Affordable High Protein Meal Prep for Weight Loss (Under $25 a Week)
A budget-friendly high protein meal featuring ground turkey and black beans that delivers 32 grams of protein per serving and costs under $25 for a full week of lunches. This flavorful dish combines lean ground turkey with black beans, tomatoes, and warm spices to create a satisfying meal that reheats beautifully and tastes indulgent enough to stick with throughout the week.
Equipment
- large skillet
- cutting board
- knife
- measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground turkey (93/7 lean)
- 2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey and cook until no longer pink, breaking it up as you go, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Step 2: Add diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3: Add tomato paste and stir to coat everything evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes to caramelize slightly.
- Step 4: Sprinkle in cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat all pieces. Taste and adjust seasonings.
- Step 5: Pour in diced tomatoes with juice and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
- Step 6: Add drained black beans and stir to incorporate.
- Step 7: Simmer on medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce reduces and flavors meld.
- Step 8: Taste and adjust seasoning one final time. Add lime juice if desired.
Notes
Double the recipe and freeze half for future meal prep. Cool to room temperature before storing in containers. Keep fresh toppings like salsa, avocado, cilantro, and lime juice separate until eating day to maintain freshness and prevent the meal from tasting repetitive throughout the week. Reheats well from both fridge and freezer.