Feed Your Family ALL WEEK For $55! I'll Show You How! Including Recipes

Sometimes the month is longer than the budget and when that happens, we have to find ways to save cash!
This video is all about feeding your family for an entire week on just $55 worth of groceries!
All the meals are nutritious and filling--but they are also friendly to the budget!
I hope you enjoy!
Leave a comment and don't forget to share with your friends and family and to subscribe!!
I love you!
Lori
Here's the recipes:
Broccoli Pasta Bake
1 lb cooked, shredded chicken
1 pkg frozen broccoli
16 oz macaroni noodles
1 TBS butter
1 C milk
4 oz shredded cheese
Cook broccoli according to package directions.
Cook macaroni according to package directions.
Combine macaroni and broccoli in large pot. Add 4 oz shredded cheese, 1 TBS butter, 1 C milk, and 2 C shredded chicken. Bake at 350 for 30 mins.
Oats & Apples
1 C Oats
2 C Water
Dash salt
1 Apple, diced
1 TBS butter
Cook oats according to package directions. Add dash of salt. Add apples. Add butter. Stir and enjoy!
Pancakes & Syrup
1 1/2 C flour
1 TBS sugar
3 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 1/4 C milk
3 TBS butter, melted
2 eggs
Butter for skillet
Mix dry ingredients. Add milk, butter, and eggs. Stir until combined. Head butter in skillet and pour 2/3 C batter for each pancake.
For syrup
Heat 1 TBS butter in small pot. Add 1 C sugar and a dash of salt. Add 3/4 C water and stir well. Heat until thickened, stirring frequently
Chicken Pot Pie
Crust
1 C Flour
1 tsp salt
3 TBS butter
1/4 C (+/-) milk
Blend dry ingredients until well incorporated. Add milk and combine until it becomes a smooth ball. Roll out to desired sized using rolling pin.
Filling
2 C cooked, shredded chicken
1 recipe cream of chicken replacement
1 12 oz bag mixed veggies
4 red potatoes
Combine all filling ingredients. Mix together and pour into baking dish. Bake at 350 for 30 mins or until crust is browned.
Cream of Chicken Replacement
1/4 C Flour
1 tsp salt
2 1/4 C Chicken Stock
Combine 1/4 C Flour and 1/4 C stock together. Whisk to remove clumps. Heat. Add salt and remaining stock. Heat until thickened.
Chicken Rice Soup
10 C chicken stock
2 C chicken, cooked and shredded
1 lb carrots, diced
3 C rice
1 tsp salt
1 tsp sage (optional)
1 tsp pepper
Combine all ingredients. Simmer on stove until rice and carrots are done.
Potato Soup
6 TBS butter
4 lbs potatoes, diced
1/2 C flour
4 C milk
1 tsp salt
4 C chicken broth
1/2 TBS pepper
1 lb carrots, diced
Melt butter in pot. Add flour and stir well. Add salt. Slowly whisk in milk. Stir in broth. Add pepper. Add potatoes & carrots. Simmer on stove until vegetables are tender.
Chili
1 lb ground turkey, browned
3 C black beans, cooked
2 lg cans crushed tomatoes
2 TBS chili powder
1/2 TBS salt
2/3 C water
2 TBS sugar
Brown turkey. Add 2 TBS chili powder, salt and sugar. Add beans. Add tomatoes. Add water. Stir until well combined. Simmer on stovetop until for several hours or on high heat for 30 mins.
Spaghetti Sauce
1 TBS sausage grease or olive oil
1 can diced tomatoes
2 TBS sugar
1 tsp salt
1 TBS Italian seasoning
1 lb ground turkey, browned
Heat grease in skillet on stove top. Add tomatoes, sugar, salt and seasoning and stir well. Add Turkey. Simmer for 30 mins.
Serve with your choice of pasta or rice.
Rice and Bean Bowls
3 C Rice, prepared
3 C Black Beans, prepared
salt and pepper
Prepare rice according to package directions.
Add 1/2 c rice and 1/2 c beans to bowl. Top with favorite available toppings. Easy Peasy!

[@jillgott6567]

Nerd here your $53.06 came to $8.84/ person / week or $.42/ meal / person. That amount of money along with your consideration for providing nutritional meals makes this INCREDIBLE !

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

I like nerds! I’m married to one 😂 Thanks for that breakdown, though, really! That’s neat

[@erciliabento2903]

No Brasil vivemos 300 dólar ao mês para a família

[@a11s10h08]

😊👍❤️

[@healingonesmindset]

Yeah Jill!🙌🏾🙋🏾💅🏾❤️

[@stephaniesilic5446]

And some leftover oats, sugar, etc probably too!

[@Charlie2019xx]

I tried this out and bought everything at Walmart. After comparing prices, Walmart was actually cheaper than Aldi. I did buy a couple of extra things like the brown sugar but my total still came out to around $60. I appreciate the time and effort you've put into these. I went from paying $200 a week for basically nothing to saving a ton and getting homemade meals. You're a life saver

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

This is so wonderful!!! Thank you so much for telling me! This week I did a Walmart grocery budget meal plan and I was really surprised at the prices at Walmart. I am thinking it may be cheaper to go there now. I’ll have to go a few more times to know for sure but it was much more affordable than I had thought.

