Easy & Cheap Cookout Side Dishes for a Crowd

Summer is here, and that means it's time to fire up the grill and invite friends and family over for a cookout. But planning a crowd-pleasing menu on a budget can be a challenge. Fear not! We've compiled a list of easy, cheap cookout side dishes that will satisfy your guests and keep your wallet happy.

When it comes to feeding a crowd, it's important to choose dishes that are simple to prepare, can be made in large quantities, and won't break the bank. These side dishes are not only budget-friendly but also packed with flavor, ensuring your cookout is a hit with everyone.

Classic Potluck Sides

Potluck-style sides are a great way to feed a crowd without spending a fortune. These dishes are easy to make in large quantities and can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your company.

Here are two classic potluck sides that are always a hit at cookouts:

Pasta Salad

Pasta salad is a versatile and affordable side dish that can be customized to your guests' tastes. A simple combination of pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and feta cheese tossed with a basic vinaigrette is both delicious and budget-friendly.

To make it even more affordable, consider using leftover pasta from other meals. You can also swap out ingredients based on what's on sale at your local grocery store. For example, try using canned corn and bell peppers instead of olives and cucumber for a different twist.

Coleslaw

Coleslaw is another classic cookout side that's easy on the wallet. Made with just cabbage, carrots, and a simple dressing, it's a refreshing accompaniment to grilled meats and can be made ahead of time.

To save even more money, skip the pre-shredded cabbage and carrots and buy a whole head of cabbage and a bag of carrots instead. You can shred them yourself using a food processor or a box grater. This will not only save you money but also ensure your coleslaw has the freshest, crunchiest texture.

One-Pot Wonders

One-pot dishes are perfect for feeding a crowd because they require minimal effort and cleanup. Plus, they're usually quite affordable since they use simple, budget-friendly ingredients.

Here are two one-pot sides that are both easy and cheap:

Baked Beans

Baked beans are a classic cookout side that's hearty, filling, and budget-friendly. They're also incredibly easy to make – simply combine canned beans, onions, bell peppers, and your favorite barbecue sauce in a large pot, then bake until heated through and slightly caramelized.

To make your baked beans even more affordable, consider using dried beans instead of canned. Soak them overnight, then cook them with your other ingredients in the slow cooker or Instant Pot. This will give you a more authentic flavor and save you money in the long run.

Spanish Rice

Spanish rice is another one-pot wonder that's perfect for feeding a crowd. Made with just a few simple ingredients like rice, tomatoes, onions, and spices, it's both delicious and budget-friendly.

To make your Spanish rice even more affordable, consider using brown rice instead of white. It's slightly more expensive, but it's also more nutritious and has a longer shelf life, meaning you'll have less waste. You can also add canned corn, black beans, or frozen peas to stretch the dish even further.

With these easy, cheap cookout side dishes, you'll be able to feed a crowd without breaking the bank. So go ahead, invite your friends and family over, and enjoy a summer cookout that's both delicious and budget-friendly.