How to Eat for $10 a Week | Aldi Budget Meal Plan | Emergency Grocery Haul

Here's how I spent $10 on an entire week of groceries for myself from Aldi! I ate a full week of breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and averaged around 1600 calories a day. This particular week of meals was dairy free and vegetarian (if you are an egg eating variety of vegetarian).
These $10 extreme budget challenges are great at showing what's possible with a very limited food budget, but if you are struggling with food access, reach out to the resources around you! In the United States, you can dial 211 from any phone, and they will help connect you to community resources in your area.
I do want to acknowledge that not everyone has access to Aldi, and Aldi's pricing varies regionally, so I fully understand that not everyone will be able to find these groceries at these prices. I also want to acknowledge that everyone has different dietary needs and preferences. This isn't meant to be a strict guide for how to eat for $10 so much as inspiration to make whatever grocery budget you are working with work for you!
You can find me online at:
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/ thatlisadawn
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That Lisa Dawn
PO BOX 99383
Raleigh, NC
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Some of my favorite things that you see in my kitchen.
Instant Pot Duo Plus 6qt
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Aroma Rice Cooker
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KitchenAid Stainless Steel Wire Masher
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Rainbow Regular Mouth Mason Jar Lids
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Rainbow Wide Mouth Mason Jar Lids
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Lodge 12" Cast Iron Skillet
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[@anniearnolde4719]

I will never forget having $16 to buy groceries to feed my family of 5 for two weeks. My ex husband told me that since I was fat, I could skip eating for a few days at a time. It was such a hard time. We made it through, I got rid of the husband and life is so much better nowadays for us. I regret not reaching out for help. I was so embarrassed to be in that situation at the time.

[@TheElizabethkyne]

What an unbelievable asshole! I'm glad you're in a better situation now :)

[@cristyluv1205]

Forget him, what I want to know is how you made it the two weeks with 16.00

[@marlenet5115]

Yes, how did you survive on $16.00 for 2 weeks? What did you make? Getting rid of the husband was a great move!

[@anniearnolde4719]

For those who are asking, I didn’t eat for one of the weeks. I also made lots of ramen and other noodle dishes. This was about 10 years ago so I can’t remember everything I made, but I can remember trying to use the same ingredient in two or three different ways. Eggs were one of those, and rice too.

[@clairefitzpatrick7183]

Annie that is horrible I'm nearly crying. God bless you and your family.🤗🇬🇧💖🙏

[@judikins]

I just moved out on my own after a 12 year relationship and I’ve had so much anxiety about food and being able to afford living on my own and wondering what to cook and your videos have really helped me. Thank you so much for sharing!

[@ThatLisaDawn]

I'm so glad you found my videos useful! I don't know the circumstances that got you there, but I wish you so much happiness and success in your newfound independence 💙

[@whatever123651]

Always search the specials as much as possible and when possible freeze vegetables. I wish you many blessings.

[@sharondowling9170]

@@ThatLisaDawn kxxqllwqkkqkql

[@juliecastagnaro305]

Maybe you’ll come up with some recipies

[@Laggin6]

Congratulations on moving out on your own. You may find that you are way better at being on your own than you ever imagined. As long as you keep track of your resources and don't waste what you have, you should be fine. You may actually find that you have more than enough. Wishing you the best!

[@deejaytrizay]

THIS woman knows how to live on a budget. She's got this down. I hope she gets millions of subs so she (hopefully) never has to worry about $ ever again. TONS of people could use this info. rather than just ramen noodles all day every day.

[@shirleystann8645]

I am totally shocked at how MUCH food you had, protein in every meal and all vegetarian. I’m not a vegetarian but I would eat everything you made easily. I watch these kinds of videos all the time & your food is by far the most delicious looking food. Great job!!

[@januarysdaughter6664]

I raised 2 girls on 1 small income all by myself. We were the queens of Aldi budget eats - $50 every 2 weeks, and during the warm months we tried to grow supplemental veggies. We ate a lot of red beans and rice with cornbread- and sweet potato, carrot, black bean and corn hash! 😄 Girl, you are killin' it. I'm so impressed. You have another subscriber! ❤

[@rachaelnelson3810]

Well I go to the food pantry in a few weeks ago they gave us all the fixings for hamburgers except for the bread of course and 3 things of potatoe salad and Cole slaw

[@emusaurus]

I’m so glad I wasn’t born in a third world country.

[@jeannehunter5344]

@@emusaurus I live in a third world country where people grow their own food and raise chickens, goats, cattle etc. They live simply, yes, but one doesn't need loads of things to survive.

[@gavloft]

Depriving a child of a father is a social crime. Every other mother is a single mother and this is why most children are poorly fed and poorly raised.

[@januarysdaughter6664]

@@gavloft are you assuming I kept my children from their father? Don't assume things that you have no idea about. Also, my children were raised very well, and are healthy, thriving adults.

