Mother's Day 2026

Well Mother’s Day is coming soon so I wanted to offer you a brunch menu that you can pick and choose your budget with. This way single people and families can eat whether you have almost no money or more money. I hope you enjoy this brunch menu. As always I am using Walmart prices for my area during the time of this writing, unless otherwise noted.


APPETIZER 
– Yogurt  4.5oz Chobani Flip Low-Fat Greek Yogurt, Salted Caramel Crunch $1.58 (they do have other flavors available) 

Note: I would buy 3-4 of these yogurts, put them in fancy bowls with spoons and set them on the table with little small dishes and little dessert spoons if you have them sitting next to it so that they can fill up their little dish and eat. I would also leave any leftovers on the table during the main dish so somebody wanted yogurt with their main dish they could.


MAINS 
-- 2.11oz Pearl Milling Company Pancake on the Go $1.00

-- 1ct Jimmy Dean Maple Pancake & Sausage Griddle Cake Sandwich $1.50 from Dollar Tree

-- Rebecca’s Pancake Casserole   

Final cost using the cheapest of the ingredients of listed below is $13.33

6 ozs bacon chopped into small pieces and fried until crispy  12oz Great Value Hickory Smoked Sliced Bacon $3.94
Nonstick cooking spray  8oz Great Value Canola Oil Cooking Spray $2.52 or you could try this spray from the Dollar Tree (please note I have never tried this so I can’t tell you if it’s good or works) Healthy Chef Grill Spray with Vegetable Oil $1.50
3 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted  16oz Imperial Vegetable Oil Spread Sticks $1.24 or 8oz Great Value Butter Sticks (2 sticks only) $1.94
1/3 cup packed brown sugar  32oz Great Value Light Brown Sugar $1.97
2 cups Hungry Jack buttermilk pancake mix 12oz Hungry Jack Complete Pancake & Waffle Mix $1.50 from Dollar Tree or 32oz box from Walmart for $2.58
1 1/2 cups water
Maple syrup or other favorite syrup   24 fl oz Maple Grove Farms Sugar Free Maple Flavor Syrup $3.18 or 24 fl oz Mrs. Butterworth’s Original Pancake Syrup $3.76 

To make: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray an 8-9 inch round cake pan with your nonstick cooking spray. Pour your melted butter or margarine into the pan then sprinkle your brown sugar evenly over the melted margarine. Next evenly sprinkle your crispy bacon over the brown sugar. In a bowl add buttermilk pancake mix and the water (this is per the instructions on the box.) Once this is nicely mixed, pour it over your bacon. Bake this for 30-35 minutes. When you remove it from the oven immediately flip this out onto a plate or platter. Cut it and serve with maple syrup or your other favorite syrup.

– Amish Oatmeal
The final cost using the cheapest ingredients listed below is $15.51 

1 1/2 cups milk (preferably not skim milk)  16 fl oz Kemps Select Milk $1.34 or the shelf stable milk from the Dollar Tree - 32oz Marcel’s Modern Pantry $1.25
2 large eggs  6ct Great Value Large White Eggs .96¢
1/2 cup maple syrup or packed brown sugar  24 fl oz Maple Grove Farms Sugar Free Maple Flavor Syrup $3.18 or 24 fl oz Mrs. Butterworth’s Original Pancake Syrup $3.76 (I put syrup first and you will understand when you read the note below but I will also include brown sugar next) 32oz Great Value Light Brown Sugar $1.97 I am leaving this for last because of the horrible reviews but… Harvest Hill Original Pancake Syrup $1.50 from Dollar Tree
1/4 cup melted butter or margarine  16oz Imperial Vegetable Oil Spread Sticks $1.24 or 8oz Great Value Butter Sticks (2 sticks only) $1.94
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder  8.1oz Great Value Baking Powder $1.98
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract or flavoring  (I general use the Baker’s Imitation Vanilla Flavor, you get 8oz bottle for $2.08) I have never used the Imitation Vanilla Extract from the Dollar Tree, it’s the Supreme Tradition brand and you get 8oz bottle for 1.50 or if you want real vanilla extract  1oz Tone’s for $2.00
1 - 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon  2.5oz Great Value Ground Cinnamon $1.32
1/4 teaspoon salt  26oz Great Value Iodized or Plain Salt .84¢
3 cups old fashioned rolled oats  18oz Great Value Old Fashioned Oats $2.66

To make: butter or margarine an 8x8 inch baking dish and preheat your oven to 350°F. Mix everything except the oats together until well combined. Add your oats and stir. Pour into your prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until it is nicely set.

Note: this can be dry, I have read to allow your oats to soak in the wet mixture for an hour or so, before baking. I have never done this. What I do is serve it with a bottle of maple syrup so if someone finds it dry they can add syrup to offset that.


Here Are Some Suggestions to Serve With Your Main - pick any you desire:
– Breakfast Sausage Links:  6ct Jimmy Dean Heat n’ Serve Sausage Links $1.50 from the Dollar Tree or Walmart has 6.4oz Banquet Brown n’ Serve Sausage Links (about 9-11 links) for 1.78

– Hashbrowns:  4.2oz box of Hungry Jack Hashbrown Potatoes $1.54 or buy them from the Dollar Tree for $1.50

– Bacon:  12oz Great Value Hickory Smoked Sliced Bacon $3.94

– Fruit Cup:  8oz Pampa Mixed Fruit Cup $1.50 from Dollar Tree or you can just do a 15oz can Great Value Chunky Mixed Fruit or Extra Cherry Fruit Mix each for  $1.72

