Planning a barbecue for a crowd can feel overwhelming, especially when you want to keep it budget-friendly. Maybe you’re dreaming of smoky flavors and mouthwatering dishes, but the thought of high costs makes you hesitate. That’s why I created this post! I’m here to help you serve up delicious food without breaking the bank.
If you love hosting gatherings filled with laughter, good food, and great company, this is for you. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, family reunion, or just enjoying a sunny weekend, you want to impress your guests. You care about creating an atmosphere where everyone can indulge in tasty treats without worrying about the price tag.
In this post, I’ve gathered 18 budget BBQ recipes for feeding a big crowd. These recipes are not only easy on the wallet but also packed with flavor. You’ll find everything from juicy chicken drumsticks to cheesy potato wedges that will steal the show. Plus, I’ve included eye-catching party platters that will make your spread look inviting and fun. Get ready to delight your guests with these simple yet satisfying dishes that everyone will love!
Let’s turn your BBQ into a feast that’s memorable, affordable, and utterly delicious. With these recipes in hand, you’ll be the star of your next gathering, ensuring everyone walks away happy and full. So fire up the grill, and let’s dive in!
Key Takeaways
– Discover 18 budget-friendly BBQ recipes that are perfect for large gatherings, ensuring you can feed a crowd without overspending.
– Learn how to make classic favorites like juicy BBQ chicken drumsticks and classic beef burgers that never go out of style.
– Explore creative options like marinated vegetable skewers and honey garlic shrimp skewers that add variety to your menu.
– Find tips for assembling eye-catching party platters that will impress your guests and make serving easier.
– Enjoy practical advice for cooking on a budget while still delivering on flavor and presentation.
Contents
- 1. Juicy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
- 2. Classic Beef Burgers
- 3. Marinated Vegetable Skewers
- 4. Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers
- 5. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
- 6. Easy Corn on the Cob
- 7. Spicy BBQ Meatballs
- 8. Cheesy BBQ Potato Wedges
- 9. Grilled Pineapple Slices
- 10. BBQ Baked Beans
- 11. Simple Caprese Salad Skewers
- 12. Grilled Sausages with Peppers and Onions
- 13. Zesty Cilantro Lime Rice
- 14. Sweet and Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs
- 15. Herb and Garlic Grilled Potatoes
- 16. BBQ Chicken Pizza
- 17. S’mores Brownies
- 18. Refreshing Lemonade
1. Juicy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
You want tasty crowd friendly food that won’t break the bank. These BBQ chicken drumsticks bring bold flavor with a sweet tangy glaze that crisps up on the grill. Let them marinate for a few hours or overnight to soak in the taste. Grill in a big batch and serve with creamy coleslaw for a classic BBQ vibe.
Ingredients:
12 chicken drumsticks
1 cup BBQ sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix olive oil, BBQ sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken drumsticks, coating them well with the marinade.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor.
4. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
5. Grill drumsticks for about 30 minutes, turning occasionally until fully cooked (165F internal).
6. Brush additional BBQ sauce during the last few minutes for extra flavor.
FAQs:
Can I bake these instead of grilling? Yes! Bake at 400F for 40-45 minutes.
What’s the best way to store leftovers? Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
2. Classic Beef Burgers
When you feed a crowd, simple meals that taste great win every time. Classic beef burgers fit that bill and still thrill guests with toppings. Juicy patties formed from ground beef stay flavorful on the grill. Let guests build theirs with lettuce, tomato, cheese, and more for a fun, interactive moment.
Ingredients:
2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
10 hamburger buns
Assorted toppings: lettuce, tomato, cheese, pickles, onions, ketchup, mustard
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Form the mixture into 10 equal patties, making a small indentation in the center to prevent puffing.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill burgers for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they reach your desired doneness.
5. Place cheese on top during the last minute of grilling to melt.
6. Assemble burgers with your favorite toppings and serve.
7. Don’t press down on the burgers while grilling; it releases juices and makes them dry.
8. Provide an array of toppings for a customizable experience.
FAQs:
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the patties and store them in the fridge for up to a day before grilling.
