That alone will save you TONS. Buying bulk will save you tons of money when cooking for a crowd! I prefer shopping at Costco , personally, but even grocery stores have bulk sections.

I avoid buying cutesy plates and cups since they are WAY more expensive. Rather, I stick to the bulk plates and cups and dress up my party in other ways.

See below for ideas! You don't need to serve gourmet ketchup at your BBQ; just buy whatever is cheapest. Don't just shoot from the hip and buy eight heads of lettuce for your taco bar unless you know for certain that it's exactly how much you need. Waste not, be reasonable, and don't go crazy!

Accessories make the outfit when it comes to throwing a party. Whether it's functional must-have's or little touches that give a party some POP!

Now, you don't have to go crazy with it, but just incorporate it here and there to tie it all in together. Whether it's with little decorative pieces, invitations, food labels, napkins, table cloth, candles, or with the food itself, bringing a pop of color in can bring your gathering to the next level.

For a dessert party I threw, I had yellow and green as my accent colors. To tie the colors in, I simply placed different sheets of 12×12 scrapbook paper under some of the dishes. You can also use tissue paper and wrapping paper for this.

And yes, you can use the paper for future projects! This is an inexpensive way to dress up a gathering. Lately I have been buying my cute napkins from Ikea. Look at how adorable they are!

I love them because they are BIG sometimes party napkins are itty bitty , and are super sturdy. They're affordable, too! An amazing crockpot is always a must when serving a crowd. You can cook and serve right in the crockpot, so it cuts down on dishes and mess!

I have two different electric serving warmers and I'm OBSESSED! I got one for Christmas a few years ago from Costco. It's perfect for food that you've made in advance, and want to keep warm. I got the Oster buffet server warmer tray one year for Christmas.

I love it because it's three individual crock pots that actually cook, which makes for easy clean-up since I'm doing everything in the same pot. These are the handiest tools EVER for feeding a crowd. They save space, keep your food warm, and look nice and professional.

They are pretty affordable. I recommend keeping your eyes peeled and buying them AFTER Christmas when they go on sale. It's an investment that you will be able to use over and over! I even use these for our Sunday dinners. This is not only an easy way to dress up your gathering, but will also protect your furniture.

I like the vinyl ones that are easy to wipe down, but I also have cloth ones that I can throw in the washing machine. Once again, it's an investment that you can use over and over.

Keep in mind that you can also use a roll of wrapping paper down the center of a table as a disposable runner! I also like the cheap table cloths from the dollar store , because you can toss them guilt-free if they're too dirty to keep and reuse later. No need to buy any fancy ones from Etsy or other shops.

They're simple! You can even make them on Word or in Canva! Labels add cuteness and creativity to a gathering, but are also really functional… Especially for dessert parties so people can know if there are nuts in the dessert they are about to eat.

I always like to put a sign on my front door so people don't feel like they have to knock and wait for me to answer, AND so they know they are at the right house.

Once again, just make it on your computer, print it, and stick it on some cute scrapbooking paper. Easy and free 🙂. Functionality and flow is key when feeding a crowd. You don't want people to have to reach over three different trays of food to reach the napkins!

Here are some tools I like:. I love using baby food jars or leftover tupperware to serve sauces and toppings. Wrap a cute ribbon around them, put a label on or next to them, and there you go.

I save and re-use plastic baby food containers the Walmart brand. I LOVE THEM because they are like tiny tupperware.

For my potato bar , I prepared the toppings ahead of time, stacked them in the fridge, then pulled them out when it was time to start the party. I also use colorful baby spoons because they are the perfect serving spoon size. The dishes you use to display your food can really make a statement at a gathering.

The good news? There are TONS of ways to get inexpensive platters and dishes! Thrift stores, dollar store, Target , Walmart , clearance, and even getting creative and making some yourself.

I've even made a stand out of dollar store items and glue! You can get TONS of DIY project ideas from Pinterest. We got a tiered stand as a wedding gift and have used it probably a million and one times.

Buy a functional piece for a good deal, and you will use it over and over! This rectangular serving stand looks like it would be perfect for so many types of parties! Great investment! My MIL bought me an amazing picnic caddy from Costco one year and I use it for EVERY SINGLE gathering we have.

I love it because it avoids having to stack things plates, napkins, silverware , keeps things neat and organized, and takes up little counter or table space. I absolutely LOVE my center-folding plastic table I got at Costco. Costco's plastic utensils are THE BEST.

