Save money without sacrificing flavor – these budget cookout recipes are the answer.
There’s nothing better than the sizzle of the grill on a sunny summer day – especially when you can throw an awesome BBQ without blowing your budget. This menu is all about keeping things easy, affordable, and still super tasty.
No fancy ingredients, no stress – just good food that everyone’s gonna love.
1. BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
My mom’s classic Chicken Drumsticks: cheap, easy, and always a hit. Just brush with simple spices and grill until juicy and charred.
2. Baked Beans
Sweet‑and‑smoky Baked Beans that you can bake the day before and is such a crowd pleaser. (You can also make Baked Beans in your Instant Pot)
3. Corn Salad
Corn Salad features grilled corn, fresh veggies, creamy avocado, and a homemade dressing. Crunchy, colorful, and super simple.
4. Cowboy Caviar
10‑minute Cowboy Caviar is packed with beans, peppers, cilantro, and avocado. Feeds 15 with chips or as a side.
5. Classic Potato Salad
This Classic Potato Salad is simple, creamy, and always welcome at the pot luck. Perfect make‑ahead side that goes with everything on your grill.
6. Cucumber Onion Salad
Cool, zesty Cucumber and Onion Salad is so refreshing and can be tossed together early and it stays bright all day. Ideal for beating the heat.
7. Chocolate Brownies
Rich, chewy Chocolate Brownies made from pantry staples and just one bowl. Top with powdered sugar or our chocolate frosting, and your sweet finale is ready!
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