[@mellbelle25]

@@homemadesimplewithloriI think is something new. A few years ago I shopped at Aldi and was about to spend no more than $40 a week. Like everything else, their prices have actually gone up and Walmart is right on budget with them

[@jmljasmine]

I shop both Walmart and Aldi. They each have their better prices on different items.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

So true!

[@gtha630]

Yes Walmart is the best one comparative to other shops

[@monicabeck3289]

I'm really impressed how you kept the cost down while sticking with real food. Usually low budget meal plans include a lot of junk. I'm glad I found this video!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thank you!! I’m glad you did too! Thanks for the encouragement! ❤️

[@mary-ue4ir]

Very good point Monica! She's a natural cook for sure and knows how to work easily with real ingredients from scratch!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thank you for that. I feel it is undeserved but I appreciate it none the less! ❤❤❤❤

[@danielledellos8185]

I totally agree homemade cream of chicken soup is such a cost friendly real food option!

[@MomNTraining]

I LOVE how you save every little bit including the sausage grease! I feel like this is how our ancestors made the most of food all the time!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

I think you’re right. I’m very wasteful at times. I’m going to try to improve on that this year! Thanks for watching ❤️

[@UeFdblU88c]

Bacon and sausage grease are definitely awesome to season with during these struggle weeks

[@UeFdblU88c]

I also save my bacon grease in the fridge and use it later to grease pans while cooking veggies just to add flavor

[@marylooksfineonadime]

Yes I felt that was so creative!!

[@effytraveler6155]

@@UeFdblU88c Old friend used bacon grease in caramelized Brussel sprouts.

[@reginastratton5031]

This is a "for real" grocery budget and terrific meal plan for the week. This is absolutely fantastic.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Wow! Thanks!!

[@nickiedoyle1731]

Fantasic my butt 1 apple for 6 people you know she did not feed this to her family.. broccoli with macaroni , cheese and noodles your better off making a lasagna and having it for 2 nights

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Well, to be fair, that one bowl of oatmeal was not to serve my whole family…..I bought a whole bag for the week…..so…..🤷‍♀️

[@ladyriethegoldendelmo5441]

@@homemadesimplewithlori true but honestly once I live on my own. I think one bowl of oatmeal is enough for me lol and honestly I need to eat cheap like this cause burlingame isnt cheap 5000 dollars per month lol

[@irenemorley75]

There is very little fruit and veg ( frozen veg ?) only fresh carrots and apples, what she made has to feed 6 people for a week..... this is a very poor diet.

[@rg-mi5hh]

We tried peanut butter on toast with yogurt and a little orange juice for breakfast today. It was very filling. The other day I made a small roast that had been on sale months ago, with carrots and potatoes. It lasted two days. Today with the left over broth and a few other morsels, I made a shepherds pie. Three in a bag of mixed veggies needing used up. Used instant potatoes that needed used up and cheese that needed to be consumed. This inflation really makes me get creative.

[@YeshuaKingMessiah]

We have pbjs opposite days to rice & lentils for lunch, so no pb at brk Brk is oats or grits, both with eggs in them, along with homemade yogurt or kefir and a vitC fruit; 2 days a week we do have fried potatoes and eggs tho

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Good for you!!!! That’s amazing!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

How do you add the eggs to the oats? Interesting!!

[@ileneglenn845]

I’ve stretched a tiny roast over a few days… dinner for my daughter and myself one night, lunch for work for my daughter the next day, and the rest I diced up small and made a pot of beef barley soup for another meal and lunches. Desperate times make you very creative as long as you have the basics in your pantry…beans, grains, etc. I make side dishes that can be re-created into whole new meals.

[@crystalh1402]

Including a good fat and protein in breakfast has helped me feel full longer and less likely to over eat later in the day.

[@limitlessreviews1]

You can put the apple cores and peels in the pot with the sugar and water for apple syrup. You can also add a cinnamon stick if you have that.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Yum! That sounds good!

[@melissaharpster3807]

I just made syrup the other night and added just a dash of vanilla and a sprinkle of cinnamon. I was delicious for my first time making.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Yum!

[@cathyosborn9905]

seriously???

[@InterruptingCow]

@@cathyosborn9905Yes! On Allrecipes, someone made apple cider using those parts and I think they also used the whole apple cut up. There’s still a lot of flavor in those parts if you boil and strain them correctly (I thought it was a gross idea before I saw the process somewhere else too).

[@midlifeandnailingit6342]

Even if the cost is more, it will still be a budget haul no matter where you live. If we live in a more expensive area, we know it. :) It’s still a great example of low cost weekly meal plan! Great job!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thank you!!

[@breezybre2670]

Yes!!!! Although I will say to buy the emat that is cheap where you live . Chicken is a mint here. And just think how much cheaper if you bought things in bulk...over the month it would be cheap! I bought 20 pound sof russet for $4.94 here in Canada.

