$22 FOR A WEEK OF FOOD| GROCERY BUDGET CHALLENGE

I'm planning an extreme grocery budget challenge where I'll be eating for $22 for the week. I'm planning frugal meals to save money on groceries and eat frugally by planning budget friendly meals. In this Walmart grocery haul I'll be reusing ingredients across meals. This meal plan can be doubled or tripled to feed a family on a budget for frugal living.
#budgetgroceryhaul
#budgetchallenge
#groceryhaul
#extremegrocerybudget
#extremegrocerybudgetchallenge
#walmartgroceryhaul
#budgetmealplan
#budgetmeals
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INGREDIENTS
tomatoes crushed large can Great Value 1.36
ground turkey 1 lb FESTIVE frozen 2.54
1 gouda Great Value small block 2
1 onion brown WC 0.37
celery Wholesome Choice 0.89
rice 1 lb 0.82
pinto beans dry 1 lb Great Value 1
eggs 6 1.36
corn tortillas 30 Great Value 2.34
muffins great value 1.42
peanut butter DOLLAR TREE 1.25
potatoes .39 wholesome choice 0.24
avocado 1 0.68
pasta - garden rotini - Great Value 0.92
corn muffin mix - JIFFY 0.47
2 tomatoes .69 per pound 0.69
1 can cream style corn 0.58
sour cream - Great Value small container 1.16
1 jalapeno 0.08
1 zucchini 0.52
corn on the cob 1 ear 0.5
2 apples honey crisp .69 0.61
1 can tomatoes small can diced 0.88
TOTAL 22.68
Marinara
1 can of diced tomatoes
1/2 stalk celery diced
1/3 cup chopped onion
Garlic powder
Trader Joe’s Italian Seasoning (has
Red pepper flakes to desired level of heat
Pinch of sugar
Salt to taste
Olive oil
Simmer for at least an hour, adding the reserved pasta sauce when needed to thin out sauce.
Top noodles with marinara and chopped fresh Italian parsley
Pasta Salad Dressing
¼ cup olive oil
1/8 c red wine vinegar or other vinegar of choice
½ teaspoon basil
½ teaspoon dried oregano
dash of garlic powder
dash salt
dash pepper
• I added an extra dash of vinegar on my salad at the end because I love the acidity
PASTA SALAD
chopped Italian parsley
cubed gouda
diced tomato
chopped roasted tomatoes
diced zucchini
DICED CELERY
CHILI
3/4 c diced celery
5 cups pinto beans
1 pound ground turkey
1 large can crushed tomatoes
3 tbsp chili powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 teaspoons cumin
1 teaspoon ground oregano
chicken bouillon powder to taste
*1/8 teaspoon chipotle powder (optional)
*2 bay leaves (optional)
3 cups water (or fill tomato can full of water=3 cups)
sauté celery and onions until soft. Remove from pan. Brown ground turkey, drain fat. add remaining ingredients. simmer for at least 2-3 hours or in crock pot on low.
Top with cheddar, sour cream and crispy tortilla strips.
For a richer chili, add one carton of chicken broth as well as a tablespoon of the chicken bouillon ( to taste). This chili makes a lot of servings and will probably feed two people for 3-4 meals. If you are feeding a larger family you can triple this recipe, but omit doubling the meat for every second person.
Leftovers= 1 cup dry rice, 3 stalks celery, 13 corn tortilla shells, 1/3 can cream style corn
MENU
BREAKFAST
1- 2 scrambled eggs with 2 tortillas
2 english muffin with eggs, gouda and sun dried tomato
2 avocado muffin
1 egg muffin with gouda
1 muffin with peanut butter
LUNCH
2 chilis
1 avocado english muffin ( I also ate the zucchini with marinara)
1 soup with cream style corn, potatos, onions
1 pasta with homemade marinara
1 bowl with rice beans tortillas, corn and corn bread
1 pasta salad with zucchini, tomatoes, celery and vinaigrette
DINNER
1 pasta with marinara and zucchini
2 chili with cheese and tortillas
1 gouda quesadilla with rice and sour cream and beans
1 soup with cream style corn, potato, onions, celery and corn bread
1 pasta salad with zucchini, tomatoes, celery and vinagrette- and corn fritters
1 bowl with rice beans tortillas, grilled zucchini and chili tortilla chips
SNACKS
chips and guac
apple with cheese cubes
apples with peanut butter
celery with peanut butter

[@mariannethreadgoode4798]

Oh my goodness. I am in love with this menu! It has all of my favorite dishes and corn fritters are going to be on our menu this week, thanks for the suggestion!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Marianne 😁 Yay! I'm glad you liked my menu. I can't remember if I said it in the video, but I used water in the mix instead of milk, and never missed it. Hope you like the corn fritters.

[@luisal0ve]

@@ArdentMichelle it was mostly for the chowder recipe…. My own problem. I still loved your video and you have a new subscriber!