What’s the best way to know if they’re done? Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160F.
3. Marinated Vegetable Skewers
Vegetable skewers offer a colorful, budget friendly option that everyone can enjoy. A bright vinaigrette coats peppers, zucchini, onions, and mushrooms for vibrant flavor. Grill until tender and lightly charred for a smoky finish. These skewers pair well with meat mains or stand strong as a side.
Ingredients:
2 cups bell peppers (red, yellow, green), cut into chunks
2 cups zucchini, sliced
1 cup red onion, chopped into squares
1 cup mushrooms, whole or halved
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the vegetables to the bowl, tossing to coat well.
3. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
4. Preheat the grill to medium heat and thread the marinated vegetables onto skewers.
5. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the veggies are tender.
FAQs:
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can marinate the veggies a few hours before grilling.
What’s the best way to store leftover skewers? Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
4. Honey Garlic Shrimp Skewers
Shrimp on skewers cooks fast and saves you time at a big cookout. A honey garlic glaze adds sweet and savory notes that sparkle. Keep them near the grill edge so they stay juicy and not overdone. Serve with lemon wedges for a bright, zesty finish.
Ingredients:
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Mix marinade with honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Add shrimp to the marinade and let sit for about 10 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill to high heat and skewer shrimp onto sticks.
4. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
5. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
6. If using wooden skewers, soak them for at least 30 minutes in water.
7. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers to the skewers for extra color.
FAQs:
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just ensure they’re thawed and patted dry before marinating.
What’s the best way to serve these? Serve on a platter with additional lemon wedges on the side.
Fun fact: Shrimp skewers cook in about 2-3 minutes per side, so you can feed a crowd fast without staying at the grill all night. The honey garlic glaze makes it a standout in bbq recipes for a crowd.
5. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Pulled pork sandwiches are comfort food that feeds a crowd. Slow cooking makes the pork tender and full of flavor, ready to be piled on soft buns. Top with tangy coleslaw for a true Southern touch. You can use a slow cooker or bake in the oven to save time on busy days.
Ingredients:
4 lbs pork shoulder
1 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for serving)
1 onion, sliced
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
12 hamburger buns
2 cups coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Place sliced onion at the bottom of a slow cooker, then add the pork.
3. Pour BBQ sauce over the pork, cover, and cook on low for 8 hours.
4. Once cooked, shred the pork with two forks and mix in additional BBQ sauce.
5. Serve on hamburger buns with coleslaw if desired.
6. For extra flavor, let the pulled pork sit in the BBQ sauce for 30 minutes before serving.
7. Use slider buns for smaller portions if you’re serving a large crowd!
FAQs:
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Pulled pork stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What’s a good side dish? Baked beans or corn on the cob pair perfectly with pulled pork.
6. Easy Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is a simple, budget friendly side. Grilling adds sweetness and a slight smoky touch. Butter, herbs, or cheese give it a tasty finish. It brightens your platter and pairs with every main dish at a BBQ.
Ingredients:
8 ears corn, husked
1/2 cup butter, melted
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: Parmesan cheese, chili powder, fresh herbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Husk the corn and remove all silk.
3. Brush each ear with melted butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Wrap in aluminum foil or place directly on the grill.
5. Grill for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally until tender.
6. Serve with your choice of toppings.
FAQs:
Can I boil the corn instead? Yes, boil for about 5-7 minutes if you prefer that method.
Can I grill with the husks on? Yes, it helps to steam the corn, but remove the silk first.
7. Spicy BBQ Meatballs
Meatballs are perfect for snacking and feeding a crowd. They stay juicy and bold with a tangy BBQ kick. Bake them or simmer in sauce until coated and tender. Serve on toothpicks or on mini buns for easy bites at a party.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef or turkey
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
1 egg
1/3 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for serving)
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400F.
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, BBQ sauce, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Form mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
5. Toss in additional BBQ sauce before serving.
6. These can also be made in a slow cooker for easy serving.
7. Add a drizzle of honey for a sweet touch to the BBQ sauce.
FAQs:
What’s the best way to store leftover meatballs? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze these? Yes, they freeze well; just reheat in the oven or microwave.