[@tracyhunt7919]

You did a great job here!!!! When my husband and I were first starting out, I was really scrambling to feed the 3 of us. I did my shopping for the month (saved gas) and never went without/hungry. One or two tips that I can give is to buy those turkeys and hams when they go on sale after the holidays. Those two items alone can be the meat in your food for almost that whole month. This is what I would make with one good sized turkey and one shank ham. Once you have the initial ham/turkey dinner, save the bones from both for soups. There is a lot of meat on a ham and a turkey so clean it well, every little piece. I make scalloped potatoes and ham, bean soup with ham (using the bone for broth), macaroni and cheese with ham, bits of ham in omelets and fried with your eggs, etc. The turkey bone makes an amazing soup, the leftover meat can be used for turkey and dumplings, turkey ala king, added to your favorite chili recipe, layered with stuffing and homemade milk gravy (cream soup) and baked, even mixed with mayo/onion/celery for sammies. If you get a ham, a turkey, a big bag of rice, a big bag of potatoes and try some of those quick no knead bread recipes, you will never go hungry. Canned/dried milk can be used for cooking and is not even noticeable and it helps to make your fresh milk go longer. Corn meal, oatmeal and cream of wheat are great for breakfast. No one eats corn meal with sugar and milk anymore but it is filling and delicious and a change from oatmeal. Same with the cream of wheat. If you aren't familiar with the dutch pancake/hootenanny, look at the recipe and try it. Eggs, flour baked in a long dish and you have something to pour your homemade syrup/jam over and it makes your eggs go further so you aren't using them all in one recipe. It's like a combo of french toast and pancakes. Peanut butter on homemade bread with a cut up apple is a great lunch for anyone of any age. And the bread recipes these days are really easy. You don't even need a pan. Many people have lost the art of making the most of a dollar but you did a GREAT JOB and your video was proof that it can be done. God bless and take care.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Wow! I think you are the one that needs to be doing the videos!! Thank you for all this!!!!

[@tracyhunt7919]

@@homemadesimplewithlori I can't believe you read through it all, lol. No, you are great at the videos and showing everyone what you're doing. I'm just someone who has lived through some hard times and I'm proud of how well we did it. Some of my best memories though!!!

[@SmallTownSouthernWife]

Great ideas

[@Gojuninja]

If you are able to add a container of molasses to your shop, it will last a year, and you add about a tablespoon of molasses to a cup of sugar, mix well, and you have brown sugar!! 🥰 This trick has saved me from buying brown sugar for decades! Wishing you the best! Thanks for all the advise!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thank you!!!

[@chadofwar6554]

Just wanted to say thank you so much for this. I'm a single dad that lost his job due to covid complications. Making a budget in this economy is a challenge when i used to not worry about money at all. God Bless

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thank you for sharing ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@rachelmonday1868]

One of our elderly friends always served homemade coffee breakfast syrup with waffles. It's a great economical waste saver. If you have leftover coffee in the pot (I know its criminal in some houses :D) pour it into a mason jar all week long. On the weekend, add the leftover coffee to a sauce pan and whisk in white sugar in a a little more than double ratio. Heat and continuously stir to boiling for about 5 minutes. If you want it really fancy, add in a pat or two of butter. Be sure your pot is big enough to avoid boil over, as it will rise up the sides if you aren't careful.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

This is AMAZING! Thank you so much!!

[@n.a.garciafamily]

That sounds so good!❤

[@k86_]

This was the first low budget meal plan ive found that my whole family would enjoy.. Ive got one who wont do beans and other wont do rice so this was great ty

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Oh that’s great! That makes me so happy to hear! Thanks for letting me know! I’ll try to keep bringing fresh ideas! Happy new year to you and your family!

[@MommaLousKitchen]

My kids are worse than that 🥴 the older ones getting better at trying stuff though.

[@junelovvorn3221]

I totally loved this video. This way of cooking will save alot of money. Thank you so much. I liked and subscribed.

[@breezybre2670]

Can I get an amen? Benas is rice is NOT a thing here where we live . Beans are in chili or soup and that's about it. Rice is great with meat and veggies dinners but I have one that won't touch it so lately I just cook her a small potato.

[@watchersmith806]

I’m 67 and growing up this is how most families were living. We had to live within our means with no luxury items. Eating out was a rare treat for a family. Over time things have changed with being single and better income. But wanting to retire soon, I know it’s going to be a return to the frugal life. Nothing wrong with that!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

We can work out some yummy retirement meal plans together! Thanks for watching!!

[@JanaeAlexis95]

As a young mom of 4 almost 5 I greatly appreciate you showing us the basics these are such important and valuable skills , thank you!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

You just made my day. Congratulations on your growing family. These days are hard, I know, but the investment of time in your little ones will be so worth it. Thank you for watching my videos and thank you for the encouragement you gave me by your sweet comment. It means a lot. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@sugarloaf10]

I am so glad to see this plan and that it’s not heavy on gluten or dairy - neither of which my family can have. Really love these types of videos, I subscribed!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

I’m so glad you liked it! Thanks for subscribing! ❤️ I’ll be sure to do lots of these kinds of videos next year!!!

