$25 EXTREME EMERGENCY GROCERY BUDGET | FAMILY OF 5 | HOW MANY MEALS WILL IT GET?

Hey y'all! I wanted to show you how I planned meals for my family of 5 on a tight budget! Planning around seasonings I already had on hand! I hope this inspires you to take a look at what you already have while planning your menu! Thank you guys for all of your support!
-Brooke
Enfrijoladas:
corn tortillas
refried beans thinned with a cup of water
cheese
oil for frying
Spanish Rice:
2 cups of rice
2 TBS veggie oil
1tsp garlic powder
salt to taste
3 TBS tomato bouillon
Beans:
1 pound pinto beans
garlic powder
creole
salt
ghee
garlic powder
Italian Wonder Pot:
16 ounce pasta
6 cups of water
1 chicken bouillon cube
1 cup of chopped spinach
1 onion sliced up
4 garlic cloves sliced
can of italian diced tomatoes
1TBS basil
salt n pepper to taste
Enchilada filling:
1 1/2 CUPS of left over beans rinsed
1/2 cups of rice
1 packet of taco seasoning
cook in instant pot for 10 mins
let natural release for 10 mins
TikTok eggs in case you are interested
equal parts egg:milk
1 TBS pancake mix per egg

[@wendyledbetter5503]

I just wanted to say I admire you for putting yourself out there. You said something that makes me think you had gotten some criticism and I'll say those people don't know what it's like to really live on a tight budget. I like the fact that you buy things you think you can use, then make it work. I had family members who lived through the Depression era and their philosophy was "Use it up, wear it out, make do, or do without." Your meal plans are the epitome of "make do." Keep it up!

[@tammyjones8102]

I feel like we r n kitchen together just like cookin with my fam back n the day

[@floralbouquets]

And no waste ever. She does a great job.

[@dianedusendang8358]

Years ago, I had $25 to feed my girls for 10 days until I got my next paycheck. It was scary. I spent more than an hour in the grocery store, with my list....trying to find cheaper alternatives for my menu, which was breakfast, lunch ( I packed their lunch - no free school lunches back then), dinner and snacks. I did it, but I barely ate and mostly ate home popped popcorn. It taught me a lot. They had no idea that we were in trouble, their bellies were full and I vowed to never be in that position again. I bought a 10 lb bag of potatoes, a 3 lb bag of carrots, a dozen eggs, a large box of oatmeal, a large package of ground beef ( split and froze), milk, frozen oj, lettuce, tomato, onion, box of cherrios, loaf of bread and I think a whole cut up chicken ( funny that I can still remember that). I had flour, sugar, peanut butter, pasta....but my pantry and fridge were pretty bare. It was a rough time and my folks lived 3 hours away but I talked with my Mom everyday. I wouldn't admit my situation (pride), but my sweet momma sensed something. She called and announced she was coming for a visit. I was panicked that she would see my depleted fridge and pantry.. she never looked, but while the kids were at their Dad's for the weekend , said, "let's go to Sam's Club". She stocked my pantry, fridge and freezer to the hilt. I finally broke down and accepted the help and admitted my situation and have never forgotten my Mom's intuition, actions and help. I've never been so grateful and will always "keep back" emergency food!

[@Pandorash8]

Wow, that must have been absolutely frightening. Well done on getting through that tough time, all while looking after your kids. Which is then exactly what your mum did in turn. God bless you and your family xx

[@reneeprasil6153]

Ok, I just read that you have been hearing from some nay-sayers out here. Please ignore them. IME, most people are NOT cooking their own food-they are eating out or picking up meals that are pre=packaged or semi done in store. They don't have a clue as to how healthy the food they eat is. And your family lets you know they appreciate your cooking! THAT is pretty darn special these days! My hat is off to you! Thank you for showing us how we can do better with our budget!

