With the gov shut down, I thought it would be beneficial to offer a very cost-friendly grocery list for people needing to stretch their money as far as possible right now. This list will make multiple meals for less than $100. Make sure to also look ...
Sections
6
Grains & Bases
Proteins & Fillers
Veggies & Fruit
Pantry Essentials
Quick Comforts
Household Basics
Grains & Bases
Cheap mix & match bases and grains that will be the main carb of your meals. **This entire section costs less than $17**
Rice is a filling (and delicious) source of carbs that are low budget. I personally use this often in meals for our big family!
Great Value Rice (>$2)
Elbow noodles with a little butter, salt, and pepper make for a quick, low-cost meal. The kids specifically ask for this simple combo😅
Great Value Elbow Noodles (>$1)
These are an easy breakfast that also doubles as a snack. The strawberries and cream is my fave!
Great Value Instant Oatmeal (19cents per packet)
You can make wraps, pizzas, tacos, snacks, & more with these. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had a tortilla with some cheese microwaved — it’s yummy!
Great Value Flour Tortillas (>$2)
Potatoes are the perfect carb for low-budget meals. It’s also extremely versatile!
Russet Potatoes (>50cents/lb)
If you don't have the option of fresh potatoes, instant is another great option!
Great Value Instant Mashed Potatoes (31cents/serving)
Proteins & Fillers
Simple sources of protein that don't break the bank. **This entire section costs less than $17**
Beans are a great source of fiber and protein. Pinto beans are great in soups, stews, burritos, and more 🙌
Great Value Pinto Beans (>1$)
Black beans taste great in salads and tacos! 🌮
Great Value Black Beans (>$1)
This type is amazing in soups!
Great Value Great Northern Beans (>$1)
Perfect as a quick protein. This is great in sandwiches, and works in casseroles as well!
Great Value Chunk Light Tuna (>$1/can)
Protein packed whole food that isn't expensive right now. Add a fried egg to your ramen, hard boil them as a snack, scramble them for breakfast, etc.
Great Value Large Eggs (>$2)
High-protein and kid-friendly.
Great Value Creamy Peanut Butter (>$2)
I highly recommend trying lentils. They are a great way to fill meals with protein, make a soup more dense, and they cook fast too
Great Value Lentils ($1.41/lb)
Veggies & Fruit
A mix of frozen, canned, and shelf-stable options. **This entire section costs less than $9**
Corn is a great filler veggie that you can add to many dishes or have as a side
Great Value Whole Kernel Corn (>$1)
The perfect heat and serve canned veggie in my opinion
Great Value Canned Green Beans (>$1)
Add this to dishes or have as a side to your main meal — I personally use it for pot pies and soups often!
Great Value Frozen Vegetables (>$1)
A cheap, frozen veggie staple item. This is my go-to pairing with some mashed potatoes and a protein.
Great Value Frozen Sweet Peas (>$1)
A simple snack as well as a substitute for eggs in baking if you need it in a pinch
Great Value Original Applesauce (7cents/oz)
Cheaper to buy in a bunch, but that option wasn't available online for me
Fresh Banana (28cents/ea)
This can stretch a meal or soup easily, but works great with some elbow noodles too🍝
Great Value Tomato Sauce (>$1)
Pantry Essentials
For cooking, seasoning, or stretching meals out. **This entire section costs less than $12**
Let's face it, sometimes we can't afford olive oil… that's when this comes in handy
Great Value Vegetable Oil (8cents/oz)
Don't forget these
Salt & Pepper Pack (>$2.50)
Adds a little something to simple dishes!
Great Value Garlic Powder ($1)
Pantry stable cheap meal
Ramen Noodle Chicken Flavor (33cents/pack)
Quick Comforts
Things that help life feel a little more “normal” during times that don't seem normal. **This entire section costs less than $14**
Most people love mac n cheese! This one is very budget friendly
Great Value Macaroni & Cheese (58cents)
This is a yummy option for people who like an easy, quick coffee! Works well in cold and hot water.
Cafe Bustelo Espresso Style Instant Coffee (BIG jar, makes many cups)
Arizona takes pride in keeping their tea low-cost!
Arizona Green Tea with Ginseng & Honey (>$1)
Bread isn't a necessity, but it's really nice to have. This is the cheapest one I could find!
Great Value White Round Top Bread (>$1.50)
Ketchup boosts morale tbh haha
Great Value Tomato Ketchup (>$2)
Another condiment that brings flavor to dishes when needed
Great Value Yellow Mustard (>$1)
Household Basics
Beyond food, here are some household products that are low-cost as well. **This entire section costs less than $16**
This one is compared to dawn, and it's better in price
Great Value Ultra Dish Liquid (>$3)
Powder goes further than liquid. I also have a DIY recipe on my Laundry Product list!