[@sassyeva4666]

This was impressive! You had plenty to eat and decent variety, considering. Definitely one of the better $10 challenges that I've seen 🙂

[@ThatLisaDawn]

I'm glad you enjoyed! I love these types of videos, but sometimes I'm super skeptical that the meals could last a full week, so I wanted to be fully transparent. Thanks for watching! 💙

[@lexiefrancisfrancis5345]

Thank you so much 😊

[@sidehustletoceo]

Girl I'm just binge watching your videos. You're such a blessing and have a humble spirit. What's most commendable is that you explain the entire process in your videos and it encourages a lot of people to stick to a budget. Not only that you have zero music which is what I love. Some people have these awesome tutorials but this loud crazy music that's super distracting. I hope to see more videos coming from you. God bless you. 😊😊

[@conniespillman5157]

You are so right about the obnoxious music. Everywhere one goes music is forced on one.I prefer peace and quiet.

[@davidx4120]

Yes, hate the blaring music in other videos.

[@tmo.48]

I love this--you are so right!!! Plus she sounds like a sweet gentle spirit.

[@deannastatler7712]

Agree 100%

[@eeveetea6627]

Thank you so much for this. I'm a college student, and last semester was the first time in my life where I wasn't sure I would be able to afford food for the week. I live about a mile away from an Aldi, and this helps give me confidence that I can make it work.

[@mickeymousey1239]

go to the food banks, no shame in that, some universities shld have their own good luck did u try any? u also do not need a rice cooker, I make rice/beans in a pot and it works out just as well.

[@raquellambropoulos279]

If you are ever without food visit local food banks or church village hall in your area can refer you to programs. Apply for foodstamps if you are a student not working or low income. Swallow your pride and don't go hungry. Im a mom of 3 and I have had to do it many times myself to feed us . No shame

[@tiad2125]

Add a little or whole thing of a taco seasoning packet to your homemade refried beans.. cheap, and super flavorful! I really like and appreciate how you and some of the other KZbinrs say there is no shame is reaching out for help to feed yourself or your family.

[@ThatLisaDawn]

I bet that would be a delicious addition! I know when I could have used the help, I didn't take it for a variety of reasons, and I think a video like some of these on KZbin that try to take some of the stigma away would have really been valuable for me.

[@carmenwheatley7316]

Or if you cook much and have the seasonings, make your own. At least that way you can control how much salt goes into it.

[@TheKerryzzz]

Yes, you could get by on that..

[@wandafunderberg1290]

Great job on the food and A WoW getting rid of the old jerk! Yeah Momma!

[@vikkigardner6686]

Make your own taco seasoning at home: salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, crush red pepper, garlic, onion powder add cayenne if you want it spicey.

[@gailakraeszig2866]

I have to admit, as this was my first time seeing one of your videos I wasn't expecting much in the way of nutrition in a $10 weekly grocery budget but you proved me wrong for sure! I am really impressed at the nutrition you worked into those meals! Everyone should be watching your videos - there's a lot of common sense and wisdom there!

[@MelindaMc]

Really enjoyed this can't wait to get started myself. You have a lovely gift of gab explaining your process and food looks delicious.

[@bradylady2000]

Every time you tell your viewers to reach out for help if they don't have enough food in their house I tear up. I work with families in extreme need. Your compassion towards people who are struggling is absolutely beautiful. I know there are families out there that you are helping that you will never know. Keep up the beautiful work.

[@beckylynn3916]

I grew up on TV dinners so I didn't see anyone cook. I appreciate your simple, easy to follow, low cost cooking videos!! ❤️

[@gregnixon1296]

Lots of TV dinners in my childhood too, but we didn’t have a TV. LOL

[@julietannOsfan1972]

Tv dinners/ready meals are great for people who live alone, or who hate cooking.

[@raquellambropoulos279]

Do yourself a huge favor and learn how to cook. Its healthy and better for your $$. Im Italian its how we show love im so sorry to hear that you didn't have it growing up. Watch KZbin videos you can do it

[@raquellambropoulos279]

@@julietannOsfan1972 i disagree. They are not great at all. Full of sodium sugar and carbs they are not healthy. Even if you cook for 1 dont get it . Cook and freeze meals or adjust Recipe for 1. Tv dinners are not even cheap anymore. Even if you hate cooking use a crock pot dump and go recipes there are many !! Make soup or chilli spaghetti all easy . Make oatmeal or eggs for breakfast. Salad and grilled chicken literally takes minutes for lunch . Baked potatoes and any grilled meat and a frozen veggies. Broccoli is 99 cents for 2 or 3 days for 1 person. Grilled cheese is easy . Fry potatoes onion and a sausage . But please no tv dinners

[@julietannOsfan1972]

@@raquellambropoulos279 I’m me & I hate cooking. I suffer from Gastroparesis & struggle to eat food like fruit & vegetables etc. I don’t find them unhealthy at all. I’m in the UK & they cost about £1.50 -£1.70, which is very good for a ready meal.

