Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and feasting, but it can also put a strain on your wallet. With a little creativity and planning, you can prepare a delicious Thanksgiving meal that won’t break the bank.
This article brings together 50+ Thanksgiving cheap recipes that are both budget-friendly and satisfying. From appetizers to desserts, these recipes use affordable ingredients without sacrificing flavor.
Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or a cozy dinner for two, you’ll find plenty of inspiration here to make your holiday special and memorable.
Let’s dive into the delicious possibilities that await!
50+ Delicious Thanksgiving Cheap Recipes That Won’t Break the Bank
This Thanksgiving, embrace the spirit of the holiday by gathering with loved ones around a table filled with delicious, budget-friendly dishes.
With over 50 cheap recipes to choose from, you can create a festive meal that is both satisfying and easy on your wallet.
From savory main courses to scrumptious sides and desserts, these recipes offer a variety of flavors and options for every palate.
Remember, the true essence of Thanksgiving lies in gratitude and togetherness, and with these affordable recipes, you can enjoy a memorable celebration without the financial stress.
So roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and let’s make this Thanksgiving a joyful and economical feast!
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a staple at Thanksgiving, and they’re not only crowd-pleasers but also budget-friendly. This version, with the addition of roasted garlic, brings a rich, creamy, and flavorful twist without increasing your costs. It uses simple ingredients and elevates them into a dish that everyone will love.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 6 large russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 bulb garlic
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup milk (or more, as needed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice off the top of the garlic bulb to expose the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 35-40 minutes until soft.
- Meanwhile, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.
- Squeeze the roasted garlic out of the skins and mash it into the potatoes.
- Add butter and milk to the potatoes and mash until smooth. Add more milk if needed for a creamier texture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm.
This roasted garlic mashed potatoes recipe is a great way to turn an ordinary dish into something special while staying within your budget. The creamy texture and rich garlic flavor will satisfy everyone at your table without breaking the bank.
Cranberry-Orange Relish
Cranberry sauce is a Thanksgiving must, and this simple cranberry-orange relish offers a bright, refreshing twist. It’s incredibly cheap to make and offers a pop of flavor that complements your turkey and sides perfectly. With only a few ingredients, this dish is as easy on your wallet as it is to prepare.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 (12 oz) bag fresh cranberries
- 1 large orange, zested and juiced
- ¾ cup sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
- Rinse the cranberries and place them in a food processor.
- Add the orange juice, zest, and sugar to the cranberries.
- Pulse the mixture until the cranberries are finely chopped and the sugar is dissolved.
- Stir in cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor if desired.
- Chill for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld.
This cranberry-orange relish is not only cost-effective but also a bright, zesty addition to your Thanksgiving spread. The combination of fresh cranberries and citrus is a refreshing change from traditional cranberry sauce and adds an exciting burst of flavor to your meal. Best of all, it’s incredibly simple to make with just a handful of ingredients.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Oat Topping
Sweet potatoes are a fantastic budget-friendly option for Thanksgiving. This sweet potato casserole is not only inexpensive to make but also a delightful balance of sweet and savory. The oat topping adds a satisfying crunch, making this a family favorite without the cost of more elaborate side dishes.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ¼ cup flour
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- ¼ cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil the sweet potatoes in a large pot of water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash them with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- In a small bowl, combine oats, flour, melted butter, and pecans (if using) to create the topping.
- Spread the mashed sweet potatoes into a greased baking dish and sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the topping is golden and crispy.
- Serve hot as a delicious Thanksgiving side.
This sweet potato casserole with an oat topping is a perfect Thanksgiving side dish that’s easy on your wallet. The sweetness of the potatoes pairs beautifully with the crunchy oat topping, creating a dish that feels indulgent without being expensive. It’s a great way to enjoy a holiday classic on a budget.
Simple Herb Stuffing
Stuffing is a classic Thanksgiving side dish, and you can make it on a budget using affordable ingredients like bread, herbs, and broth. This simple herb stuffing is full of flavor and requires only a few pantry staples, making it a perfect choice for a frugal yet delicious holiday meal.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of day-old bread, cubed
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 10-15 minutes until they’re slightly crisp.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter and sauté the onion and celery until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes with the sautéed vegetables, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually add the broth, tossing the mixture until the bread absorbs the liquid but isn’t too soggy.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown on top.
This simple herb stuffing is a great way to create a flavorful, homemade dish without breaking the bank. Using inexpensive ingredients like bread and herbs, you can add a traditional stuffing to your Thanksgiving table that will please your guests and your wallet.
