The holidays don’t have to break the bank. With strategic shopping at stores like Dollar Tree, it’s possible to create a satisfying holiday meal for a family without exceeding a $25 budget. These recipes, adapted from budget-friendly cooking sources, prioritize accessibility and simplicity.
Turkey Dinner for Four to Six
Inspired by The Tipsy Housewife, this traditional meal can be assembled for $22–$25. It includes turkey (canned), gravy, mashed potatoes, stuffing, green bean casserole, and candied yams.
- Turkey and Gravy: Four to six cans of canned white turkey ($5–$7.50) combined with two packets of Campbell’s turkey gravy ($2.50) and two cans of chicken broth ($2.50) create a savory base. Cook the turkey in a skillet with oil and seasonings, then simmer with the gravy and broth.
- Mashed Potatoes: Two packets of Idahoan buttery mashed potatoes ($3.00) prepared with broth instead of water provide a creamy side. Add a drizzle of oil and seasoning for extra flavor.
- Stuffing: Two boxes of McTrader Stuffing Mix ($2.50) baked with broth and oil at 375°F for 15–20 minutes complete the meal.
- Green Bean Casserole: Combine two cans of Del Monte green beans ($2.50) with one can of Campbell’s cream of mushroom soup ($1.25). Top with stuffing, drizzle with oil, and bake at 330-350°F for 30–35 minutes.
- Candied Yams: Toss two cans of Bruce’s yams in syrup ($2.50) with one can of Libby’s chunk pineapple ($1.25) and a dash of brown sugar ($1.25). Bake at 350°F for 30–35 minutes until the syrup thickens.
Sausage Dinner: Cozy and Complete
This spread, inspired by That Lisa Dawn, delivers dinner and dessert for $19–$20.
- Sausage Hand Pies: Combine frozen ground sausage ($1.25) with frozen seasoning blend ($1.25) and Green Giant mixed vegetables ($1.25). Mix with gravy made from Spice Trader mix ($2.50). Wrap in dough made from flour ($1.25) and margarine ($1.00), then bake.
- Cheesy Corn Muffins: Jiffy corn muffin mix ($0.75) combined with cream-style corn ($1.25) and cheddar cheese ($1.25) offers a simple, satisfying side.
- Broccoli and Risotto: Roast frozen broccoli cuts ($1.25) while cooking risotto rice with cheese mix ($1.25) according to package directions.
Ham Dinner: No-Bake Convenience
Dollar Tree Dinners inspired this stovetop meal for four, costing under $20.
- Raspberry Cream Cheese Dip: Mix cream cheese-style blend ($1.25) with raspberry preserves ($1.50) and serve with crackers ($1.25) for an easy appetizer.
- Ham and Potato Skillet: Sear smoked deli ham ($2.50) then simmer with potatoes au gratin ($2.50), margarine ($1.00), and milk ($1.25) for 15 minutes.
- Ginger Snap Trifle: Layer ginger snap cookies ($1.25) with vanilla pudding mix ($2.50) and caramel made from margarine, brown sugar, and milk for a sweet finish. Refrigerate for at least an hour.
Conclusion: These budget-friendly recipes demonstrate that a festive holiday meal doesn’t require a large investment. With careful planning and smart shopping, families can enjoy a delicious and affordable feast without compromising on quality or tradition.
