The summer season is sure to bring about the itch to grill out. If you plan on having family and friends over this season for a backyard barbecue, you might be wondering how you can do it on a dime. Last week we shared How to Save Money on Grilling and now we have more ways to save on cookouts, so you can still eat and celebrate on a budget!
7 Ways to Save Money on Cookouts
1. Shop your stockpile.
If you are an avid couponer or just enjoy stocking up during sales, shop your stockpile for supplies you can use. Condiments, paper products, canned beans, and canned vegetables can all be used for your cooking needs. Take a look at what you already have and find ways to get creative with it. How to create a stockpile.
2. Use inexpensive items in multiple ways.
Grab a few dozen eggs as around $2.00 each. They can be used in both your potato salad and as deviled eggs. Cucumbers are only about .50 cents each and can be used in cucumber salad as well as a veggie tray. Grab summer staple items such as these and you can feed your guests for less.
3. Make a party punch.
Instead of buying cans or liters of soda, make a party punch instead of using powdered drink mix. Put the beverage in pitchers or a dispenser if you have one. This is a great way to make a lot of product for less, plus you can add fresh fruit to it if you want, too!
4. Create a potluck dessert bar.
Have guests bring their favorite dessert to create a dessert bar. This is one less item for you to worry about and is also fun for the guests to participate in. All you need to provide is the plates.
5. Don’t fear the reduced for quick sale sticker.
Go the day before your cookout and grab the reduced for quick sale items such as buns and meat. Since you are using it in the next 24 hours it will still be fresh, and you typically save as much as 50%! You can also consider visiting a day old bread store for buns. Tips for saving money with manager’s markdowns.
6. Don’t forget the dollar store.
Dollar stores are great for plastic cutlery, plates, napkins, votive candles, and simple décor. You can also find fun party favors, tablecloths, and bags of snacks such as chips and pretzels. Don’t forget about your local dollar store, as you are sure to find some things you can use. Tips for what to buy at dollar stores.
7. Shop the local farmer’s market.
The local farmer’s market will have produce that is in season, which means you can snag it at a great price. Watermelon, sweet corn, and strawberries are all in season and quite reasonable to purchase by the pound. Grab these and other in-season produce items to use in salads and sides. Here are 5 ways to save money at a Farmers’ market.
8. Consider buying meat from a wholesaler. There are local companies that allow consumers to buy large quantities of meat monthly or quarterly either directly from a farmer or from frozen or refrigerated trucks at a deep discount. Check to see what is available in your area. Then buy meat in bulk at a low price.
When you give these tips a try you are sure to throw a backyard BBQ for less. Try these tips for your next cookout and see how much you can save.
More Cookout Tips and Recipes
How to Batch Grill Chicken Using Different Marinades
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