Potlucks are a wonderful way to bring people together to share a meal without putting the burden on a single host. But if you’ve ever been invited to one, you know it can be a bit stressful deciding what to bring, especially if you’re on a budget. Fear not! We’ve compiled five budget-friendly potluck recipes that are sure to impress without breaking the bank.

These recipes are not only inexpensive but also easy to make and delicious. So whether you’re attending a family gathering, a work event, or a neighborhood get-together, these dishes will be a hit.

1. Classic Deviled Eggs

Ingredients

• 12 large eggs
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Paprika for garnish

Instructions

1. Place eggs in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Drain and transfer the eggs to an ice bath to cool.
3. Peel the eggs and slice them in half lengthwise. Remove the yolks and place them in a bowl.
4. Mash the yolks with a fork and mix in mayonnaise, mustard, and vinegar until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the egg whites.
6. Sprinkle with paprika before serving.

Deviled eggs are a classic potluck favorite. They’re easy to make in large quantities and are always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, eggs are relatively inexpensive, making this dish a great choice for those on a budget.

2. Pasta Salad

Ingredients

• 1 pound rotini pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup black olives, sliced
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup Italian dressing

Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, combine pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, and feta cheese.
3. Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

Pasta salad is versatile and budget-friendly. You can add or substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it an adaptable choice for any potluck.

3. Slow Cooker BBQ Meatballs

Ingredients

• 2 pounds frozen meatballs
• 2 cups BBQ sauce
• 1/2 cup grape jelly
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

1. In a slow cooker, combine BBQ sauce, grape jelly, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well.
2. Add the frozen meatballs and stir to coat them with the sauce.
3. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the meatballs are heated through.
4. Stir occasionally to ensure the meatballs are evenly coated with the sauce.

Slow cooker BBQ meatballs are a simple yet delicious option for a potluck. The slow cooker does most of the work, and the ingredients are affordable. These meatballs are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

4. Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks

Ingredients

• 1 pound pizza dough
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to fit the baking sheet.
3. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together melted butter and minced garlic. Brush the mixture over the dough.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and dried parsley evenly over the dough.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the breadsticks are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
7. Allow to cool slightly before slicing into breadsticks.

Cheesy garlic breadsticks are a crowd-pleaser and easy to make in large batches. They’re perfect for sharing and are budget-friendly, thanks to the simple ingredients.

5. Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat until well mixed.
4. Add eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until smooth.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. Fold in the chocolate chips.
7. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.

Chocolate chip cookie bars are a sweet treat that’s sure to be a hit at any potluck. They’re easy to transport and serve, making them a convenient and budget-friendly dessert option.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to potluck gatherings, you don’t have to spend a lot of money to make a big impact. These five budget potluck recipes are not only affordable but also easy to make and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a savory dish or a sweet treat, these recipes have you covered.

So the next time you’re invited to a potluck, try one of these budget-friendly recipes and watch as everyone comes back for seconds!