[@ThePlaneterra]

😊

[@sarahritter2055]

This comes at a perfect time when I have only 40 dollars to spend for a family of 3 this week. Thankfully, I have lots of spices and some pantry staples like rice, beans, and flour. Thank you for these amazing recipes!! I'm going to use several of them! Blessings on your day!😊

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Sarah 😁 Thanks so much! 🥰 The chili made about 8 regular bowl size servings and I had 13 tortilla shells leftover so keep that in mind. I'm so glad you are going to use this meal plan for your family. I was hoping this video would be used this way. It can always be modified to your families tastes, or to whatever fruit or vegetables are on sale in your area. Thanks for the comment! Hope your family enjoys!

[@sarahritter2055]

@@ArdentMichelle thank you so much!! I will be making the chili for sure. My family is not picky at all, and loves to try all foods! I truly appreciate your videos. I'm going through your other ones, too, to get as many ideas as possible, since the only stores I have to choose from here are Walmart and Kroger. Everyone at work had their hours cut this month ( hopefully just temporarily), but I enjoy a challenge and hope to end up with some new family favorites 😃

[@frankieamsden7918]

For people struggling right now and don't qualify for food stamps, there are some resources I came across for free food. I searched free food giveaway on Facebook and found a group in my area that regularly posts where they are handing out free food. Most don't have requirements but you have to get there early and bring your own bags. Maybe this can help.

[@sarahritter2055]

@@frankieamsden7918 what a kind gesture to search that out! Thank you. I know that information will help many! Blessings on your day!🙂

[@angiec5496]

@@sarahritter2055 Hi Sarah, we are in the same boat as you; as a single-mama with three teens living in San Diego county, it has been tough to say the least, especially when being creative with limited funds in the kitchen. I reached out to some local food banks and found some great programs: some are just driving up and getting free food, and another I found they give you a shopping cart and you can pick out what your family needs😍😀 It has been great receiving foods and household items; we feel blessed during these hard times! Hopefully you can find resources like these where you guys live! Sending love and encouragement!🥰☺

[@m_ellemarga8815]

I so appreciate that you take the time to plate up your food nicely, and make a dipping sauce or even add a quick topping. So often when on a tight budget, such niceties go out the window, but you don’t do that. A good reminder to nourish myself with grace too. Thank you.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Thank you 😁 I appreciate the complement. I'm glad you like the presentation of my meals. It's always been important to me.

[@FrugalPants]

I'm always excited to see you post because you are one of the few who actually do these challenges with stuff that actually looks good!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Laura 😁 Thank you so much. I'm glad my food looks good to you.

[@walkingthepath4964]

Yep, she makes some of the best budget meal videos out there. Always includes some unique ideas too.

[@colettemcwilliams1325]

I totally agree. It seems like some people don't really know the basics of cooking. Michelle always comes up with delicious,inspiring, sourceable ideas.

[@GeckoCityUK]

You should always fry your spices in the oil, they are oil soluble not water soluble, so you get a huge flavour boost by adding them in with the oil / onions - not at the end. Just be sure to do it over a low heat, so not to burn them :)

[@ArdentMichelle]

Great point!

[@BrownEyedGirl331]

A class by yourself, head of the class, class act, all come to mind. I watched someone else's budget menu this weekend and it consisted of things like Lunch= Kraft Mac and Cheese and an apple? I appreciate their effort but I can figure that out myself! You create recipes and ideas that are fresh, nutritious, offer variety, are budget friendly and are yummy. A+++ as always and thank you.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Lyla 😁🥰 I appreciate your complement so much! I'm so glad you liked my menu in this video. Thank you 🤗

[@jacki6301]

My mom made a soupy chili for us kids. It made the chili stretch. When you have a lot of mouths to feed, you cant go wrong with soups. We ate saltine crackers in our soups.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Jacki 😁 Yes, saltines are great also.

[@CaroLina-dg9gb]

OMG YES! the corn fritters looked insanely good, i will recreate them. I am italian and I have definitely seen first hand how far simple ingredients can get you. For sure, you have to cook more, but in the end the best dishes don't need to be expensive when you put care

[@ArdentMichelle]

Well said 👍 and glad you liked my corn fritters. That muffin mix sure made them easy 👩‍🍳

[@lyndagalitz3321]

I love how you cook from scratch and healthy on a budget

[@ArdentMichelle]

Glad you liked this video 😁

[@margerose8975]

Astonishing. Most of these dishes people would pay good money to eat at a restaurant! 👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Marge Rose 😁🥰 Thank you so much. I'm glad you liked my recipes!

[@ShipperChick]

I have some picky eaters who don’t like ground turkey. So to hide the turkey, I use beef soup base when I brown the turkey.

[@ArdentMichelle]

dang Mud Puppy! You've got tricks! 😜 They didn't even know they like turkey 😂

[@joannamorton3127]

So glad you brought cage free eggs, even on a budget. Well done.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Thank you 😁

[@kristenc7953]

Our dollar tree stocks Thomas’s bagels in every flavor and the Sara Lee Artesano bread for $1.25. I know some don’t have a bread section but it’s worth checking out.

