taste. Serve it with rice and you'll have a semi-traditional Puerto Rican meal :) Enjoy!

[@susanjoseph236]

I love beans like that!

[@joejust9269]

Now that's beans! I am also Puerto Rican. And Mom and both grandmothers taught me how to make beans many different ways. Always Pinto, never gassy.

[@leal536]

I am not Puerto Rican but I am always looking for ways to "spice up" my beans. Due to the cost of meat, I am eating or trying to eat more and more meatless meals. Thanks.

[@anamariaguadayol2335]

If it is Goya, it has to be bad

[@bmloveofficial]

I loveee Sazon and I’ve used it for years now; it’s seriously the best seasoning mix; throw in some Adobo and it’s a win win for me 👍🏻

[@GhostfaceComplainer]

Wanted to let you know that this video saved me after paying off my credit card in full. Thank you ❤️ You are so creative!

[@melodyclark4347]

Congratulations Jamie 🍻🎶🎷🎵 What a relief it is😄

[@danielleterry180]

Way to go Jamie cut those cards up ! Live free I got my home paid off and credit cards paid off and closed using Dave Ramseys method of getting out of debt. Taught my kids how to get land cheap and get a home started they are 19 and 22 working at Pizza Hut. They will be debt free with a home paid for in 3 more years. Life is hard when we’re poor but it doesn’t mean you can’t reach a goal.

[@Bestofme54]

I love your videos! Don’t let the haters give you grief about your use of garlic. It’s great that you are bold with your seasoning.

[@bethcatt7919]

I use garlic too

[@timcook9783]

@@bethcatt7919 me too .I love love garlic

[@AmandaTexas]

I do appreciate that you address accessibility. People without a car can't run around town. And in many areas, there aren't other store options. I appreciate Dollar Tree as many of the other "dollar" stores are no bargain. Your recipes look wonderful.

[@michellecummins2221]

My favorite beans are Pinto and kidney all day

[@CrazySunny1970]

I love that your husband is so open, and game to enjoy your budget meals with you. Your budget meals look so delicious, and I will definitely be incorporating some of them into my weekly meal plan. I have a super picky dad that I cook for, but he does love refried, and pinto beans so will enjoy those dishes for lunch. I too have added Dollar Tree to my grocery shopping list, and find myself being a lot more creative with my menus. My local store has a 2 pack of Eckrich chicken sausage that is delicious. Add it to a saute of the onions and peppers and put it over pasta and you have a yummy meal! Wow! You seemed to have plenty to eat all week, and still had leftovers? You are a rockstar!

[@tieshafranzen6686]

I am a single 30 so mething female and I stumbled on your videos and love them. I don't technically have to budget my food bill, bit I enjoy getting a big meal on a little coin. You have great ideas. ❤️❤️

[@wilmasantos3255]

It's amazing how much food you made with just $20!! The dishes all looked delicious and super easy to make!

[@maryfown6362]

I would put the rice in a glass container & use as food storage. You could slowly build up some surplus to carry you on tight weeks or months. Good video, bless & keep up the lessons

[@korhay21]

That is the first budget food prep that I think I would actually eat the food and not feel deprived. These are great to do as it gives us all good recipe ideas.

[@sherilynalexnder897]

Wow, you had an impressive week of meals for just $20, especially shopping only at DT! It made me smile hearing Andrew's sweet/approving comments about the various dishes. Not all hubs would be so supportive of a week of extreme budget-eating!

[@elizabethnieves6631]

I agree my husband is very ungrateful, God bless those boyfriend and husband,

[@christinafidance340]

@@elizabethnieves6631 I know right! Mine too! He’s an @$$hole though so he’ll just go shoplift steaks before he eats this much beans! (And yet the doctor has him on high cholesterol medication! Ugh! Go figure.)

[@MaryTheresa1986]

Dump your man-child husbands and upgrade to grown men!

[@CrazySunny1970]

Isn't he sweet? I love that he is so willing to enjoy these budget meals with her. They all do truly look delicious.

