35 Money-Saving Dinner Recipes That Feed a Crowd
Feeding a crowd without emptying your wallet can feel like a Herculean task. But fear not, budget-conscious host! We’ve scoured the culinary landscape for recipes that are not only delicious but also won’t break the bank. Get ready to impress your guests (and your bank account) with these 35 amazing and affordable dinner ideas.
From hearty pasta bakes to comforting soups and crowd-pleasing casseroles, this list is packed with inspiration for your next big gathering. So, ditch the takeout menus and get ready to unleash your inner chef – your wallet (and your guests) will thank you!
Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
A classic for a reason! This simple dish is always a hit, and you can easily bulk it up with extra vegetables or serve it with garlic bread. Making your own meatballs is surprisingly easy and cost-effective. Plus, everyone loves a good spaghetti and meatballs.
Lentil Soup Recipe
Lentils are a powerhouse of protein and fiber, making this soup both filling and healthy. Customize it with your favorite vegetables and spices. It’s also perfect for making ahead of time, which means less stress on the day of your gathering!
Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
A comforting classic that’s perfect for a chilly evening or when someone’s feeling under the weather. Using a whole chicken makes it even more budget-friendly, and you can use the leftover chicken for sandwiches or salads.
Chili Recipe
Chili is a crowd-pleaser that can be easily customized to suit different tastes. Add beans, vegetables, or even a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor. Serve with cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe
This retro classic is surprisingly delicious and budget-friendly. Using canned tuna and pantry staples, you can whip up this comforting casserole in no time. Add some crushed potato chips on top for extra crunch!
Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
A hearty and satisfying dish made with ground meat and vegetables, topped with mashed potatoes. It’s a great way to use up leftover vegetables, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe will be a hit!
Mac and Cheese Recipe
Who doesn’t love mac and cheese? This classic dish is always a hit, especially with kids. You can make it from scratch or use a boxed mix, but adding extra cheese and breadcrumbs will elevate it to the next level.
Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
This creamy and comforting casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner. It’s easy to make and can be customized with your favorite vegetables. A simple winner!
Vegetable Curry Recipe
A flavorful and affordable dish that can be made with a variety of vegetables. Serve with rice or naan bread for a complete meal. You can also add lentils or chickpeas for extra protein.
Black Bean Burgers Recipe
A healthy and delicious alternative to traditional burgers. These burgers are packed with protein and fiber, and they’re easy to make. Serve on buns with your favorite toppings.
Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
A classic comfort food that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This pie is filled with chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all baked in a flaky crust. Everyone will be going for seconds.
Sloppy Joes Recipe
A fun and easy meal that’s perfect for a casual gathering. Ground meat is simmered in a tangy sauce and served on buns. Easy to make and easy to eat!
Beef Stroganoff Recipe
A creamy and flavorful dish made with beef, mushrooms, and sour cream. Serve over noodles for a comforting and satisfying meal. Perfect for cooler weather.
Baked Ziti Recipe
A classic Italian-American dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. This baked pasta is layered with sauce, cheese, and meat (optional). Everyone loves this easy and affordable recipe!
Chicken Fajitas Recipe
A fun and interactive meal that’s perfect for a party. Serve grilled chicken and vegetables with tortillas and your favorite toppings. It’s easily customizable!
Pulled Pork Sandwiches Recipe
Slow-cooked pork that’s shredded and served on buns with barbecue sauce. This is perfect for feeding a crowd, especially if you have a slow cooker. It practically makes itself!
Taco Soup Recipe
All the flavors of tacos in a warm and comforting soup. Top with your favorite taco toppings, like sour cream, cheese, and salsa. A great way to feed a big group affordably.
Pizza Recipe
Homemade pizza is a fun and affordable way to feed a crowd. You can customize the toppings to suit everyone’s taste. And making your own dough is easier than you think!
Beef and Bean Burritos Recipe
Filling and flavorful burritos packed with ground beef, beans, and your favorite toppings. A great option for a casual gathering. Easy to customize and a budget-friendly option.
Eggplant Parmesan Recipe
A vegetarian Italian classic that’s both hearty and delicious. Layers of breaded eggplant, tomato sauce, and cheese are baked until golden brown. A perfect vegetarian offering.
Chicken Enchiladas Recipe
Corn tortillas filled with shredded chicken and cheese, covered in enchilada sauce and baked until bubbly. Always a crowd pleaser, and easily scaled up for large groups.
Potato and Leek Soup Recipe
A creamy and comforting soup that’s perfect for a cold day. This simple soup is made with potatoes, leeks, and chicken broth. A great way to warm up!
Pasta Salad Recipe
A refreshing and customizable dish that’s perfect for a potluck or picnic. Use your favorite pasta, vegetables, and dressing. Easily made in large quantities.
Quiche Recipe
A savory egg custard baked in a flaky crust. This is perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner. Add your favorite vegetables, cheese, or meat. A very versitile and cheap recipe!
Corn Chowder Recipe
A creamy and comforting soup made with corn, potatoes, and bacon. This hearty soup is perfect for a chilly evening. Adds a great taste!
Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Bell peppers filled with ground meat, rice, and vegetables, then baked until tender. A healthy and satisfying meal. A perfect choice for guests.
Vegetable Stir-Fry Recipe
A quick and easy dish that can be made with a variety of vegetables. Serve with rice or noodles for a complete meal. A cheap recipe that also tastes great!
Lasagna Recipe
A classic Italian dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Layers of pasta, sauce, cheese, and meat (optional) are baked until bubbly. Classic, and easily made large!
Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
A comforting and hearty dish made with chicken, vegetables, and fluffy dumplings. Perfect for a chilly evening. A great way to spend a winter day!
Minestrone Soup Recipe
A hearty Italian vegetable soup that’s perfect for a cold day. This soup is packed with vegetables, beans, and pasta. Healthy and filling.
Chicken Caesar Wraps Recipe
A quick and easy meal that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Grilled chicken, romaine lettuce, and Caesar dressing are wrapped in tortillas. Light and tasty!
Spanish Rice Recipe
A flavorful and affordable side dish that pairs well with many meals. This rice is cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices. A great side dish!
Homemade Hummus with Pita Bread Recipe
A healthy and flavorful appetizer or snack. Chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic are blended together to create a creamy dip. Serve with pita bread or vegetables.
Potato Salad Recipe
A classic side dish that’s perfect for potlucks and barbecues. Boiled potatoes are mixed with mayonnaise, mustard, and other ingredients. A BBQ classic that everyone loves!
Cole Slaw Recipe
A classic side dish that’s perfect for barbecues and picnics. Shredded cabbage is mixed with mayonnaise, vinegar, and other ingredients. A healthy and popular dish!