As a young mom trying to juggle life on a single income, planning a fun birthday party for my little one can feel a bit daunting.
You want everything to be perfect, from the decorations to the games, but it’s the food that often takes up a big chunk of the budget.
This year, as my daughter’s birthday approached, I found myself staring at the budget spreadsheet with a worried frown.
I wanted to host a joyful party that she would remember without breaking the bank.
Thankfully, I’ve learned a trick or two about hosting on a shoestring budget.
I’ve compiled a list of over 70 budget-friendly party foods that are a hit with both kids and adults, and won’t leave your wallet empty.
From creative appetizers to satisfying sweets, these ideas will help you throw a wonderful birthday bash without the financial stress.
So, let’s dive into the world of affordable party treats that are sure to make your child’s birthday a blast!
Cheap Party Food for a Crowd
Hosting a backyard bash? That’s best cheap way to have a birthday party when you’re broke or have little income coming in.
What’s nice is there’s something so laid-back and joyful about gathering friends and family outside, especially when the weather is just right.
But, with a crowd to feed and a budget to stick to, I’ve had to get a bit crafty with the menu.
Here are some of my go-to, budget-friendly tips for serving up delicious, crowd-pleasing food without overspending.
1. Potluck Style
One of my favorite ways to keep costs down is to have a potluck party.
I ask each guest to bring a dish to share. It’s not only economical but also adds a variety of flavors to the party that everyone enjoys.
2. DIY Food Stations
Setting up stations where guests can assemble their own tacos, sandwiches, or salads is a hit.
I provide the basics: tortillas, bread, lettuce, and a couple of protein options, and guests can add their own toppings. It’s fun and interactive, and it helps stretch the ingredients further.
3. Bulk-Buy Barbecue
Nothing says backyard party like a good old barbecue.
Buying meats in bulk from warehouse stores can save a lot, and simple marinades or rubs can turn inexpensive cuts into delicious treats.
4. Garden Veggie Trays
Using veggies from my or a friend’s garden to create a large veggie tray with a homemade dip is both fresh and frugal.
It’s amazing how a little chopping and arranging can turn simple vegetables into a beautiful and appetizing display.
5. Homemade Sweets
Instead of store-bought cakes or cookies, I whip up large batches of brownies or cupcakes.
Baking at home is incredibly cheaper and nothing beats the taste of homemade goodies.
6. Classic Pasta Dishes
Pasta dishes are fantastic for feeding a large group on a budget.
Dishes like spaghetti with marinara sauce, baked ziti, or a giant pasta salad can be made in large quantities without costing much.
They’re also easy to prepare in advance, leaving more time to enjoy the party.
7. Homemade Pizza Party
Making pizza at home can be a delightful and economical way to feed a crowd.
I set up a ‘make your own pizza’ station with pre-made dough, a variety of sauces, cheeses, and toppings.
It’s fun for guests to customize their pizzas, and it’s much cheaper than ordering out.
8. Bulk Snack Bins
Instead of pre-packaged snacks, I buy bulk items like pretzels, popcorn, or chips and serve them in large bowls.
This approach not only cuts down on packaging waste but also proves much lighter on the wallet. Pairing these with a homemade dip can elevate the whole snacking experience.
Summer Party Food (That’s Cheap)
Here’s a list of 35 budget-friendly summer party foods that are perfect for a delightful backyard gathering:
9. Watermelon Slices
Refreshing and hydrating.
10. Corn on the Cob
Grilled or boiled, with butter and salt.
11. Caprese Skewers
Mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes.
12. Pasta Salad
With veggies and Italian dressing.
13. Homemade Guacamole
With chips for dipping.
14. Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Slow-cooked pork that’s budget-friendly.
15. Deviled Eggs
A classic and inexpensive crowd-pleaser.
16. Veggie Platter
With a homemade yogurt dip.
17. Chilled Gazpacho
Refreshing and light.
18. Chicken Wings
Oven-baked with a spicy or sweet marinade.
19. Bruschetta
With tomatoes, basil, and a balsamic glaze on toast.
20. Popsicles
Homemade with fruit juice or pureed fruit.
21. Mini Quesadillas
Cheese and beans, served with salsa.
22. Greek Salad Skewers
Feta, cucumber, olives, and cherry tomatoes.
23. Sausage Rolls
Baked with store-bought pastry dough.
24. Hummus
With assorted dipping vegetables.
25. Fruit Salad
A mix of seasonal fruits.
26. Potato Salad
A classic with mayo, mustard, and herbs.
27. BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
Marinated and grilled.
28. Tuna Salad Sandwiches
On bulk-bought rolls.
29. Grilled Cheese Bites
With tomato or pesto for dipping.
30. Grilled Vegetables
Seasonal veggies with olive oil and herbs.
31. S’mores Bar
Grahams, chocolate, and marshmallows.
32. Macaroni Salad
With a creamy dressing.
