Grocery Game Plan: How to Feed 3 People for a Week on $50

Written By Nicolette Dieffenbaugher

Grocery Game Plan: Shop Once, Save More

We’ve all been there—running into the store “just for milk” and walking out $30 poorer. 😅 The truth is: impulse buys are budget killers. But the good news? With one solid grocery trip each week, you can keep your money in your pocket and your fridge full.

Here’s your Grocery Game Plan:

🛒 Step 1: The Big 5 Staples

Build your week around foods that stretch across multiple meals:

  1. Rice or Pasta – cheap, filling, and endlessly versatile.

  2. Beans or Lentils – plant-based protein that works in soups, bowls, or wraps.

  3. Eggs – breakfast, lunch, or dinner… they do it all.

  4. Chicken or Tofu – easy to batch cook and repurpose.

  5. Seasonal Veggies – shop what’s on sale for freshness + savings.

🛒 Step 2: Sample $50 Grocery List (feeds 2–3 for a week)

(adjust prices for your country/currency)

  • 2 lbs chicken thighs (or tofu block)

  • 2 dozen eggs

  • 2 lbs rice

  • 1 lb pasta

  • 2 cans black beans

  • 1 lb lentils

  • 1 loaf whole wheat bread

  • 1 bag frozen mixed veggies

  • 2 fresh seasonal veggies (zucchini + carrots)

  • 1 bag spinach or lettuce

  • 1 onion, 1 garlic bulb

  • 1 jar tomato sauce

  • 1 small block cheese

  • Spices: chili powder, cumin, paprika

🛒 Step 3: Meal Ideas from the List

  • Breakfasts: scrambled eggs + toast, veggie omelet, overnight rice pudding.

  • Lunches: rice + beans bowls, lentil soup, chicken + veggie wraps.

  • Dinners: pasta with tomato sauce & veggies, chicken stir fry, lentil tacos.

💡 Pro Tip: Keep a running list on your phone—when you’re out of something, add it immediately so your weekly shop is always intentional.

💜 And remember: every skipped impulse buy is a step closer to your financial goals.

👉 Want more weekly planners + sample grocery lists? Join the VestNow community on Instagram & Facebook (soon inside our app forum!) and share your own budget meal hacks with us.

Nicolette Dieffenbaugher