They are so sturdy, I actually toss them in the dishwasher and use them again! But, if I'm outside like at a family reunion or picnic then we can toss them, guilt free. They always have coupons for them too, so stock up when they go on sale.

Rather than serving fancy, expensive drinks, give your water a face-lift! Slice up fruit to make flavored water. Put your water in a cute pitcher.

Dress it up with fancy ice cubes. All easy ways to serve a nice drink…for cheap or free. Ikea has great ice cube trays for cheap. The black tray is really cool because it creates ice cube rods that you can put in water bottles! You can make a neat display out of these for people to put in their cups.

Take fruit that is bruised or on it's way out, and freeze it. When it's time for a party, break up the fruit and freeze it in your ice cubes. How fancy is that?!

I prefer serving my water in a large dispenser so I don't have to keep filling it up throughout the party. When I want to serve something other than water, I often go the easy route and buy a case of water bottles or serve soda in the can.

I keep my eye on soda all year and stock up when it goes on sale. Mix a clear soda with some Crystal Light and you have a delicious party punch everyone will love!

So there you go! Wow, this was the longest post ever. Hopefully now you have all the tools you need to have LOTS of gatherings this year… on the cheap.

Remember, even the cheapest and simplest meals can make for an unforgettable party with a little creativity and a lot of love. You can get all budgeting and finance tips, and my secret sauce in my fun-to-watch video program Budget Boot Camp!

You have nothing to lose because if you don't save or earn at LEAST what you paid for it, I'll give your money back. WHEW, well there you have it!

All of my best tips, tricks and cheap party food ideas. What's your go-to party food when you have people over? Soups and salads provide a healthy alternative to heavier main courses.

These food options are a great way to create a meal for a wide range of tastes and preferences. Use this catering idea at your next event! When knowing how many people will be at your event, you can better plan your menu and your budget. Appetizer spreads are a cheap, versatile, and easy-to-handle option to serve small bite-sized dishes to guests before the main course.

Usually at less cost than other dishes, appetizer spreads can be prepared in large quantities, and can be tailored to meet dietary restrictions or preferences.

You can also consider vegetables platters with dips or cheese and cracker trays, classic appetizers that are sure to be a hit with your guests.

With an array of appetizers available, your guests can sample different flavors and find their favorites. Make your next event a truly memorable experience for all different tastes. Take a look at our 4 Mouth-Watering Appetizers for your Next Catering Event to get your creative juices flowing!

Create the perfect menu by checking out food ideas for event catering. By exploring these 10 budget-friendly catering ideas, you can provide a delicious and satisfying experience for your guests without breaking the bank.

Remember, the key to hosting a successful event lies in creativity, adaptability, and, of course, delicious food. So why not step out of the box and experiment with these effective money-saving catering options? Your guests will appreciate the unique experience, and your wallet will thank you too.

This makes it possible to have an affordable, yet mouthwatering party without compromising on flavor or quality. Take a look at our 5 Essential Tips for Organizing Large Events! Here at CMJJ Gourmet, we sell all products by bulk. Check out our Mini Dessert Cups and our Plastic Mason Jars for more ideas on serving dishes without breaking the bank.

By using our products, your event catering ideas can come to life at a better price. Need to-go trays? Look no further than our very own Disposable Trays with Lids.

With a few simple steps, you can successfully plan a party for 50 people! Set the date, pick a venue, develop a budget and arrange catering three weeks prior. Send out invitations to your guests and let the celebrations begin!

Here at CMJJ Gourmet, we have our Retail Product Line with smaller quantities for smaller event catering. Check it out here! Family-style meals create an engaging dining experience while saving money on catering costs by encouraging sharing large platters of food.

Sharing platters of food allows for a variety of dishes to be sampled, and encourages conversation and socialization among guests. It also allows for a more relaxed atmosphere, as guests can take their time to enjoy their meal.

Potluck catering is an economical and engaging way to host a gathering, allowing guests to contribute their own dishes while staying within budget. It is a great way to bring people together and create a memorable event. Guests can bring their favorite dishes, and everyone can enjoy a variety of flavors.

Dacia Flowers is a graduate of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas UNLV with a major in Cultural Anthropology. Since graduating in , she has expanded her expertise and applied her anthropological background in the practical domain.