[@ejc1692]

The allure of the Dollar Tree is that in the U.S. we are so used to overspending that anything for a dollar seems like a bargain; the downside to that, however, is that there are many places with better quality products that sale for less than a dollar but it takes a lot of planning and movement to go between stores and most people don't have that time. I watched both of your videos and agree that I like this haul better because of the freshness and variety but you did superb in both. 👍

[@markbajek2541]

I've had some decent luck on lunchmeat closeouts at dollar tree, 12 oz bologna for .25 , salami .25 etc.. you just have to pick your battles.

[@markiangooley]

Dollar Tree here is unbeatable for some things (dry beans, rice unless they’re sold out, jam & jelly though the quality is a bit low, pink Himalayan salt), and overpriced for many more…

[@lindap.p.1337]

@@markiangooleyi buy these things that are cheaper than at other stores…..snacks, tissues, cards, Awesome cleaner, dryer sheets, candy, body wash, single name brand soft drinks by the single bottle, and some of the kitchen gadgets.

[@brookejohansen1681]

Luckily in my town the Aldi and the Dollar Tree are in the same plaza. And Walmart is across the street where the bus regularly drops off. I have a car, but for people who don’t it’s all very convenient.

[@mickeymousey1239]

@@lindap.p.1337 candy and soda's are not healthy nor are they needed, but whatever, I know sometimes its nice to have treats - I generally stay away from them altogether and drink herbal teas and water for health.

[@shay4705]

I remember budgeting. I had 3 of us to feed as cheaply as possible. I would get 1 large pack of hamburger meat and section it into 14 lol. We had a little bit of protein in everything. We ate alot of hamburger soup with veggies and alot of hamburger gravy over rice. Now I have a garden with everything from ginger to melons to squash and beets,tomatoes, radish and greens and onions. I cook for 2 now but we have been blessed to be able to get pretty much all the groceries we want and need. This garden has really been awesome and I feel very proactive in my meals and their nutrition value.

[@christineellis3688]

Finally- a $10 budget challenge where you can still eat healthy! GREAT JOB! So inspiring!

[@QuesadillaWizard]

I am blessed to not be currently struggling, so for me your video has another purpose! I am a beginner cook and these ideas are great for me to practice without spending a lot of money. Thank you so much for sharing!

[@cristyluv1205]

Damn girl, you are RESOURCEFUL!!!

[@Putsili]

I just stumbled across this video without purpose, but had a great time watching it! Greetings from Germany...

[@jmr9735]

Same.

[@kathrynwitte3398]

I wish I could give you a hundred likes! Your acknowledgement of regional pricing, dietary restrictions and food insecurity encouragement is on point! Thank you for continuing your series!

[@josephdonais3436]

I am a 58yo white male who has been cooking for myself and others since before I could reach the sink to do the dishes I was tasked to do, (standing on a chair). I'm saying thank you for your vids. You expose a misgiving I have for my country. By this time none should find themselves in disparity over such things. It makes me angry and this makes me vulnerable to a lot of wacko organizations and people. I remain guarded and in reclusive observation. The problem? I trust no one, (for obvious reasons). Socially, we are still in the stone age.

[@juliacox5021]

This is the best $10 challenge I've seen! Great job!

[@dirtysanchez941]

Very good!! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@aprilrobertson8081]

Watch savvy saute, I love hers! She can do alot with 10 bucks and hers aren't all based around rice and beans, I love hers!

[@samm3681]

Agree!

[@rashneelraina7291]

The number of recipes you got out of 10 dollars is amazing!

[@moonspinner1946]

Stumbled across you channel and I just love it. You're a very special person for sharing what you know to help others as you do. So many heartwarming stories your viewers have left. I wish every joy and happiness and much food to fill empty tummies.

[@timothy2935]

Omg this is wife material, its the ingenuity and resourcefulness that I find awesome ! Awe now that I think of it you know who it reminds me of , my mother 💜

[@purplewildflower1031]

Thank you so so much for a vegetarian emergecy meal plan! Awesome and I know I will be watching it again! And your cat is adorable!

[@sheashea4622]

He is the cutest!!

[@ThatLisaDawn]

I'm so glad you enjoyed! Thanks for watching! 💙💙💙

[@TommyboyGTP]

For sake of argument, adding meat to a tight budget like this is pretty much impossible. If it were 20-30 a week i'm sure adding chicken would be no problem.

[@purplewildflower1031]

@@TommyboyGTP Don't wanna add meat! :-)

[@lanelee9825]

This is the absolute best $10 challenge I’ve ever seen. Excellent job!