– Bread or Toast with Jam & Butter or Margarine:  7oz Italian Bakery Bread Boule $1.24 or 20oz Great Value Round Top White or Wheat $1.48
16oz Imperial Vegetable Oil Spread Sticks $1.24 or 8oz Great Value Butter Sticks (2 sticks only) $1.94
19oz Pampa Strawberry or Grape Fruit Spread $1.50 each
Bonne Maman Mini Fruit Spread Gift Set, Variety Pack, 5 Pack, 1.76oz each $10.18 from iherb.com


DESSERT 
– Walmart offers a lot of different varieties of 4” mini pies in their bakery section like lemon, cherry, strawberry cream, s'mores, apple, pecan each for 96¢

– 12.4oz 8ct Great Value Cinnamon Rolls with Icing $2.24 or 23oz 8ct Bakery Fresh Cinnamon Rolls $4.78 found in the bakery section

– It could also get a box of 8ct Little Debbie's and flavors like strawberry or lemon for $3.16 

– 14oz Strawberry Cream Danish Pastry $4.48 found in the bakery section
 
– 8” 24oz Marketplace Cherry Pie $5.93 found in the bakery section

– 16ct Lemon Cream Mini Cheesecake Bites $6.47 found in the bakery section

– If you'd also like some whipped topping you can get an 8 oz Tub of Great Value Whipped Topping $1.12 or or you can get the 6.5oz Spray Can of Great Value Whipped Topping for $1.97


BEVERAGES
– Mimosa
Be sure to keep this out of the hands of minors. Please make sure you are legally able to drink alcoholic beverages.

750ml Winemakers Selection Brut White Wine $4.98

When you're looking for a champagne, cheaper is better because the more expensive champagne’s flavor is going to be washed away with the addition of orange juice. If you don't want to use the sparkling white wine I suggested above you can look for a cheap champagne but look for the word brut on the label because that's going to make it a better mimosa. 

Now for your orange juice - a 46 oz container of Simply Light Pulp Free $4.38 or the Simply Orange Pulp Free $4.64.

For your orange juice you do want to pick a higher quality pulp free juice and you never want a juice that is made from concentrate. 

To Make: be sure to chill everything nicely before you go to make your mimosas. I would say a good 3-4 hours would work. Then in a pitcher simply mix one part of your champagne to one part of your orange juice. Stir lightly and it's ready to serve.

If you don't care for alcohol here are a few other suggestions that you could use to serve with this brunch menu. 

– Coffee. 6ct box of Nescafe Tasters Choice House Blend Light Medium Roast Instant Coffee $1.56 or 9.6oz Great Value Colombian Medium Dark Roast Ground Coffee $5.88
– 17oz Sparkling Ice Orange Mango or Strawberry Kiwi $1.00
– 8.4oz Martinell’s Sparking Apple Juice $1.25 from the Dollar Tree

– And finally you could just do orange juice  10oz bottle Tropicana Orange Juice $1.00 or 1gallon SunnyD Smooth Orange Juice drink $3.68

Well I think that covers everything I can think of. I hope you enjoy this brunch menu and have a great Mother’s day!

 

💗 Jo

Easter 2026

 With Easter being just right around the corner I thought I would give you another episode of Pick Your Budget Holidays. Let’s get started. As always I’m using Walmart pricing unless otherwise stated.

SIDES

8.5oz can of Great Value peas and carrots (.67¢)

10oz package Marketside fresh asparagus spears $3.84 (we will be roasted these)
8.5oz Gem extra virgin olive oil ($4.48)
26oz Great Value iodized salt (.84¢)
2oz Supreme Traditional ground black pepper (Dollar Tree - $1.25)
served with melted butter (8oz Great Value salted butter - $1.94)
or melted margarine (16oz Imperial margarine - $1.24)

To make: start by preheating your oven to 400-425°F  then washing and rinsing your asparagus under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat the spears dry because any remaining moisture can steam them rather than sear them. Snap off the woody, tough bottom ends of the asparagus (about 1-2 inches) by bending the spear until it breaks naturally. Of course you can cut off the ends as well, if you desire. You can peel the asparagus if the spears are very thick stalks by using a vegetable peeler. You will only need to peel the bottom half of the spear for a more tender texture. Toss the asparagus with a generous drizzle of olive oil, and liberally sprinkled with salt and pepper. Spread into a single layer without overcrowding the asparagus on a baking sheet. Roast in your oven for 12-15 minutes until tender and lightly browned, tossing or stirring halfway through.


Creamed Peas by Julie Seats and Treats 

1/4 cup butter (8oz Great Value salted butter - $1.94)
1/4 cup flour (2lb bag Great Value flour - $1.32)
2 cups milk (16oz Kemps Select milk - $1.32)
1/2 teaspoon salt (reduce this amount if using salted butter - maybe 1/4 teaspoon – 26oz Great Value iodized salt .84¢)
4 cups frozen peas (32oz bag Great Value frozen sweet peas - $2.48)
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon pepper (2oz Supreme Traditional ground black pepper $1.25 from Dollar Tree)

To make: melt your butter in a medium sized pot over low heat. Once the butter is melted, slowly whisk in your flour. Whisk this until it is smooth. Next add your milk and turn up the heat to medium until this becomes smooth and thickens - be sure to whisk often so this doesn’t burn. Add your peas and salt. With your heat still on medium heat the peas through. Taste and adjust the seasonings if need be.

If you know my family at all, you know we love green bean casserole and make it for every holiday we can possibly make it for. So I am including it here with a twist - the stovetop method.