[@comfortouch]

She found a good guy, but I think it's easy for him to be nice about her tasty cooking ;)

[@sheripshannon]

Lisa - you are a real cook- and I say this as a real cook myself! I love to see someone your age scratch cooking and doing it well too! You need an Amazon wish list too -so people can gift you items… just saying! You are doing an amazing job!

[@lilpoohbear653]

she did a great job!!!

[@kaitlynx1388]

This is easily the best use of ingredients Ive ever seen, particularly for a budget video. Im an experienced cook and I love that you are showing so effectively how versatile all these ingredients are and how easy the methods are. All of the meals you created were very hearty and nourishing meals that will satisfy even big appetites. Fantastic job on this Lisa and I know this will help so many people out there to see how they can feed themselves well on a minimal budget. Thank you for all your hard work in making this and sharing it with us :)

[@laurachristou5887]

The buses where I live go by Dollar Tree! It's wonderful for us on SSDI & SSI!

[@mec8220]

I'm so happy I have come across your channel the other day. I have began to enjoy cooking again. I've made your breakfast burritos recipe from the $10 dollar tree video as well as the egg muffins. And they were both delicious. I'm learning to live more frugal and become a minimalist so your videos are assisting me on my journal. Thanks and keep up the great work. You are an inspiration. Can't wait to try the remainder recipes with my own little twist.

[@ThatLisaDawn]

Even though it's something I "have" to do, I find a lot of joy in cooking, so I'm glad to hear you are finding some enjoyment in it too! Best of luck on your frugal, minimalist journey! And thanks for watching 💙

[@bemomhomemaking7602]

It's amazing that you can make flatbread with just flour and water!! Love it!

[@RVCampHer]

I went to the Food Pantry in Quartzsite today for the first time in my life. I'm also subscribed to your channel. I made a video about it today! Marie ❤️

[@Mimmyz1stlovemomof2]

Your empathy is a blessing! Great video! ❤️ Clearly a beautiful old soul in a beautiful young lady!

[@lisakaye2110]

If you have cats, mix the liquid from the can of mackerel into their dry food. They LOVE it!! Btw, your pasta looks great!! Love your channel! I know you work besides KZbin, but I NEED more videos from you!! Lol Great job!

[@thematrix3663]

Or put in yr plants like a fish emulsion. Put in yr garden food plants tho as the elements will get rid of the smell more than if you put it in decorative plants.

[@WilletteB]

I use the fish broth from canned salmon to flavor gravy when I make salmon patties and biscuits. I have eaten mackerel, but it's been a while. I keep it in my food pantry for when the shtf comes to pass.

[@olganazario4247]

I love her videos too and like to read the comments as well. Thanks for the kitty idea you gave. I have 2 kitties and will try that myself. Thank you😊👍

[@hildahilpert5018]

@@olganazario4247 The kitty ida is true. I have a cat who loves fish. If I make salmon patties or tuna fish salad or even tuna patties(same as salmon patties) I always try to give him some.

[@drenchaquaculture2680]

I am glad you are doing this series. There was a time in my life when my finances were such a struggle. I relied on a website that no longer exists in the same format but she had full meal plans on an emergency budget and it saved me and my children.

[@bonkers5016]

I hate to say it...but it's not healthy cooking. It's a shame people have to resort to feed their family with high carbs. Our government should be ashamed 😔

[@rachaelnelson3810]

I’m on SSI I get some iteams from food bank first then what they don’t give me I get With my food stamps Kind cereals or kashie post Vegan milks Goat Milk and cheese Vegan yogurts Chia , hemp , flax seed Fruits and veggies

[@sharonhall2277]

I'm impressed. I got a hard time trying to figure out how to spend $20 a week for one person and here you come with $20 for two people and three different kinds of meat and a dessert! I would have used my mackerel for a different meal and spent an extra dollar for a side veggie., I usually eat them with a half a sweet potato and some broccoli but that doesn't fit in this budget Great idea for meatballs

[@monicaingram2970]

Cooking for one is very difficult.

