20+ of the Best Memorial Day Frugal Meals
Planning a delicious menu for your Memorial Day Frugal Meals celebration doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With simple ingredients and budget-friendly recipes, you can create a flavorful spread that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.
From hearty casseroles to refreshing drinks and sweet desserts, these dishes are easy to prepare and easy on your wallet. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or a picnic in the park, these affordable recipes will help you enjoy the holiday without breaking the bank.
Beef and Bean Enchilada Casserole
For a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish, try Beef and Bean Enchilada Casserole. This comforting casserole layers tortillas, seasoned beef, beans, and plenty of melted cheese. It’s a great make-ahead option, perfect for serving large groups without spending a fortune.
The Ultimate Burger
No Memorial Day cookout is complete without The Ultimate Burger. Juicy, flavorful, and customizable with your favorite toppings, these burgers are perfect for grilling. Pair them with a side of fries or a fresh salad for an affordable and satisfying meal.
Vegan Orange Cranberry Muffins
For a sweet and zesty treat, bake Vegan Orange Cranberry Muffins. Bursting with citrus flavor and tart cranberries, these muffins are a delicious addition to your Memorial Day brunch. They’re budget-friendly, easy to make, and perfect for guests with dietary preferences.
Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Add a little heat to your celebration with Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers. Spicy jalapeños stuffed with creamy cheese and wrapped in crispy bacon make these a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s quick to prepare and budget-friendly.
Creamy Potato and Onion Soup
If you’re looking for a comforting side dish, try Creamy Potato and Onion Soup. This rich, velvety soup is made with simple ingredients like potatoes, onions, and cream, making it a frugal and filling addition to your Memorial Day spread.
Baked Potato Skins
Crispy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, Baked Potato Skins are a fantastic appetizer or side dish. Topped with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions, they’re a budget-friendly way to use up leftover potatoes and keep guests satisfied.
Refreshing Watermelon Whipped Feta Basil Bites
For a fresh and light side dish, serve Refreshing Watermelon Whipped Feta Basil Bites. Sweet watermelon pairs perfectly with creamy whipped feta and fresh basil, making this dish a refreshing and affordable option for your cookout.
Cajun Shrimp and Vegetable Skillet
Spice up your Memorial Day menu with Cajun Shrimp and Vegetable Skillet. This quick and flavorful dish combines succulent shrimp with colorful vegetables, all seasoned with bold Cajun spices. It’s a one-pan meal that’s both affordable and impressive.
Ground Beef Pupusas
Try something unique with Ground Beef Pupusas. These Salvadoran stuffed corn cakes are filled with seasoned ground beef and cheese, making them a delicious handheld option that’s perfect for feeding a crowd on a budget.
Cheesy Taco Casserole
Add a Tex-Mex twist to your menu with Cheesy Taco Casserole. Packed with seasoned beef, melted cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips, this casserole is a fun and affordable way to feed guests with a hearty, flavorful dish.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Serve up a crispy side with Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries. These fries are easy to make, healthy, and a perfect pairing for burgers or sandwiches. Plus, using the air fryer means you get crispy fries without the extra oil.
Homemade BBQ Sauce
Take your grilled dishes to the next level with Homemade BBQ Sauce. Made with pantry staples, this sweet, smoky sauce is affordable and packed with flavor. Brush it on ribs, burgers, or grilled chicken for that classic cookout taste.
Curry Chicken Kabobs
Bring bold flavors to your grill with Curry Chicken Kabobs. Tender chicken marinated in a spiced curry blend and skewered with vegetables makes this dish both flavorful and budget-friendly. It’s perfect for a fun and colorful cookout option.
Pork Tacos
For an easy, flavorful main dish, serve Pork Tacos. Tender, seasoned pork tucked into soft tortillas and topped with fresh garnishes creates a delicious and affordable taco night experience for your Memorial Day gathering.
Tater Tot Casserole
A comfort food classic, Tater Tot Casserole layers creamy beef and vegetable filling under crispy tater tots. This budget-friendly casserole is simple to make, feeds a crowd, and is sure to be a hit with guests of all ages.
Instant Pot Puerto Rican Beef Barbacoa
For a tender, flavorful main dish, try Instant Pot Puerto Rican Beef Barbacoa. The beef is slow-cooked with Puerto Rican spices for a rich and savory flavor. It’s perfect for serving as tacos, over rice, or alongside your favorite sides.
Buffalo Chicken Salad
Add a zesty twist to your spread with Buffalo Chicken Salad. Tender chicken tossed in spicy buffalo sauce with crisp greens and creamy dressing creates a bold and refreshing salad that’s affordable and satisfying.
Easy Strawberry Lemonade Seltzer
Stay cool with Easy Strawberry Lemonade Seltzer. This light and refreshing drink blends sweet strawberries, tart lemonade, and sparkling water for a budget-friendly beverage that’s perfect for Memorial Day cookouts.
Blackberry Peach Cobbler
End your meal with a sweet summer dessert like Blackberry Peach Cobbler. Juicy blackberries and peaches are baked under a golden, buttery crust for a classic, affordable dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing.
Cuban Mojo Chicken
Add some tropical flavor to your cookout with Cuban Mojo Chicken. Marinated in a bright, citrusy garlic sauce, this juicy chicken is grilled to perfection and packed with bold flavor while staying budget-friendly.
Crockpot Pork Chops
For a simple and hearty main dish, serve Crockpot Pork Chops. Slow-cooked until tender with a savory gravy, these pork chops are easy to prepare and perfect for serving a crowd on a budget.
Putting together a delicious Memorial Day spread doesn’t have to strain your wallet. These cheap Memorial Day meal ideas are perfect for feeding a crowd while keeping costs low.
From simple burgers to sweet desserts, every dish offers flavor and value. With these affordable cookout recipes, you can enjoy a memorable holiday meal that’s both festive and frugal.