Green Bean Casserole
2 cans 14.5oz Great Value french style or cut green beans ($1.52 - .76¢ ea),
1-10 1/2oz can of Great Value cream of mushroom soup (.70¢)
bag of Golden Farms crispy fried onions purchased from the Dollar Tree (2.8oz bag for $1.50)

To make: just mix the green beans and the cream of mushroom soup together in a pot on the stovetop. Cook this, stirring often until everything is nice and warm. Sprinkle in a small handful of fried onions and stir. Dish this up into your serving bowl and top with more fried onions.

Note: this method works great but I will tell you that it won’t get that “browned” flavor you get for making it in the oven.


You can do dinner rolls or we love to do a combination of corn muffins and blueberry muffins. That way there is a flavor for everyone.
Dinner Rolls -12ct Great Value brown and serve dinner rolls $1.87
Corn Muffins - 8.5oz box Jiffy corn muffin mix .67¢
Blueberry Muffins - 7oz box Jiffy blueberry muffin mix .98¢
Garlic Herb Biscuits - 8.5oz Harvest Hill garlic herb biscuit mix from Dollar Tree for $1.50

Note: for the corn muffins you will need 1 egg and ⅓ cup milk for the blueberry muffins you'll need 1 egg and ⅓ cup milk and for the cheddar herb biscuits you will need ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese and ¼ cup unsalted butter - or you can use margarine.

Here are the prices:
6 count Great Value eggs - .96¢
16oz Kemps Select milk - $1.32
8oz block (you'll need to shred it) Great Value sharp cheddar cheese $1.87
8oz Great Value salted butter - $1.94 or 16oz Imperial margarine - $1.24

POTATOES & GRAVY

Mashed Potatoes & Pork Gravy
4oz Great Value instant mashed potato pouch $1.00 or 9oz box for $1.26
1.41oz Pioneer roasted pork gravy mix $1.48

Note: if you go with the box of instant potatoes you will need milk, margarine and salt.
16oz Kemps Select milk - $1.32
16oz Imperial margarine - $1.24
26oz Great Value iodized salt .84¢


Au Gratin Potatoes - 4.7oz Great Value Au Gratin Potatoes $1.22

Note: you'll need 2 tablespoons margarine or butter and ½ cup 2% milk (8oz Great Value salted butter - $1.94 or 16oz Imperial margarine - $1.24 and 16oz Kemps Select milk - $1.32)


2 pounds baby potatoes, diced (Yukon Gold or red) 1.5lb bag of fresh red baby potatoes $3.48
4 tablespoons butter (melted) - 8oz Great Value salted butter - $1.94
1/2 teaspoon salt - 26oz Great Value iodized salt .84¢
1/4 teaspoon pepper - 2oz Supreme Traditional ground black pepper from Dollar Tree $1.25

Butter “Gravy”
3 cups potato water - this is the water you used to cook your potatoes, saved from draining them
6 tablespoons butter (melted) - 8oz Great Value salted butter - $1.94

To make: put your diced potatoes into a large pot and cover with water. Add salt (26oz Great Value iodized salt .84¢) to the water and bring your potatoes to a boil. Cook them until they are fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes.) Drain your potatoes and put them into a serving dish. Toss in your melted butter, salt and pepper (2oz Supreme Traditional ground black pepper from Dollar Tree $1.25)

To make: the butter “gravy”: simply pour the melted butter into the saved potato water, mix and serve.

MEAT/MAIN

Deli Ham - 2oz package Carl Buddig ham lunchmeat .83¢ or 9oz tub of Great Value ham lunch meat $3.57

Brown Sugar Glazed Ham Rolls
Deli ham
Brown sugar - 16oz Domino Light Brown Sugar $1.50 from Dollar Tree 
Butter (or margarine) - 8oz Great Value salted butter - $1.94 or 16oz Imperial margarine - $1.24

To make:  Roll ham slices, place in a pan, dot with butter, sprinkle brown sugar. Bake at 350°F for ~10–15 min.


Pork Chops - premium bone in assorted pork chops at Aldi's for $2.49/pound

Note: if you'd like a pork chop recipe please check out Valentine's Day 2026


Pork Lion - premium boneless half lion pork roast 1.89/pound from Aldi's 


Canned Ham - 5oz can of Great Value canned ham $1.52

Pineapple Ham Skillet
Deli ham (chopped)
Canned pineapple (with a little juice) - 20oz Libby’s pineapple tidbits in light syrup $1.50 from Dollar Tree 

To make:  Pan-fry the ham, add pineapple and a splash of juice, cook until slightly caramelized.


Hamsteak - 14oz 2pack Great Value Pork Boneless Cooked Smoked ham $3.97

Ham - Appleton Farms spiral sliced ham $2.19/pound from Aldi's 

Hot Pockets - Probably the cheapest option - 1 4.5oz Hot Pockets Hickory Ham and Cheddar $1.47 or a package of 4 for $4.87

DESSERT

Carrot Cake by Inspired Taste  

2 cups flour, spooned and leveled meaning fluff the flour, spoon it into the measuring cup, then level off the top with a flat edge. 2lb bag Great Value flour - $1.32
2 level teaspoons baking soda - 8oz box Arm & Hammer Baking Soda .87¢
1/2 teaspoon salt - 26oz Great Value iodized salt .84¢
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon - 2.5oz Great Value Kosher Ground Cinnamon $1.32
1 1/4 cups vegetable oil - 16oz bottle Golden Chef vegetable oil $1.50 from Dollar Tree 
1 cup granulated sugar - 1lb box Dominos granulated sugar $1.50 from Dollar Tree 
1 cup lightly packed brown sugar - 16oz Domino Light Brown Sugar $1.50 from Dollar Tree 
1 teaspoon vanilla extract - Great Value Pure Vanilla Extract, 1 fl oz $3.94 or Baker's Kosher Imitation Vanilla Flavor, 8.0 fl oz Bottle $2.08
4 large eggs, at room temperature - 6 count Great Value eggs - .96¢
3 cups grated peeled carrots, 5 to 6 medium carrots - 2lb bag carrots $2.09 from Aldi’s
Optional: 1 cup coarsely chopped pecans - 8oz Southern Grove chopped pecans $3.95 Aldi's 
Optional: 1/2 cup raisins - Great Value Sun-Dried Raisins Carton, 12 oz $2.86