[@kristenc7953]

Plus the cinnamon raisin bread for raisinette brand I believe it is.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Wow. I'll have to look for those next time I'm at Dollar Tree. That's a great deal 👍

[@Amanda-hc3rf]

Am on the lowest budget this week so this was so perfectly timed. Thank you!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Amanda 😁 I'm so glad my video will be useful for you this week. I'm definitely eating on a low budget myself....not just for the videos! Thanks for the comment!

[@karenmendes5867]

I know it’s been a year since you posted but I have never watched this before. I’ve sat here for an hour trying to think of the words to describe how impressed I am. I had to watch it TWICE because when I first saw what you bought I couldn’t figure out what you’d eat. I was stunned at the wonderful food you made. Fantastic job.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Thanks so much 💜 I appreciate the nice complement.

[@bonitagoodwin5086]

I love the diversity with so few ingredients! You always come up with such good ideas. Love watching your videos!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Thank you so much! 😊

[@misacruzader]

You're so creative! It's not just frugality it's ingenuity

[@ArdentMichelle]

Thank you 🥰

[@emmavik-fredriksson640]

As a vegetarian, I love your channel! It's always a lot of vegetarian recipes blended in. I would love to try those corn fritters but I'm pretty sure we don't have cornbread mixes in Sweden. Thankfully Google might help with a version! Here Gouda is the most inexpensive cheese and absolutely not something you find in a cafe or a restaurant. It's the number one budget cheese and has that reputation too. You only buy it for the price, not the taste! But an aged Gouda is quite nice. I often roast tomatoes like you did here and top with estragon, than put it in a quiche. Its absolutely my favourite quiche. My kids love it!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Emma 😁 Thanks for sharing with us what it's like in Sweden. I love hearing this kind of info! I enjoyed the Gouda, but my favorite is definitely extra sharp cheddar cheese. I've recreated the Starbucks grilled cheese with a more expensive aged Gouda and parmesan and it was delicious. I never got around to the grilled cheese in this recipe though, because I had a lot going on 😂 That quiche sounds delicious!

[@evahellesto5179]

Thank you for your videos! Unfortunately in my area, the overall prices are much higher but I don’t think that’s the point. The point is to minimize waste, be more thoughtful about how we’re spending our money, exercise creativity, and eat a more modest amount of food than the indulgence our society is used to! Thank you! :)

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Eva 😁 I realize I'm fortunate to have access to great grocery prices here in Orange County California. You are right though, the biggest savings comes from prudent spending on food- for me that's planning and using the food items in multiple recipes and having zero waste.

[@glendagonzalez2469]

I'm always blown away by how much food you can make from so little but even more by the creativity and beautiful presentation. The simplest ingredients are transformed I to experiences. You are very talented.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Thank you so much Glenda 🥰

[@intuitivegina]

I love what you do but the only problem I have is for example those Tomatoes cooking for two or three hours or more uses electricity or gas depending upon what kind of oven you have and the cost of that needs to be put into your weekly budget. I'm living on retirement things are very tight and I do have to think about how much energy I spend in my cooking and add that in

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Gina 😁 Yes of course, if you are living in an area where energy costs are high that will need to be accounted for in your budget. You could always modify this by using the original method and use the sun. I meant to add that comment in.

[@intuitivegina]

@@ArdentMichelle oh great idea

[@danidelyon7093]

I recently received one of those tiny air fryer appliances. I’m still experimenting with it. At 180 degrees for 45 minutes, I made beef jerky. Maybe the tomato idea will work but at half the time. 🤔

[@intuitivegina]

@@danidelyon7093 wow ty. I have a small air fryer

[@ArdentMichelle]

@@danidelyon7093 I've been wanting an air fryer. This comment makes me want one for sure. I would love to try drying out fruit in one.

[@WilletteB]

The food looks so yummy! I love the music you have chosen. It fills my soul with peace and relaxation. Thank you Michelle 😊 💓

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Willette 😁 I'm glad you like my food and music choices in this video. Thanks for letting me know. 🥰

[@joanwistinghausen696]

Hi Michelle, I love your channel and noticed that you make a lot of soups and use quite a bit of boullion and chicken broth in the carton. I started using Better Than Boullion. I don’t know if you have that brand but our local Walmart carries it in chicken and beef flavors. It is a bit more expensive initially but works out at $4.28 each jar for 38 servings (1 tsp to 1 cup water = 1 cup broth). That’s about 11c per cup of broth, quite a bit cheaper than even the Great Value Chicken Broth at $1.33 for 32 oz (4 cups at 33c/cup!) and it is very fresh tasting. I also like the Vegetable flavor but don’t use it as much.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Joan 😁 I've used the Better Than Bouillon Vegetable broth on my channel before but not the chicken. I really liked it. Thanks so much for letting me know that the chicken is great too. I should share that with my viewers. It's great to have options. I've been looking for a low sodium variety but so far I haven't seen anything in the stores. ☹️ Thanks for the comment!

