Planning a meal for a large gathering can be a daunting task, especially when you’re trying to keep costs down. However, with a little creativity and preparation, you can serve delicious meals that won’t break the bank. Here are 20 budget-friendly and easy-to-make meal ideas perfect for big groups:
1. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio:
Simple garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes sautéed and tossed with pasta. Serve with a green salad and garlic bread.
2. Chili Night:
A large pot of chili goes a long way. Accompany with rice, sour cream, shredded cheese, and tortilla chips.
3. Vegetable Stir Fry:
Load up on seasonal veggies, stir fry them in a savory sauce, and serve over rice or noodles.
4. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches:
Slow-cooked pork shoulder shredded and smothered in BBQ sauce. Serve on buns with coleslaw.
5. Taco Bar:
Lay out tortillas, seasoned ground meat (beef, chicken, or turkey), and various toppings. Guests can build their own tacos.
6. Hearty Lentil Soup:
A pot of lentil soup with diced vegetables and spices, paired with crusty bread.
7. Baked Ziti:
Layers of pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese baked to perfection.
8. Egg Fried Rice:
Rice stir-fried with eggs, frozen vegetables, and a splash of soy sauce.
9. Potato Bar:
Baked potatoes with an assortment of toppings like cheese, broccoli, sour cream, and bacon bits.
10. Meatball Subs:
Bulk-make meatballs in marinara sauce and serve in sub rolls with melted cheese.
11. Pancake or Waffle Breakfast:
Whip up a batch of batter and have toppings like fruit, syrup, and whipped cream available.
12. Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup:
The classic comfort food combination. Multi-grain bread adds a healthier twist.
13. Baked Beans and Cornbread:
Hearty beans with smoky flavors complemented by sweet, crumbly cornbread.
14. Veggie & Cheese Casserole:
Layered vegetables topped with cheese and baked. Think eggplant, zucchini, and tomato.
15. Chicken Drumsticks:
Marinate drumsticks in bulk, then bake or grill. Cheaper than chicken breasts and just as tasty!
16. Mac n’ Cheese:
A classic! Make it more filling by adding vegetables or diced ham.
17. Shepherd’s Pie:
Ground meat and vegetables in a savory sauce, topped with mashed potatoes.
18. Vegetable Curry:
A mix of veggies cooked in a fragrant curry sauce. Serve with rice or flatbread.
19. Large Salad:
Think Cobb salad or Caesar salad. Add protein options like boiled eggs, grilled chicken, or chickpeas.
20. Sloppy Joes:
Ground meat in a tangy sauce served on hamburger buns.
Conclusion:
Feeding a large group doesn’t mean you have to spend excessively or stress over complicated dishes. With these easy and economical meals, you can please the crowd without straining your budget or your schedule. Remember, the joy of gathering often lies in the company and the shared experience, not just the gourmet offerings!