For Creamy Frosting
8 ounces block cream cheese, at room temperature - 8oz Great Value cream cheese $1.56
1 1/4 cups powdered sugar - Great Value Confectioners Powdered Sugar, 32 oz $1.94
1/3 cup cold heavy cream, not plain whipping cream - Great Value Heavy Whipping Cream, 16 oz Carton $2.96
Optional: 1/2 cup  coarsely chopped pecans, for topping cake (see above)
Optional: 2 teaspoons cornstarch - 16oz Bakers Corner pure cornstarch $1.65 from Aldi's 

To make: position your oven rack in the middle then preheat your oven to 350°F. Start by lining the bottom of 2 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper (20sq ft roll $1.50 from Dollar Tree.) Grease the top of your pans or you can simply grease and flour the sides and bottom of both pans if you don’t want to do the parchment paper. In a bowl, whisk your flour, baking soda, salt and cinnamon together. In another bowl, whisk together your oil, sugar, brown sugar and vanilla. Once it's mixed well add one egg at a time and whisk after each one until all eggs are incorporated. Using a rubber spatula add your dry ingredients in three parts, stirring gently until the batter is smooth. Stir in your carrots. And finally your nuts and raisins if using. Divide the batter between your two cake pans and put into your oven for 35-45 minutes. You cake is down when it springs back when touched and a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Leave the cakes in their pans for 15 minutes to cool then carefully turn them out onto cooling racks. If you used parchment paper, remove it now. Allow to cool completely.

Note: if your cakes are sticking to the bottom of the pan, just leave the pans upside down and allow gravity to do its thing.

To frost your cake start by whisking or sifting together your cornstarch and powdered sugar in a medium bowl. Set it aside. Next in a large bowl, beat your cream cheese with your handheld mixer on a medium speed until it becomes whipped, creamy and smooth - about 1-2 minutes. Now turn your mixer to a low speed and add your dry ingredients to the cream cheese, a heaping spoonful at a time until it's thoroughly combined. Add your cold heavy cream and beat on medium to medium high speed for about 2-3 minutes or until it’s creamy and whipped. The frosting should resemble the texture of whipped cream. Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge until you are ready to frost your cake.

Note: if when you add the heavy cream it isn’t whipping, toss your bowl in the refrigerator for 15 minutes and try again.

To assemble your cake start by frosting the top of one cake layer then place the second cake layer on top. Add the frosting to the top of the cake using a butter knife or small spatula. Leave the cake sides unfrosted and finished with a handful of nuts on top if desired.

Angel Food Cake with Berries
14oz Plain Angel Food Ring Cake in the bakery $5.48
Fresh or Frozen Berries - 10oz Great Value Organic Triple Berry Blend $2.98


8inch 24oz Marketside Blueberry Pie $5.93

Mini Blueberry Pies - 4oz Mini Blueberry Pie .96¢

16oz Marketside Blueberry Lemon Streusel Loaf $4.97

Jello - 4 count Jell-O Temptations Lemon Meringue Pie Pudding Cups $2.97


Well I hope you enjoyed this article and as always I will have this available for download at the end of the month. Have a great Easter with your family and drive safely!

💗 Jo

Valentine's Day or Date Night 2026

 Welcome to a Valentine’s Day or Date Night dinner. This is another one in the pick your budget series. Let’s start with an appetizer. Please note all prices are from Walmart unless otherwise noted.

APPETIZERS
1.9oz Lunchables Value Pack $1.00 or
2.4oz Armour Lunchmakers kit $1.00

Note: these have your cheese, meat and crackers. To make it more festive cut the meat and cheese using a mini heart shaped cookie cutter. If you desire, Dollar General has a 12 count Baked With Love mini cookie cutters for $2.40 or just use a knife.

5oz box of Snapps Mozzarella Sticks or Loaded Potato Sticks $1.24 
      Dollar Tree 24oz Conagra Brands Pasta Sauce $1.25 or
      Dollar Tree 8oz Classic Ranch Salad Dressing $1.25

8oz Great Value Flavored Cream Cheese Spread/Dip $1.84 or
7.5oz Philadelphia Flavored Cream Cheese Spread/Dip $3.97
      Dollar Tree has 12oz Global Brands Vegetable Crackers $1.25 or
      Dollar Tree 7oz Monet Crackers (a few varieties) $1.25

10oz Marketside Hummus $2.72 or
8oz TGI Fridays Frozen Spinach Artichoke Dip $4.44
      9.5oz Town House Pita Crackers $3.97

Now that you have picked your appetizer let’s move onto our Main Course.

MAIN COURSE
The cheapest option would be 1 or 2 15oz cans Great Value Spaghetti Rings Pasta with or without Meatballs in Sauce $1.08

Spaghetti with Pink Sauce, Meatballs or Not, Salad and Garlic Herb Biscuits
16oz Great Value Spaghetti .98¢
24oz can Conagra Brand Red Pasta Sauce - Dollar Tree $1.25
14oz Prego White Alfredo Sauce - Dollar Tree $1.25

To make: cook spaghetti according to the directions on the package. In another saucepan mix equal parts marinara and alfredo sauce. Heat the sauce through and serve.