[@joanwistinghausen696]

@@ArdentMichelle I put your videos on when I'm working from home to inspire me to cook something. :D Looks like I'll have to watch more videos to catch the BTBV broth! There is a low sodium variety which I look forward to trying once I'm out of the regular but I think only my local HEB (local to TX) carries it and it's a bit more expensive. The Walmart online price I see (for shipment only) is outrageous.

[@ArdentMichelle]

That makes me happy 😁🥰 I love that! wait....I've been trying to find a low sodium bouillon. I didn't know this brand carries one. I'll order online if I have too. Thanks for letting me know!

[@sj59801]

I envy your clean stove top. My family doesn't do well in the 'clean up after yourself area'. I also envy your access to fresh produce at a good price. I am in Eastern WA and it's not a food desert but it seems like it. Costs at our local Walmart are much higher, Safeway is hard to gauge for good selection because they are smaller and sell out very quickly. Your music selection is really nice for this episode too. Very calming for a Sunday morning. Thank you, I really love watching!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Jane 😁 Thank you so much. I'm so glad my music is relaxing. I subscribed to Epidemic Sound so I would have more choices for peaceful music for my videos. I realize how fortunate I am to have so many great grocery stores to choose from. Surprised though that your Walmart is higher. ☹️

[@susans9491]

At least in eastern Washington you do have great produce and fruit in season! We used to make the trip every fall from Edmonds to Wenatchee to get good stuff to can and pickle! Nothing in Vermont compares.

[@sj59801]

@@susans9491 there is great fruit and produce available but that's more central WA than where I am. I'm farther East so the great selections during the growing season are quite a drive from me.75-100 miles every direction. Fuel costs are horrible, I try to stay close and just work with what I have available and on sale. Shows like this one sure help!

[@wendoxia]

I’m always so happy to see a new video! it’s like a friend checking in

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Wendie 😁 and I'm always happy to see a comment from you 🥰

[@wendoxia]

@@ArdentMichelle This was a great recipe lots of good ideas.. I’m cooking usually for one sometimes for two so these are very helpful. Sometimes I’ll make a pot of some thing for my whole family and drop it to them

[@ArdentMichelle]

@@wendoxia I bet your family loves you dropping off a pot of food. I know I would 😊

[@Maiasatara]

A budget challenge that doesn't feel like a compromise. (Those fritters!) And a year later these Walmart prices are so similar. Nice one.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Thank you so much! 😁

[@Vegoonery]

I love your budget meal plans! You always make an attempt to keep the meals balanced and healthy, which is hard on a low budget. You scratch make most things, but those recipes are not too difficult or time consuming. The meals you make are realistic and not "Instagramable" foods. They are also not sad, poverty meals. It's just good food! Thanks for all your hard work, I'll continue watching!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Thanks Amber 😁 I'm glad you like the meals I create. Thanks for letting me know.🥰

[@AmiFriendsStudio]

Your voice is so soothing! It's nice that you show yourself cooking the menus and showing how you used all the food items. Great job. Must be a lot of work to put these videos together.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Thanks so much! 😊 It's a LOT of work to do the weekly budgets, but everyone seems to enjoy those videos the most. I'm going to try to do more of these.

[@Swimdown24]

I love your videos and your voice overs. Your voice is soothing and inspiring. Thank you☺️

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hello 😁 Glad you like my videos and you find my voice soothing 🥰 Thank YOU for watching!

[@spicychickpea97]

This video was just as comforting as the food in it looked! Perfect cozy vibes for fall.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Kendra 😁 Yay! That was my goal. Thanks so much for the comment! I appreciate it. And Thank YOU for watching!

[@kristathehungrymelon]

Oooo I just subscribed to you last week after watching your videos on and off for a year or so. Such a treat to get a new video so soon

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Krista 😁 Thanks so much for subscribing! Hope you like this video!

[@omalleysmith9100]

You always have delicious looking recipes and easy! I think another key to extreme budget meals is to be okay with eating the same things a few days in a row. Not a few meals in a row, but a few times throughout the week. I love leftovers! Thanks. :)

[@ArdentMichelle]

True 👍 Thanks for watching!

[@emmavik-fredriksson640]

Exactly! For me that's how I always have eaten, leftovers for lunch or if it's a lot it makes for a quick meal later in the week. Leftovers or make a big batch of somethings is a great way to save on time and it's really nice to have a soup or a stew done, ready to heat up! You can always change toppings and side dishes.

[@Brittbritt15]

You are SO underrated! Amazing variety with minimal ingredients. Well done 🙂

[@ArdentMichelle]

Thanks so much! 😊🥰

[@countrygal3688]

Your lovely presentations make your budget meals look gourmet!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Yay! Glad you think so 😁 Thank you!