8. Cheesy BBQ Potato Wedges
Cheesy potato wedges bring a hearty, shareable side. Crispy edges and melty cheese make them crave worthy. Whip them up in a hurry and keep them warm for guests. Drizzle with BBQ sauce to tie with the grill menu.
Ingredients:
4 large russet potatoes, cut into wedges
1/4 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese
1/2 cup BBQ sauce for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425F.
2. Toss potato wedges with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway until golden brown.
5. Remove from the oven, sprinkle cheese over the top, and drizzle with BBQ sauce.
6. Return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
FAQs:
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, prepare the wedges and refrigerate, then bake before serving.
What can I pair these with? They go great with burgers, hot dogs, or as a standalone snack!
9. Grilled Pineapple Slices
Grilled pineapple slices bring a bright, tropical note to the BBQ. Grilling caramelizes natural sugars for a juicy, sweet bite. A light dusting of cinnamon or brown sugar adds depth. Use them as a side, dessert topping, or even on burgers for a fun twist.
Ingredients:
1 ripe pineapple, peeled and sliced into 1-inch thick rings
2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional)
1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. If desired, sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon over the pineapple slices.
3. Place the pineapple on the grill for about 5 minutes on each side until grill marks appear and pineapple is heated through.
4. Serve warm or chilled for a refreshing treat.
FAQs:
Can I use canned pineapple? Fresh is best, but canned works if drained and patted dry.
How do I select a ripe pineapple? Look for a sweet aroma and a slight give when gently squeezed.
10. BBQ Baked Beans
BBQ baked beans are a traditional side dish that can easily be made on a budget. They’re smoky, sweet, and hearty, making them the perfect complement to any grilled meat. Plus, they can be made in advance and heated up just before serving, saving you time and effort during the rush. With a rich flavor that everyone loves, they’re sure to become a favorite at your gathering.
Ingredients:
2 cans navy beans, drained
1 cup BBQ sauce
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup onion, diced
1/4 cup bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the beans, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, onion, bell pepper, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover with foil.
4. Bake for 45 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly.
5. Serve warm as a side dish.
FAQs:
Add cooked bacon or sausage for extra heartiness!
These beans can also be made in a slow cooker for convenience.
11. Simple Caprese Salad Skewers
Caprese salad skewers bring a fresh and vibrant element to your BBQ spread. They’re easy to assemble, using cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella balls drizzled with balsamic glaze. These skewers are not just tasty but also add a beautiful pop of color to your party platters. They’re perfect for a light appetizer that pairs well with all the grilled dishes.
Ingredients:
1 pint cherry tomatoes
1 lb mozzarella balls
Fresh basil leaves
Balsamic glaze
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. On skewers or toothpicks, thread a cherry tomato, a basil leaf, and a mozzarella ball.
2. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
3. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with salt and pepper before serving.
4. Arrange on a platter for an attractive display.
FAQs:
Can I use regular tomatoes? Yes, just cut them into bite-sized pieces.
What’s a great alternative to mozzarella? Feta cheese works beautifully too!
Fun fact: Caprese skewers take under 15 minutes to assemble, yet they shine on a big grill-out. For a crowd, two skewers per guest keeps portions light but lively—pair with grilled favorites for a colorful, easy BBQ spread using our bbq recipes for a crowd.
12. Grilled Sausages with Peppers and Onions
Grilled sausages loaded with sweet peppers and onions are a summertime favorite. The sausages become crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, while the veggies add a sweet, smoky flavor. Serve them on rolls for a hearty meal or on a platter as finger food. This dish keeps guests full and happy throughout the party.
Ingredients:
10 sausages (your choice: bratwurst, Italian, etc.)
2 bell peppers, sliced
1 large onion, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, toss sliced peppers and onions with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill sausages for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through.