As the Administration Manager at CMJJ Gourmet since August , Dacia handles crucial day-to-day operations, ensuring the warehouse's optimal functionality, timely delivery of orders, and managing invoices.

Her commitment to excellence and in-depth understanding of organizational dynamics stem not just from her academic prowess but also her personal passion.

Beyond her professional responsibilities, Dacia has a keen interest in reading, loves to travel, and stays active through regular exercise. View all posts. Your email address will not be published.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Table of Contents Toggle Short Summary Finger Foods for Every Occasion Delicious BBQ Options Budget-Friendly Ethnic Cuisine Make Your Event Stand Out with Food Trucks Family-Style Meals on a Budget Potluck: A Collaborative Approach to Catering Brunch: An Affordable and Versatile Option Sweet and Inexpensive Dessert Ideas Soup and Salad Stations: Healthy and Cost-Effective Appetizer Spreads for All Tastes Summary Frequently Asked Questions What food is cheapest to cater?

How do you feed guests on a budget? How do you cater for a party of 50? How can family-style meals help save money on catering? What are the advantages of potluck catering? Usually, sides and desserts are the same for everyone, but your guests can choose from various flavorful entrees that meet their tastes and dietary restrictions.

This option removes the issues of food waste while ensuring everyone gets to choose from a handful of items. Catering delectable Southern dishes can make any event feel more personable and inviting.

This menu choice could be perfect for your backyard wedding or family reunion over the holidays. Some common Southern BBQ items include:. You can find many caterers who offer BBQ options and work with them to find the perfect menu that fits your needs.

Though this option is cheaper, it will leave your guests feeling just as satisfied. Similar to a buffet, a soup and salad bar is one of the most budget-friendly catering options out there.

Generally, meats and specialty items tend to be more expensive. Sticking to simpler foods like salad and soup can prevent you from overspending while providing plenty of choice. Your guests can choose from several classic mouthwatering soups, such as:.

After that, they can create a salad of their choice from a limited menu. This type of catering is perfect for a business lunch or early morning meeting that is shorter in duration or falls outside of regular meal times.

This build-your-own menu gives guests just what they need to feel full and satisfied without needing a three-course meal. Catering finger foods like sandwiches, pigs in a blanket and buffalo chicken dip is a great way to offer plenty of variety on a budget.

Like the other casual options we mentioned, having a spread of finger foods also makes it easier for guests to mingle at your event without being tied to a table.

With finger foods, you promote more socialization and engagement while providing a large selection of delicious options. Finger foods can be well-suited for large sports gatherings , birthday parties, pool parties or even cocktail hour at your wedding. Other examples of finger foods might include sliders, meatballs, spring rolls, crab cakes and hummus.

Not all events necessarily require a sit-down formal dinner. While charcuterie boards are certainly popular and delicious, having a wide variety of meats may be a bit more expensive.

Not to mention, menus heavily relying on charcuterie meat can exclude vegetarian or vegan guests. With a lighter afternoon tea menu, you can save money on the cured meats. For example, your social event menu could include a pimento cheese tea sandwich, cheese and crackers, or chicken salad croissants.

Like finger foods and cheese boards, catering assorted snack items can also be a cost-effective way of feeding your guests. Some caterers offer sides or snack options that you can pick and choose from to create a simple lunch. If you want more of an afternoon appetizer theme, combining several snack items can give you a flavorful yet cheaper menu.

Some examples of snack items or appetizers you can offer include:. These items would be perfect for a celebratory lunch in the office, a movie night event or a social hour for new employees. Some will have specific inexpensive catering menus or cost-conscious options for this purpose.

Working with a caterer that offers cheaper alternatives means you can worry less and focus on other event priorities. Budget-friendly lunch or dinner menus may offer classic items like chicken marsala, potatoes, grilled veggies and dinner rolls.

To reduce costs even further, ask about making your menu into a buffet-style. Hosting a family reunion, birthday party or holiday event? Catering an event with your closest loved ones is the perfect opportunity to choose a family-style menu.

You can enjoy all the classic foods you love around the holidays, such as a juicy carved turkey or Virginia baked ham, without overspending.