[@curliefro]

I love bean burgers so I appreciate the great tip on drying the beans for firmer consistency 🙂

[@DooDooMuffins]

I really love that you show us how to make satisfying meals without meat, I'm not a vegetarian but meat is so expensive these days! It's nice to know you can satisfying your family without it even if it's just a few nights a week. It helps!

[@raquellambropoulos279]

Omlettes are great for that . I use whatever scraps of veggies I have. Also u can get frozen peppers and onion at Walmart under a 1$ . a kraft single or 2 i always have around with kids who love grilled cheese . And thats it. Eat with toast . There are several breakfast casseroles that are cheaper than making dinner as well.

[@darlenemartensen8303]

We don't have a aldi near me, but you did awesome. I love how you mention people should get help if they need it. After covid hit, I was watching on tv of people losing jobs, and food lines were crazy long. I made a homemade pantry on my property and the community accepted it totally. I'm now connected to the karma box project. I painted on the front doors "take what you need, give what you can " it's feeding a lot of families now. People donate when they can. Others shop for what they need

[@beachycat1007]

I love how practical, creative and healthy your cooking videos are! One solitary avocado for the week cracked me up.

[@ThatLisaDawn]

I'm so glad you enjoyed the video! It may have been one lonely avocado, but it was definitely worth it 🤣 Thanks for watching! 💙

[@shannonwhite7605]

I've just fallen in love with your videos!! The care, kindness, & joy you express before you prepare your food, & during is wonderful!! The world is full of chefs with unlimited resources & money... but you ARE REAL! You show what it's like to be a real person that has struggled. It's sooooo refreshing! You have such a great/calming voice/personality... please please please keep doing you vlog's... my you be blessed with peace & good fortune cause you certainly deserve it!!🥰🤩😊❤🙏🐈‍⬛🍞🥑🥕🍳🍠♥️♥️♥️

[@manestage5403]

You're a blessing. You buy good food and season it with good stuff. I've watched a lot of these type of videos, and leave me thinking, "yeah, you shopped on $10, but you bought a bunch of trashy food and seasoned it with air".

[@shirleyapley9021]

When you get done doing the $10 meals can you do $15 ones? I am curious to see the difference.

[@carlyunderwood1303]

I second this!

[@zentrino336]

Agreed. Several budget levels would be nice. 15 then 20 then 25. I spend about 40 bucks a week at the grocery store and I still end up eating out too and I always seem to waste food. I just don't know what to buy!

[@wendyrussell3760]

Maybe some fresh vegetables

[@highsierrasun]

@@carlyunderwood1303 Seems you could put greens in almost anything or put three dishes onto salads of any type. This is helpful for my attention deficit brain.

[@rachaelnelson3810]

@@highsierrasun yes you can also go to Amazon and purchase some thing called calm brain supplants

[@crystalmielcossey]

This is awesome. You can put the empty skin back on top of the pitted side of the Avo and it will keep it fresh too. Also if you keep the heel on the bread till you finish the loaf it keeps it fresher longer

[@rachaelnelson3810]

Frozen veggies / fruits a medium size bags in my city are like $3.00 each bag same on fresh vegetables and fruits in small bulks Are just under $3.00 each

[@sanjesco]

Awesome Crystal, thanks for the tips!

[@pyro_the_guinea_pig]

I love your recipes! They look so delicious! Try dipping 1 to 3 slices of bread in one beaten egg, then fry them (one at a time). Then, put them on a plate of some sugar and cinnamon, for both sides. It's delicious French Toast my mother used to make me for breakfast, growing up. You can also try different toppings instead coating with sugar; try it with jam, maple syrup, yogurt, bananas slices, chocolate syrup, etc.

[@frederiqueboukeras6491]

In France, we dip the bread in milk first, then in the beaten eggs to make a sweet with sugar, what u call French bread, we call it, Pain perdu ( lost bread/ stale). My Tchecoslovakian mother in law used to seve it to us the way u mention with bacon.

[@WhiteFuryJade]

@@frederiqueboukeras6491 in my family that is what we usually do to stale white bread or when we need to whip up something for the tea real quick. Very easy recipe and always a winner :D

[@raquellambropoulos279]

Milk and egg is my french toast recipe i never attempted just egg good to know

[@veronical1757]

I’m late to the party but I’m pretty sure I could watch you prepare and cook budget friendly meals everyday. Thank you for helping me think outside the box and be better about minding my money too 💚🏆🌹

[@lynnel.1083]

You are so creative! New sub! 😊 And, you are a lovely person. I appreciate your kindness and concern for others. You bought all of that for $10?! Wow! Skilled shopper, too. 👍🏻

[@juliecastagnaro305]

Wow. You could teach classes in this for people on a serious budget

[@yesiownfrodo]

I remember when Aldi was cheap like this. I was just there and eggs are now $1.41 a dozen. It's more expensive than Krogers. I appreciate these kinds of videos.