[@andreamills5852]

I know this video is a year old but I love it and I know exactly about food insecurity from childhood to now. I think that those that have comments about what you buy must have never went through that. You are a blessing to a lot of people never change! God bless you and your family!❤😊

[@countycalling]

Brooke, don’t worry about those saying they would do this, or you shouldn’t use that. Those are the ones looking for their 7.00 plant based cheese while being hungry and your family will be sitting at the table getting their belly filled. Not everyone has to make home made bread. When all those people start their own channel let me know, they have zero control over their life so they are trying to control something

[@SouthernFrugalMomma]

This made me laugh 😂 $7 plant based cheese 😂

[@wandamontgomery6030]

I can't make homemade white bread either. I can make homemade amish breads. We all have areas where we shine. God didn't intend for all of us to have same talent 😁

[@ashleytyler8218]

$7 plant based cheese what is the world coming to 😂🤣

[@bonniebusch7960]

I know it's easier said than done, but try to ignore the rude people who only want to criticize. You are feeding your family and that's what matters. You are also helping others with ideas on how to stretch their food budget and that's pretty cool.

[@mistyfly2me]

She’s great

[@audreyhughes9569]

Hey girl! I just noticed Braden putting up a Broom and dustpan in your video. Thank you for teaching your boys to be productive members of society through chores and work ethics. You and Dusty are doing a great job as parents!

[@JeanetteParmantie-jq5xy]

Thank you thank you for putting out these EXCELLENT videos. You don't know how many people out here you are helping

[@angielester26]

When they pay your grocery bill.. they can complain... until then..they can stuff it... thanks for the GREAT ideas❤😊

[@barbarasumner4014]

You know what would be sooooooo cool, is if you could be on that show guys grocery games... You could win!! I believe that much in you. Barbanne

[@lovelife7343]

A coworker told me about his mom making fried onion mashed potato enchiladas when he was a kid. I make them for my kids they were a big hit. So now we make them every once in a while . I can make a big pan full for a few bucks.

[@TheFilipinaWifeLife]

I cant believe people will criticise your budget meals! They're looking at the wrong videos. These videos have been so helpful to many of us..and I can tell you that you make them with love and care.

[@mizg1595]

I struggled with yeast breads, even in my bread machine. Then I learned that really hard water can effect how the yeast works, mine would rise then collapse. I started using bottled water instead of tap water for my bread and my bread turns out fine now!

[@asmrmaroxa]

So using bottled water raises the cost of the bread. So aside from the heavenly smell and fabulous taste, does it still cost less than store-bought?

[@mizg1595]

@@asmrmaroxa If you don’t have extremely hard water, you can use tap water. Using a cup of bottled water adds about $.10, with flour and yeast a loaf of bread still comes in under $1 (even less if you buy yeast in bulk instead of the little packets) so it’s still economical to bake your own.

[@gailcroslin1647]

That's very interesting. We are on city water and it is horrible! I will try the bottled water. Thanks for the idea. My bread used to be amazing, then it's got dense and would rise uneven.

[@floralbouquets]

Me too...and you might have just solved my problem. I have really hard water. In one of our city parks we have a natural spring. They built a shelter and there are like 10 constantly running taps where people fill jugs. You can fill 10 jugs in 5 min. I am by myself so I fill a couple a week only. I will try that water next time and see if I have better luck.

[@happycook6737]

You are cooking for an army of dudes and you make it look effortless on a budget! Great job.

[@JeanetteParmantie-jq5xy]

Thank you for these EXCELLENT videos. You don't know how many people you are helping out here❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@motorcyclesandmakeup1297]

Yes she does ! I’m a mother of three boys and they’re loving me watching you ! You made cooking enjoyable for me again .

[@jamesmetzler745]

You dont have to justify anything, Brooke. You can do whatever you want.

[@lindabeck3412]

Hey Brooke! I am not sure how many meals your haul will make you - but I know you will stretch it out like the genius you are! I learn so much from you! Thanks again for being you ☺️

[@juliecampos9842]

I agree!

[@jillgott6567]

I enjoy your videos as they are genuine. People need to realize this is not how your family eats every day - this is a challenge for KZbin

[@hummingbird2230]

I feel like you are a part of my family. Thanks for the sunshine you bring to my life

[@judiehavard4903]

I have used those packet seasonings. By opening the packet and just sprinkling a little in a dish. Then folding down the top. And use the rest in another meal another day.