Meatballs if desired - 1lb Mild Pork Italian Style Meatballs - Aldi’s $3.79

4ish ounces Taylor Farms Salad Kit (different varieties available) $1.97
8.5oz Harvest Hill Garlic Herb Biscuits Mix - Dollar Tree $1.25
      Milk 32oz Marcel’s Modern Pantry Shelf Stable 2% Milk Dollar Tree $1.25

Parmesan cheese for pasta topping - Colonna Grated Parmesan Cheese Dollar Tree $1.25

Pork Chops in Creamy Mustard Sauce, Baked Potatoes, Green Beans and Biscuits

Pork Chops
2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard - 12oz Great Value Dijon Mustard $1.62 (you can use regular mustard but it won’t be as flavorful as it is with the Dijon)
¼ cup sour cream - 8oz Great Value Sour Cream $1.24
¼ cup milk - 32oz Marcel’s Modern Pantry Shelf Stable 2% Milk Dollar Tree $1.25
1 tablespoon butter or oil - 8oz Land O Lakes Butter Butter in half sticks $2.57 or 8.5oz GEM Extra Virgin Olive Oil $4.48
Salt and pepper to taste - Everyday Salt and Pepper Shaker Set Dollar Tree $1.25

Optional: 1 teaspoon flour (for thickening) 2lb bag Nancy Jane Flour Dollar Tree $1.25

Optional: pinch garlic or onion powder - 3.25-3.4oz Great Value Garlic or Onion Powder $1.08

Optional: Splash vinegar for brighter flavor - 32oz Old Style White Vinegar Dollar Tree $1.25

Optional: Pinch sugar - helps balance mustard - 1lb Domino Granulated Sugar Dollar Tree $1.25

Optional: A little dried parsley for a restaurant vibe - .4oz Great Value Parsley Flakes $1.08

To make: Cook your pork chops, estimated 2-6 minutes per side. You need an internal temperature of 145 degrees. Remove them and set them aside to rest before serving. Leave the pan on low heat and warm your butter/oil. Add your flour if using and stir together for about 30 seconds. Slowly whisk in milk so it doesn’t clump up. Now stir in the mustard, salt, pepper and any optional seasonings. Simmer this mixture for 2-3 minutes until it thickens and becomes creamy. Remove your mixture from the heat and whisk in your sour cream (if it needs to be heated do so gently without boiling.) Spoon this mixture over the pork chops.

Baked Potatoes - Russet Baking Potato .88¢ a pound with 
Butter - 8oz Land O Lakes Butter in half sticks $2.57
      Whipped  (whipped with your hand mixer) and/or 
      Sour Cream - leftover from your pork chops

Green Beans - 14.5oz can Great Value French Style Green Beans .76¢ or 
    12oz Marketside Fresh Green Beans $2.47

8.5oz Harvest Hill Garlic Herb Biscuits Mix - Dollar Tree $1.25
      Milk - 32oz Marcel’s Modern Pantry Shelf Stable 2% Milk Dollar Tree $1.25

CopyCat Long John Silver’s Fish or Shrimp with Hushpuppies and Homemade French Fries by RecreATE by Sarah
Fish - 1lb Great Value Cod Skinless Fillets $8.43 and/or 
Shrimp - 12oz Great Value Frozen Extra Large Shrimp $6.96
1 ¾ cup flour - 2lb bag Nancy Jane Flour Dollar Tree $1.25
2 tablespoons cornstarch - 16oz Great Value Cornstarch $1.92
¼ teaspoon baking soda - 8oz box Arm & Hammer Baking Soda .87¢
1 teaspoon salt - 26oz Great Value Iodized Salt .76¢
1 cup club soda - 33.8oz Great Value Club Soda .97¢
Add a pinch of each of the following:
    Paprika - 2.5oz Great Value Paprika $1.08
    Garlic Powder - 3.4oz Great Value Garlic Powder $1.08
    Onion powder - 3.25oz Great Value Onion Powder $1.08
             Oil for frying - 16oz Golden Chef Vegetable Oil Dollar Tree $1.25

To make: sift together the flour, cornstarch and baking soda. Add in your seasoning and mix well. Finally add the club soda and whisk everything together. Season your fish with salt and pepper then coat in the batter (if using shrimp simply coat the shrimp in the batter.) Place your battered fish or shrimp into a deep pan that has plenty of oil in it heated to 320 degrees. If you don’t have a thermometer drop a small pinch of batter into the oil - when it sizzles, bubbles and floats to the top your oil is ready.

Hush Puppies
½ cup flour - 2lb bag Nancy Jane Flour Dollar Tree $1.25
½ cup plus 1 tablespoon cornmeal - 35.27oz PAN White Cornmeal $2.87
½ teaspoon plus ⅛ teaspoon baking powder - 8.1oz Great Value Baking Powder $1.98
¾ teaspoon sugar - 1lb Domino Granulated Sugar Dollar Tree $1.25
1 teaspoon onion powder - 3.25oz Great Value Onion Powder $1.08
1 teaspoon garlic powder - 3.4oz Great Value Garlic Powder $1.08
2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons onion, minced - Whole Fresh Yellow Onion .85¢lb
½ large egg (crack into a bowl and whisk until perfectly combined. Then measure it and          half that amount.) 6ct Great Value Large Eggs $1.13
½ cup milk- 32oz Marcel’s Modern Pantry Shelf Stable 2% Milk Dollar Tree $1.25

To make: mix together the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder and minced onion. In another bowl add your half egg and the milk, mix well. Mix your milk and egg mixture into your other bowl and mix well. Drop about 1 ½ - 2 tablespoons of this batter into the oil heated to 320 degrees. Cook the hushpuppies until golden brown.