[@majorchance2606]

This video is one of my favorites about Aldi’s. Please keep doing these. So many people are struggling to make affordable meals. Your meals anyone can make! Thank you for taking the time and sharing this with all of us!

[@cuppasilverbullets]

Your channel puts a smile on my face and warms my heart ❤️ you are helping so many folks! Hunger is real in America and especially now, God bless you🙏

[@rgrays2380]

I tried making the mock hamburgers using black beans. I had stuffing mix, steak sauce and bar -b- que sauce in my pantry; so I used them rather than bread crumbs, soy sauce and tomato paste. It was pretty good. Because of these items in my home, my burgers were even cheaper to make!! Love it!!Thanks for the idea and recipes.

[@jobell1060]

Another great cheap meal or addition to a meal are corn fritters. You don’t hear about fritters much but as a very low income family of 8 kids, as I child I ate a lot of them. You can do corn, apple fritters and my favorite clam fritters.

[@edman1357]

People can knock the visuals of some of these dishes, but if you're really in a pinch, it doesn't matter. Taste and how much they fill you up is all that matters. Thanks for sharing!

[@brendatroy2843]

I HAVE A IDEA FOR A DOLLAR TREE MEAL. EGG NOODLES, CANNED CHICKEN MEAT AND ALFREDO SAUCE.

[@maryanderson2759]

Oh yum. Great idea

[@margaretpare8206]

I use creamed chicken soup!

[@kevinholmes5554]

Canned chicken or any other kind of meat and a box of Mac & Cheese goes a pretty long way and tastes great. Twice as good if you use shells and cheese with the pre-made sauce. ;-)

[@pirateslife4me]

I can't lie I like the bread heel for grilled cheese or toasted!

[@justjet175]

I like them for peanut butter sandwiches.

[@wandahall4435]

I Love it for toast or Sammie

[@gurkamalkaur3207]

Love the avocado toast. I know it is not in the $10 budget, but I would definitely enjoy either cilantro or a bit of salsa on it.

[@MommaLousKitchen]

You can grow cilantro inside, easily!!!

[@MommaLousKitchen]

She's hard to kill! Unless she's outside and it's hot, lol...doesn't like heat. Basil can handle more heat.

[@MommaLousKitchen]

Edible houseplants 👀

[@catherinevanetten8748]

I love her videos! I like it that she tells people to get assistance, if they need it.

[@spiritandtruth194]

The cat certainly looks like he eats WELL!!! 😁

[@fitzpatrickstacey5021]

Yes, he's a fat cat

[@azlady7571]

He’s not fat.....just big boned!! :)

[@masterofpuppets5072]

@@azlady7571 I don't think the cat Minds hearing that he's fat

[@rosiern7386]

Hehe the first time I saw him in her other video where she was holding him I was like “he’s half her size!”

[@MrTmenzo]

Lol

[@marlenet5115]

I'm moving out of my sister's house soon and have to make simple foods like this without meat. You've got great ideas, inspired me to make healthy, tasty food. I may spend more than $10.00 a week, but this will fit into my budget. Thanks for sharing, God Bless and have a great week!

[@taylorbritt499]

Idk if you've moved out yet but you may also look into canned meat like spam, potted meat or canned chicken for a little more protein variety! I love tossing some canned chicken into almost any kind of pasta or rice dish and pan-fried spam is pretty good. It just gives a nice break from the eggs and beans.

[@rachaelnelson3810]

I’m over north of Dallas by an hour and a half close to the Oklahoma border and those are the same price is at our Aldi’s here

[@huitrecouture]

@@taylorbritt499 SHE SAID WITHOUT MEAT JEEZE!

[@taylorbritt499]

@@huitrecouture yes, because meat is expensive and when you're on a budget, a lot of times you have to cut it out of meals. I've been there. But there are other, cheaper ways to get some meat into your diet that are much better than missing out on that vital protein source.

[@djz5456]

Hi. You came up on my feed and I clicked on. It’s so nice to see such a resourceful young person during these times. You are giving knowledge to others who may not know how to live on a budget! I’m a 73 year old mother of four and my “kids” loved the eggs in the basket growing up in the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s! I subscribed to your channel. 😀

[@cwmoore11]

You are doing such a great service to young people starting out. Keep up the good work. My wife and I are almost 50 I couldnt imagine how much easier our younger lives would have been with the kind of info and simple meal prep you do. You are helping an entire generation of young parents. Thumbs up.

[@joolzmac1]

In Australia, we call the ends of a bread loaf, the crusts. You either love or hate them but never waste them.

[@Ninsidhe]

How do you reckon this would go with Aussie prices at Aldi? I'm kind of curious to give it a crack, personally, as I love my local Aldi is pretty awesome- I've just not noticed these kind of prices at all there.

