Landmark Bancorp Inc.
09/27/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/27/2024 15:30
Top Tips for a Budget-Friendly Thanksgiving Feast
Top Tips for a Budget-Friendly Thanksgiving Feast
Thanksgiving is a special time of year that brings family and friends together for good food, warm conversations, and cherished memories that will last for years. However, it also can bring about significant costs, especially if you're hosting a large gathering.
While you may be expecting a higher grocery bill than usual for November, there are some ways you can plan a budget-friendly Thanksgiving feast. With proper planning, some simple resourcefulness, and a little creativity, you can save money on Thanksgiving while still creating a magical holiday experience. Landmark National Bank is here to help you every step of the way with frugal Thanksgiving tips for recipes, decorations, and more.
How Do I Host Thanksgiving on a Budget?
Hosting a budget-friendly Thanksgiving feast starts with a solid plan. Begin by assessing how many people you plan on inviting and how much food they'll need. You'll also want to plan for logistics such as seating arrangements, parking, and sleeping accommodations for anyone spending the night.
A great way to plan an affordable Thanksgiving meal is to opt for a potluck-style dinner. You can cook the turkey or other main course(s) and encourage your guests to bring the sides and desserts. This guarantees an inexpensive holiday meal everyone can enjoy, as you'll save money at the store and get to taste everyone's favorite recipes.
Tips for Budget Thanksgiving Planning and Shopping
Crafting your menu is a key part of planning Thanksgiving on a budget, so remember to account for any dietary restrictions for you or your guests, including potential allergiesor vegetarian needs. From there, choose a few dishes that embody the warm spirit of the holiday season while also filling people up. Another option is to reach out to those invited and ask them if they have any requests.
Once you've created your menu, it's time to make a shopping list. This is one of the most important Thanksgiving savings tips to follow, as it will help prevent you from making impulse purchases. List out any produce, ingredients, canned goods, or other food items you need to pick up, then browse local coupons or deals to find the best supermarket. You can also buy in bulk if you plan on cooking for more than 5-10 people.
Cheap Thanksgiving Dinner Ideas
Hosting a delicious Thanksgiving dinner doesn't have to be a financial burden. There are many low-cost Thanksgiving recipes you can whip up that will impress your guests and save you some money. Here are some staples you can affordably serve:
- Turkey legs.Instead of serving a whole turkey or ham, you can prepare delicious turkey legs or a smaller turkey breast, though you'll have fewer leftovers.
- Stuffing.One of the most iconic Thanksgiving dishes, stuffing can also be made cheaply by using leftover bread or discounted day-old loaves.
- Mashed potatoes.Whether you opt for a store-bought mix or smash them up yourself, mashed potatoes are a staple of any inexpensive holiday meal.
- Roasted vegetables.Seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and green beans can be easily seasoned and roasted together for cheap.
- Mac and cheese.This is cheap but easy to make fancy, as you can sprinkle shredded cheese or breadcrumbs on top and bake your mac in the oven for a delicious hot dish.
Low-Cost Thanksgiving Recipes for Dessert
No Thanksgiving feast is complete without dessert! If you're pressed for time and/or cooking space, your only choice might be store-bought desserts, which can be expensive. To save money on Thanksgiving dessert, plan ahead to bake something from scratch.
Pumpkin pie is a quintessential dessert for the holidays and one that is pretty easy to make. All you need for a simple pumpkin pie recipeis canned pumpkin puree, sugar, cinnamon, condensed milk, pie crust, and eggs, some of which you may already have at home. An easy apple crisp recipeis another delectable option that requires apples, flour, sugar, cinnamon, butter, and oats.
Ways To Save Money on Thanksgiving Decorations
Creating a festive atmosphere in your home is easy. Spread a few seasonally scented candles throughout each room and open windows if weather permits to let in cool autumn air. You can also purchase decorations like artificial pumpkins, pinecones, and leaves from a local dollar store or big box chain for a bit of seasonal charm.
If you want to add a personal touch, consider crafting individual place settings for each guest. Along with their name, include a note of gratitude, a positive message, or a fun drawing for kids to make them feel welcome and give them something to remember from Thanksgiving at your house.
Thanksgiving Savings Tips
Preparation is key for a smooth Thanksgiving on a budget. Check for any ingredients you may already have on hand, namely staples like flour and sugar, and make sure you have enough food storage containers to save your leftovers. Many sides and desserts can be made a day or two in advance, which may not save you money but will definitely save you stress.
As the day draws closer, don't forget to enlist help from your family and friends. Whether it's something easy like setting the table or bringing a dish or two for a potluck, most people will be glad to lend a hand if you just ask.
Get Budgeting Advice and Expert Insights From Landmark National Bank
Whether you're making a budget for Thanksgiving planning or starting to think about what Christmas gifts you will buy, the holiday season can be a stressful time financially. Landmark National Bank is here to help you stay on top of your money and work toward goals like buying a homeor starting a businesswith helpful resources and advice for every step of your financial journey.
Contact Landmark National Bank todayor find a bank branch location near youto get started! From all of us here at Landmark National Bank, have a great Thanksgiving!