Green Bean Almondine
Green Bean Almondine is an elegant yet budget-friendly side dish that can easily elevate your Thanksgiving spread. With the crunch of toasted almonds and the brightness of fresh lemon, this simple green bean dish brings freshness to your meal while keeping costs low.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup sliced almonds
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the green beans for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced almonds and toast them until golden brown, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another 1-2 minutes.
- Toss the blanched green beans into the skillet, coating them in the almond and garlic mixture.
- Drizzle with fresh lemon juice, season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.
Green Bean Almondine is an affordable side that feels fancy but comes together with minimal ingredients. The balance of toasted almonds, garlic, and lemon adds layers of flavor to simple green beans, making this a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving menu without overextending your budget.
Creamed Corn
Creamed corn is a comforting, nostalgic dish that’s both inexpensive and easy to prepare. This version uses pantry staples like canned corn, butter, and milk, making it an affordable choice for any Thanksgiving table. The rich, creamy texture is sure to satisfy everyone, and it complements a wide variety of Thanksgiving main courses.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in the drained corn and sugar. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm.
Creamed corn is a beloved Thanksgiving side that offers a rich, velvety texture and a sweet-savory flavor balance. Using canned corn and simple ingredients, this dish is as cost-effective as it is delicious. It’s an easy way to serve a comforting, crowd-pleasing side without overspending on your holiday meal.
Honey-Glazed Carrots
Honey-glazed carrots are a sweet, vibrant, and budget-friendly addition to your Thanksgiving meal. With minimal ingredients like carrots, honey, and butter, this dish is easy to prepare and adds a lovely balance of sweetness to your savory holiday spread. Plus, carrots are affordable, making this dish a perfect choice for a frugal Thanksgiving.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or rounds
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the carrots for 5-7 minutes, until tender but still slightly firm. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the honey and brown sugar, allowing them to melt and combine.
- Add the cooked carrots to the skillet, tossing them in the glaze until they are fully coated.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting the carrots caramelize slightly. Season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
Honey-glazed carrots bring a touch of natural sweetness to your Thanksgiving table and are an affordable option for feeding a crowd. The combination of butter, honey, and brown sugar elevates simple carrots into a delicious side dish that pairs wonderfully with savory mains like turkey and stuffing.
Pumpkin Cornbread
Pumpkin cornbread combines the warm flavors of fall with a classic, inexpensive side dish. Using pantry staples like cornmeal, flour, and canned pumpkin, this budget-friendly cornbread is moist, slightly sweet, and perfect for Thanksgiving. It’s a delicious twist on traditional cornbread that fits easily into a holiday meal plan.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup canned pumpkin
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup honey or sugar
- ¼ cup melted butter
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin, eggs, milk, honey, and melted butter.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the greased baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Pumpkin cornbread is a fantastic, budget-conscious addition to your Thanksgiving feast. The subtle sweetness from the pumpkin and honey pairs perfectly with savory holiday dishes, while the warm cinnamon spices add a cozy, seasonal touch. It’s an easy way to incorporate a unique side that doesn’t strain your wallet.
Baked Apples with Cinnamon Oat Crumble
Baked apples with cinnamon oat crumble are a simple and inexpensive dessert option for Thanksgiving. Using affordable ingredients like apples, oats, and cinnamon, this dish delivers warm, comforting flavors without the need for an expensive pie crust or elaborate preparation. It’s an easy way to end your Thanksgiving meal on a sweet, wholesome note.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 large apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Whipped cream or ice cream for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Core the apples, leaving the bottoms intact to hold the filling.
- In a small bowl, combine the oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter to form a crumbly mixture.
- Place the apples in a baking dish and drizzle the insides with lemon juice.
- Stuff each apple with the oat crumble mixture, pressing it down slightly to fill the cavity.
- Bake the apples for 25-30 minutes, until they are tender and the crumble is golden brown.
- Serve warm, topped with whipped cream or ice cream if desired.
These baked apples with cinnamon oat crumble are a budget-friendly, wholesome dessert perfect for Thanksgiving. The soft, spiced apples paired with the crunchy oat topping offer a cozy, comforting end to your meal. This dessert is not only easy to make but also delivers a warm and satisfying treat that doesn’t require expensive ingredients or complex techniques.
Creamy Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
Creamy broccoli and cheese casserole is a delightful, budget-friendly dish that adds a touch of elegance to your Thanksgiving spread. This comforting side dish combines fresh or frozen broccoli with a creamy cheese sauce, making it both satisfying and affordable. It’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables while providing a rich, cheesy flavor that everyone will love.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup (or homemade)
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch it until tender, then drain.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and half of the cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Fold in the cooked broccoli until well combined, then transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top, followed by the breadcrumbs. Drizzle with melted butter.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
This creamy broccoli and cheese casserole is an affordable, crowd-pleasing addition to your Thanksgiving menu. The combination of cheesy goodness and tender broccoli creates a comforting dish that pairs well with turkey and stuffing. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your holiday feast without compromising on flavor.
