L ooking for some affordable and delicious recipes to celebrate Labor Day? Look no further!
We have compiled a list of 10 mouth-watering recipes that won’t break the bank.
From savory mains to sweet treats, these recipes are sure to satisfy your taste buds and impress your guests.
So fire up the grill, grab your apron, and get ready to whip up some delicious meals for your Labor Day celebrations!
Whether you’re hosting a cookout or a potluck, check out these great, easy recipes that you can make on any budget!
Table of Contents
Labor Day Drinks
Labor Day is on September 5, and while it’s technically not in August anymore, we can expect the heat to stick around.
The best way to beat the heat? Ice-cold drinks. These drinks are the perfect way to beat the heat without breaking the bank.
We’re totally in love with this Spiked Lemonade from The Spruce Eats. Lemonade is a summertime classic, and when it comes to easy, affordable Labor Day recipes, it doesn’t get much better than this.
Looking for a non-alcoholic drink to share? Try The Busy Baker’s Easy Party Punch! The best part about this recipe is how customizable it is.
You can easily dress it up or keep it simple. You can even set up some individually packaged shots of your favorite alcohol so people can spike it if they want to!
Last but certainly not least, don’t waste your money on store-bought ice or dry ice. You can get ice cube trays for under $5 and reuse them!
And for your cooler? Just fill some Ziploc bags with water and stick them in the freezer. They’re space-saving, money-saving, and work just as well to keep drinks cold!
Labor Day Sides
What’s a cookout without sides? Whether you’re hosting or heading to a potluck, side dishes can turn a good meal great. (And if you are going to a potluck, these dishes will have everyone asking for the recipe!)
Martha Stewart is synonymous with a beautiful home and great food. It only makes sense that her Macaroni Salad Recipe is a favorite!
The dill brings a unique brightness to this classic side. The best part? This recipe has lots of room to add whatever veggies you have on hand – bell peppers, carrots, onion, tomato… It’s all good!
Not a fan of macaroni? This Classic Potato Salad from Good Life Eats is an easy, quick, and affordable Labor Day recipe.
It’s another simple recipe you can dress up however you like. The best part? You can get potatoes for less than a dollar a pound, so you can make tons of this salad without stretching your budget!
When you have food sensitivities, cookouts can be tough. Luckily, The Hidden Veggies has a delicious Vegan Chickpea Salad that anyone can enjoy!
This recipe is gluten-, soy- and dairy-free and chickpeas are a great source of vegetarian protein. Wins all around!
Labor Day Main Dishes
BBQ just isn’t a BBQ without the meat! Meat has been getting more expensive, but if there’s ever a good reason to splurge, it’s a holiday cookout.
The best way to make sure you’re getting a good value on meat? Shop the sales and stay local.
Many grocery stores have meat sales from time to time, and especially around holidays. Keep an eye out for them!
If no stores are having sales, look around for local vendors. Lower transportation costs and buying in bulk often means you can get a deal on some great cuts of meat!
Now, onto a classic BBQ recipe: Ribs. These Easy Grilled Ribs from Harry and David have mostly ingredients that are already in your kitchen.
Cooking with what you have on hand is the best when it comes to affordable Labor Day recipes!
If ribs aren’t your style, how about chicken? Sum of Yum’s BBQ Chicken Skewers are an amazing summer main dish, especially for kids.
You can slide the bite-sized pieces right off the skewer for easy eating!
Looking for a quirky spin on cookout mains that really stretches your dollar? This Grilled Sausage with Peppers and Onions from A Southern Soul is the way to go.
Sausage is generally affordable than other cuts of meat, and pairing it with the veggies makes this the perfect easy, affordable Labor Day recipe if you need to feed a crowd!
Labor Day Desserts
Would it even be a holiday without dessert??? While ice cream is usually the go-to, pairing it with a richer dessert can be a sweet finish to a perfect day.
These affordable Labor Day recipes make amazing desserts for a potluck, a party, or just for you.
The first one is easy as pie… because it is one! This Blueberry Pie is perfect for anyone new to baking and absolutely fabulous when paired with vanilla ice cream.
For a flashy (but easy) option, check out this Fruit Tart from The Plant Based School. Bursting with summery freshness and creamy richness, this simple recipe will be a showstopper!
Deliciously Frugal Labor Day Recipes
When it comes to making something delicious for Labor Day, you don’t have to spend a lot of money.
In fact, cooking for yourself is often more affordable than going out to eat. And after the fun is over, if you feel a bit “cooked-out”, check out a meal plan.
$5 Meal Plan help you to create simple, affordable plans that work with every budget, energy level, and time commitment. We can’t recommend them strongly enough!
Conclusion
In conclusion, these 10 deliciously affordable Labor Day Recipes offer an affordable and tasty way to celebrate the holiday with family and friends.
Whether you prefer grilling, salads, or desserts, there is something for everyone on this list.
By using simple and inexpensive ingredients, you can create mouth-watering dishes that will impress your guests without breaking the bank. So fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and enjoy a delicious Labor Day feast without the financial stress.
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FAQs
A good menu for Labor Day typically includes classic barbecue items like burgers, hot dogs, and grilled chicken, as well as sides like potato salad, coleslaw, and corn on the cob. You can also add some variety by including dishes like grilled shrimp skewers, barbecue ribs, or even grilled pizza. For dessert, consider making a fruit salad or grilling some fresh peaches or pineapple for a sweet treat.
Labor Day weekend is the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy some delicious food with family and friends. Some popular items to grill for Labor Day weekend include burgers, hot dogs, chicken, shrimp skewers, ribs, and even vegetables like corn on the cob and zucchini. For an added twist, you can also try grilling pizza or even watermelon for a unique and tasty dish. Don’t forget to have some refreshing beverages and desserts on hand to round out the meal.
