Carnivore Diet On A Budget

As a family of 6, we are always looking for ways to feed our family on a budget. In fact, one of my early reservations to starting a carnivore diet was my belief that it would cost more money. Buying so much meat would surely double or triple our already stretched grocery budget, right?

This could not be further from the truth!

And here’s why; when we were eating the Standard American Diet (SAD), I was buying a LOT of pre-packaged foods for all of us. I was trying to buy organic and “natural” as much as possible, so I was spending quite a bit on, for example, a box of organic granola bars, or snack bags of crackers, etc.

Additionally, I bought so much produce that we would throw out each week. We just weren’t getting around to finishing it all, and much of it ended up getting wasted.

Now, our kids do occasionally eat produce and pre-packaged foods. While Daniel and I are mostly animal-based, our kids have some non-animal based foods, in moderation.

However, I find myself buying these items in much smaller amounts and using everything up before it expires.

Also! I’ve found that with our high protein, high fat meals, we are all snacking WAY less throughout the day, which has seriously cut down on those expensive snacky items.

As a result, our grocery bill has actually decreased with this new way of eating.

So, how do you do a carnivore diet on a budget? Let’s get into it!

How to Do the Carnivore Diet on a Budget: Tips for Eating Meat Without Breaking the Bank

As I mentioned, carnivore diet can seem expensive at first glance, but with some smart shopping and a little planning, it’s possible to follow it without overspending. If you’re looking for ways to enjoy the benefits of a carnivore diet while staying within a budget, our guide will show you how to make it work.

1. Buy in Bulk

One of the simplest ways to save money on meat is by buying in bulk. Many stores offer discounts when you purchase larger quantities of meat.

Warehouse stores like Costco or Sam’s Club are great places to find deals on family-size packs of beef, chicken, pork, and fish. You can freeze what you don’t need immediately, helping you spread out your grocery costs over time.

One thing we do when we go to Costco, especially, is buy the big portions of pork loin, brisket, ground beef and chicken thighs. We portion them out, and freeze them immediately.

2. Go for Cheaper Cuts of Meat

This was some of the most valuable advice I got from all the research I’ve done; you don’t have to buy ribeye steaks to enjoy a carnivore diet! Cheaper cuts like ground beef, chicken thighs, pork shoulder, and beef chuck roast are just as nutritious and full of flavor.

These cuts are often better for slow-cooking or braising anyway, which brings out their tenderness and taste. Ground beef, in particular, is a staple in our home that’s both versatile and affordable.

3. Utilize Organ Meats

Organ meats, such as liver, heart, and kidney, are often much less expensive than muscle cuts and are packed with nutrients.

These meats are loaded with essential vitamins like vitamin A and B12, and you don’t need to eat a lot to reap the benefits.

Try incorporating liver into your diet once or twice a week for a nutrient boost at a fraction of the cost of traditional cuts.

Not a huge fan of liver? Try adding it into ground beef- you literally won’t even notice!

4. Shop Sales and Discounts

Take advantage of sales on meat. Keep an eye out for weekly discounts at your local grocery store or butcher.

Some stores even offer “manager’s specials” on meat that’s close to its sell-by date but still perfectly good to eat. You can buy it and either cook it right away or freeze it for later.

I find I have the best luck finding these discounts by going earlier in the day.

5. Buy Meat from Local Farms

In the past, buying half or a quarter of a cow always seemed excessive to me- what if we couldn’t get through all that meat? Well that is no longer an issue, that’s for sure!

If you have access to local farmers or butcher shops, you might find better deals by buying directly from them. Consider purchasing a quarter or half of a cow or pig.

While the initial cost might seem high, it usually works out cheaper per pound than buying smaller quantities over time. Plus, you’ll have a freezer full of high-quality meat!

6. Stretch Your Meals with Eggs

Eggs are one of the most affordable and nutrient-dense foods available. Incorporating eggs into your diet can help stretch your more expensive meat purchases. Eggs are versatile—enjoy them scrambled, fried, boiled, or even in a carnivore-friendly egg bake.

I can’t NOT mention how incredibly helpful and cheap it is to have your own chickens and collect your own eggs from your backyard! If you’re considering it as a beginner, this article from Country Living has some great info.

We have several breakfast ideas with eggs in this post, but eggs aren’t just a breakfast food! Try them in recipes for lunch and dinner too.

7. Consider Canned Fish

For a budget-friendly source of protein and omega-3s, consider adding canned fish like sardines, mackerel, or salmon to your diet.

These are often more affordable than fresh fish but still provide excellent nutrition. Look for wild-caught options to maximize health benefits.

8. Meal Prep to Avoid Waste

Cooking in bulk and meal prepping are key strategies for avoiding waste and staying on budget. Plan your meals for the week, cook larger portions, and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer.

This not only saves you time but also prevents you from needing to buy takeout or additional ingredients mid-week.

9. Bone Broth for Extra Nutrition

Making your own bone broth is another fantastic way to stretch your meat budget! You can use bones from previous meals or purchase inexpensive bones from your butcher.

Simmer them in water for several hours to create a nutrient-rich broth that can be used in soups, stews, or as a comforting drink on its own.

10. Stick to Simple Meals

Carnivore meals don’t need to be complicated or gourmet. Ours usually aren’t!

Keep it simple with dishes like burgers, steak, fried eggs, or roasted chicken. Sticking to easy, straightforward meals will help you avoid spending money on unnecessary ingredients or fancy cuts of meat.

Final Thoughts

Following the carnivore diet on a budget is all about making smart choices and being resourceful! With a little planning, you can eat nutrient-dense, protein-rich meals without blowing your grocery budget.

Whether it’s buying cheaper cuts, taking advantage of sales, or meal prepping, these strategies can help you succeed on the carnivore diet without feeling financially stretched.

By keeping your meals simple and using these cost-saving tips, you can enjoy the benefits of a carnivore diet without breaking the bank- even with a large family like us.