[@kellyssimplesouthernlife2174]

These are ALL fabulous ideas! I really appreciate you working so hard to teach us how to cook on a budget (without feeling like we’re on a budget) I consider myself a pretty good cook, but Ive learned tons from you

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hello 😊I'm so glad you liked the recipes I chose this week and that my videos have been helpful. Yay! 😁👩‍🍳

[@nicolette6327]

Thank you so much for doing these videos. They are really helpful for ideas to feed my hungry family. ❤

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Nicolette 😁 🥰Glad my videos are helpful.

[@tanyagibbons133]

Chili over rice is delicious and helps it stretch

[@ArdentMichelle]

I meant to make a bowl of chili with rice but didn't get to it. I've heard this before from my viewers ( maybe you 😂) but I still haven't tried it. Sounds yummy and a perfect budget meal.

[@lindawilson290]

Wow, AM, you really hit this one out of the park. Every one of your dishes looked so delicious, not to mention the beautiful presentation. Have a wonderful week!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Linda 😁🥰Glad you liked my video! Thanks so much. Hope you have a great week too 😊

[@sinisterkitty8411]

I have been so bored with cooking lately, but this was inspiring! Very creative, but not fussy. Love that you used so much corn! Also, your voice is very soothing along with the music. I may have to use this as a mental health video!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Glad you like this video and find it soothing 😁

[@deborahelliott8460]

I make grilled cheese sandwiches with 3 different cheeses (swiss, gouda, and either provolone or cheddar, whichever is least expensive at the time). If I can't buy bread, its homemade. Yea, I know, incovenient for some, but I do have an all day cooking day for which I cook meats, plan ahead meals, breads, cookies and other items needed for snacks and lunches to go. Saves time in the long run, and makes sure I have plenty for all three meals. (one loaf for french toast or regular toast, one loaf for sandwiches which are frozen and one for dinners when we have spaghetti or sloppy joes). We do use up a LOT of bread since my younger kid now works full time. I know many dont think its budget friendly, but sure makes for some inexpensive bread when I can't always eat store bought. If you are on a very tight budget, get eggs from dollar tree, not wally world or other places. I would rather spend $1.25 on a doz eggs than pay as much for only 6. Im saving up for a kitchenaid machine to do pasta noodles. I think since prices are going way over my own budget, I need to keep a pantry stocked with things like flour, sugar, etc. Otherwise, dollar tree saves me again from wally world. DID YOU KNOW FACT--When you cut your celery stalk, leave the root with 1/2 inches of the stalk, and put it in a cup of water in sunny window, and it will grow the stalks again and again and again! No crepes? Those are a LOT easier to make than corn fritters, and goes a LONG way for a breakfast with fruit of choice and whip cream.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Deborah 😁 I thought of making crepes with the corn muffin mix but since I just made crepes on my channel, chose something else. I do love to buy eggs at Dollar Tree. In my store they come in a pack of 8 for $1.25. I agree, bread makes the meals go further. 👍 That's great that you make your own.

[@vonneblazier814]

Gouda grilled cheese sandwiches are the BEST!

[@wildermidnight]

Awesome job. Love the finesse you bring to your cooking.

[@ArdentMichelle]

😁🥰 Thank you so much for the lovely comment!

[@cherylfindeisen6088]

Great ideas on food! I will be trying some of these as food has gotten outrageously expensive

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Cheryl 😁 Thank you so much! Yes, I agree....grocery costs are outrageous ☹️

[@MyFavoriteColorIsBLUE]

Thanks!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Thank you so much Empty Nester x5 😁🥰 I appreciate the support!

[@Jadeskorpion]

If you cut the ground meat fully through in the middle and then squish out the meat holding the metal clip at the end its less mess and less likely to have meat that needs to be dug out of the wrapper.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Sounds like a good strategy 😂 I'll try it.

[@workingmomsbox5053]

You make such good and unexpected recipes for the budget you placed! Great job ❤

[@ArdentMichelle]

Thanks so much! 😊 Glad you liked my meal choices.

[@deanabarnes2957]

I just love how you make simple meals. Great job and thank you. ❤️ from Texas

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Deana 😁 🥰 Glad you like my choices this week. Thank YOU for watching!

[@beckyw9000]

Jiffy is one of my favorite things to always have in my pantry. I am not sure why it is so good, but it is. Enjoyed the video, thank you!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Becky 😁 I know I love Jiffy too! 💜 It's tasty. I have so many other ideas for that mix! Luckily I stocked up on it when it was .38 at WINCO.

[@danidelyon7093]

I always learn something new when I watch your videos. On this one I missed hearing the natural sounds of your cooking …. The sizzling of the oil, the cutting, the tapping, etc. ☺️

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Dani 😊 The only time I turn the cooking volume down is if other people are also talking in the video. Sometimes when I'm cooking it's the weekend and my family members are also in the kitchen. ☹️ I know I love to hear the sounds of cooking. I'll try to make sure to keep as much in as possible. Thanks for the comment.

