When it comes to get toegthers, I like to bring food items that are delicious, but also very good for my budget!
I love a good potluck.
It’s a great option instead of expecting the host to provide all of the food. It’s also a better option than just everyone tossing in a set amount of money, especially if the amounts people are okay with spending varies.
Now… let’s go over my favorite potluck items.
Potluck Item #1: Funfetti cookies
These cookies take a box of Funfetti cake mix and make super easy, yet cute and delicious cookies for super cheap! A pro tip to make it even cheaper?! Buy a holiday-themed box of cake mix right after a holiday… At my grocery store, they go on sale the day after a holiday. Then, you can grab a box for around a dollar.
The recipe I use is here, but you can obviously switch up which themed cake mix and icing you use!
Potluck Item #2: Meatballs
Now, these are one of the few non-dessert items on my go-to potluck items list. They are ridiculously easy… I’m talking THREE ingredients. You do need a crockpot, but they are legit one of the easiest things to make.
The recipe can be found here. After potlucks, I always have people asking me for the recipe. Even my mom, who hates to cook, makes these all the time!
Potluck Item #3: Oreo Balls
I first learned about these in college from my roommate and they’ve been a staple in my potluck recipe rotation ever since!
Ingredients:
- 1 pack of original Oreos
- 1 block cream cheese
- White chocolate chips
Instructions:
Blend Oreos in food processor or crush until fine crumbs
Add crushed Oreos and cream cheese to bowl
Mix well (I use my hands)
Form balls and put on wax paper
Drizzle melted white chocolate on top
Add sprinkles to be festive if you want!
Potluck Item #4: Jumble Cookies
These are ALWAYS such a hit and require no actual baking! The recipe makes a lot too.
Ingredients:
- 2 bags white choc chips
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 5 cups Rice Krispies
- 4 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup dry roasted peanuts
- 1 heaping cup M&M’s
Instructions:
Melt choc chips
Stir in peanut butter
Pour over dry ingredients
Drop on wax paper
Will harden as they sit
Potluck Item #5: Black Bean Dip
Okay, so this is by far the healthiest and freshest option of all of them! While I normally serve with tortilla chips, the leftovers are actually really good served over spinach for a salad too!
Ingredients:
- 1 can white corn (shoe peg), drained
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp Tabasco sauce
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 cup Italian salad dressing
- 1 chopped tomato
- 1/2-1 medium red onion
- 1 chopped green pepper
- Tortilla chips
Instructions:
Mix together first 6 ingredients, then marinate several hours or overnight
Before serving, add remaining ingredients (aside from tortilla chips)
Serve with tortilla chips
These items are sure to be a hit at your next get together, but you won’t be sacrificing your budget by splurging on something pre-made or on the pricier side.
I’m all about staying in budget, but making sure to have fun and enjoy life.
Not sure where to start with budgeting? Message me or apply for money coaching!