[@iPadDraw]

I used to be a crafter, and my channel died after I lost my mom and essentially my mind for a long time... and your videos have helped cheer me up and inspire me to put more effort in to cooking for myself and maybe start posting some of my own cooking. Seeing your content has helped me start to heal my binge eating disorder also- the whole quality over quantity mindset has finally set in. My family had portion control issues and seeing you plate a normal sized meal that looks easy enough to make but still has a special feel really helps more than you could ever understand.

[@BrainyRedheadedAngel]

The three bean “soup”, looks good! It’s more of a stew, hearty goodness. 😋

[@ThatLisaDawn]

Yes, when I started I thought it was going to be more soup-ish, but I was very happy with how it ended up!

[@kittykathy9532]

You are Truly an Inspiration! Thank you for a reality check. We should all be mor frugal and Not waste!

[@michelj.gaudet5048]

Oh wow! I really LOVE this format of showing vids - bang bang bamg - one after the other. Way cool and THANK YOU SO MUCH for great ideas. ✨🤗✨

[@ThatLisaDawn]

Glad you enjoyed, thanks for watching! 💙💙💙

[@yourmamasaidso2745]

ME sitting here with a pile of coupons...thinking Oh if you only used coupons you could have gotten 25¢ cereal, 50¢ cereal bars and free ice cream etc... But I applaud your creative recipes!!! Very smart use of your foods🏆

[@LWNV]

Where do get coupons? I know they are in the Sunday paper but I don't buy the paper. Would love to have access to coupons!

[@chrisl418]

You are a natural creative cook! Thank you for teaching me some tricks and showing me you can feed 2 people nicely on $20/week. Great job!

[@luckypenny4263]

Im going to make my own spaghetti pasta this week. You inspire us all. My favorite bean is the pintos. However I like them all!

[@sarahkraemer4824]

I know I can't be the only one who finds her videos relaxing I love watching her!!!

[@ThatLisaDawn]

😊 thank you

[@jeannedennis5863]

I applaud you both. Nothing wrong with using the Dollar Tree to eat. God bless you both.

[@SuperLovelessgirl]

That was mad creative with what you got. I never thought I could make muffins from pancake mix, definitely gonna try that for breakfast. And the three bean soup/chowder looked tasty as well. As for a favorite bean, it's black beans but pinto is a strong second cause I love refried beans 😁

[@daggerones4677]

She is so creative! Didn't have much money growing up, used pancake mix and baking seasonings to make birthday cakes.

[@annettelemmer9649]

I love beans too... can't think of a bean I don't like..

[@lifebeyondthesalary2458]

@@annettelemmer9649 Lima beans are the only beans I don’t like lol 😂 but black beans are my faves!!!

[@ruthrelyea7388]

@@daggerones4677 could you maybe let the rest of us know how you made the cakes that way I would love to try it

[@daggerones4677]

@@ruthrelyea7388 Heyas. Make pancake batter the consistency of cake batter (box cake mix) Add in spices of your choice, pour into a greased pan, and bake at 350 degree F. Bake for 25- 40 minus, checking occasionally with a toothpick. If it runs clean, no raw batter, take it out of oven. Allow to cool 45 min, turn out onto a plate/cake dish, or whatever one has to use. Spread icing over cake when completely cool.

[@jennybiddinger4561]

The pasta dish with the fish cakes and black beans "meatballs" look amazing!!

[@sunowl5301]

“On today’s episode of winging it with Lisa” LOL I’m loving your channel. Great, creative ideas. I’m definitely going to try making homemade pasta by hand! 💖

[@NikiReynolds_2swift]

Favorite Bean is Lentils. They cook quick because they are so small and they are the most delicious ever.