[@danidelyon7093]

@@ArdentMichelle I can totally understand. As I was watching and listening to your video, I found myself getting heavy eyed and drowsy because of the relaxing guitar music. It’s probably just me. Keep doing what you do best which is your special way of cooking! I’ll still watch your videos! ♥️☺️♥️

[@empresswb641]

I usually buy that bread also, I love the one with the sesame seeds on top. I was also bummed to find the 50% increase.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hello 😁 I went back for the bread even though it was more expensive 😂 Now featured in a new video I just released. It's still a great deal!

[@patriciatzai]

Another great video. You do such a great job showing us every step of your process. I think that's helpful because everyone's local situation (prices,sales, availablity) is going to vary but adapting classic and new recipes to fit with budget ingredients is such a useful process. I can't wait to see more!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Sarah 😁 Thank you so much. I'm glad you liked my video! 👨‍🍳

[@robinricart3155]

Corn fritters with jam or syrup are great for breakfast

[@Natalie-xy7zy]

I love the soft piano music in the background with subtitles. It's so cozy and soothing to watch. :)

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Natalie 😊Glad you liked my music choices. I subscribed to Epidemic Sound so I could have more options for peaceful music.

[@erinlavigne6644]

Love all of your meals! Love how you present your meals! Thank you!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Erin 😁 Glad you like them!

[@caitlincunningham8354]

I am so glad I found your channel! I love your videos and your soothing voice 💕

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Caitlin 😁 Thank you so much. I'm glad you found my channel too 🥰

[@sheilaenglish3293]

So creative. You really show the importance of having spices and seasonings on hand to really make budget food tasty 😋

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Sheila 😁 yes, spices are definitely the key to good budget cooking!👍 Thank you so much for the complement. 🥰 Thank YOU for watching!

[@JacindaH]

And now I'm starving! Gorgeous meals as usual and so creative!

[@ArdentMichelle]

😊 thank you

[@ElenaChiurato]

In Italy we consider a serving of pasta to be around 100 grams, so that box would be around 4 servings like you said. Why it says 8 servings is beyond me honestly lol

[@ArdentMichelle]

I know right?!?! Like who would eat so little pasta? 😂 Thanks for sharing this info. I'm excited to weigh out 100 grams on my scale now. Maybe this will help me, because I always just grab a handful. I really should weigh it, because some handfuls are bigger than others. 😂

[@rustyrussell3211]

I love chili soup. My favorite

[@justsaying7347]

Wow, what great imagination. You are a food budget artist!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Thank you so much 😀🥰

[@patpeters6331]

Creative, affordable, easy and delicious recipes as always. Thank you. 😋

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Pat 😁Glad you like my recipes!

[@walkingthepath4964]

Thank you for all your efforts, wonderful recipes!

[@ArdentMichelle]

My pleasure 😊 Thank YOU for watching!

[@susans9491]

Amazing, creative choices as usual! You never fail to blow me away with your inventive and resourceful meal plans! Everything is so beautifully plated, and although you don’t take the easy way out, you manage to keep it simple. L❤VE your videos, they’re so well done. Makes my day when you post a new video!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Susan 😁🥰 Yay! This makes me happy! I'm glad you enjoy my videos! I spend a lot of time on the weekly budget challenges, so it's nice when they are so well received. Thank YOU for watching and taking the time to comment!

[@ericachitwood9303]

as recovering over cooker and over eater, I love how you show how little you actually need of an ingredient to make it stretch. Great job on the menu and the cost. Ill be doing this mealplan for my family as well. Thank you. I enjoyed watching.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Erica 😁 Thank you so much! Glad you liked this video!

[@pjp9383]

One of the things I love is seeing how you take one ingredient - like the creamed corn, or the sour cream, and use it multiple times and ways through the menu. Your plating and garnishing are also superb, even though I know I'm never going to fuss around with my food quite that much. I'm more of a "cook once, and eat several times" person. Most of your videos do this to some extent, but would you consider doing a video that focuses on that? A few favourite recipes that lend themselves well to being revised from one night to the next - like a soup that becomes the sauce for a casserole, and so on? Another example- last week, I made a lentil soup, and on day 3 of eating it, I mashed it up with some potatoes, and made lentil burgers. And for energy saving, I'd actually boiled the potatoes in the crock pot with that soup in the first place! (Another video idea - things you can cook in the oven or crockpot all at once, then eat from all week. Though I realize you tend to cook and eat fresh for most of the meals in your videos.)

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hello 😁I like a lot of variety, so I usually only cook enough to eat twice, but I do reuse ingredients throughout the week. hmmm..... 🤔 I like your ideas though. I'll see what I can do.

[@ker4all]

Fearless... Well done! Thank you for offering your knowledge. Cheers! to a good meal

[@trinluv]

Great vid! I make my own bread & bagles. Bagels are usually $5 for 6 i make 8 for less than $2. trust me its so easy & cheaper... :)

[@ArdentMichelle]

Feel free to send me your recipe if so inclined 😂 [e-mail]. and thank you so much. Glad you liked my video! 😁

[@francesrn5210]

I love this video. Thank you for sharing. You provide such great ideas. I also love how you plate your meals.

