The Refinery Movement Podcast

Practical Budget Friendly Grocery & Cooking Guide

AJ Amrhein

Walking into the grocery store shouldn’t feel overwhelming, defeating, or financially stressful—but for so many women, it does.

In this episode, we’re talking about how to grocery shop with confidence, clarity, and stewardship, even on a tight budget and a busy schedule. This is not about perfection, fancy recipes, or “clean eating” trends. It’s about simple, repeatable systems that actually work in real life.

I walk you through two practical grocery scenarios:

  • Option A: a single woman or single mom shopping for herself
  • Option B: a mom feeding herself, her husband, and two kids

If grocery shopping has ever made you feel stressed, behind, or discouraged—this episode is here to give you confidence, peace, and a plan.

 OPTION A

Single Woman

Weekly Budget Target: $60–$80

CORE STAPLES

Proteins

  • 2 lb chicken thighs or chicken breasts
  • 1 lb ground turkey or ground beef 93/7
  • Eggs (18-count if possible)
  • Greek yogurt

Carbs

  • Rice (large microwavable packets if tight on time) (large non-microwable bag to cook is cheaper though)
  • Oats
  • Potatoes or sweet potatoes
  • Bread or wraps

Fats

  • Olive oil or avocado oil
  • Peanut butter

Produce

  • Frozen broccoli or Frozen green beans
  • Frozen mixed vegetables
  • Bananas or apples

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED STAPLES

  • Rotisserie chicken
  • Almond milk
  • Protein powder (optimum nutrition gold standard)

OPTIONAL 

  • Salsa
  • Low-cost pasta sauce
  • Seasonings:
     Salt
  • Pepper
  •  Garlic powder
  • Chili flakes

OPTION B

Mom + Husband + Two Kids

CORE FAMILY STAPLES

  • 4–5 lb chicken thighs or breasts
  • 2 lb ground beef or ground turkey
  • Eggs (24-count)
  • Frozen chicken nuggets

Carbs

  • Rice
  • Pasta
  • Potatoes
  • Tortillas or bread

Produce

  • Frozen broccoli
  • Frozen corn
  • Frozen mixed vegetables
  • Apples
  • Bananas
  • Oranges

Fats

  • Olive oil
  • Butter

FAMILY ESSENTIALS

  • Pasta sauce
  • Cheese
  • Peanut butter
  • Cereal

 OPTIONAL 

  • Just Bare chicken nuggets
  • Tyson grilled chicken strips
  • Kirkland frozen meatballs
  • Frozen shrimp

Disclaimer
 
The nutrition and training plans provided by The Refinery Movement and AJ Amrhein, LLC are intended for educational and informational purposes only. They are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before beginning any fitness program, nutrition plan, or lifestyle change—especially if you have any medical condition, injury, or specific dietary concerns.

By choosing to follow these plans, you acknowledge and assume full responsibility for your own health, safety, and results. Individual outcomes may vary based on factors such as genetics, medical history, consistency, and effort. The Refinery Movement and AJ Amrhein, LLC disclaim any liability for injury, illness, or adverse effects that may occur as a result of following these plans.

Listen to your body, progress at your own pace, and seek professional guidance when needed.