[@reneematlock9657]

Here's another one to try when you are making food on the cheap... it's a take on Rice-a-Roni but you aren't using the mix. Take a combination of peppers, onions, celery, carrots (essentially "whatever is on hand and works for you") and brown them in a pot (like your dutch oven) with a little oil or butter. Take a little spaghetti (for two people it's about the size of your thumb - for 4, double it) and break it up into small (about 3/4 of an inch - just guesstimate) then add it to the pot with the veg and a cup or so of rice (more if you are feeding more than two people) and brown them until the pasta is toasty. Add chicken, beef or veggie cubes to taste (however many you need for each 3C or so of water), season with pepper and a little garlic then add 3 C water for each 3 C of pasta/rice/veggies combination. Cover with a tight lid and bring to a boil. Lower temp to a simmer and simmer 20 minutes or so, stirring occasionally. If it gets a little dry - add water 1/2 C at a time allowing it to simmer between additions. NOTE: you can add some leftover chicken or beef (cut up) to the pot near the end of cooking or if you are using raw, add at the beginning so they brown before you add the liquid. Serves... I don't really know but at least 2 or 3 fairly large servings with leftovers. I normally make it using about 3 or 4 C rice and half a box of pasta BUT we have a LOT more than 2 mouths to feed. LOL

[@SunnyMouseEars]

My wife and I always talk about when we were less fortunate and we relied on dollar tree .

[@shannonwhite7605]

Don't worry about the "use" of your garlic🧄😝 or onions🧅😛 seasonings are LIFE!! My hubby & his Familia are Mexican & we are ALL impressed with your Hispanic knowledge of food/flavors... you got it 💥🎯💥!! ...and on a budget! Btw, your Mama did a great job... you speak so well & so kind!💕💕 Need to find you a sponsor.. Dollar Tree should pay attention!!💲🌳😉 I don't know how you choose a favorite bean... I ♥️them all!!🌯🌮

[@jenncria]

I LOVE that you use a healthy amount of garlic, pepper and cayenne… how could one not?

[@GeckoHiker]

This is a great demonstration of what you can do with inexpensive ingredients from a dollar store. I love to get 32 ounces of pinto beans for a dollar when they have them, for refried beans, soup, rice and beans, and pinto bean & rice burgers. If all you had was $10 each week you could get staples plus a taste enhancer each $10 shopping trip. I did a meal plan and demonstration for our local homeless shelter about six years ago. My first list was 32 ounce bags of rice and pinto beans, a jar of coconut oil, a jar of minced garlic, chili powder, oatmeal, applesauce, two canned tomatoes, and a package of tortillas. Using only additional salt and pepper packets from takeout we made chili with rice, tacos, refried beans, pinto bean & rice burgers, and tomato, rice, and pinto beans casserole. Breakfast was oatmeal and apple sauce. Each week you would buy a new spice and more vegetables because you don't need more rice and pinto beans each week. You can start adding fish, spam, eggs, cheese, sugar, flour, coffee, and tea for more variety. I still wish they'd sell onions, carrots, celery, cabbage, and potatoes, too.

[@jake_from_statefarm7209]

Bless you for doing that ❤️

[@susanjones8938]

You have helped me realize I can do minimal money and still feed my family. Thank you

[@laurieblas1511]

You are very creative and know how to stretch a dollar! So glad I found you! Thanks for sharing your talents!

[@Nyctophora]

Thank you for sharing these ideas and making the point that sometimes, dollar stores are all a person can get to.

[@kdkay4039]

Man I saw your tortillas and thought slap some of your dinner and cheese between those suckers and what a great quesadilla! I love creative cheap cooking! We can stretch our budgets with creativity and flexibility! I hope you do more of these! I also hope some of those college kids, kids just moving out on their own, and people looking to even balance a budget try this!

[@aliverseidge]

Your videos are fantastic! You are really helping folks see how they can extend their food budget. Well done. Thank you.

[@tatiana-mindfool]

I like it how you're able to make it work with a minimalistic approach! But still make it flavourful!

[@ThatLisaDawn]

It's lots of practice and trying things out! 😀

[@rachaelnelson3810]

@@ThatLisaDawn corn with black beans very cheap also

[@geeky12ful]

Andrew is so sweet & complimentary; you are so lucky!!

[@goodi2shooz]

First time watching your channel. I have been in the situation a few times in my life where I had this kind of super limited budget. And I have watched hundreds have different extreme budget meal videos. This is the best of those videos that I have ever seen in my life. You are the absolute queen of budget meals. The fact that you were making everything from scratch, tortillas and pasta for goodness sake.. I am truly amazed and impressed. I'm at a time in my life where I don't really have to budget for groceries I can kind of buy what I want.. and frankly it's made me lazy in the kitchen.. this video was very inspiring.

