The holidays are about making the season special with your family. No matter what that looks like for you, we know food will play into your holiday plans. With food prices increasing this year, we’re here to help you find ways to save. Check out these three ideas to save money on your holiday meal, but still, make it special.
The First Way to Save Money on Your Holiday Meal
Our first idea to save money on your holiday meal this year is to skip the prime rib or roast beef. Costing around $17/lb*, this meat might be traditional, but it is pricey. That’s where these other delicious options come in. From ham to turkey to cornish hens, you can make a delicious meal for a quarter of the cost of your traditional prime rib dinner. Here are some ideas:
Honey Baked Ham
Honey baked ham is a classic, traditional meat option for your Christmas dinner feast. Prices start at $3.28/lb* for bone-in ham (and less if you use a bone-in butt or shank cut) and will serve 10-12 people. This tried-and-true ham recipe is a Blue Ribbon winner for a reason, it might be some of the best-tasting ham we’ve ever eaten. And only 4 ingredients to make it! For a full Christmas Eve meal, we recommend serving with mashed potatoes, green bean casserole and corn pudding.
Also, let’s talk about the leftovers this ham recipe yields, because YUM! Perfect for scalloped potatoes and ham the next day.
Pork Loin Stuffed With Dried Figs And Apricots
Not only is this dish impressive and delicious, but it is also very cost-effective. Boneless pork loin costs $2.89/lb* and can serve at least 6 people, which makes it a budget-friendly holiday dinner option. Filled with dried figs and apricots, then seasoned with garlic, herbs, dijon mustard, brown sugar, and white wine, this stuffed pork loin is a show-stopper. Plus – it’s easy to make! Serve with roasted potatoes, a seasonal salad, Brussels sprouts, and cranberry sauce for a full, festive meal.
Roast Turkey
Yes, turkey is traditionally for Thanksgiving. However, it is also a perfect main course for Christmas dinner. Coming in at just $1.47/lb*, a frozen turkey is a cost-effective option to serve. Using this recipe to cook it in a bag makes a juicy turkey that is full of flavor. Plus, this no-fail roast turkey recipe has perfectly seasoned and crispy skin – yum! Oh, and this gives you a great excuse to have stuffing/dressing again, which is a major win in our book.
Round Roast Beef Bottom Perfection
If having a roast for Christmas dinner is a must for you, check out a bottom round roast instead. Costing $4.62/lb*, it is far more affordable than prime rib (which again, costs $17/lb) and is absolutely delicious. Seasoned with rosemary and thyme, this bottom round roast is the perfect holiday dinner. Serve with mashed potatoes, corn pudding, cranberry sauce and brussels sprouts. This bottom round roast recipe has rave reviews, so you can have your roast beef for Christmas on a budget!
Cornish Game Hens With Stuffing
If you’re not hosting a large crowd, cornish hens are a delicious alternative to prime rib or turkey. And they are only $2.80/lb*, so when making a meal for two this is a great way to avoid paying for a whole turkey or ham. The meat is juicy and the skin is full of flavor. Plus, filling these cornish hens with apple bacon stuffing makes it even better. Cooked to a perfect golden brown, cornish hens make an impressive holiday meal.
The Second Way to Save Money on Your Holiday Meal
Who says you need a big, show-stopping meat centerpiece? Our second idea to save money on your holiday meal is to skip the expensive cuts of meat. We have lots of other recipes worthy of your holiday dinner. Just because it’s not traditional doesn’t mean it can’t be special! Here are just a few ideas:
Stuffed Pork Chops
These stuffed pork chops are definitely worthy for your holiday meal. We love this recipe for multiple reasons. The first is that these pork chops are absolutely delicious! Every bite is full of flavor and sure to impress guests. The second reason, this recipe is SO EASY! In 5 simple steps, these pork chops require little preparation and then bake for 45 minutes. A total win! Serve with scalloped potatoes and a winter salad for a perfect holiday dinner.
Cranberry Roast Chicken And Sweet Potatoes
This chicken is a perfect dish for Christmas dinner. Cranberry sauce and ginger elevate the chicken and sweet potatoes to make it worthy of your holiday meal. While this chicken dish is baking, you can prepare the sides or spend time enjoying your family.
Mom’s Spaghetti Sauce
The holidays always make me crave my mom’s cooking, so what better way to celebrate than with mom’s homemade spaghetti sauce recipe?! Full of flavor and makes enough to feed the family three times over, this sauce is a crowd favorite. Or make Spinach Lasagna Roulade to elevate the meal. Serve with garlic bread and a salad for a full Christmas dinner.
The Third Way to Save Money on Your Holiday Meal
Instead of making everything yourself, opt for a potluck instead. Assign your family members to bring the side dishes and desserts. That way you can focus on the main dish – whether you opt to do prime rib or a more budget-friendly option – it will help your wallet. Plus, it will make your day easier. No jumping from side dish to side dish, you can spend time enjoying the holidays with your loved ones. While this might be more casual, spread the cost amongst guests. The most important part of the holidays is to be with the ones you love.
*prices from USDA National Retail Report Nov 2022