[@gailcroslin1647]

My hubby is fixing to retire. I'm doing a a lot of learning to live on a very limited budget. I've been watching lots of videos like this and have learned a lot. Thank you. I've been spoiled by an unlimited budget for groceries and on a crash course of thriftyness, (if that's a word).

[@heikeheart868]

In Canada the products and prices are different, but the struggle is the same, thanks so much and PLEASE keep 'em coming :) it sounds like someone's comments have got you down, please don't listen, my grown kids were raised on budget meals and to this day those are still their favourites! There are so many of us who appreciate your videos xo)

[@donnawheeler6283]

I agree! Many, many of us appreciate what you do, Brooke. You're teaching hundreds of people how to stretch grocery budgets and making delicious recipes that don't leave you feeling unsatisfied. The nay sayers need to start their own channels and see if they could do a fraction of what you're doing to feed a family of 5 with 3 growing boys.

[@KarmonBarger]

I realize this vid is older, but I'm just now watching it. you are an inspiration! I love your cooking style. I raised 5 kids and hubby with less than $750/mo. You just make it stretch and make it work. I think ppl expect too much. a good meal made with love is always good. But, I am going to brag on my grandma. She made the BEST scrambled eggs and cinnamon sugar toast! No hate, only love! Keep it up!

[@judiehavard4903]

You are helping many young people to stretch the food budget..you just have to plan carefully. And not waste what you have. The old saying waste not.. want not..is so true.

[@loladuran6933]

You made it through the week , I think you are awesome and your husband and boys are very supportive.. Blessing

[@laurahash6051]

Your meals looked amazing for that budget, and they were so much healthier than most people manage for a lot more money. Awesome job. And I've never seen that tomato bouillon before. I'm looking for that next time I go grocery shopping.

[@happycook6737]

Look in the Mexican section. It is used in Mexican rice by some cooks.

[@tannaphillips6840]

So Bisquick used to have several recipes for what they called ‘Impossible pie’ what used the mix a couple eggs i think milk but in a pinch you could use water and pour over other ingredients ( they had a taco, lasagna and hamburger version ms that i can think of right off hand) baked in a pie plate and serve. It came out kinda like a crustless quiche. Maybe next time use the spinach ( arrange a portion of the pie plate without spinach for your little guy) but add the spinach ham cheese add some onions or onion powder and bake it might be more palatable! Just a suggestion!!! Love watching!!!💗

[@nanato9152]

My boys like the impossible cheeseburger pie. I buy the store brand of Bisquick to save $.

[@crus5112]

I grew up on those in the 80's my mom would make all of them. My favorite was the taco(but she would add refried beans as well to bulk it up) and the coconut impossible pie.

[@tannaphillips6840]

Bisquick isn’t as sweet as other pancake mixes too! That helps when it’s a savory dish i think!!!

[@brittanym58]

I make my chicken pot pies with Bisquick top like this.

[@TXJan0057]

Make impossible pie in muffin pan for people who don't like the same thing.

[@msbuyhouses]

I love how you make inexpensive tasty meals on certain budgets and involve your children. Thanks for giving me ideas for my family 💝

[@honestwithmywordshughes3783]

Respect and administration to you and your channel !!!!! Love your recipes and personality, such a joy to watch and learn from. Thanks for everything you teach and do for us !!!!!😊😊😊😊😊😊

[@larryblocher3583]

You have to be very creative to be able to feed your family on a tight budget…thanks for your examples!!

[@megd7860]

Thanks for doing these types of videos 😊 They've helped my family out a lot! It's crazy how much food prices have risen. The pasta looked delicious! It all did!

[@garyolson1644]

I like that you tried out the egg/pancake trick and told us about it! Sometimes those tricks don't work for families like they do for others, so liked your opinion about it. 'I'm impressed with your families non-pickiness. Yes, some have preferences like no spinach, or no bread..etc., but overall they seem to eat what you cook which is awesome.

[@JeanetteParmantie-jq5xy]

Thank you, thank you for putting out these EXCELLENT videos. You don't have an idea how people you are helping out here.