12oz Great Value Tarter Sauce $1.52 or Copycat Long John Silvers Tarter Sauce
½ cup mayo - 15oz Great Value Mayonnaise $2.12
½ cup finely chopped pickles - 17oz Breckenridge Farms Hamburger Dill Pickle Chips Dollar Tree $1.25
A pinch of black pepper - 2oz Spice Time Ground Black Pepper Dollar Tree $1.25
½ teaspoon lemon juice - 17oz Riverton Orchards Lemon Juice Dollar Tree $1.25
1 cup sugar - 1lb Domino Granulated Sugar Dollar Tree $1.25

To make: simply mix everything together and stir well.

Homemade French Fries - Russet Baking Potato .88¢ a pound 

To make: wash and peel the potatoes if desired (I never peel my potatoes.) Cut the potatoes into evenly sized strips, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Uniform size ensures even cooking. Place the cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water as you cut them and then soak for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps make the fries crispier. Drain and pat dry thoroughly with a clean towel or paper towels. Pour enough oil into a large heavy-bottomed pot to submerge the fries. Heat the oil to about 325 degrees for the first fry. First Fry - fry the potatoes in batches for about 3-4 minutes until they are soft but not browned. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Let them cool slightly; this step helps achieve crispiness later. Increase the oil temperature to 375 degrees. Fry the potatoes again in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels. Immediately season with salt or other seasonings and serve.
        Salt for seasoning - 26oz Great Value Iodized Salt .76¢

DRINK - next we need to select a drink to have with our dinner.
8.4oz Martinelli’s Sparkling Cider Dollar Tree $1.25 or

25.4oz Welch’s Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Juice Cocktail (various Flavors) $2.00 or

Cranberry Ginger Ale:
2 liter bottle Great Value Ginger Ale $1.00
64oz Great Value Cranberry Cocktail $2.64

To Make: simply mix 50% Ginger Ale with 50% Cranberry Cocktail.

Note: Be sure to chill any drink before serving.

DESSERT - finally let’s move on to dessert.
4” Chocolate Eclair Pie .96¢ or
5.75oz Marketside Chocolate Creamy Mousse Cup $2.98 or
    5.41oz Edwards Frozen Singles Dessert Pie (2pack) $3.74 or
12count Mini Cupcakes in the bakery aisle $4.48
    8oz Great Value Frozen Whipped Topping $1.12 or
    6.5oz can Great Value Whipped Topping $1.97 - to make a pretty presentation

Add-Ons
Salt and pepper shakers for the table - Everyday Salt and Pepper Shaker Set Dollar Tree         $1.25
Butter - 8oz Land O Lakes Butter Butter in half sticks $2.57

Have an amazing evening! 

You can download the PDF file of this, here. 

💗 Jo

New Year's 2025

This is a bonus article for New Year’s - it can be New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day. My family celebrates on the eve and we always have chili so that’s what I’m going to do - a New Year’s Pick Your Budget.

So let’s start with an appetizer, I have picked two or possibly three.
16oz bag of Frozen Onion Rings $3.42

5oz box of Snapps Frozen Mozzarella Cheese Sticks $1.24 (probably enough for one person) or 17.4oz box $4.96

You could also do garlic bread sticks as an appetizer or serve it with your chili.

10.5oz (about 6) Frozen Garlic Bread Sticks $1.97 or
3.02oz (1) Stuffed Bread with Cheese $1.25 from the Dollar Tree

24oz can of Pasta Sauce (garlic & herb - my favorite) for $1.25 from Dollar Tree (used for dipping the appetizers in)

Now onto the Main Dish - Chili:
15 oz can of Southgate chili with beans from the Dollar Tree for a $1.25

How about Five Can Chili for $5.24
15.5oz can kidney beans (.86¢)
15.5oz can pinto beans (.86¢)
15oz can black beans (.86¢)
14.5oz can diced tomatoes (.96¢)
15oz can tomato sauce (.96¢)
1 packet chili seasoning (.74¢)

To make: simply mix everything together making sure to dump the can of beans directly into your pot without draining them. Bring everything to a boil and then let simmer so that the spices can marinate with the beans.


Our Family Chili $21.09-$24.57
3-15oz cans tomato sauce (.96¢)
2 cans water
large red onion, diced ($1.34/pound)
1lb ground beef 80/20 ($6.83)
4 tablespoons chili powder (3oz bottle $1.24 or 2.5oz jar $1.00 from Dollar General)
2 tablespoon salt (26oz Iodized Salt .78¢)
1teaspoon garlic powder (3.4oz bottle $1.24 or 3.12oz jar $1.00 from Dollar General)
1teaspoon onion powder (3.25oz bottle $1.24 or 2.62oz jar $1.00 from Dollar General)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (2oz bottle $2.08)
Sprinkle pinch cayenne (2.25oz bottle $3.77 or 2.25oz jar $1.25 from Dollar Tree)
½ teaspoon oregano (.87oz bottle $1.24 or .75oz jar $1.00 from Dollar General)
1 teaspoon beef bouillon (3.75oz jar of beef bouillon powder $1.93)

Now for Dessert:
No Bake Cheesecake Mix $3.26 & 6oz - 9” Graham Cracker Crust $1.25 from Dollar Tree