Savory Corn Pudding
Savory corn pudding is a delightful and inexpensive side dish that brings a touch of sweetness and comfort to your Thanksgiving table. This easy recipe combines canned corn with a creamy custard base, making it both filling and flavorful. It’s a great way to use pantry staples while providing a satisfying dish that everyone will enjoy.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup cornmeal
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup melted butter
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the drained corn, milk, eggs, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, salt, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Savory corn pudding is a simple, budget-friendly dish that adds a comforting element to your Thanksgiving feast. Its creamy texture and sweet corn flavor make it a family favorite, and it pairs beautifully with traditional Thanksgiving dishes. This recipe proves that delicious meals can be made from inexpensive ingredients without sacrificing taste or enjoyment.
Classic Potato Salad
Classic potato salad is a timeless side dish that’s perfect for Thanksgiving, especially if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option. This creamy salad made with potatoes, mayonnaise, and hard-boiled eggs is not only easy to prepare but also a great make-ahead dish. It adds a refreshing contrast to heavier holiday fare and is sure to please everyone at the table.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons mustard
- 1 tablespoon vinegar (white or apple cider)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Boil the diced potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, onion, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Gently fold the cooled potatoes and chopped eggs into the dressing until well coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
This classic potato salad is an inexpensive and delicious addition to your Thanksgiving spread. The creamy dressing combined with the tender potatoes and eggs creates a comforting side dish that complements the flavors of your holiday meal. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making it a convenient choice for busy holiday schedules, proving that simplicity can be both delicious and affordable.
Sweet Potato Mash with Cinnamon
Sweet potato mash with cinnamon is a warm, comforting side dish that adds a touch of sweetness to your Thanksgiving table. This simple, budget-friendly recipe highlights the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and enhances it with a hint of cinnamon and butter. It’s not only a delicious alternative to traditional mashed potatoes but also a nutritious choice that everyone will love.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ¼ cup butter
- ¼ cup milk (or more for desired consistency)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Place the sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
- Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
- Mash the sweet potatoes until smooth and creamy. Adjust the milk for your preferred consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm.
Sweet potato mash with cinnamon is a delightful and affordable way to incorporate a seasonal favorite into your Thanksgiving meal. The creamy texture and warm spices create a comforting side that pairs beautifully with turkey and other traditional dishes. This recipe highlights how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that feels both special and homey.
Zucchini and Tomato Gratin
Zucchini and tomato gratin is a fresh, flavorful, and budget-friendly side dish that showcases seasonal vegetables. With layers of zucchini and tomatoes topped with a crunchy breadcrumb and cheese topping, this dish is both nutritious and delicious. It’s a great way to use up garden produce or affordable grocery items while adding a colorful element to your Thanksgiving spread.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 2 large tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or any cheese of your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Layer the zucchini and tomato slices alternately in the dish, slightly overlapping.
- In a bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, shredded cheese, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined. Spread this mixture evenly over the zucchini and tomatoes.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the vegetables are tender.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve hot.
Zucchini and tomato gratin is a delightful way to bring seasonal vegetables to your Thanksgiving table without breaking the bank. The combination of tender zucchini and juicy tomatoes, topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer, creates a flavorful and satisfying side dish. This recipe highlights how simple, affordable ingredients can be transformed into a beautiful and delicious addition to your holiday feast.
Cranberry Orange Relish
Cranberry orange relish is a refreshing and vibrant addition to any Thanksgiving meal. This budget-friendly dish utilizes fresh cranberries and oranges, creating a tangy, sweet condiment that perfectly complements roasted meats. It’s easy to prepare, can be made in advance, and adds a burst of flavor and color to your holiday table.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- 12 oz fresh cranberries (about 3 cups)
- 1 large orange, zested and juiced
- ¾ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
- Rinse the cranberries and remove any stems or bruised berries. Place them in a food processor.
- Add the orange zest, orange juice, sugar, and cinnamon (if using). Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped but still slightly chunky.
- Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed, adding more sugar if desired.
- Transfer the relish to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Cranberry orange relish is a zesty, budget-friendly side that brings a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of Thanksgiving dishes. This easy-to-make relish not only brightens your plate with its vibrant color but also enhances the overall meal with its tangy, sweet notes. By utilizing simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and visually appealing condiment that everyone will appreciate during the holiday festivities.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!