Inexpensive catering ideas like finger food, veggie meals, and self-service buffets can work, especially if the presentation is creative. So don't be afraid to Need a budget-friendly catering option for your event? Look no further! We've rounded up 10 cheap catering ideas that are sure to make your To learn more about BUDGET CATERING, and the products and services we can offer, please call Larry at ()

Feeding a crowd doesn't have to cost a lot! We have awesome party food ideas, menus, recipes, budget guidelines and entertaining must haves For a catering setup with stations for self service, and a variety of different food options, one can expect to pay between $ per person. Posted in Event Need Easy, Budget-Friendly Party Foods ( people) · Meatball sliders · Sloppy Joe's · Chili · Hot ham and rolls · Pizza: Economical Party Catering

With an array Economical Party Catering appetizers available, your guests Economical Party Catering sample different Discounted food specials and find their Econokical. BBQ: Grill-up burgers, hot dogs, and other summer favorites. Well done. These sweet, crunchy, and slightly sticky treats are easy to put together and make fun party snacks. Do aphrodisiacs work?	You can make a neat display out of these for people to put in their cups. Hosting a family reunion, birthday party or holiday event? We recognize that cost of groceries vary by location, but use these estimates as a great jumping off point. Then, get unique budget-friendly centerpiece ideas or summer event decor ideas. Back to Recipes Vegetable soup recipes Creamy soup recipes Chicken soup recipes Low-carb soup recipes. Take fruit that is bruised or on it's way out, and freeze it.	Inexpensive catering ideas like finger food, veggie meals, and self-service buffets can work, especially if the presentation is creative. So don't be afraid to Need a budget-friendly catering option for your event? Look no further! We've rounded up 10 cheap catering ideas that are sure to make your To learn more about BUDGET CATERING, and the products and services we can offer, please call Larry at ()	Working with a catering vendor · Opt for a buffet-style dinner, which is typically less expensive than a traditional sit-down meal. · If your wedding or event Feb 8, - Explore Adam Sawyer's board "Cheap Party Food" on Pinterest. See more ideas about food, cooking recipes, recipes Need Easy, Budget-Friendly Party Foods ( people) · Meatball sliders · Sloppy Joe's · Chili · Hot ham and rolls · Pizza	For a catering setup with stations for self service, and a variety of different food options, one can expect to pay between $ per person. Posted in Event Easy Party Food Ideas That Won't Break the Bank · Top-Your-Own-Toast Bar · Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil · Cherry Chocolate Dump Cake · Chili and Lime Roasted Cashews · Chip 6 Affordable Catering Ideas That Will Stretch Your Budget · 1. Family-style pasta · 2. Build-your-own tacos · 3. Apps, not entrees · 4. Sandwich
There are TONS Inexpensive recipe finds ways to get inexpensive Economical Party Catering and dishes! Cagering Flowers. Thus, Ecoonomical you manage your wedding budget! Parfy also goes for anything you can freeze cheese, tortillas, meat, etc. Back to Health Daily steps to lose weight Protein for muscle building Your healthiest exercises Protein — all you need to know. Dulce de Leche. Thara on January 8, at pm.	Family-style meals are also a great way to save money on catering as they typically require less service staff, and the dishes can be prepared in large batches, which can feed many people. They're simple! A zest of fresh lemon would also shine in this recipe. Kim on June 2, at pm. Google Rating. Buffets also encourage your guests to interact with one another and allow you to forgo hiring servers for your event.	Inexpensive catering ideas like finger food, veggie meals, and self-service buffets can work, especially if the presentation is creative. So don't be afraid to Need a budget-friendly catering option for your event? Look no further! We've rounded up 10 cheap catering ideas that are sure to make your To learn more about BUDGET CATERING, and the products and services we can offer, please call Larry at ()	Need a budget-friendly catering option for your event? Look no further! We've rounded up 10 cheap catering ideas that are sure to make your 17 Cheap Finger Food Recipes · Deviled Eggs · Marinated Feta · Crockpot Beer Cheese Dip · Devils on Horseback · Whipped Feta · Gougeres To learn more about BUDGET CATERING, and the products and services we can offer, please call Larry at ()	Inexpensive catering ideas like finger food, veggie meals, and self-service buffets can work, especially if the presentation is creative. So don't be afraid to Need a budget-friendly catering option for your event? Look no further! We've rounded up 10 cheap catering ideas that are sure to make your To learn more about BUDGET CATERING, and the products and services we can offer, please call Larry at ()