33. Bean Salad
Mixed beans with a vinaigrette.
34. Cheese and Cracker Platter
Assorted budget cheeses with crackers.
35. Sloppy Joe Sliders
Ground meat in a tangy sauce, served on buns.
36. Rice Salad
With veggies and a light dressing.
38. Chili
Make a big pot to serve with bread or over rice.
39. Cucumber Sandwiches
With cream cheese on whole grain bread.
40. Nachos
Baked with cheese and jalapeños, served with salsa.
41. Lemonade
Homemade, sweetened to taste.
42. Meatball Skewers
With a tangy sauce.
43. Cold Cuts and Cheese Platter
With rolls and condiments for sandwiches.
44. Ice Cream Sundae Bar
With a variety of toppings.
These ideas are sure to help you host a fantastic summer party that’s as easy on your budget as it is enjoyable for your guests!
Cheap Appetizers for a Party
Here are 11 affordable appetizer ideas that will keep your party costs low without sacrificing taste:
45. Stuffed Mushrooms
Fill with a mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, and cheese.
46. Garlic Bread Sticks
Homemade with butter, garlic, and herbs.
47. Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Serve warm with tortilla chips or bread pieces.
48. Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Tossed in buffalo sauce and baked until crispy.
49. Mini Meatballs
Serve with toothpicks and a choice of dipping sauces.
50. Zucchini Fritters
Shredded zucchini mixed with flour and herbs, then pan-fried.
51. Cheddar Cheese Puffs
Made with puff pastry and sharp cheddar.
52. Crispy Chickpeas
Roasted with spices for a crunchy snack.
53. Onion Dip
Mix sour cream with onion soup mix for a quick and tasty dip.
54. Baked Potato Wedges
Seasoned and baked until golden.
55. Falafel Balls
Made with ground chickpeas and spices, served with a tahini dip.
These appetizers are not only cost-effective but also simple to prepare, making them perfect for any party!
Birthday Party Food Ideas (That Are Cheap to Buy)
If’ you’re looking to buy birthday food instead of making everything from scratch, here are some cheap food you can buy that everyone enjoys!
56. Hot Dogs and Buns
Easy to cook in large quantities and a hit with kids.
57. Mini Pancake Stacks
Serve with different toppings like syrup, chocolate chips, or fruit.
58. Pretzel Bites
Buy in bulk and serve with a simple mustard dip.
59. Rice Krispie Treats
Make in bulk, easy to customize with sprinkles or chocolate drizzle.
60. Popcorn
Seasoned with salt or cheese for a cheap, filling option.
61. Jelly Sandwiches
Use cookie cutters to make them fun shapes.
62. Muffins
Bake a large batch using a simple recipe; add fruits or chocolate for variety.
63. Bagel Pizzas
Mini bagels with sauce, cheese, and any toppings you like, baked until melty.
64. Fruit Kebabs
Skewer a mix of seasonal fruits for a colorful and healthy option.
65. Cheese Puffs
Homemade or bought in bulk, these are always popular and economical.
These options are not only affordable but also simple to prepare and generally loved by guests of all ages.
What is the Easiest Food to Serve at a Party?
Finger foods are undoubtedly some of the easiest and most popular choices for party food due to their convenience and variety. Here are several finger food ideas that are simple to prepare and serve:
66. Mozzarella Sticks
Serve with a marinara dipping sauce.
67. Spring Rolls
Vegetarian or with shrimp, and paired with a sweet chili sauce.
68. Mini Quiches
Assorted fillings like cheese, spinach, or bacon.
69. Chicken Tenders
Homemade or store-bought, served with dips like honey mustard or BBQ sauce.
70. Pinwheel Sandwiches
Filled with cream cheese, deli meats, and veggies rolled in tortillas and sliced.
71. Bruschetta with Various Toppings
Such as traditional tomato and basil, mushroom and thyme, or prosciutto and fig.
72. Stuffed Dates
Pitted dates filled with goat cheese or cream cheese and nuts.
73. Mini Taco Cups
Made with wonton wrappers in a muffin tin, filled with taco ingredients.
74. Crostini with Various Toppings
Such as blue cheese and pear, or ricotta and honey.
75. Cheese Quesadillas
Cut into small triangles for easy handling.
These items are easy to eat with just your fingers and can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for a hassle-free party setup.
Cheap Party Food That Everyone Enjoys
With a crowd of people to entertain, finding the right balance between budget-friendly and crowd-pleasing can often seem like a challenge.
However, with the myriad of options available for inexpensive party food that everyone enjoys, it’s entirely possible to host a memorable event without straining your wallet.
From classic finger foods like chicken tenders and mozzarella sticks to creative treats like mini taco cups and stuffed dates, the possibilities are endless.
By choosing dishes that are both affordable and beloved, you ensure that your guests leave satisfied, proving that a fantastic party doesn’t need to come with a hefty price tag.
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