4. In the last few minutes, add peppers and onions to the grill, cooking until they’re soft and slightly charred.
5. Serve sausages in rolls with the grilled veggies on top or on a platter.
FAQs:
Can I use different veggies? Absolutely! Zucchini or mushrooms would also be great choices.
What’s the best way to store leftovers? Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
13. Zesty Cilantro Lime Rice
Rice is a reliable side that grows with your crowd. Cilantro and lime give a fresh lift to smoky BBQ flavors. Cook in big batches and fluff before serving. Let guests spoon it onto plates with their meats for balanced plates and easy serving.
Ingredients:
2 cups rice
4 cups water or broth
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 2 limes
Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a pot, bring water or broth to a boil, then add rice and salt.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender.
4. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro.
5. Serve warm with your BBQ dishes.
FAQs:
Can I add other herbs to this? Yes, green onions work well too.
What’s the best way to store leftovers? Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Fun fact: a 2-cup batch of cilantro lime rice expands to feed a crowd, perfect for bbq recipes for a crowd. Cook in bulk, fluff with a fork, and let guests spoon it onto plates for balanced, easy BBQ servings.
14. Sweet and Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs
Sweet and spicy BBQ chicken thighs offer a flavor punch your guests will love. The mix of a sticky glaze and a touch of heat keeps things exciting. Chicken thighs stay juicy and are a smart choice for grilling. Pair with a simple potato salad for a complete meal that feels festive.
Ingredients:
10 chicken thighs
1 cup BBQ sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix BBQ sauce, honey, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat chicken thighs in the marinade and let sit for at least 20 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
4. Grill chicken thighs for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until internal temperature reaches 165F.
5. Brush with extra BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of grilling.
6. Serve hot with sides of your choice.
FAQs:
Can I use chicken breasts instead? Yes, just be careful not to overcook them!
What’s the best way to store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
15. Herb and Garlic Grilled Potatoes
Herb and garlic grilled potatoes bring a tasty side that fits any budget. They soak in olive oil, garlic, and herbs, then grill to a crisp outside and soft inside. They pair well with any main dish and stay popular with guests. Easy to make and crowd friendly, these potatoes are a staple for a big BBQ.
Ingredients:
2 lbs baby potatoes, halved
1/4 cup olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or parsley)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, toss halved potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper.
3. Place potatoes in a grill basket or wrap in aluminum foil.
4. Grill for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until they’re tender and golden brown.
5. Serve hot as a delicious side dish.
FAQs:
Adding lemon juice before serving elevates the flavor!
These can also be made in the oven if you prefer indoor cooking.
16. BBQ Chicken Pizza
BBQ chicken pizza uses leftovers in a fun, tasty way. It’s easy to make and can be cooked on the grill or in the oven. Sauce, shredded chicken, onions, and cheese come together in a smoky, cozy pie. Serve with a simple salad to balance the meal and please a crowd.
Ingredients:
1 pre-made pizza crust
1 cup shredded cooked chicken
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to 450F.
2. Spread BBQ sauce over the pizza crust.
3. Top with shredded chicken, red onions, and mozzarella cheese.
4. Bake or grill for about 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and slice to serve.
FAQs:
Can I use a homemade crust? Absolutely! Use your favorite recipe for a fresh touch.
What can I use instead of chicken? Try using pulled pork or beef for different flavors.
17. S’mores Brownies
S’mores brownies bring a sweet finish to your BBQ. They mix chocolate, graham crackers, and marshmallows in a easy pan. Cut into squares and share the treat with everyone. Warm or at room temperature, they vanish fast at a party.
Ingredients:
1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients needed on the box)
1 cup mini marshmallows
1/2 cup crushed graham crackers
1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Prepare brownie batter according to package instructions.
2. Fold in mini marshmallows and chocolate chips into the brownie mixture.
3. Pour into a greased pan and sprinkle crushed graham crackers on top.
4. Bake according to box directions, checking for doneness.
5. Allow to cool, cut into squares, and serve.
FAQs:
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, they keep well in an airtight container for up to a week.
What if I don’t have graham crackers? Crushed cookies or nuts can be a great substitute.