[@ArdentMichelle]

You are so welcome! 😁 🥰Thank YOU for watching!

[@CNP-rn3gd]

Great video with lots of new ideas for me to try. Thank you Michelle.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hello 😁 You are so welcome! 😁🥰 Glad you liked this video!

[@amandaballard971]

I love how creative u are!!! I wait all week & sometimes two just for ur videos!!! Ur definitely my Fav KZbinr

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Amanda 😁 Yay! I love it that you love my videos! 🥰 They take a long time to produce, so it's nice to be appreciated. Thank you for supporting my channel!

[@budgetandplanforit8477]

Sometimes those Western Bagels are on the refrigerator section where the cream cheese is, just FYI 😊

[@ArdentMichelle]

Oh gosh! You are so right! I didn't even think to look there. 😳 I just looked it up on the Walmart site and it shows a big "keep refrigerated" on the side of the bag. 😂😂 Thanks for letting me know, because I was just thinking about getting those next time I'm there.

[@florence4845]

I just love your attitude and sensible ideas. I am doing a NoSpend January to rebalance... 🤗🌞🤗

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Florence 😁 Thank you so much. 🥰 I'm thinking about doing a no-spend video also - it just feels right for January 😂

[@donnamarsh3474]

Excellent video! I was shocked at aldi today..a jar of mayo over $5! Thank you for these wonderful ideas!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Donna 😁 I'm not getting the same amazing deals that I used to get at Aldi.

[@donnamarsh3474]

@@ArdentMichelle so sad. 😢

[@joanneruth1168]

I agree with you that the number of servings is wrong on the packet, I think in grams & 100g = an adult serve, the pasta pk had 454g = at max 5 serves of 90g which is a bit light on.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Glad I'm not the only one that thinks they are overestimating the number of servings 😂

[@hello-vs4me]

Thanks for your videos will make these meals and have everything to make it thanks so much have a great week 😀 😊 ☺️

[@ArdentMichelle]

Thanks. Hope you have a great week too! 😁

[@Frugalmumdownunder]

Amazing video as always! Thanks for sharing

[@ArdentMichelle]

Yay! Glad you liked this video 😁 Thank YOU for watching!

[@saraherber1887]

Great use of the jiffy mix. Jiffy also makes a good brownie mix, cake mix as well as fruit muffin and pizza crust mix. The pizza crust mix makes a small pan of cinnamon rolls very affordable. I would love to see what you could make with mixes. Thanks for your hard work making useful content for home cooks and new cooks.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Thanks Sara 😁

[@jassim2844]

I absolutely love your channel. Your creativity is amazing. Presentation makes every meal so appealing. Thank you.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Glad you like my videos! 😁 Thank you so much 🥰

[@thegigiollieshow8768]

Great video I also love Jiffy cornbread mix so versatile 🖤

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hello 😁 I'm excited to try a few more dishes with that Jiffy mix. Glad you liked this video!

[@pennynickels5216]

Add a box of jiffy yellow cake mix and it tastes just like boston market cornbread! Delish

[@thegigiollieshow8768]

I made your sun-dried tomatoes yesterday in the oven oh my goodness absolutely delicious thank you so much for your recipe 🖤

[@ArdentMichelle]

@@thegigiollieshow8768 Yay! 😁 Glad you liked them!

[@SpecialKel66]

Wow! Your Walmart is stocked way better than the ones near me! You're lucky you have more to choose from. Thank you for all the ideas!

[@ArdentMichelle]

You are so welcome 😁 That's a bummer that your Walmart doesn't have as much. I don't always get the best prices there, but I do appreciate having a big Walmart.

[@michelehorta1106]

Fantastic Jiffy recipes!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Glad you like them! 😁👩‍🍳

[@JacindaH]

Have you ever had Papoosas? It's made using masa and it's sort of a stuffed tortilla where they use potatoes, cheese usually pork and serve with a side of vinaigrette coleslaw. I feel like they're right up your alley

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Jacinda 😁 Yes you are right, this sounds like a great recipe for my channel! No I've never had them. I just looked them up though and now I want to try them. I found them at a restaurant and also a food truck near me. 🤔 This would be a great field trip for my channel! Thanks for the info!

[@JacindaH]

@@ArdentMichelle a friend of mine is from Cuba and whipped them up one day. Truly one of the best things I've ever tried. It's like a tamale without all the fuss but has the crispness of a grilled tortilla. Plus they're delicious as a vegetarian dish. And I'm sure you'll come up with some amazing dishes with the Masa which is so affordable.