16oz Rainbow Sherbet $1.87

10.25oz Betty Crocker Fudge Brownie Mix $1.08

Add-Ins & Other Items You May Want or Need:
20oz Frozen Pepper and Onion Blend $2.84
15oz can of Whole Kernel Corn .76¢
1lb 80/20 ground beef $6.83 or substitute with 1lb ground turkey $1.98
8.5oz Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix .67¢ (use just an egg and water - no milk needed)
16oz (4 sleeves) box of Saltine Crackers $1.84 or 8oz (2 sleeves) from Dollar Tree for $1.25
12oz bag Oyster Crackers for $1.25 from the Dollar Tree
8oz Block Cheddar Cheese $1.87 or 8oz Shredded Cheddar $1.97
9.25oz Corn Chips $1.97 or 9.25oz bag of Fritos $4.48
8oz container Sour Cream $1.24
11.9oz bottle of LaBotanna Clasica Hot Sauce $1.12
6ct Eggs $1.13
12oz Anderson Erickson To Go 2% Milk $1.17 or Shelf Stable 2% Milk $1.25 from Dollar Tree
16oz bottle Vegetable Oil $1.25 from Dollar Tree 

You can turn any chili into Frito Pie by using Corn Chips in the bottom of your bowl and adding your chili on top.

Add the pepper and onions and/or the can of corn to your chili to bulk it up if you desire.

Well I think that does it… I hope you have a great New Year’s Eve and Day! Be safe if you are traveling and I hope to see you in 2026!

 

💗 Jo

 

Christmas 2025

It seems we just finished up Thanksgiving and now Christmas is here! All the shopping for gifts and decorating of the tree can bring much stress to what should be a joyous time of year. This time of year becomes even more stressful when you look at the cost of groceries as you contemplate your Christmas dinner. 

For as far back as I can remember we have always had some kind of a beef roast at Christmas time. I am going to try my best to give you some old and some new ideas for your Christmas holiday celebration - one that hopefully won’t require you to take out a second mortgage on your house.

Like I did with the Thanksgiving Dinner article, let’s start with some sides (all prices from Walmart unless otherwise stated).

SIDES

Green Bean Casserole
for my family, no holiday is complete without it. $3.45 (you can look at the Thanksgiving page linked above for more details.)

Creamed Spinach 
10oz bag frozen spinach thawed and drained of as much liquid as possible ($1.24)
2 tablespoons margarine/butter *
2 minced garlic cloves *
1/2 cup heavy cream (or you can whole milk for a lighter sauce version *)  ($2.96 from Walmart)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (2.5oz bottle $1.25 from Dollar Tree)
Salt and pepper to taste *

To make: melt your margarine/butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted add your garlic and saute it for 1 minute. Add your cream/milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Add your spinach (which you may need to tough chop) and stir. Add your cheese, salt and pepper. Allow to simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring often. It will thicken and become creamy when finished.

To make this extra rich you could add a tablespoon of cream cheese when you add the cream.

My Hubby’s Families Scalloped Corn
1 can creamed corn (14.75oz can for .76¢)
1 egg *
About ⅓ cup sour cream (8oz container for $1.24)
½ cup cheddar cheese (8oz bag shredded for $1.97)
12ish saltine crackers (used to bind this together so if you need more or less that's fine) (8oz box for $1.25 from Dollar Tree or 16oz box for $1.84 from Walmart)

To make: start by lightly greasing an 8”x8” casserole dish. Dump everything into a bowl and mix before adding it to the casserole dish. Bake at 350 degrees for 45-60 minutes or till golden brown.

If you desire you can add more cheese to the top of this when about 15 minutes remains.

Note: this recipe is easily adjustable. You can add a second can of creamed corn or regular corn if you desire. I would probably increase the sour cream by a ¼ cup per additional can as well as a few more saltines. And of course you can always add more cheese if you desire.

Roasted Carrots
1-2lbs. fresh carrots - I like to use baby carrots (1lb package $1.37)
1-2 tablespoons olive oil *
Salt and pepper to taste *
Optional: you can add additional things like parsley, thyme and/or rosemary, garlic or honey - I like honey (1-2 tablespoons and a little thyme, something like ¼-½ teaspoon. *)

To make: wash and peel your regular carrots (all you need to do is wash the baby carrots if that's what you decide to use.) Cut your regular carrots in ½” thickness rounds (again most baby carrots won't need to be cut just the biggest of them - you just want them uniform in size for even cooking. Place the carrots on a baking sheet and drizzle with oil, tossing to coat. Next sprinkle on salt and pepper as well as any additional spices or herbs you'd like. Arrange seasoned carrots in a single uncrowded way and put in a preheated 425 degree oven. Bake for 20-30 minutes only turning the carrots once halfway through their cook time. Baby carrots may take more or less time to cook, so keep an eye on them. You'll know when they are done when they are tender and slightly caramelized at the edges. If you desire, garnish with some honey before serving.

Sweet Potato Casserole
1 ½ pounds peeled sweet potatoes - cut into chunks (.82¢/lb)
¼ cup milk *
¼ cup brown sugar *
1 large egg *
½ teaspoon vanilla extract or flavoring (8oz bottle of flavoring $1.92 or 1oz bottle of extract $3.94)  
2 tablespoons margarine/butter melted *
⅓ teaspoon salt *

For topping: simply mix together until crumbly
½ cup flour (5lb bag for $2.38 from Walmart or 2lb bag for $1.25 from Dollar Tree)
½ cup brown sugar *
4 tablespoons margarine/butter melted *
½ cup pecans chopped (optional) (4oz bag for $3.47)

To make: put your prepared potatoes into a large pot and cover them with water. Bring this to a boil. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. Drain them well before washing them until they are smooth. Drain well and mash until smooth. In a large bowl combine milk, margarine, sugar, egg, vanilla, salt and mashed sweet potatoes. Again mix till smooth. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, milk, melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, and salt. Mix until smooth. Spread into a greased 8”x 10” baking dish. Sprinkle the mixed together topping on top and bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes or until set and golden brown.