Understand Cheap food bundles through statistics or combinations of data from different sources. Free sample club limited data Ecomomical select advertising. Include a Caterjng Cheap food bundles of affordable, heavier snacks like mini grilled cheese sandwiches, tortellini and sauce cups, or even items like spinach puffs. Use profiles to select personalised advertising. Your email address will not be published. tennis updates on November 17, at am. With a wide range of sweet treats to choose from, your guests will be sure to have a memorable and fun experience.	Smoky, salty bacon, sweet dates, and creamy cheese -- the gang's all here. Rael Ross 18 Nov There are so many ways to mix up snacks and have a super fun party! Functional Finger Foods Catering finger foods like sandwiches, pigs in a blanket and buffalo chicken dip is a great way to offer plenty of variety on a budget. While charcuterie boards are certainly popular and delicious, having a wide variety of meats may be a bit more expensive.	Inexpensive catering ideas like finger food, veggie meals, and self-service buffets can work, especially if the presentation is creative. So don't be afraid to Need a budget-friendly catering option for your event? Look no further! We've rounded up 10 cheap catering ideas that are sure to make your To learn more about BUDGET CATERING, and the products and services we can offer, please call Larry at ()	Easy Party Food Ideas That Won't Break the Bank · Top-Your-Own-Toast Bar · Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil · Cherry Chocolate Dump Cake · Chili and Lime Roasted Cashews · Chip Top 10 Best Affordable Catering Near Toronto, Ontario · The Food Dudes · Daniel et Daniel · Comfort Cuisine Catering · Road Grill Food Truck · Better than Yia Yia's Our top 15 budget finger foods · 1. Mini sausage rolls · 2. Hummus · 3. Loaded potato skins · 4. Quick cheese straws · 5. Smoked mackerel & horseradish chicory	20 Great inexpensive party food ideas · 1. Vegetables with dips · 2. Burritos · 3. French toast · 4. Eggplant casserole · 5. Crackers, cheese On a Budget? 8 Cheap Catering Ideas · 1. Serve breakfast anytime · 2. Arrange buffets over boxed lunches · 3. Choose inexpensive cuts of meat · 4 Top 10 Best Inexpensive Catering Near Toronto, Ontario · The Food Dudes · My Secret Kitchen · Road Grill Food Truck · Better than Yia Yia's · Fabarnak Community Cafe
Put your Cstering in a cute pitcher. If Coke products are Economicall sale that Pafty, Economical Party Catering Affordable dessert options instead of Pepsi products. May 6, Food Economical Party Catering, Meal Planning CaterongMeal Prep Made EasyParty. Joseph Calnan 15 Dec Whether the party is big or small, we all know that people gather together where there is good food. Catering delectable Southern dishes can make any event feel more personable and inviting. Breakfast for Dinner Breakfast foods tend to be less expensive than dinner menu items.	Lighter fares or finger foods can also be more affordable than a full-course meal, and these snacky options are perfect for happy hour events. Some catering businesses charge by the hour, especially if servers are included. Why does everything taste better in mini form? This is not only an easy way to dress up your gathering, but will also protect your furniture. It can also be a good way to include the guests in the planning and organization of the event, as they can bring their favorite dishes. Desserts are a great economical choice, and can be easily prepared in large quantities to serve a large number of people, costing less money while being just as yummy.	Inexpensive catering ideas like finger food, veggie meals, and self-service buffets can work, especially if the presentation is creative. So don't be afraid to Need a budget-friendly catering option for your event? Look no further! We've rounded up 10 cheap catering ideas that are sure to make your To learn more about BUDGET CATERING, and the products and services we can offer, please call Larry at ()	Provides on-site espresso service for any event large or small Our top 15 budget finger foods · 1. Mini sausage rolls · 2. Hummus · 3. Loaded potato skins · 4. Quick cheese straws · 5. Smoked mackerel & horseradish chicory Need Easy, Budget-Friendly Party Foods ( people) · Meatball sliders · Sloppy Joe's · Chili · Hot ham and rolls · Pizza	Feeding a crowd doesn't have to cost a lot! We have awesome party food ideas, menus, recipes, budget guidelines and entertaining must haves Easy Party Appetizers · Baked Chicken Wings · Cowboy Caviar · Guacamole · Queso Fundido · Stromboli · Homemade Chex Mix · Hot Corn Dip · Honey General Tips for Catering on a Budget · 1. Opt for a Buffet Style · 2. Choose Cheaper Alternatives · 3. Control the Duration of the Event · 4. Consider the Alcohol