[@lucyphenicie5236]

Thanks Brooke for your clever ideas!!we can try them, doctor according to what family likes.have to be open to try new things,sometimes we have things that are not for us.u are great!!😊

[@ayronsmama05]

I made the best pot of black beans I could ever hope to make recently. I did 2lbs (froze individual servings), 32 oz container of beef broth, 2 heads of garlic and 1 large onion that I pulverized in my mini chopper and a bunch of black pepper. I also added some water and big ole dollop of bacon grease. I did em in the instant pot and they keep on givin! I make my rice using the little knorr seasoning packet for mexican rice (also freeze, individually). Layer in a bowl rice, beans, lettuce, avocado, sour cream and tomato...YUMMMMY! I add a runny egg to eat for breakfast, lol. Blessings y'all! Also mama had 7 kiddos and to stretch eggs she would crush up saltines and scramble in butter and they were and are heaven.

[@theresarogerssimpson1280]

I also add crushed egg shells to the garden plus around certain flowers or hostas if slugs are eating on them they won't go across the egg shells. You rock Brooke love ❤ ya Lady. Ignore any nay sayers hun.

[@christineschafer8214]

If someone gets upset with what you use, (sliced cheese) they obviously don’t need these videos! Thank you for making these videos, I know they help, make a meal, not just mac and cheese and hot dogs all the time. And those haters, how about you make a video for people struggling! ❤u Brooke❣️

[@evedemarte1916]

You are awesome keep doing what you do. I am proud of you. Inflation keeps rising your right and we are all trying to feed our families on a tight budget. You inspire us and thanking you ever so much👏👍👌❤️❤️⭐️⭐️🌹

[@abcjerilee]

It has been a year since you put this video out. Things have only gotten worse. I appreciate your inventiveness and from your numbers, many others do too! I subscribed after seeing a second video! Your family is awesome for being guinea pigs. Such sweet helpers! Thank you so much for showing this old dog new tricks!

[@nancyculp6968]

Fried rices with a bunch of vegetables and some of your diced ham and bacon drippings! Yum!

[@shawnphilips1246]

I have a feeling your little guy is gonna be a chef one day!

[@amandapat1948]

My husband is Mexican and that’s pretty much how he makes rice! So it’s pretty authentic

[@TaraannBudgetsandSelf-Care]

I think you do an awesome job. You don't eat the same meal every day like a lot of the other extreme budget video.

[@pwrplnt1975]

I'm so happy that you're putting out content that will show families how to survive when we have a TYRANT in the Whitehouse! !! Tell Dusty I love his T-shirts, I'm also a veteran and a fan of grunt style! How do I find his channel?

[@virginiababiasz1519]

Add butter as you mix your egg mixture and makes them amazing and never stick 😀

[@JanAgardy-ow2rh]

I wou0ld gu pphat folks that complain about emergency meals have never had a true emergency. When I grew up my Mom had plenty of times that she had to make it until my Dad got paid. She did lots of different stuff to stretch her budget often making sandwiches & telling us we were having a picnic in the living room on the floor. She made kool-aid & I never thought we were doing without,thought we were having fun. Some of my favorite memories were those times. As long as kids aren't going to bed hungry the content of the meal doesn't count.

[@carynwood9158]

You have a lot of patience in the kitchen. I'm a lazy cook, I'd rather be quilting! I'd have turned those enchiladas into an enchilada casserole in a heart beat. Really enjoy this glimpse into your kitchen. You are a very likeable and endearing person.

[@tabithasams3752]

GIRL! I LOVE your channel! Your personality is just the vibes I need! And love ur simple recipes!

[@nanac.3243]

It doesn't matter what kind of cheese you buy. We need to do what best for our family . It's hard to say how many meals you'll get from your groceries. Maybe keep a log of what you bought what meals you made from it and amounts used and leftover for future reference. Enjoy your day

[@staceykelly4211]

Tasty and FRUGAL tip!! Water will make your eggs fluffier and stretch them! The water, when heated, turns to steam and fluff those little suckers to the heavens. And, at no airings cost!!

[@whitneytucker1224]

You are truly a star ⭐️ lol 😝😘 I can’t wait to witness your You Tube growth. Because you just draw people in! Your personality just shines through!!!

[@SouthernFrugalMomma]

You are too kind! Thank you so much for watching and supporting this channel! It means so much!!