[@debbieschultz9768]

This is going to help me as I’m just one person. I subscribed as well.

[@jenmatt1923]

The Instant Pot really changed my view toward beans. Dried beans are so much tastier than canned and cheaper. I cook at least a pound a week now.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Yes!!!! I’m the exact same! So much less hassle!

[@novelist99]

Just be careful if you've ever had kidney stones as beans are high in oxalates.

[@amandashomesteadjourney]

Well done! I like it when the spices and oils and such are included in the cost because not everyone has a fully stocked pantry

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thanks for watching!!!

[@hollyarchuletta959]

New sub! Thank you for bringing us all back down to earth with simple, filling meals that don't cost a ton. I had forgotten how good just beans and rice can be. So appreciated!!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Welcome!! Thanks for subscribing and for the kind, encouraging words!!

[@jillgott6567]

I love that you say " yes we are on a budget but nutrition is important ". Many channels when doing these challenges say oh well it is calories that count not nutrition. And, that simply is not true. So kudos for that. am having Cottage Cheese , grapes, half a banana and a chunk of Quick Bread for breakfast. Often I will top Cottage Cheese with Salsa, and Banana or topping it with Granola and have an Orange. I cut all size bananas in half so two meals from 1 banana. Good video thanks

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

I love cottage cheese! How do you store the bananas so they don’t turn?

[@jillgott6567]

@@homemadesimplewithlori ah that is the issue but seriously I eat them even if they are brown. I also eat 1/2 banana one day and half the next so 1 lasts me two days. I do it to get the best bang for my buck

[@rg-mi5hh]

I learned something new that will help when baking. Eggs are so high, so I did half the ingredients with eggs and the other half with mayo where it called for eggs. I was making banana bread. I also tried this in turkey tettrazini and it is delicious. Sounds weird, but it is delicious and moist. Mayo has eggs and oil in it. Who knew? This might help someone who needs to use up some mayo or short on eggs.

[@YeshuaKingMessiah]

Mayo is a processed good thus more than its ingredients Just use the ingredients, in this case the egg. Mayo only has a little egg in it besides

[@covahsmusicvault8953]

I've used applesauce for decades even when we had eggs. Nothing wrong in being creative....when I taught my kids to cook it was fun eating their creations. Take care, ~ Covah

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

That’s a great tip! Thanks for sharing! (I love Mayo!)

[@heidimeigs5192]

Never knew this. But then again I’ve always been able to afford eggs before this current Presidency. He’s ruining our country, either by pure incompetency or deliberately.

[@Nagemy]

@@YeshuaKingMessiah eggs are $6 a dozen where I'm at, mayo may be processed, but when ya gotta budget 🤷‍♀️ I'm thankful for the tip, and will be trying it out.

[@Kelsey-es1vb]

I am so glad I found your channel! Thank you!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Me too! Thanks!!

[@manuelabrown8279]

Thanks for creating this meal plan for a weekly budget for home cooked meals. I absolutely love it ❤

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Oh I’m so glad!! Thanks!!!

[@kelliking4449]

You are doing a great job with the budget challenges. Keep it up!⛄🎄

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thanks for the encouragement! Thank you!!

[@leahstewart6979]

One of the best budget plans I’ve seen. Thanks.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Wow. That’s quite a compliment! Thank you!!

[@sheliapeters2082]

This is a huge budget win !! Good job sometimes we have to prepare things more from scratch to make it stretch . Yes delicious meals .

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thanks! It’s not always the most convenient way but it is usually the cheapest ❤️

[@newbeginnings10]

Thank you so much for doing such an informative and easy to follow meal plan. I am in awe and hope to mimic this in my own home. You are spot on with the advice about learning to use what you have, eat what you have before you when there is a need to conserve. We all, as a country, need to adhere to that wisdom and learn to waste less and be content. Thanks again!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Awwww! Thanks for those sweet words!! I am very thankful for your comments! ❤️

[@salvagedthread6624]

Thank you so very much for making this video.This is honestly the very first video I have seen with homemade meals. I can’t wait to make these meals.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thanks so much for watching!

[@deeparnell8856]

You are blessing so many families during this season of life, thank you! I had a book when my kids were little that was similar to this and it sustained us through the tough times.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thank you for saying that. It makes me so happy to think I can help a little. Times are hard and I hope we can help one another ❤️

[@teresamercurio1568]

I love your humility!!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

You’re so sweet. ❤️

[@ashleylee7523]

New subscriber as well! I stumbled across your page today and i am so glad I did! I love budget meal plans & challenging myself to doing these. Especially with the price of food going up, it's nice to have ideas of meals that you can throw together that are budget friendly, nutritional, and still enjoyable to eat. I can't wait to try them. Thank you! :))

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thank you for being here! I will try to keep the budget meal ideas coming!!

