10 Low-Cost Meals That Feed a Crowd

Feeding a large group doesn’t have to mean draining your wallet. With some smart planning, you can create filling, flavorful meals that satisfy everyone without overspending. These dishes rely on affordable, easy-to-find ingredients and can be scaled up for parties, family dinners, or casual get-togethers. From hearty soups to shareable casseroles, these budget-friendly recipes prove that delicious doesn’t have to be expensive.

Spaghetti with Homemade Tomato Sauce

Spaghetti is one of the easiest crowd‑pleasers when you’re on a budget. Dried pasta is inexpensive, and a simple sauce made from canned tomatoes, garlic, onions, and dried herbs delivers rich flavor for very little cost. Simmering deepens the taste, and a sprinkle of grated cheese finishes it perfectly. Serve with bread and salad to round it out. Leftovers may clump slightly but reheat well with extra sauce, making this dish practical for busy weeks or potlucks.

Chili with Beans

Chili is a reliable budget dish, easily adapted to serve large groups. While classic Texas versions often omit beans, using plenty of beans alongside beef, turkey, or no meat at all makes it more affordable and filling. Simmer with tomatoes, onions, garlic, chili powder, and cumin until thick and flavorful. Serve with rice, cornbread, or chips. Dried beans lower costs further, and the dish is excellent for slow cookers or freezing in advance.

Baked Ziti with Cheese

Baked ziti is comfort food that won’t break the bank. Pasta is combined with marinara sauce and layered with mozzarella and ricotta. For a thriftier spin, cottage cheese works too, though it’s less traditional. Bake until bubbly and golden, and serve with garlic bread and salad for a complete meal. It’s easy to prepare ahead, refrigerate, then bake when needed, making it crowd‑friendly, filling, and simple to expand for larger gatherings.

Sheet Pan Chicken and Vegetables

Sheet pan meals are a budget cook’s best friend. Arrange chicken pieces with potatoes, carrots, and onions, drizzle lightly with oil, season with salt, pepper, and herbs, then roast until golden. To save even more, buy whole chickens and cut them yourself, using affordable seasonal veggies. Olive oil adds great flavor but can be swapped for neutral oil to cut costs. Cleanup stays minimal, and doubling the recipe is as easy as adding another pan.

Fried Rice

Fried rice turns basic ingredients into a filling meal. Use leftover rice, eggs, vegetables, and a splash of soy sauce. Add small portions of chicken, pork, or tofu for protein. Cooking in a large wok or skillet makes it easy to scale for a crowd. This dish is quick, affordable, and versatile, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Serve with steamed greens or dumplings for a complete, satisfying dinner that feels like takeout but costs much less.

Lentil Soup

Lentil soup is healthy, inexpensive, and great for feeding many. Simmer dried lentils with onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and broth. Season with cumin, paprika, or thyme for flavor. Lentils cook faster than most beans and provide plenty of protein and fiber, making the soup filling without meat. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal. This soup can be made in large batches, stores well in the fridge, and tastes even better the next day, perfect for make-ahead cooking.

Vegetable Stir-Fry with Noodles

A stir‑fry is a budget‑friendly way to turn basic vegetables into a satisfying main course. Sauté cabbage, carrots, broccoli, and peppers with garlic and ginger, then toss with noodles, soy sauce, and a touch of sesame oil. While sesame oil is pricier, just a small drizzle goes a long way; you can substitute with vegetable oil if needed. Add tofu or chicken for protein. Quick to prepare in large portions, it’s colorful, filling, and easy to scale up.

Cabbage and Potato Stew

Cabbage and potatoes are two of the most affordable vegetables, and together they make a warming stew. Cook onions, garlic, and diced potatoes in broth until tender, then add shredded cabbage. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper, or add a small amount of sausage for extra depth. Simmer until the flavors meld into a hearty, rustic dish. Serve with bread for dipping. This stew is perfect for cold nights and can be easily scaled up for large gatherings.

Shakshuka

Shakshuka is a flavorful, budget-friendly dish from the Middle East. Sauté onions, garlic, and peppers, then simmer with canned tomatoes, cumin, paprika, and chili flakes. Crack eggs into the sauce and cook until set. Serve straight from the pan with crusty bread or pita. Eggs provide protein at a low cost, and the sauce can be made in large batches using multiple pans. It’s a great choice for brunch gatherings or light dinners that feel special without being expensive.

Black Bean and Sweet Potato Tacos

Black beans and sweet potatoes make a flavorful, budget-conscious taco filling. Roast cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, cumin, and paprika until tender. Sauté with cooked black beans, onions, and garlic for a hearty mix. Serve in tortillas with toppings like shredded lettuce, salsa, and a sprinkle of cheese. This vegetarian option is inexpensive, easy to prepare in bulk, and a hit with both adults and kids. You can set up a taco bar so guests can customize their own plates.