10 Budget-Friendly Protein Sources to Stock Your Fridge
I’ve been meal prepping for a while now, and I’ve found that protein sources can quickly add up in cost. To save some money, I’ve been experimenting with different options at my local grocery store. I’ve narrowed down my favorites to a list of 10 budget-friendly protein sources that work for me.
Meat and Poultry Options
I’ve found that buying meat and poultry in bulk can be a great way to save money. Some of my go-to options include:
- Chicken thighs: $3-$4 per pound, and they’re super versatile
- Ground turkey: $2-$3 per pound, and it’s a great substitute for ground beef
- Pork shoulder: $2-$3 per pound, and it’s perfect for slow-cooking
I usually buy these in bulk and freeze them for later use. It takes me about 30 minutes to an hour to prep and portion them out for the week.
Plant-Based and Seafood Options
I’ve also been trying to incorporate more plant-based and seafood options into my meal prep. Some of my favorites include:
- Black beans: $1-$2 per can, and they’re a great source of protein
- Lentils: $1-$2 per bag, and they’re easy to cook in bulk
- Canned tuna: $2-$3 per can, and it’s a great addition to salads
- Salmon fillets: $8-$10 per pound, and they’re a nice treat every now and then
I like to buy these in bulk and use them throughout the week. It’s also a good idea to keep an eye out for sales and stock up when you can.
Tips for Saving Money
I’ve found that planning my meals ahead of time and making a grocery list can really help me stay on budget. I also try to buy in bulk and freeze items for later use. This helps me save time and money in the long run. If you’re looking for more ways to save, consider shopping during sales tax holidays or using cashback apps like Ibotta.
As we head into Spring, I’m excited to start incorporating more seasonal ingredients into my meal prep. Maybe I’ll even start eating outside more often. If you’re trying to make your kitchen or dining space feel a bit more put-together, I’ve been into art prints lately — there’s a solid collection of landscape and abstract prints at Printsofprint on Etsy if you want to browse.
What do you use for protein sources in your meal prep?
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