[@2003-2fitty]

I love this video! I live in Alabama too. I love learning to budget my meals. Thanks for the encouragement. God bless! Leslie McDonald-Florence Alabama

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Hey!!! We have lots of friends in North AL! Nice to meet you and thank you for your encouragement!

[@Mary-mh3kh]

I think you did a wonderful job of creating a week’s worth of meals on a limited budget. All the recipes looked good. Your grocery list with your meal plan is the way I generally try to do my list.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thank you! Thanks for watching and for the encouragement. It really means a lot ❤️❤️

[@lizaw.7313]

I do appreciate you being realistic, it's so helpful!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

I’m so glad you find the video useful! Thanks for watching!! ❤️

[@jennpd7346]

New subscriber here! Love this video! My picky eater would eat all of these recipes. I am shopping at Aldi this week and doing those whole meal plan. Finally a down to earth realistic meal plan. I am A ok with $55 for a week. Thanks so much!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Welcome! I’m so glad to hear you can use the ideas!! Happy shopping and cooking! ❤️

[@Cynthia2v]

Very well done, actual food that tastes great. When my children were small, we had 1 or 2 meatless meals a week: split pea soup or potato soup with cornbread, Mac and cheese. Chicken pot pie was a great meal, too. Thanks for the encouragement.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

I think that is such a great plan! I am going to do more meatless meals next year! Thanks for the encouragement!

[@angelabingham9605]

Just found your channel. Great tips for new cooks in the kitchen! I want to show my kids as they have an interest in cooking their own meals now. I love how you don’t sacrifice nutrition while preparing low cost meals. I also love how you don’t have any waste. Finally thank you for talking about sacrificing some variety for sticking to a budget. I think this is so important for the next generation to learn. Certainly you can mix up oatmeal 1 million different ways to not get bored.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thanks for watching AND for finding it valuable enough to share with your kids! That means a lot. ❤️❤️❤️

[@telmrtdl]

This is so realistic and helpful. I would love to see more of the weekly plans. Thank you! 😊

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Yay! Thank you! I will definitely be bringing more soon!!

[@rhondawalker7883]

You are so inspiring! Thank you for all your hard work. God bless you and your family

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Awww. Thank you so much!!! I feel very blessed by God. May His blessings be on your family, too ❤️

[@Idontwantachann]

With the apples, you could also make that in a separate pan with the butter and sugar and caramelize it and then add it on or into your oatmeal.

[@Conspiracymama88]

Oatmeal can make so many wonderful things! Oats, bread, pancakes, waffles, crepes, muffins. I love oats!!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Me too!!

[@SunshineBloom777]

I cant get over this!! This was such a blessing!! Fantastic job! & thank you for being so sweet, kind, & gracious! You are a gem! 🌷🌷🌷🤍

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

You're so sweet. Thank you so much!

[@kimmaried.7313]

I am completely impressed with the way you did this video. You went out of your way to make sure everything was thought out and authentic. Thank you ❣️

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Wow, thank you!

[@patsanzone8019]

This video was great . I do this every week , year round. I have a few suggestions for those that are in my boat. Grow something. Everyone has the capability. You can grow basil, cilantro, parsley on a window sill. Cliantro in the rice and beans is a game changer . Top it with a fried egg and its great. Basil in the chili and pasta dishes also a game changer. Parsley boosts everything. It can be that simple. I have a grow light set up. and grow lettuce , spinach and green onions all winter. Not a huge set up and its not salads every day , but theres always lettuce for sandwichs , spinach for omeletts and green onions for anything. In the growing season a few pots on a balcony get me peppers . jalapenos for the entire year . They freeze great. One good sun gold tomato will bring you joy for months. One kale plant you can harvest from for months and it freezes well for soups in the winter. A small thoughtful laid out garden can really change everything. If you have no space for a garden there might be a community garden in your area . Growing food when you have no money can be done and the difference it can make in your life is so valuable.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

This is so true and excellent info!! Thank you!

[@SmallTownSouthernWife]

Do you grow salad mix in side with the grow light?

[@Alquerian]

This is the first video that I have seen of yours and I have to say that you have done a fantastic job of not wasting time for your viewers, you skip from one dish to the next, no nonsense. Your approach to your chanel is the same as your approach to your meal planning. You will be supremely successful at both.

[@Alquerian]

I also value your transparency and acknowledgment of things you forgot. Great work.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Wow. Thank you so much!

[@deanna6483]

Came across this video in my KZbin feed! So glad I did! You have a kindness that speaks to my heart! Thank you! 😊😊😊

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Awwww. I’m so glad you stopped to watch! Thank you so much for your kindness and for watching!! ❤️

[@reneahale1192]

Thank you for this video! I appreciate your fair representation of the meals! This is gonna help me meal plan and budget for the next few weeks!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Yay! Thanks for watching!!