[@ThatLisaDawn]

So glad you enjoyed and thanks for taking the time to leave such a kind comment! 💙

[@sidneyoverland6869]

My favorite legumes are lentils. My favorite beans are cannelli beans-white beans. Very creative. When I was in college, my mom gave me the Campus Survival Cookbook full of budget recipes. I’m going to try out the recipes with Dollar Tree food. I’ll see how inexpensively I can find any additional ingredients.

[@zara6673]

I love how you are focusing on accessibility. Those who live in areas where there is abundance are often naive about how lucky they are to be in that position. You exude positivity & respect for your viewers, showing empathy without being condescending.

[@marypeterson1053]

You are doing a wonderful job.Thank you for te great ideas

[@jessiib12]

I'm always kind of intimated to cook but you inspire me with how easy and fun you make cooking. Also, thank you for always giving us a glimpse of your adorable cat! He looks just like my cat. 🙂

[@lorimilantoni5336]

Love your videos!!! You are quite talented!! I enjoy her mellow voice. She has a honest and authentic personality!! God Bless her for her empathy for others!!

[@TheGoldiedoll]

I'm impressed with the pasta and "meatballs".

[@shirleyblack6970]

As 80 year old pensioner, I just want to say thank you for this excellent video. One can always learn new things no matter how old you are.

[@extendedpinky]

You have successfully taught me to make homemade flatbread and refried beans I have struggled with flatbread but I am now a pro. Thanks!

[@tarasimon373]

The stew at the end looked great but the flat bread has inspired me. Very good job.

[@atomiclisa]

This is really great! I worked at a community support program and wished I would have seen this then. All of our clients lived below federal poverty guidelines and I would have loved to teach cooking classes using your recipes. The flat bread is genius and looks yummy.

[@evelynmiranda9072]

The eggs with fries look good.

[@Anatdei]

I just wanted to say that I really enjoy your videos! I stumbled upon you a few months ago and every time i see you upload I get super excited lol. I love your vibe and meal ideas :)

[@sherrywyleta3519]

Ditto! You do an excellent job. Love your food ideas and your videos are excellent. I’m always checking to see if I’ve missed a notification for a new video. Great job!

[@crystalhallowell7319]

Lisa, I love your videos! You do a wonderful job explaining the cooking methods. Please post another video soon!

[@QuiltingCrow]

Recently I have watched several documentations about "food deserts" in the U.S. - I was really shocked because that simply doesn't exist in Germany. But as always, it's a pleasure to watch you being so creative in the kitchen and the food looks delicious

[@ThatLisaDawn]

Always happy to see your comments here 😊 Thanks for watching!

[@nancyst.john-smith3891]

My favorite bean is Mayocoba aka Peruvian beans. They cook up really creamy. I bought 25# at Costco for around $15. I cooked them up and pressure canned them in pint and quart mason jars.

[@joejust9269]

Yes thin out a pancake mix. Poor it into a pan swish it around and it becomes a crepe. Add fruit and sour cream or whipped cream, yummy. Or savory sliced turkey and turkey gravy very yummy!

[@ellia.vagabond]

I also live in Germany and they are absolutely here. I live in the middle of nowhere rural Germany and it is a 20 minute drive to the nearest supermarket on the autobahn. There's a small deli 5 minutes away but you can't live off the food you'd find there.

[@jolliebearforchrist5468]

@@ThatLisaDawn THE GOSPEL MESSAGE OF JESUS CHRIST JESUS CHRIST DIED ON THE CROSS FOR OUR SINS AND HE WAS BURIED AND HE ROSE AGAIN ON THE THIRD DAY BY FAITH IN GOD'S SON THE LORD AND SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST AND JESUS CHRIST ALONE SALVATION SHALL BE YOURS AND ETERNAL LIFE WITH GOD IN HEAVEN SHALL AWAIT YOU WHEN YOU DIE THE BIBLE JOHN CHAPTER 3 VERSES 16 THROUGH 21 AND 1ST CORINTHIANS CHAPTER 15 VERSES 1 THROUGH 5 THE BIBLE

[@deannaruth4619]

You popped up in my feed too and thank God it did. My sister and I are living as roommates and we need some cheap meals. We almost don't have enough for a month. This dollar tree will be perfect.