[@ghouliejuliebattybones6993]

So glad I found your channel the other day! Love your recipes, tips, and tricks. Plus you are so fun to watch. It's like hanging out with a friend.

[@donnagearhart6477]

It's amazing watching your videos and, how you plan out your meals and, put them all together. I wished that I could do that to. Have a blessed week Brook❤

[@Whitney_Sews]

Just found your channel today and absolutely love it!

[@SouthernFrugalMomma]

Thank you so much!! 💜

[@renaparker4579]

Girl, thank you. We're just trying to eat. We appreciate you+ your videos.

[@laurenbloxham3712]

Really enjoying your channel! Not only is it extremely helpful but I hope it helps people know there is hope and you can survive. ❤️

[@bridgetlove1884]

I have a family of 5 too (3 boys too). That you can feed your family for $25 for 3 days is an awesome accomplishment. Is it full of fruits and vegetables? Of course not, but it's pretty darn healthy considering the dollar amount. It's way below what the spending that the government reports for a same size family is incurring (frugal meal plan). People who are criticizing are just being ridiculous. This is not an everyday Meal plan, it's just for inspiration. Our family is higher income but I even look for cost saving measures and that you are putting this content for families who are struggling is commendable. Don't let the critics bug you.

[@cherrycola1835]

You did such an amazing job! Everything looked so scrumptious, especially the Mexican food. I will definitely try out those recipes. Blessings to you and your lovely family, XO from TX.

[@christelshultz8495]

Love to watch your videos, you are so natural and normal and you have great food ideas

[@noravan6114]

I finally found someone like me. I can all as well. Bread for some reason never turns out. Ty ty ty. ❤

[@thebeyondcontrolband]

We sure love your channel.! We watch you all the time.

[@carlalyon5044]

You are amazing and I love your videos! Great ideas and the food always looks delicious!

[@margaretglowacki5749]

Brooke you’re the best!! Keep the great ideas coming!!! Take care!!!

[@leannbetters5389]

Thank you for the video and your amazing at stretching the food for the hauls…I also love your wood utensils

[@ashleyadams6803]

Get a bread machine and make home made bread! It’s so good and always turns out, all your boys will love it!

[@annethompson2212]

love these videos, I think it’s great that you make do with what fits in the budget 😊

[@sherrysawyer6819]

Watching some of the earlier videos because I subscribed a few weeks ago. You are amazing with budgets and meals! Good looks delicious! Thank you for sharing recipes Brooke! 💗

[@andreastump5331]

Love your videos. They have helped me out alot. Keep up the good work.

[@anthonyslifeadventures]

Have been hooked on your channel since the day I found you! Thanks for all these great meal ideas!

[@amymonroe6883]

I love your baking dish!!! Thanks for making these videos, they inspire many meals in my house.

[@lisacalandra2474]

Your videos always make me smile and sometimes laugh. You are creative in your cooking keep it up love the videos!

[@Patsy_K.]

I always love your budgeting videos.

[@paulaflatt2936]

Thank you for the videos!Brooke one Tennessean to another keep up the good work. You and your sweet family are very entertaining. Love your channel

[@Loribelle]

I have a hard time coming up with meals for the things I do have on hand, so love your videos!

[@kellywilliams7214]

Thank you for another great video! I'm looking forward to trying your frugal recipes. I really enjoy watching your taste testers. We know that kids will tell it like it is so they are liking the meals that you are making.

[@ksewald91]

I got a bread machine from thrift store. Turns out great with the recipes included. We especially like the potato bread recipe. Easy peasy.

[@kimschacht4284]

You can fry those tortillas crispy and make tostados too and that’s a cheap meal. I make them and use some leftover Taco Bell sauce packets.

[@candyeolney30]

Great job as usual!

[@lissahammond2249]

This was a great video! I appreciate all of the hard work that you and Brooke put into your videos. Thank you!!! 😊

[@mscaliwood3108]

Great video sis, keep bringing them!

[@jessicas.9859]

This was great, thanks for the ideas!!