[@ShellyS2060]

I'm in the south east of the US I've been raised to call it the "heel" of the bread but dang it if it won't be the "crusts" from now on! Love it, hate it, but don't waste it! That's going into the family lexicon as well. Thanks

[@shaggymcgoose1970]

We call it crust too...lol

[@sltga1254]

@@Ninsidhe There is no way you can get all that in Australian Aldi stores. Even if your budget was $20

[@richardggeorge]

@@Ninsidhe you can't get tins of beans at Oz supermarkets at those prices that's for sure, including Aldi

[@bruceclark5627]

God Bless You!!!!! You have no idea how much you are helping a community of people feeding their family on next to nothing because a rise in pay will prevent a spouse from receiving life saving medication that could not be otherwise afforded. Thank You So Much!

[@jenniferpowell1582]

Eating quality delicious food on a tight budget was a fear...you have given me such peace about food insecurity:) God Bless

[@rachaelnelson3810]

That’s great if you don’t have certain food allergies or sensitivities but my food pantry not far from my house every week’s gives away fresh fruits and vegetables and lately they’ve been giving away free hamburger patties

[@lilomarie7313]

Wow! Thank you Lisa, you make it look so easy. If you want to really prevent air exposure and darkening on a cut avocado, lightly oil the green flesh and wrap the avocado in plastic wrap.

[@raquellambropoulos279]

A cut avacado face down in a bowl of water is all u need keep it in the fridge of coarse

[@ndanieltx]

The information you are providing in your vid is awesome. Not only are you shopping it and sharing the list with us, you are cooking it step by step! Also sharing the extras and spices you already have and used great work and details here. Many of us might not adhere to this budget strictly but giving us a lot of ideas how to save money. Or, if we have a tough week or month how to power through it on a tight budget.

[@DCupcake58]

I really enjoy how you reserve some ingredients for later use. I do that and for awhile my husband thought I was nuts until we needed a small amount of something and I pulled it out of the freezer. And the wine bottle comment….😍.

[@spillsndebris]

I just came from your Dollar Tree video and I'm really surprised that you were able to get even more food (and some fresh vegetables) for the same money from Aldi. You are doing some really great work. Keep it up.

[@roguehy]

You're such a natural at everything you do. It's awesome seeing someone just lean into what they are good at to add value to other people's lives. Keep cooking your delicious healthy meals. Love how this week was vegetarian. Even if I can't find the same prices here in Alaska, you are inspiring me to take better care of myself and save more money at the same time.

[@melodybrookeboyett175]

Thank you for saying, "that you want us thriving not just surviving". That really hit my heart. I super appreciate it. Blessings to you and your family. ✌️💜💜💜

[@elvialoves]

I appreciate your comments on reaching out for help and to take your videos as inspiration.

[@frogonmytoe2946]

avocado and hot sauce on the black bean burger! :D

[@ThatLisaDawn]

Yum! 💙

[@danimarshburn4547]

Love your intro. Figuring out food that nourishes you and you can afford is beautiful. And encouraging others to reach out in times of need. Authentic. Keep it up 🙏🏼

[@inaiabarreras9500]

Thank you so much for sharing those receipts and ideas! It has helped planning my weekly meal routine. Now I can save money and buy better quality food for my children since they are very picky. Your videos have made it way easier to be a single mom with no financial support from my children's father.

[@russellrlf]

Damn....I love how much garlic, salt, pepper and cayenne you use!

[@QuiltingCrow]

I appreciate your creative, appetizing, fresh ideas and your sense of humor :)

[@ThatLisaDawn]

And I appreciate your wonderful comments 💙💙💙

[@kalim.7003]

U do such a great example of showing how to eat well on a budget. I can remember a time or two when I didn’t have enough and someone blessed me with some of these staples and my kids(3) and I made it and were full…. Thanks for reminding me of that time in my life. God bless you and keep you❤️

[@tonygonzalez4470]

YOU. ARE. THE. BEST! Thank you for sharing your light with us all. Incredible meals !

[@jennapeacock6310]

I have never tried a black bean burger before. I might make them and give them a try with the family. and see how it goes one time

[@ThatLisaDawn]

If you try the black bean burgers I hope you enjoy them. I think the biggest thing is to not expect it to taste like a beef burger. I love black beans so I focus on spices and condiments that really enhances/complements the flavor of them.

[@Terri_MacKay]

I'm not a vegetarian, but I love black bean burgers, and actually prefer them to hamburgers. I hope you give them a try!!

[@Terri_MacKay]

@@ThatLisaDawn I love making my own black bean burgers. I like them spicy, and I add diced sweet potato to my burger mix. The mix of sweet and heat is delicious!!

[@mstanley97]

I spend alot of money on black bean burgers. I'm gonna make my own after watching this video!

[@Xyrutano]

you are so funny and down to earth and honestly impressed with how creative and innovative to make actually flavorful food!