[@JessicaLopez-kz4pk]

Thank you so much for sharing your meal plan. This came at a perfect time for me and my husband. We really want to save as much money as we can on our grocery budget. I love shopping at Aldi as well, and we are looking for ways to save and still have healthy meals for our family. I will definitely try this budget and some of the meals and see how it turns out. Thank you so much. God bless 🙌

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

I’m so glad to hear that! I’m wanting to really save on groceries this year, too! We can help each other! ❤️❤️❤️

[@melp8616]

I love this! Thank you for typing out the recipes too. ❤

[@melp8616]

We always add rice and beans to the meal plan. I cook the rice in chicken broth with a teaspoon of salt. The beans get cooked in basic spices. I like to serve it with a very simple flatbread. We call it Fancy Frugal Fridays. 😂

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

I like that name! It tastes better when you change your perspective and “fancy frugal”’is a great way to shift your mindset! Love it!

[@lesleyveale792]

Your content, love and dedication as a mum, wife and homemaker brings me true joy. Thankyou for sharing your joy with us. Love from Australia 😊

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

You are so kind

[@ceebedor7290]

Well I just learned so many tips from this blog. Thank you for taking your precious time to share your life. Happy New Year and may you enjoy every blessing that will surely be yours.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Wow. Thank you for that encouragement!! Happy new year and I hope to talk to you again!! ❤️❤️

[@suejack101]

Enjoyed the budget haul, menu & recipes. They were all filling!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Great! Thanks!!

[@op4rlb348]

This was super helpful! (Thank you so much for the recipes, too!) I thought I was going big by reducing my food budget to $100/ week, but this is even better.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

It is good to reduce it to $100!!! This isn’t an every week meal plan for sure so if you can do $100 per week that is AMAZING! Good for you!! Thanks for watching!

[@familyfacetime6970]

Such great suggestions! The bean & rice bowls are so simple but so delicious & hearty! Thank you for putting so much thought into this video. God bless you & your family ❤

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thanks so much! 😊

[@rhondamartin8956]

This video is PRICELESS! I love it so much! It gives me hope for making things that are affordable and nutritious.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Yay! Thank you so much!!! I’m glad it’s helpful! I am in the process of another budget meal plan for this week…it’s a little more money but a good bit more variety. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@OddSocksandSpontaneity]

Absolutely love this. From New Zealand so pricing is different but adaptability and creativity is universal! A meal I enjoy is cooking up whatever veggies I have with tomato paste, seasoning and water to make a type of bolognaise sauce and serve with homemade eggless pasta. I make enough to freeze a few portions and always have something in the freezer to save for a rainy day. You are very inspiring!!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

New Zealand????? Wow!!! That is such a good idea just to mix veggies together! Sounds yummy! What seasonings do you like best in it?

[@lisaperry3111]

This is such an amazing set of meals for such a small budget.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

I’m glad you like them! Thanks!!!

[@AprilSunshine]

This whole video is just precious. Very nice work!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thank you very much!

[@smd4646]

Loved watching this and hope you continue filming as you have a knack for it and much needed common sense which is often times missing in our world. Way to go. Thank you!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Wow. Thanks so much for those kind words of encouragement. That made my day!! Thank you for watching!! Another full week meal plan is already in the works!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@yanasmith6813]

Thank you so much for yummy from scratch meals and not too much talking!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thanks for watching! I do tend to talk too much when I’m recording so I have to do a lot of editing myself out 😂😂😂

[@stephanieblaylock1]

I love this. I'll be honest, I was very skeptical but hoping to at least get a meal or two. I really feel like my family would eat this and be satisfied. I will be going through your other videos for more ideas. Especially since a lot of what you used are staple ingredients for us. This video alone has given me a few ideas for ingredients we already have that will keep me from needing to go to the store for a few days.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

That’s great feedback! I’m so glad to hear it is useful! Thank you!!!

[@HomemakingWithFarrah]

This was totally worth the watch!!👏🏼Excellent tips!👍🏼👍🏼

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thank you so much!

[@dancingheart6224]

Thank you so much for making this video! I love that your recipes include vegetables and are less processed than many others.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

My mama always taught me I had to eat my veggies, so I try to have two each meal. But it doesn’t always work out…..just don’t tell her that 😂😂😂

[@cyclingonplants7444]

Great video 🤗Your video came up in my feed and I was pleasantly surprised. I'm a plant-based eater but I'm always looking for some good recipes that stretch meat for my husband to eat as he has been wanting to cut back on some of his meat consumption.. You had some very tasty recipes here and even though I live in Canada and grocery prices here are about double/triple what you paid this is still a good budget haul. Really appreciate how you put al the recipes in the description box 🥰

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Wow. Three times the cost!?! That’s hard! Thanks for the encouragement!!

[@Aligray98]

Just found you in my YT timeline on 1/8. Thank you for this video. I am looking to save money but also wanting to learn how to create low budget meals for my family. You explained everything perfectly. I can tell you just want to help people. Thank you!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

How sweet! Thanks for watching! I hope it helps ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@ruth1996]

You did a really lovely job, thank you love Ruthie

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thank you!! ❤️

[@kerryberry142]

Great job, meal planning really helps the budget. We plan we plan meals each Thursday shop on Saturday. We also go through pantry to see what we need to use and rotate those items into plan.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

I need to get better keeping a good check on our pantry! I hope to work on that in 2023! Thanks for the encouragement!