[@jasonjoseph6497]

Lisa you are awesome. I'm not on a budget really but your videos have taught me that I can save even more money on my grocery bill. I do shop at dollar stores but not for food really besides grabbing a ketchup or a ramen box when I crave it. Thanks for opening my stubborn eyes. Keep up the good work

[@susans9491]

Amazing as always! Going to experiment with your pancake muffin idea... AND going to scrape up the courage to try making both pasta and flatbread/tortillas. Thank you for the inspiration!💕

[@RhondaReally]

I really enjoyed this. We were super poor 35 years ago, newly married, in the Navy, and money was so tight. I got creative like this!

[@ThatLisaDawn]

Necessity definitely brings out the creativity! Thanks for watching 💙

[@donaldritchie]

Great ideas! Thank you for your kind and helpful approach.

[@autobotdiva9268]

got the stir-fry bag mix and added it to chicken, added pepper and next thing you know the skillet was empty!!! yea buddy

[@LauraMartinez-lb4gi]

I like making fajitas with the frozen veggies too!! Add salsa and cheese with tortillas.

[@holdenbabyboy]

There were articles condemning Dollar stores at one time for them not having nutritional foods. Not true. I have no need to shop for food there but I see families and many elderly folks shopping there. I look through the aisles and I see the same foods as regular grocery stores. Maybe different off brands, less variety, smaller sizes, but if you shop wisely you can get nutritional foods and basically everything you need to eat well on a budget. I think it's great that there are options for those struggling. You were very creative with your meals. This was a great video.

[@arnieslab]

You’re really creative. As often as I’m at dollar tree I should try some of these.

[@ThatLisaDawn]

Creativity in the kitchen is so much of what makes cooking fun 😀

[@Homer2q]

@@dellarobinson5302 I always leave in that came down from my family. She’s right; you get more nutrition if you eat it all and they crush down so you don’t know you are eating it. Have a great day!

[@egyptcat4301]

@@dellarobinson5302 She cooks a lot better than you spell! She's pretty awesome, and she's probably providing a valuable service!

[@kellygalarneau5426]

@@egyptcat4301 say it sister! The hate comments are what’s sad! Get a life

[@rachaelnelson3810]

@@dellarobinson5302 we do like that hear

[@sarasarah3404]

You are an AMAZING individual. So kind hearted. I wish we were rl friends

[@iana6713]

Hmm. That rice and beans dish is inspiring me to have a go at making something similar - cooking on a budget doesn't have to be difficult even if someone's got only basic skills, (like me!) The cat meowing in the background made me smile. If I was an American, the Dollar Tree would be a regular place for me to shop!

[@Swimdown24]

Chopping up the french fries-expert level hack!!! 💡

[@ilovejoshpaul]

I watch a lot of these videos and you’re always my favorite to watch! Great job!

[@bashmillion2703]

Thank you so much for this video…… pinto beans are my favorite, all the meals look delicious I’m ready to try and make.

[@annettelemmer9649]

So "down to earth " and creative. Love you lisa dawn. Keep helping us with frugal recipies

[@paulaajohnson2597]

Yum! I'm into any type of beans combined with fish and buttered jasmine rice with hot sauce. Pasta too. All of this will be on my menu. Love your cat.

[@deniseodaniels7356]

loved the homemade noodles. they looked so good. my fave bean is the pinto bean or a butter bean. i love butter beans smashed and put on toast with hot sauce on top.

[@mandersdaro8136]

Love me some butter beans!!

[@dbentley2195]

Enjoy your video's! You will always have hater's but that is the world today. I would eat and enjoy all that you cooked in this video. Thanks for taking the time to try to inform people of how you can, even though most won't they will fast food it. ❤️☝️🙏 And as for the garlic and other spices bring them on I use garlic on nearly everything also.👍

[@annaleelp9345]

"You're not fooling anyone Bar-S." Lol. Thanks for the video. I always enjoy watching your helpful content.