[@dianedixon6900]

I just discovered "Aldi grocery store" this past week and honey it cut my grocery bill in half. I'm just seeing this video and it's December 2, 2022. I appreciate you sharing these money saving ideas and showing the meals. Thanks so much. This will help me to save even more money. Thanks. Aldi's grocery store is such a blessing when the other grocery stores are charging so much more for the same groceries. Thanks so much for sharing. You're helping a lot of people. God bless you for your kindness.

[@AmandaALutz]

I thankfully do not have to budget down to $10 a week, but I am still always looking for a frugal variety of healthy foods to serve my family within our monthly meal planning budget. The homemade black bean burgers are a great idea!! Your videos are laid back, fun, and you provide good commentary and info on caloric intake. So glad I found your channel!

[@billcoggeshall6764]

I watched the Dollar Tree menu and this is amazing the amount of variety you got for $10 at Aldi wow great videos really enjoying them keep it up

[@michaelc2996]

I appreciate that you add calorie content, break down for special diet concerns - your videos are great

[@Sokmnkee]

Lisa, I admire your ingenuity, thrift, and the nutritional planning you put into your menu options. You've inspired me to make bean burgers now, and I hope many more will watch you and learn what's possible.

[@noturcinderella]

I am so glad you added the disclaimer that people should reach out for assistance. It is what it is there for! Everyone struggles and its totally okay to ask for help when you need it. I like your smiles throughout your videos and find your message inspirational. I was curious at first, but now I am kinda thinking I should kick my grocery budget down a peg.

[@susandorry6149]

I think you did a great job and for the person on a real budget this was really great and like you said the real downside was lack of fresh. It's just us two and now I'm thinking maybe we could cut down a little.

[@theresamerrill8563]

I love your budget videos.

[@ThatLisaDawn]

Thank you so much 💙

[@soter305]

You are such a breath of fresh air, your videos are so inspiring and so caring. It really shows what type of person you are, an amazing one.

[@rachellecottrell4199]

You are such a sweetheart! You genuinely seem so caring. I'm not budgeting out of complete necessity, but wanting to save money to go towards our new house payment. You've given me lots of hope and something to look forward to for doing money saving challenges. Thanks for sharing ❤ praying you have a great 2022!

[@jmr9735]

I've seen quite a few of these budget meal kind of videos from various KZbinrs. No lie - I have to say that your meals look the most well rounded, healthy, and creative. I think your budget is even smaller than some of the others I've seen. Great job! I have a pretty specific diet due to health reasons, but I've picked up some good ideas from you. Subscribed!

[@sunshine19601000]

I just love how you take such simple things and make really nice nutritious meals and so cheap. Thank you.

[@delaneywofford9643]

You make extreme budgeting seem like a fun challenge rather than a stressful, scary thing. Thanks so much! I’m excited to follow along.

[@skylaradele8090]

I am divorcing. I have been cutting down expenses. Your channel helps me so much. Love you doll!

[@dawnwright4087]

You go girl, we love your show so much. Thank you and keep up the great work.

[@Sandrashideaway]

💓New subscriber. You had some creative ideas. 😀 I'm vegan and enjoy beans too. I call the end piece of bread a heel. Love shopping at Aldi too. 👌

[@C.M.30337]

I'm vegan too. Important thing that was left out is that you need a dark leafy green everyday. I get a bag of frozen organic chopped spinach from Trader Joe's, don't know if they have this at Aldi, and put it in just about everything. Very simple to make mushroom, spinach soup with mushroom broth and add lentils and sometimes rice. Or steamed veggies with spinach, rice and beens and sometimes avo. Or get a package of 32 corn tortillas for $2.29 at Sprouts, don't know what they are at Aldi, and put spinach, mushroom, beans with slice of vegan cheeze and heat up in a pan till the everything has melted cheeze on it. You could make this adding tomatos, avos, tofu scramble or anything else you like. With 32 corn tortillas in a package, they will last a long time and be able to change it up for over a month. All very simple and inexpensive and fast.

[@susanfromthemountains1754]

Thank you! This is the best video I've ever seen so far, on this topic. I am thrilled. Not only is it the least amount of money spent to eat for a week, that I've ever seen, but it's also easy and includes starches which satiate humans. Satiety is peace of mind as well, while eating on $10.00 a week. I'm totally impressed on your pics and menu meals. Thanks again!

[@nicolewright5342]

These videos are absolutely outstanding!! Such a valuable tool for so many!! Wish I had this when I was a struggling young person! (way before cell phones) You are an amazing gift!!

[@susans9491]

I just found your channel and I’m so pleased that I did! I’m a pretty decent cook overall, but had never made black bean burgers from scratch. Thank you for taking the fear out of it and making them seem so very do-able!💕

[@barbarabartelme5809]

You plan was really good and creative. I really enjoyed it. I do not have an Aldi. I can shop at Walmart, and noted that a lot of the items added up to quite a bit more. Thus said, it is really a lot less than I normally spend, and will make the list and from watching these videos. I have learned a lot. Have found that our house has an awful lot of food and ways to trim the cost. As an off the cuff comment, have you ever checked the USDA Food Guides. The cost of food is published by the Dept of Agriculture for different age groups and families at four different levels. It is my understanding that the lowest level does not provide all needed nutrients. I looked up in my senior age group and a moderate budget should cost about $59.00 per week or over $240 per month. I have been spending a lot less than that and have a good supply, so it cheers me up.

