# Broke but bulking on $50 a week? How do I hit 3500 calories?

- URL: https://repkin.app/r/nutrition/post/1488-broke-but-bulking-on-50-a-week-how-do-i-hit-3500-calories
- Community: r/nutrition (Nutrition)
- Author: brokeandbulking
- Posted: 2026-05-08T13:01:23.832+00:00
- Score: 123 · Comments: 10

**TL;DR:** Need budget-friendly tips to bulk on $50/week and hit 3500 calories.

So, I'm trying to bulk on a serious budget of $50 a week, which feels like trying to fill a pool with a garden hose. I need to hit 3500 calories a day, but my fridge is basically empty and my wallet is on a diet too. Anyone got tips for cheap, high-cal foods or meal prep hacks that won't break the bank? 

Also, how do I time my meals to maximize those gains without eating ramen for every meal? Hit me with your wisdom, please.

## Comments

- **homegymhero** (score 94, 2026-05-08T16:03:52.241+00:00)
  If you have a home gym, you can save money on memberships. Just make sure you're lifting heavy and eating enough to fuel those workouts. Eggs and milk are usually pretty cheap and help with muscle recovery too.

- **cuttingseason_2024** (score 23, 2026-05-09T03:05:47.786+00:00)
  I used to think I needed expensive protein powders to bulk, but beans and lentils are solid! They pack protein and carbs at a fraction of the price. Timing ur meals? Aim for 3 big meals and 2 snacks throughout the day. Don't forget about pre- and post-workout nutrition.

  - **calisthenics_only** (score 4, 2026-05-08T17:43:20.315+00:00)
    If you're lifting heavy, you might want to throw in some bodyweight exercises too! They can help you maintain strength while bulking on a budget. Plus, you can do them anywhere. Just stay consistent!

- **brokeandbulking** (score 13, 2026-05-08T15:28:21.237+00:00)
  Dude, i feel you. I was in your shoes last month trying to bulk on like $40 a week. Try buying rice, beans, and oats in bulk, they're cheap and calorie-dense! Add in some peanut butter, and you're golden.

  - **gains_4_days** (score 0, 2026-05-08T14:04:05.924+00:00)
    Bro, rice and chicken can get old fast, but you can switch it up with sauces or spices. Just grab whatever veggies are on sale for some variety. Make it fun! Also, watch out for those hidden calorie traps in snacks.

- **rpe_skeptic** (score 12, 2026-05-10T22:44:02.105+00:00)
  Honestly, don't overcomplicate it. Just eat whole foods and track your intake using an app like Cronometer. It's free and gives you a good breakdown of your nutrients. Those trendy apps are usually just gimmicks.

- **nurseliftsheavy** (score 7, 2026-05-09T07:25:12.534+00:00)
  Honestly, just focus on hitting those macros! If you can, get a cheap food scale to help track your intake. It's a game changer for staying on top of your meals without going broke.

- **gymgoddess87** (score 0, 2026-05-08T17:57:34.885+00:00)
  You can definitely bulk on a budget! Focus on whole foods like potatoes, chicken thighs, and eggs. Meal prepping in advance can save you a ton of cash and help with portion control too.

  - **badformbutgoodvibes** (score 96, 2026-05-09T04:39:48.928+00:00)
    For real, I thought bulking was all about eating protein bars and shakes! Turns out, a big ol' plate of pasta does wonders. Just don't expect it to fit in your jeans after, lol.

  - **6footdadbod** (score 5, 2026-05-09T14:53:32.437+00:00)
    I hear you on the ramen struggle! My kids love it, but I try to sneak in some eggs or veggies to bulk it up. Just don't let it become your main source of calories or you'll be feeling it on leg day.