If you want to throw a celebratory bash that your friends will remember for years to come, you don't necessarily have to shell out a small fortune. Choosing the right snacks and refreshments for your party is important, but the experience is what most people will remember. So, don't be afraid to save some money in the food department which will give you some extra cash to spend elsewhere!

Tips for Inexpensive Party Foods

While it might be tempting to go all out, drawing on your Pinterest board for fancy party food ideas, you should carefully consider whether it is really worth it. After all, food is meant to be eaten so while your guests might admire your efforts for a minute or two, eventually it will all disappear into their stomachs! One of the easiest ways to save money on party food without sacrificing quality is to offer a larger variety of options - people will eat less of each item and they will be satisfied with smaller bites!

If you want to feed a crowd without breaking the bank, try some of these inexpensive but crowd-pleasing party food ideas:
  • Baked Potato Bar - Nothing is easier to make than a baked potato but, with the right toppings, it can turn into an indulgent and delicious meal. Just wrap some potatoes (maybe even some sweet potatoes) in foil then cook them in your oven or even in your slow cooker. Then, give each guest his own potato and let them choose from an assortment of toppings like bacon, cheese, sour cream and chives.
  • Offer a Specialty Beverage - Offering your guests an assortment of beverages (like different kinds of wine, beer, and soda) can get expensive and you usually end up with a lot of leftovers. A simple way to save money is to just offer the basics (one type of beer or wine) along with a specialty beverage that you can prepare in bulk. Things like margaritas, daiquiris, and other blended beverages are always a hit.
  • Crock Pot Meals - One of the easiest (and most cost-effective) methods to prepare a large batch for a crowd is to use your slow cooker. With a slow cooker you can make everything from soups and stews to pulled pork, dips, and more. You even save yourself on cleanup by serving directly from the slow cooker!
  • Pasta Bar - If you need a filling meal for a large crowd of people, cook up a few pots of different kinds of pasta then offer an assortment of sauces, cheeses, and meats so each of your guests can customize his own bowl of pasta.
  • Dress Up Store-Bought Desserts - If you aren't particularly gifted as a baker, don't be afraid to buy some store-bought desserts then dress them up a little! Add some frosting and colorful sprinkles to a batch of store-bought brownies or dress up a cheesecake with plenty of fresh fruit. Don't be afraid to get creative with it!
  • Homemade Crostini - If you are looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that is quick and cost-effective, try making a few different kinds of crostini. All you have to do is slice up a baguette and toast the slices then top them with different kinds of soft cheese, deli meats, and berries. They'll look as good as they taste!
Feeding a crowd can be expensive but it doesn't always have to be! By using some of the inexpensive party food ideas listed above you can feed a crowd without breaking the bank. You just have to get creative sometimes!

Frugal Village