[@dianedavis7452]

Love this! You can also take the apples and place them in a pan with a little butter and cinnamon. Softens the apples as well.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Yum!!

[@ingagirard9656]

I was very impressed with your ability to stretch your budget. My grandmother and mother taught me to save any scraps I have to put in the freezer for soup and broths. I'm also a big fan of using small amounts of bacon to flavor meals or casseroles since meat has become so incredibly expensive. I also love the frittata you made with sausage and cheese

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Grandmothers and mothers always have the best ideas ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@loribakergirl6438]

Just happened to come across your video tonight and I’m already hooked! Thank you for excellent meal ideas, Cooking using real and healthy ingredients, not junk food! And as others said, I love how you use everything possible and try not to waste anything. You have a sweet personality that shines through too which makes your video so nice to watch! 😊 I’m a subscriber and thank you!!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Oh yay!!! Thanks so much! That encouragement is just what I needed today 😘😘😘😘😘

[@stephaniemcghee2240]

This was wonderful, thank you for this!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

❤️ thank you!

[@allinaflutter6117]

Good job, I appreciate the effort in all the different options you can do with a minimal budget. It puts me to shame as I spend a ridiculous amount at the grocery store. The cost of food here has sky rocketed. I loved the quiche idea, going to give that a try :)

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thanks for the encouragement! I spend too much on groceries, too….maybe we can both spend less next year ❤️❤️❤️

[@bridgetwilliams2926]

I just found your channel and I'm glad I did. 😊 Thank you for all the wonderful recipes. One of our favorite budget meals is something I call chuck wagon stew. 😊 It's just hamburger or turkey, pork and beans or a can of baked beans, some onion and I serve it with corn cakes. Just cornbread but made into pancakes. Super easy and delicious! I'll be watching for your next video. Happy New year 🥳

[@covahsmusicvault8953]

Almost how I make my spaghetti sauce only by the time I'm done adding in bits of meat & poultry that I've saved from other meals...it ends up being more of a stew. Super filling though & a great way to keep warm in our frigid state of MT.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Oooooooohhhhhhh. That sounds GOOD!! I’ll be sure to add that to one of my next recipe videos!! Thanks so much!! Happy new year!!

[@sulu4657]

I used to budget like this when my kids were young and at home. It’s a valuable skill; thanks for sharing🌿

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

❤️❤️❤️

[@thisistruebusiness]

So happy I found this channel. I tried the chicken and rice soup recipe tonight. I use 2 frozen chicken wings and thighs that I had leftover and threw the rest into an instant pot for 20 mins on the soup setting. It was delicious! Just what I needed after being sick, a quick and easy meal to feed the family. Thank you!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Oh yay!! Thank you for telling me that!!

[@wifigrannyl.1354]

New sub here. This was a great budget friendly menu. I will definitely use it. I looked at your Playlist and am excited to watch more. Thank you for helping me save money. We're an couple in our 70's so this will help our limited budget. I'm from Texas, in the northern suburbs of Houston.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thanks for subscribing! I’m sure you’re more qualified to make the videos but feel free to share all the wisdom and I will try to pass it on ❤️❤️❤️ We went to TX a few years ago and I loved it! So beautiful!

[@amypardue4986]

WAY TO GO GREAT MEAL PLANNING 👌👍👏

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thank you!!!

[@dcmiller67]

This has been very helpful. I appreciate you sharing your tips and recipes!! Keep sharing.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

❤️❤️❤️

[@carriecreates1207]

You did a great job!! Thank you for sharing your shopping and recipes!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thanks!!!

[@gaynellparker3505]

The recipes looked great! Will try them!❤

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

How about beans and rice for New Years!?!

[@lauramaze5354]

I love the realistic budget and meals. Another thing to add to the beans and rice, if the budget allows, is fresh salsa and/or cilantro. It's so good!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Yes! Cilantro is my absolute favorite!! So good!! Thanks for watching!! ❤️

[@MommaLousKitchen]

Cilantro is seriously the easiest thing I've ever grown. Basically grass 😂 self seeding too. One pot, dried in oven, last all year

[@MommaLousKitchen]

Not saying don't buy it, just saying it's super easy to keep growing. I don't mean to sound like one of those ppl ...👀😬

[@lauramaze5354]

@@MommaLousKitchen I wish I could grow cilantro. I usually have a good green thumb but cilantro and I just don't get along lol. I'll keep trying because I just love it, but so far, no luck. 🤷

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

I love growing cilantro and I’ve been trying to find a plant to have in my kitchen window but these stores around here are NOT helping a girl out 😂😂😂 You didn’t sound like “one of those” you added a good comment to the convo! Thanks!!

[@itsjessieg]

You are so talented! Love all the recipes you shared ❤

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

You’re sweet. Thank you and thanks for watching!!!