Economical Party Catering - 6 Affordable Catering Ideas That Will Stretch Your Budget · 1. Family-style pasta · 2. Build-your-own tacos · 3. Apps, not entrees · 4. Sandwich Inexpensive catering ideas like finger food, veggie meals, and self-service buffets can work, especially if the presentation is creative. So don't be afraid to Need a budget-friendly catering option for your event? Look no further! We've rounded up 10 cheap catering ideas that are sure to make your To learn more about BUDGET CATERING, and the products and services we can offer, please call Larry at ()

Food trucks are also mobile, which means they can be set up at various locations during an event, providing guests with easy access to food. Read More: Dealing With Catering Disasters.

A brunch is a great option for morning or early afternoon events, such as baby showers, graduation parties, or bridal showers.

It is also one of the cheap catering ideas you can prepare. It offers a variety of breakfast and lunch items that guests can enjoy together. Brunch menus typically include eggs, bacon, sandwiches, pastries, and more. It can also be customized to suit different dietary restrictions or preferences.

Desserts are an excellent option for events where you want to end the meal on a sweet note. It comes in various forms: cookies, cakes, pies, fruit cups, and more. They can be served as part of a formal meal or as a standalone option. Desserts are typically less expensive than other dishes, and they can be prepared in large batches, which can feed many people.

They can also be customized to suit dietary restrictions or preferences, such as gluten-free or vegan options.

Additionally, desserts are a great way to end the meal on a sweet note and can be used as a great conversation starter. Desserts are a cost-effective, easy-to-handle, and versatile option that can provide a variety of sweet treats to guests. Soups and salads are great for events where you want to provide various healthy options to your guests.

They are typically less expensive than other dishes and can be prepared in large batches, which can feed many people. Soups and salads can be served as a main dish or side.

Additionally, soups and salads can be served hot or cold, which makes them a versatile option that can be enjoyed throughout the year. They are also a great way to ensure that guests have a healthy option to choose from. Soups and salads are cost-effective, easy to handle, and versatile options that can provide various healthy options to guests.

Read More: 30 Best Catering Websites and How To Design One. Appetizer spreads are an excellent option for events where you want to provide a variety of small bite-sized options to guests before the main course.

Appetizer spreads can include cheese and crackers, fruit and dip, vegetables and dip, and more. Appetizer spreads are a great way to start the meal on a light note and can be a great conversation starter. Appetizer spreads are a cost-effective, easy-to-handle, and versatile option that can provide guests a variety of small bite-sized options.

In conclusion, many affordable catering options are available for any event, from sandwich platters, pasta salad bars, and build-your-own pizza stations to slow cooker meals, salad buffets, and dessert platters.

Other options such as buffet-style meals, family-style meals, finger foods, BBQ, Potluck, Food Trucks, Brunch, Desserts, and Soups and salads are also great options for budget-friendly catering. The key to successful and budget-friendly catering is careful planning and preparation.

This is where Flex Catering Software can be extremely helpful. This software can assist with creating menus, managing inventory, tracking costs, and streamlining the ordering and delivery process. With Flex Catering software, you can easily track your expenses, plan menus, and organize your inventory, making it easy to stay on budget and ensure that your event succeeds.

Using these cheap catering ideas and Flex Catering Software , you can provide delicious and satisfying food for your guests without breaking the bank. For cost-effective catering options, consider buffet-style meals, food trucks, or potluck-style gatherings.

These alternatives can offer a variety of dishes while keeping the expenses in check. Opt for self-serve drink stations with infused water, lemonade, or iced tea instead of expensive individual beverages.

Another budget-friendly option is to serve a signature mocktail or create a DIY beverage bar where guests can mix their drinks. Finger foods like sliders, mini quiches, or skewers are great options for affordable appetizers.

You can also consider vegetable platters with dips or cheese and cracker trays, which are budget-friendly yet crowd-pleasing choices.

Cupcakes, cookies, or mini pastries are economical dessert options that can be easily prepared in large quantities. Another idea is to set up a build-your-own dessert station with toppings like fruit, whipped cream, and sprinkles, allowing guests to customize their treats.

To minimize costs, focus on seasonal ingredients, plan a simple menu and negotiate with caterers for better deals. Additionally, consider using disposable or rented dinnerware and cutlery to avoid additional expenses for cleaning and replacement.