[@ThatLisaDawn]

So glad you enjoyed it! 💙💙💙

[@kathrynwitte3398]

Bar-S aren’t great smoked Polish sausage but they’re much better than regular hotdogs. That price is much better than Walmart’s price as well.

[@dee2086]

Wow - so impressed with your pasta and dough skills! Looks wonderful, thank you so much for sharing :)

[@doberandkats]

Love the ideas I am getting from watching your videos. After watching you make the flat bread just wanted to throw out there if you added a bit of oil to the dough you would have a classic tortilla recipe.

[@danielleterry180]

I have a bow tie pasta and black bean dish I was taught by my ex Boil bow ties then cook black beans with garlic add spoon full of saved bacon grease along with chopped onions. Take bow ties add green onions in pan again with little saved bacon grease , garlic, salt, pepper this was our favorite weekend meal. Using mackerel in our everything rice where I sauté the celery stalk,bell peppers, onion added rice with a can of chopped tomatos and green chilies ( rotel) along with mackerel.

[@8Icecat8]

I loved this! All this is exactly what I look for when I search grocery budget video challenge! Thank you for going through how to make everything so thoroughly as well 😊 Looking forward to the next one you post!!

[@megans580]

This video popped up on my feed and now I’m subscribed and binge watching all of your past videos! Absolutely love your channel. You’re recipes look so yummy I already have a few on my list to make. Great content and you seem like a really sweet person. Thank you for addressing the need to ask for help and not go hungry. I watch a lot of these budget type challenge videos on KZbin because who doesn’t love to save money and it’s so fun to see what can come out of so few ingredients. But you’re the first one I’ve seen let people know there are resources out there to help them. Love! Love! Love!

[@valzeppelin5153]

Sadly, dollar tree has raised the prices from $1.00 up to $1.25 per item. It's really hitting hard.

[@jenniferlorence1950]

Every morning in the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, at around 9AM, they start looking into the Pinto Beans in Bowl just like you did, looking for Rocks, Corn, debris in the Pinto Beans, and they rinse the beans and Rice before they Cook it, and they use the Chicken Bullions in their food for taste, and Garlic and Pepper. !~~~

[@theresalogsdon765]

Well, it isn't just Dollar Tree Beans that have things in them. All Beans can have things. I have found corn, a different type of Bean, Rocks, Wood, Plastic. Lol

[@littlesongbird1]

Exactly: I have bought beans from regular grocery stores and you always have to rinse and sort. I feel like the dollar tree ones are fresher. Perhaps because they have fast turn over.

[@hildahilpert5018]

I usually don't make pinto beans from scratch,but my sister in law does.She always goes through the beans to look for dirt, bad beans,etc.

[@angielester26]

Lisa you are awesome... never stop with your content.. not only do I enjoy your content... I use many things I've seen you do.. thanks so much ❤😊

[@juliagulia77]

This was so creative and inspiring, Lisa! Love all your content. My favorite beans are black beans or chickpeas. Chickpeas are so versatile, and you can use the cooking liquid for so many things - like an egg replacer!

[@islndgrl832]

Oh, I love garbanzo beans/chick peas too. I love Hummus, which is made of garbanzo beans ( chick peas ).

[@gisellegonzalez2628]

Great video glad to see someone using seasoning lol. I’ve been in areas where it’s so rural the only store is a Dollar store or Dollar general. You’ve got this!!!!

[@Homer2q]

The meals look great and Andrew is so positive! Great job, both of you!

[@wickedprepared]

I have made the little pancake muffins, with pieces of sausage links in the middle! And I do add a bit of extra sugar to the batter when I do that. Also let the kids dip them in syrup 😊 I'll have to try with berries!

[@jadeobsession9088]

this has given me some ideas, those lil fruit pancake bites look tasty

[@casandras14]

My fav was the breakfast egg, pot, sausage, cheese, onion & pepper dish. I am going to try to make my own flatbread & pasta after watching. The only thing I might have done differntly since you asked is adding water to 3 bean soup so soupy & used some soup crackers or saltines. Loved this video