[@mariettastadulislehman]

Thanks for considering nutrition when you make your videos and please keep them coming!! We need more of this inspo!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

More to come next week, Lord willing! ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@JP2GiannaT]

I use leftover oatmeal in muffins and I imagine it could be used in pancakes. Add to the liquid ingredients, stir well, and reduce the flour and milk a bit.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

What a great suggestion!! Thank you!

[@joycenagy3140]

Excellent suggestion.

[@glennagoss7335]

Great education for young families ❤

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

I didn’t think of it like that but that’s a good way to frame these kinds of discussions. We all have to learn and it is good to think that I can help young mamas learn how to stretch their food dollars. Thank you!

[@FoulEgg]

I instantly fell in love with this kind woman. I bet she is a great mom

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

❤️❤️❤️

[@TrainingBonsai]

Great video!! Loved watching you shop for the items and also how to make the recipes!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thanks for watching ❤️

[@mary-ue4ir]

You are such a good cook, I loved your quick thrifty recipes! If you find molasses at a good price, a bottle lasts a long time in the pantry and a little bit in white sugar is how brown sugar is made. It's full of good minerals too. Your video was very well done, and we could see how you made everything. I can't believe how you showed us a full week of recipes calmly in such a short time! : )

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thank you for those kind words! That means a lot! I need to get me some molasses! That’s such a great tip! And, the calmness was only in the edited version 😂😂. My house is a noisy place and I have to tell the dogs to be quiet a million times while I’m videoing 😂😂😂😂

[@mary-ue4ir]

@@homemadesimplewithlori Haha, I understand, but it doesn't show ; ). You are a gift to many ! I'm glad you liked the tip, it's helped me in a pinch. Just add a little at a time, and taste as you go. It's how they make brown sugar anyway. Thanks I've subbed and belled your awesome channel

[@juliegarbs4018]

You have the cutest voice. Thank you for your videos. I am looking for cheaper ways to save money this year.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

How sweet. I feel a little self conscious about how I talk but I figured if I was going to give YT a try, I might as well just be as real as possible. Thanks for the sweet words ❤️

[@crterwil]

Thank you for a real frugal menu and instructions. I really appreciate it. Got a new subscriber.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thank you so much!!! Welcome!!!!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@TwelveAcres]

New subscriber from Arkansas and so far I'm loving what I'm seeing from your channel! We also homeschool, homestead, and I'm a homemaker with 4 boys at home. Aldi is my favorite store so thanks for the great ideas!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Hey!!!!!!! We are living the same life except…..four boys!?!? You have a lot of mud and hugs around there! Thanks for watching!! Glad to have you as my new friend!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@ashleyadams6803]

First time watching, really enjoyed, you did a great job! I’ve subscribed!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thank you so much!!! Welcome! ❤️❤️

[@user-oi2yk9yi4y]

Think I became your 1000th subscriber.. congratulations 👍 You have some great cheap recepies, keep up the good work such a great help.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Oh I will be your friend for life!! Thank you so much!! I certainly was surprised to see I had made it to 1,000!! Thanks for subscribing!

[@violetgypsie]

Enjoyed your meal plan and will definitely be using some of these this week. God Bless you and your family.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thank you so much! God has blessed us so richly!! Thanks for watching!

[@onthebrightside5400]

The fact that you made all of these recipes but even then put all the recipes in your bio- you are incredible!!! This is the first video of yours I’ve watched but I’m definitely subscribing

[@pensgirl10]

This is one of the best budget meal videos I've seen lately.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Wow! Thank you for such a sweet compliment! I can see this is a needed and useful topic so I will be sure to continue them!

[@Kirstie72]

Thank you for these ideas. I don’t eat meat, so I think I could easily substitute and actually save a few more dollars. I appreciate this! ❤

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Yes I think you’re right! Wonder how low you could go with a whole meatless menu!?! That’s a good idea for a challenge!!!

[@Kirstie72]

@@homemadesimplewithlori oh yes! I would love to see that! 😉

[@LouiseMcIntosh-ky1no]

Love to see your finish dishes at the end. Thank you for all the excellent meals and ideas for helping food go further

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thanks!!

[@normlor]

GREAT PEOPLE LIKE YOU CAN LITERALLY SAVE LIVES !!

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Thank you for your encouragement ❤️

[@normlor]

@@homemadesimplewithlori I GOT REALLY EXCITED TO MAKE HOMEMADE BEANS AGAIN BUT HERE IN CANADA THE PACK SAID 1.8KG AND I FORGOT THIS WAS A TAD MORE IN LBS AS IT CAME TO ALMOST 4 LBS. AND I BAKED THE WHOLE MESS. THEY CAME OUT TASTY BUT A BIT DRY!

[@diannefitzgerald5569]

I recently found a recipe to use overripe bananas for cookies - 1 1/2 cups of oatmeal, 2-3 overripe bananas and a half cup of chocolate chips. Mixes quickly and makes up to a dozen cookies.

[@homemadesimplewithlori]

Wow! Thanks for sharing that!!