[@wandahall4435]

I usually spend 100 dollars A month for Me & My Pug...This month I spent 160ish...

[@kristathehungrymelon]

I've been binge watching budget videos and yours came up. This was insane, im super impressed. My prices here in Maryland don't match, probably closer to $17, but im still blown away. You're so talented. And your cat is very cute

[@beachblond1968]

I’m loving your videos and I sent a link to your channel to my son, who is at the awkward point in life where he has just finished grad school and is nearly out of college money but still has three weeks until he starts collecting a paycheck. You seem to be a fantastic and innovative cook! Thank you for all this great content!

[@route66paul]

Awesome! There is no reason anyone should go hungry in the U.S. I am on a low salt diet, so canned food doesn't work for me, but eggs are cheap protein. The rice, beans, and potatoes stretch meals and can be warmed up in different forms. This is a great way to make that last week of the month work for you. Just having a pantry with canned goods that you put away $5 a week, could help feed you the month your transmission on the car goes out. Great Vlog, keep it up.

[@alanbirkner1958]

My husband can't have salt. Pour the canned vegetables into a colander and rinse with cold water. If you need food, go to a food pantry, apply for SNAP. No one should be hungry. Tina

[@sb-vj6kx]

I find no salt or low salt canned veggies at the store. Your colander idea is a good one, too.

[@sb-vj6kx]

I would add drained tomatoes to the avocado along with a wedge of lemon or lime. After eating the lemon can be dipped in salt and used to clean up, scouring pans for example.

[@jessicaevans2564]

Don’t forget beans come in bags.

[@sb-vj6kx]

@@jessicaevans2564 Beans are also available canned.

[@mimiohearn]

This is really great. However, I would have to go back on diabetic meds from all the carbs. I reversed my type2 on low carb. For thin people, this is a great haul at Aldi’s. Thanks.

[@C.M.30337]

Just stay away from meat and dairy (no animal products) and concentrate on eating fruit and veggies, no processed foods and you will reverse your diabetes.

[@rachaelnelson3810]

That is not how you reversed diabetes it has nothing to do with eating protein is a diabetic you have to eat the low G.I. fruits you can have as much protein as you want as a diabetic

[@mimiohearn]

@@rachaelnelson3810 Who is talking about protein? Fruit? Rachel, you are a stranger to me, and I find it offensive how you stated I was not telling the truth. I have 3 years of food journals and blood work to show my reversal.

[@no_peace]

@@rachaelnelson3810 whole food plant based high carb diets can reverse diabetes (and all kinds of other health issues). People on WFPB diets for health issues don't eat oil at all, ever. That's part of what helps with diabetes. Oil and animal fats prevent insulin from working properly in the presence of carbs, basically. So you can eat a lot of carbs or a lot of fat but not both You can either do a wfpb, no oil, low fat, no processed carb diet (and eat all the fruit and carbs you want) and manage diabetes, potentially reverse it... Or you can do low carb and manage your blood sugar (but most people's diabetes still gets worse over time and they have to keep upping their meds) To some extent people should do what is realistic for them but WFPB is associated with better health markers and works for a lot of other conditions. Like WFPB helps with kidney disease but low carb can make it worse

[@microbios8586]

I agree. The carbs are excessive. But at least there is a lot of fiber from the beans to help lesson the glycemic index. But that leads to another problem- excessive gas!

[@j4d7s8]

I come back to this video often just to remind myself of how much I can do with so little. Your content inspired me to make my first black bean burgers and I loved them! Then I graduated to black bean soup once I got an immersion blender. Keep on on inspiring! ❤

[@carolynjacobson190]

I am a struggling senior citizen and I truly do appreciate your channel I appreciate all that you do and showing your purchases and how to cook them and I do appreciate all your advice at the beginning of each one of your videos thank you

[@TheAckers12]

The lid getting stuck cracked me up because i have had that happen a few times lol

[@cindieclement7796]

That was pretty darn amazing!! I wonder, how a fresh tomato or cuke (grown in your own garden) would've tasted during this challenge. You're SOOO clever girl friend!!

[@sarahandrews3454]

I always recommend your videos. Even if you aren't on a budget, you show easy cooking techniques that anyone can master.

[@BCGirl822]

Fellow NC Lisa here! I’ve been binging your videos all day today. I absolutely love everything about your content! You’re so smart and creative in the kitchen and you have such a sweet, genuine personality. I hope you have lots of success!