[@JacindaH]

@@ArdentMichelle one more thing and I'll quit pestering you. Lol. I make a bunch and freeze them. They freeze perfectly and are a delicious snack or great with chilli

[@ArdentMichelle]

@@JacindaH I love anything with corn so I'm eager to try this! I appreciate learning about new foods. Thank you 🥰

[@ArdentMichelle]

@@JacindaH That's a great idea! 👍I love foods that freeze well and reheat. Makes life so much easier!

[@laurapeterson12]

My family would dip the zucchini or summer squash slices in egg and then cornmeal to fry 😃 so good!!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Laura 😁 I love the crunchiness of regular cornmeal. I haven't tried it with zucchini though. Yum 😋

[@gccheryl4038]

A.M., absolutely love this menu too. The Walmart bread price jumped here too. Wha-wha... Finally, temps are dropping this week here so that chili is going on the menu, can't wait! I think I will try the tomato bouillon in it. Thanks gal! p.s. music was so relaxing on this vid, thanks for that too. :-)

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi there 😊 Glad you liked my menu. Temps are finally dropping here in Irvine too. I've been so excited about it. It's so nice to enjoy these fall dishes. Glad you liked the music. 😁🥰

[@FranfromFL]

I love watching your videos. You have such great meals and a nice presentation. I wish I was as creative as you!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Glad you like my videos 😁🥰

[@Suzy12678]

Love love love your videos! Always such a great job and great ideas

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi SCM 😁🥰 Thank you so much for the nice complement! Glad you liked this video!

[@qfason5836]

You really have a gift for this

[@ArdentMichelle]

Thank you 😁

[@anniecharlotte4469]

thanks!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Welcome 😁 Thank YOU for watching!

[@puggirl415]

I do this with the food we get from the food bank. We pick up the food once per week and take it home and immediately prep it for meals and storage. Last week we got over 2 dozen jalapenos and I wasn't sure what I could do with them all (they were actually quite spicy) Then I remembered those little bags of pickled peppers and carrots they give you at the taqueria so I made 2 big jars of them. We will eat those for weeks and they really make eggs, salads, tuna, tostadas, casseroles and just about everything more tasty. Low budget cooking is a lot about flavors and trying new things. Our food bank gives a lot of Latin foods so we get to learn how to make tortillas and other foods with raw ingredients I might not have ever picked up in the store.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hello 😁 It's amazing the discoveries you make when trying to make do with what you have. I would say that some of the greatest dishes are created this way. I love those pickled carrots and onion, and jalapeños. 💜

[@pamelanorth824]

You are so inspiring! I’m amazed at what you can do for so little!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Thank you 😁

[@scholargrrl]

Another way to use the jiffy corn bread mix: make the mix up with a can of creamed corn then add a can of drained corn (I saved the liquid for the chili), and bake like normal. I used to serve as a hardy and filling side with some chili. This stayed fresh and moist in the fridge for a whole week (I would meal prep for supper/lunches for the week on Saturday with a crockpot of chili) when I was a student. The area I'm in now doesn't have this mix available. :(

[@ArdentMichelle]

This sounds delicious! Thanks for the recipe, I'll definitely try this 👍👩‍🍳

[@pennynickels5216]

Awesome!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Thank you! 😁

[@emily--m]

You are very talented. I enjoyed watching this video. Thank you for sharing your recipes ❤️🥰❤️🥰

[@ArdentMichelle]

My pleasure 😊 🥰I'm glad you liked my video. Thank YOU for watching!

[@sheliapeters2082]

Love love these ideas. Definitely want to try the corn fritters and frying the zuchni

[@ArdentMichelle]

Yay! So glad you liked my food choices this week! 😁🥰 Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment!

[@sheliapeters2082]

@@ArdentMichelle thank you more. I love the interaction with the content creator

[@donnettewebster2504]

I’ve seen others try to do this. But you really made some pretty good food. Thank you

[@ArdentMichelle]

My pleasure 😊

[@michellesunshinestar]

Food pantry always gives out long grain white rice.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Perfect 👍

[@offtomilan]

Wow what a great menu!!! Everything looks so delish!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Thank you 😁 Glad you liked my video! 🥰

[@kerrywm]

I wonder if the fritter batter could go on a waffle iron? They look delicious!

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Kerry 😁 Great idea! 👍 I need to get a waffle maker. That would be fun!

[@shaunaleessnackidies]

Try a plastic bag over top of the parsley or cilantro to keep it happy and protected

[@ArdentMichelle]

I will do WHATEVER it takes to keep my herbs happy 😂 Thanks for the tip!

[@shaunaleessnackidies]

@@ArdentMichelle haha 😆 you’re welcome! This was very well done!

[@gaildawson5464]

Another terrific menu! I love how you make so many dishes out of your frugal grocery haul. I have so many of these items on hand and I can't wait to try the recipes, especially the corn fritters and the breaded zucchini. The way you plate up your meals makes them look so appetizing! Thanks for all the great ideas.

[@ArdentMichelle]

Hi Gail 😁Glad you liked my video and recipes this week! Thank YOU for watching!