1. Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet potato casserole is a classic dish that’s affordable and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- Sweet potatoes
- Brown sugar
- Butter
- Marshmallows or pecans
How to Make It
Boil and mash the sweet potatoes, then mix them with brown sugar and butter. Spread the mixture into a casserole dish, and top with marshmallows or a crunchy pecan topping. Bake until the topping is golden.
Why It’s Budget-Friendly
Sweet potatoes are readily available during the holiday season, often on sale, and can feed a large group for just a few dollars.
2. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a hearty and healthy option that’s easy to customize based on your preferences.
Ingredients
- Bell peppers
- Rice or quinoa
- Black beans
- Spices
How to Make It
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Cook the rice or quinoa and mix it with black beans and spices. Stuff the mixture into the peppers and bake until the peppers are tender.
Why It’s Budget-Friendly
Bell peppers and beans are inexpensive, and you can use leftover rice to keep costs low.
3. Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a timeless appetizer that’s both simple and elegant.
Ingredients
- Eggs
- Mayonnaise
- Mustard
- Paprika
How to Make It
Boil and peel the eggs, slice them in half, and remove the yolks. Mix the yolks with mayonnaise and mustard, then spoon the mixture back into the egg whites. Sprinkle paprika on top for a finishing touch.
Why It’s Budget-Friendly
Eggs are one of the most cost-effective protein sources, and a dozen can create a generous platter of deviled eggs.
4. Vegetarian Chili
Warm and hearty, vegetarian chili is perfect for a Friendsgiving gathering.
Ingredients
- Beans (black, kidney, or pinto)
- Diced tomatoes
- Onions and garlic
- Chili powder
How to Make It
Sauté onions and garlic, then add beans, tomatoes, and spices. Simmer for 20–30 minutes. Serve with optional toppings like shredded cheese or sour cream.
Why It’s Budget-Friendly
Beans are cheap and filling, making them an excellent base for this affordable dish.
5. Homemade Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is a comfort food favorite that’s surprisingly economical when made from scratch.
Ingredients
- Pasta
- Cheese (cheddar or a mix)
- Milk
- Butter
How to Make It
Cook the pasta and set aside. In a saucepan, make a cheese sauce by melting butter, stirring in flour, and gradually adding milk and shredded cheese. Mix the sauce with the pasta and bake for a crispy top.
Why It’s Budget-Friendly
With a short ingredient list and bulk-sized pasta available at low prices, this dish feeds a crowd affordably.
6. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a staple for any holiday meal, and adding garlic elevates their flavor.
Ingredients
- Potatoes
- Garlic
- Butter
- Milk
How to Make It
Boil the potatoes and mash them with roasted garlic, butter, and milk until creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Why It’s Budget-Friendly
Potatoes are one of the most affordable vegetables and yield a large amount of food, making them ideal for feeding a group.
7. Seasonal Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a simple, nutritious, and visually appealing side dish.
Ingredients
- Carrots
- Brussels sprouts
- Butternut squash
- Olive oil and herbs
How to Make It
Chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces, toss with olive oil and herbs, and roast in the oven until caramelized and tender.
Why It’s Budget-Friendly
Seasonal vegetables are often sold at discounted prices, and you can mix and match based on what’s available.
8. Cranberry Sauce
Homemade cranberry sauce adds a festive touch without the cost of store-bought versions.
Ingredients
- Fresh cranberries
- Sugar
- Orange juice
How to Make It
Simmer cranberries with sugar and orange juice until the berries burst and the sauce thickens.
Why It’s Budget-Friendly
Fresh cranberries are inexpensive and yield enough sauce to serve an entire group.
9. Pumpkin Bread
Pumpkin bread is a sweet, spiced treat that’s perfect for dessert or as a side dish.
Ingredients
- Canned pumpkin
- Flour
- Sugar
- Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg)
How to Make It
Mix the wet and dry ingredients separately, then combine and pour into a loaf pan. Bake until a toothpick comes out clean.
Why It’s Budget-Friendly
A single can of pumpkin can make multiple loaves, making this a cost-effective dessert option.
10. Apple Crisp
Apple crisp is a warm, comforting dessert that highlights seasonal apples.
Ingredients
- Apples
- Oats
- Brown sugar
- Butter
How to Make It
Slice the apples and layer them in a baking dish. Mix oats, brown sugar, and butter to form a crumb topping, then sprinkle it over the apples. Bake until golden and bubbly.
Why It’s Budget-Friendly
Seasonal apples are affordable, and the topping requires only a few pantry staples.
Bonus Tips for a Budget-Friendly Friendsgiving
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- Plan Ahead: Create a menu and shop for ingredients in advance to take advantage of sales and discounts.