It’s potluck time again. This weekend we celebrate the service of our military and in doing so many of us attend or host a potluck. Many people are on limited budget and can’t afford to spend upwards of $40 and $50 to go to a potluck. I’ve put together a list of ideas that will feed a crowd and won’t rob your pocket book.
- Big pot of chili – toss some inexpensive beans in the crock pot with some tomato sauce and chili seasoning, add a pound of ground beef and you’re all set. You can even be fancy and get some corn bread mix and serve it along side.
- Pasta Bake – pasta can be bought for pennies. Get a few pounds of your favorite shape, cook till al dente and toss with your favorite sauce. Pour it into a big casserole dish and sprinkle it with cheese. Easy Peasy.
- Baked Bean Casserole – again beans are cheap. Toss them together with onions, celery, brown sugar, dried mustard, tomato sauce and a bit of barbecue sauce and you’re all set.
- Delived Eggs – a dozen will usually run you under $2. Add your favorite mayonnaise and seasonings.
- Homemade Bread – fresh baked bread is always a hit anywhere and you can make a loaf for under $1!
- Corn Chowder – buy your favorite creamy potato soup mix (Bear Creek makes an excellent one) and add frozen corn. Everyone will think it’s made from scratch. Simple, cheap and easy.
- Cupcakes – are cheap and easy to make look impressive.
- Hummus – beans again… garbanzo beans, a little tahini , olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper and you have a winner.
- Melon Skewers – some honey dew and cantaloupe scooped into perfect spheres served on a stick are a nice light choice.
- Baked Potato Bar – a big bag of russets goes a long way with a dollop of sour cream and chives.