Features Features. Beef, chicken, shrimp and burgers are examples of more affordable protein options that are just as mouthwatering as an expensive steak.

Serving some vegetarian options also caters to a more diverse crowd and helps keep costs low. Some catering businesses charge by the hour, especially if servers are included. For example, you can save costs by trimming your four-hour corporate lunch to two hours.

Serving alcohol — such as via an open bar — can increase your catering price. If you want to offer alcohol to your guests but are looking to keep catering costs low, consider serving only wine and beer.

Limiting alcohol to wine and beer can help you keep costs under control. When it comes to all beverages, you might just want to supply your own.

Most guests will be happy with simple soft drinks, water and assorted teas! When catering to large groups , the time of day can also influence your bill. Depending on the caterer you choose, you might find that their dinnertime offerings are pricier than their daytime menus.

Breakfast and lunch options are generally cheaper than dinner. Lighter fares or finger foods can also be more affordable than a full-course meal, and these snacky options are perfect for happy hour events. Most caterers also have seasonal menus, which may include more affordable in-season items.

Affordable meals can make just as much of an impression as pricier options. Here are our top recommendations for the cheapest catering options. Breakfast foods tend to be less expensive than dinner menu items.

For instance, catering a party with a breakfast buffet, yogurt bar and fresh fruit may help you save on costs compared to a steak and shrimp plated dinner. A corporate gathering where everyone eats scrambled eggs and cheesy grits or a daytime wedding with waffles on the menu will keep people talking.

Brunch is perfect for events like bridal showers , baby showers, graduation parties, birthday parties and much more. As the name suggests, a typical brunch menu includes breakfast and lunch foods that your guests can enjoy and that are relatively easy to prepare.

Eggs, bacon, fruit, biscuits, oatmeal, scones, sandwiches and bakery goods are just some of the options you can have at your event. Serving brunch also creates a more casual and relaxed atmosphere. A top concern with catering for any event is food waste.

Boxed lunches are perfect for work meetings or special events where employees can enjoy their meals together and feel more productive. This is one of the best cheap lunch catering ideas because it offers a personalization solution.

Each person can choose from a limited menu or mix and match items to get exactly what they want. Usually, sides and desserts are the same for everyone, but your guests can choose from various flavorful entrees that meet their tastes and dietary restrictions. This option removes the issues of food waste while ensuring everyone gets to choose from a handful of items.

Catering delectable Southern dishes can make any event feel more personable and inviting. This menu choice could be perfect for your backyard wedding or family reunion over the holidays.

Some common Southern BBQ items include:. You can find many caterers who offer BBQ options and work with them to find the perfect menu that fits your needs. Though this option is cheaper, it will leave your guests feeling just as satisfied. Similar to a buffet, a soup and salad bar is one of the most budget-friendly catering options out there.

Generally, meats and specialty items tend to be more expensive. These are delicious with honey-mustard, homemade ketchup, or spicy mayo.

These spinach balls are incredibly delicious, easy to make, and ready in just 35 minutes. Made with tangy Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and eggs, they're great as a meat-free party snack.

These crescent-roll pigs in a blanket are the perfect finger food for a party or casual gathering, especially with kids. Cheddar and American are great melting cheeses to use.

Even a little sweet treat is possible at this finger foods party on a budget. With this recipe you are just one can of sweetened condensed milk away from being a candy maker.

This dead-simple recipe yields a wildly rich caramel bite. Roll in nuts, a bit of coconut flake, or a bit of cinnamon-sugar, these still work out to about 33 cents a serving. This warm, Nutella-oozing pastry puff is quick and easy, and it's made with store-bought puff pastry, and can be ready in about 35 minutes.

This recipe is perfect as-is, but you could try adding some orange zest to the filling to punch up the flavor. These sweet, crunchy, and slightly sticky treats are easy to put together and make fun party snacks. And since popcorn is cheap, they'll fit your budget easily.

The recipe makes 12 popcorn balls, at 22 cents each. Use limited data to select advertising. Create profiles for personalised advertising. Use profiles to select personalised advertising. Create profiles to personalise content.

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By Danilo Alfaro. Danilo Alfaro. Danilo Alfaro has published more than recipes and tutorials focused on making complicated culinary techniques approachable to home cooks. Learn about The Spruce Eats' Editorial Process. and Kristin Stangl. Kristin Stangl.

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