18. Refreshing Lemonade
A cool glass of lemonade is the perfect drink to wash down all that BBQ. It’s easy to make in large batches and stays refreshing for everyone. You can keep it classic or add flavors like mint or berries for a twist. Serve it in mason jars with ice for a rustic vibe that fits outdoor meals.
Ingredients:
1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
1 cup sugar
4 cups water
Optional: mint leaves or berries for flavor
Instructions:
1. In a pitcher, mix together lemon juice and sugar until dissolved.
2. Add water and stir to combine.
3. Serve over ice in mason jars, garnished with mint leaves or berries if desired.
4. Enjoy the refreshing taste of summer!
FAQs:
Can I make this in advance? Yes, prepare it a few hours ahead of time and store it in the fridge.
Want it less sweet? Simply reduce the amount of sugar used.
Conclusion
With these 18 budget BBQ recipes, your next gathering is sure to be a delicious success! From mouthwatering mains to delightful sides and sweet treats, there’s something for everyone without straining your wallet. Remember, the best memories are made around good food and great company. So fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the feast!
Don’t forget to share your own favorite BBQ recipes and tips in the comments below!
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I consider when choosing bbq recipes for a crowd on a budget?
When choosing bbq recipes for a crowd on a budget, start with proteins that stretch well, like pork shoulder, chicken thighs, or bulk sausage. They offer great flavor per dollar and scale up easily.
Plan for about 0.5–0.75 pounds of finished meat per guest, then add affordable sides to round out the meal. Use simple rubs and make-ahead marinades to maximize flavor with minimal ingredients.
Cook in bulk or in shifts, and pair with cost-effective staples like buns, coleslaw, beans, or potatoes to keep the meal complete. With a little prep and smart sourcing, you can feed a big crowd without blowing the budget.
How can I create party platters that wow guests without breaking the bank?
To create standout party platters that wow guests without draining your wallet, pick a mix of protein and veggie options that travel well and stay fresh. Think sliced smoked pork, marinated chicken thighs, simple kebabs, and a colorful veggie board.
Layer platters with greens as a base, add protein, then bright add-ons like corn, cherry tomatoes, and citrus wedges. Keep sauces on the side so guests customize, and label each item for easy serving. Use affordable garnishes and sturdy trays to keep costs down while achieving an eye-catching presentation.
How do I estimate quantities and plan timing to feed a big crowd with bbq recipes for a crowd?
Start with a headcount and a simple menu of bbq recipes for a crowd you can scale. Then estimate quantities: about 0.5–0.75 pounds of cooked meat per guest, plus 0.25–0.5 pounds of sides per person, depending on crowd size and appetites.
Plan a cooking schedule that fits your setup: prep the day before, smoke or grill in blocks, rest meat, and serve in batches so nothing goes cold. Use chafing dishes, slow cookers, or warming trays to keep dishes warm and allow you to serve fresh portions throughout the event.
Round out the menu with easy sides like coleslaw, beans, and potato salad that don’t require heavy attention, and label items clearly so guests can quickly find what they want.
What tricks help make a BBQ spread eye-catching and easy to serve?
To make an eye-catching BBQ spread, start with bold color—golden corn, green herbs, red peppers, and citrus wedges create instant visual appeal.
Mix smoky meats with fresh sides for texture variety, like crunchy slaw and creamy dips.
Arrange platters in a thoughtful layout, using different heights or tiered trays so guests can see all options at a glance. Add simple signage or labels so people can identify each bbq recipe for a crowd quickly, and finish with clean, cohesive serving ware to keep it looking polished.
Are there make-ahead tricks to save time and money when preparing bbq recipes for a crowd?
Absolutely. For bbq recipes for a crowd, make-ahead steps save time and money. Marinate or rub meats the day before and refrigerate, then grill or smoke them when you’re ready.
You can partially cook proteins a few hours ahead and finish them hot right before serving, or use slow cookers and warming trays to keep things moving.
Prep salads, slaws, and dips in advance and store them properly so they stay fresh. Finally, buy in bulk, choose seasonal produce, and compare store-brand options to stretch every dollar.
