There’s no denying that everything is more expensive these days. Grocery bills have gone up which isn’t ideal if hosting a barbecue. But there are some tips and tricks that can help save a few dollars. Using store coupons, buying BOGO items, and planning the meal around what’s on sale will help save some dough. But, what we love most is preparing recipes that use simple ingredients, that are readily available, and big on flavor. So, we’ve gathered 15 budget-friendly cookout recipes to help you host the best summer bash.
Better Than K.F.C Coleslaw
“I promise you if you make this coleslaw, you will like this… It has the just right mix of ingredients.” – Brenda-Lee
Marinated Flank Steak
“This easy recipe has been one of my family’s favorites for over 25 years. It is often requested as one of those celebration” meals. – Jane
Fresh Lemonade Syrup
“I got this recipe from my mom a few years ago and since then I have found many ways to modify it even though it is excellent just made into classic lemonade. This can be made into classic lemonade, strawberry lemonade, lavender lemonade, Arnold Palmer, or into lemon granita, with or without something for the adults. I always have this syrup in the fridge during the summer.” – Amy
Best Macaroni Salad
“This is the best macaroni salad that I’ve tasted. If you like Knorr’s Spinach dip recipe, you’re gonna love this!” – Anne
Grilled Corn – The Sweetest Corn Ever (2 ing.)
“For the longest time every time I had a get-together or function of any kind that involved grilling, the first question I was always asked was if I was going to make my grilled corn on the cob? Couldn’t figure out what was so darn special about my corn utnil my friends and family told me it was seasoned just right. Sweet enough, with a hint of salt and then we spread on the butter…” – Didi
Baked Beans With Bacon
“My family and friends will ask me to bring my baked beans to our get-togethers. I also like to make them for our backyard cookouts and holidays.” – Laura
Mile High Strawberry Pie!
“This is a simple yet wonderful pie! The strawberries are piled high and aren’t mushy, but fresh! This is not an overly sweet pie. The flavor of the fresh strawberries shines through. If you like strawberries, this is the pie for you! When you bring this pie out for dessert, everyone’s eyes get so big and so do the smiles!” – Colleen
Mustard BBQ Chicken Sandwich
“Quick and easy pulled chicken sandwiches in a tasty mustard-based BBQ sauce with pickles and slaw!” – Kevin
Fruit Crisp
“This is a fast and easy dessert! Everyone thinks I spent all day putting it together. Little do they know how easy it is and of course I will never tell… I love doing this with fresh apples from the orchards. You can use any kind of fruit you want and can mix them to get great-tasting flavors.” – Debbie
Marinated Cucumbers, Onions and Tomatoes
“I grew up marinating cucumbers, onions, and tomatoes every summer as a side dish. Always a great side to a summertime meal.” – Angie
Hot Dog Onions
“I tried many different hot dog onion recipes. I mixed and matched them until I got the perfect combination!” – Lillian
Easy Banana Cream Pie
“This quick and Easy Banana Cream Pie is ready in minutes. It’s so rich and creamy nobody will believe it isn’t made from scratch.” – Debbie
Chicken Pineapple Kabobs
“Everyone loves these quick and easy chicken and pineapple kabobs! The longer you marinate the chicken, the better.” – Luci
Zucchini and Basil Pesto
“This tastes great with any kind of pasta!” – Antonette
Ginger-Citrus Chicken Thighs off the Grill
“I did the grill today. I used a basic marinade of ginger, garlic, freshly squeezed orange juice, and a few more ingredients. I left the skin on because my kids love the crispy skin. A green salad and cheddar biscuits set it off. Good eating.” – Iris