[@rebeccag.2381]

Brooke you are a blessing to all! ❤

[@appletinImom0f5]

Omg this video made my day thank u for this

[@pacifica9718]

I've been binge-watching your channel for a week now. You're doing a fantastic job! Thank you.

[@heathermaddox5112]

Thank you for trying out the egg trick. I was wondering if it was any good! Also thank you for these easy cheap recipes!

[@erlyne0]

This was great! Thanks for the inspiration 👏

[@hoosiergirl1]

I always enjoy these videos. Interesting try with the eggs and pancake mix. I had never heard of it and don't think that I will try after your review. Thanks for doing the experiment for the rest of us!!

[@debbiekoortzen1154]

Hi there, just found your channel. I did a great job, I am very impressed. Your boys are lovely. Lots of love to you and your beautiful family. ⚘

[@cathylongstreth5405]

Great job, Brooke!

[@BergenholtzChannel]

I just remembered another cheap meal I make sometimes that you might like. It is called Salchipapas. You take hash brown potatoes with peppers and onions and fry them up in a little oil. Add chopped up hot dogs and cook them towards the end of the potatoes cooking. Add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper to taste. That's it. So good!

[@yvonnepalmquist8676]

My mom would cut Kielbasa into O'Brien potatoes. So dang yummy!

[@Ana-ui9il]

Im just feeding myself however I still need to budget my meals. God bless you 🙏 ❤️ you are helping me out. Enjoy your recipes sweetie

[@Randy8923]

Great job! I enjoyed.

[@The_Real_DreamM]

Awesome video thank you 💕 So glad I found your channel.

[@genaroayala3482]

You and your family are amazing ( ❤️) may great things desired and earned come your way thanks for sharing ❤️

[@tinablair2206]

Great job! Yourr beans and rice looks so good girl!! Also, western egg sandwiches or stuffed French toast would've been a great way to use up the last of the ham and or for lunch variety. We enjoy sandwiches here, too. That pasta though!!! Trying that soon. Love that it can made with pantry staples. Perfect meatless Monday meal. I can envision it with fresh fettuccine pasta or bowties too. The enchiladas and Other one that is too hard to say are on my bucket list now. Bless you and your sweet family. You crack me up. Hugs

[@micahmiller5923]

I love this video, and I feel like you did an amazing job stretching your food! I hate making omelets, and no one in my family likes them. But, I love making and eating frittatas, and they are so much easier than omelets. There's no turning! And they fluff up in the oven. Plus, they take 15-20 minutes from start to finish, and one with 4-5 eggs can feed 6-8 people, depending on mix ins. I like to use spinach, onion, bell pepper, tomato, and/or zucchini to provide extra nutrients and stretch it further. I can normally get 3 eggs, 1/4 c each onion and bell pepper, and 1 c fresh spinach (about 1/4 c frozen) to feed me breakfast for 2 days. I also don't need milk for it, but you could sub 1/4 c milk for 1 egg and stretch it further.

[@tinablair2206]

Yes!! Put squash blossoms, green onions, frsh herbs and parmesan for an amazing meal for anytime of the day.

[@micahmiller5923]

@@tinablair2206 Yes! And you can feed a crowd easily with one pan of it! I've even done a pizza frittata with pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, and tomatoes! Always a family favorite!

[@catnapper7509]

Oooh throw it in a crust for yummy quiche, too! I luv anything in a crust!😊

[@MJ-qq8qw]

Your videos are great, and I think they will really help people.

[@lisapelland4471]

I'm so glad I found this! I have all the stuff for enchiladas except meat so I'm making it like you did woot woot! Thank you for trying the tik tok recipe for us and I like a pancake with a fried egg on top season with salt and pepper runny yolk. Yummy. Try it!

[@ragdollpreppers2648]

Love this thank you ❤❤❤

[@monicdavis6150]

Good job! I will try this very soon!

[@ZenobiaDecrespin]

Endless variety and ❤❤❤❤❤ and yall winner winner love yall

[@donamariaallen3132]

I Love your food ideas

[@lissahammond2249]

Your vids are so helpful and inspiring. Thanks for sharing your geniusness (made up word) in the kitchen!

[@SouthernFrugalMomma]

Thank you! That will be My new word 😂