For added sweetness you can add a handful or two of mini marshmallows to the top 10 minutes before it's done. (10oz bag for .97¢)

Dinner Rolls 12oz - 12ct brown and serve for $1.38)

POTATOES & GRAVY

My Mom’s Company Mashed Potatoes
12 servings mashed potatoes (follow the instructions on potato box but omit 1 cup of water) 9oz box for $1.26)
Add 8oz sour cream (8oz container for $1.24)
8oz cream cheese (8oz block for $1.56)
Dash of onion salt to the potatoes *

Mix well and pour into a greased 9x12 pan. Bake for 45 minutes at 350 degrees or until golden brown on top.

Roasted Smashed Potatoes
1 ½ pounds small potatoes like Yukon gold or baby red (3lbs bag of yellow for $2.48 or 3lbs bag for $2.54)
2-3 tablespoons olive oil *
1 teaspoon salt (to taste) *
½ teaspoon black pepper *
½ teaspoon garlic powder *
½ teaspoon dried rosemary or thyme *
Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for topping and optional fresh chopped parsley for garnish (Parmesan bottle 2.5oz $1.25 from Dollar Tree)

To make: Wash your potatoes before adding them to a large pot and cover with cold water. Put a generous pinch of salt into the water. Bring your potatoes to a boil and cook them for 15-20 minutes or until they are fork tender. Drain your potatoes and set them aside to cool for 5-10 minutes to make for easier handling. Arrange them on a parchment lined baking sheet and gently press down, flattening each potato to about ½” in thickness using a glass or potato masher. Drizzle on your oil followed by your seasonings. If you are using Parmesan cheese, put it on and roast your potatoes in a preheated 425 degree oven for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and crisp around the edges. Once done, remove from the oven and garnish if using.

Note: if you would like your smashed potatoes extra crispy, flip them halfway through your cooking time. You can also add other toppings to your potatoes like crumbled bacon bites  (2.5oz bag for $1.94) or a dollop of sour cream (8oz container for $1.24).

Mashed Potatoes
4oz package instant mashed potato pouch $1.00 (makes 4-½ cup servings) made with water

9oz box of instant mashed potatoes $1.26 (makes 12-½ cup servings) made with water

5lb bag of russet potatoes $3.84 can be made simply with butter/margarine and milk or add other things like garlic powder, sour cream, salt, pepper, etc.

Gravy - package Pioneer Brown Gravy $1.25 from the Dollar Tree (it makes 2 cups of gravy) or Walmart has a brown gravy mix that makes 1 cup for .48¢) or get a 12oz jar of beef flavored gravy from Walmart for $1.47.

Or you can make your own Beef Gravy
2 cups low sodium beef broth (32oz carton for $1.50)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter/margarine *
2 tablespoons flour *
½ teaspoon garlic powder *
½ teaspoon onion powder *
½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce *
Salt and black pepper to taste *

To make: melt your margarine in a saucepan over medium heat. Add your flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes. When it is golden and bubbly it is ready for your broth. Slowly add while again continuously whisking (this prevents lumps.) Add your seasonings and Worcestershire sauce while still whisking until it comes to a simmer. Let your gravy gently simmer for 3-5 minutes, frequently stirring, while it thickens.

Note: if you want a richer flavored gravy you can use a splash or two of heavy cream. If you want a darker colored gravy, simply cook the margarine/flour mixture (called a roux) a little longer before adding your broth. And finally you can add dried herbs, like rosemary or thyme, for extra flavor.

MEAT/MAIN

Although beef is expensive I'm going to start with a traditional beef roast before I move into some cheaper options.

Chuck Roast $6.99/lb with the average cost being $15.73 at Walmart.

Aldi's has a steakhouse seasoned chuck roast for $6.99/lb as well which might be a better option if you don't have a lot of spices and herbs on hand but like a seasoned roast. The average cost at Aldi’s is $16.43.

Note: the internet says to budget ½-1lb raw meat per person with 8ozs being the standard amount.

Both Walmart and Aldi’s offer beef roast kits. These come with vegetables like potatoes, carrots, celery and onion. They also have a seasoning packet included. But these kits are for a smaller family size.

Aldi's beef roast kit is $14.29. It has approximately 20ozs of meat in the kit.

Walmart has a little bit larger kit with about 32ozs of meat for $19.97

Now for some cheaper options - differently not traditional but…

18.5oz can of Progresso beef pot roast with veggies soup ($1.98) over instant mashed potato pouch $1.00 (makes 4-½ cup servings)

Or you could do a 20oz can of Dinty Moore ($3.57) and refrigerator biscuits - 10ct for .97¢

4.8oz El Monterrey steak, cheese and rice burrito for $1.50 from the Dollar General or you could do 32oz-8ct bag frozen beef and bean burritos for $3.82 (tho I do think they are ground beef)

Box of frozen country fried beef steak patties & gravy which has 5-4oz patties for $7.87

30oz box of Stouffer’s frozen beef enchiladas $9.84 - this claims to serve four people

Steak-umms from the Dollar Tree for $3.00 a box and make French dip sandwiches (6ct Ciabatta rolls for $3.98) served with a 1oz packet of au jus for .98¢

How about a 9oz Hormel Complete Dinner beef pot roast ($2.28) served over rice (1lb bag for .88¢ (brown rice) to .92¢ (white rice)

10oz package Hereford roast beef with gravy pouch ($4.02) served as a hot beef commercial sandwich with bread (20oz loaf for $1.42) and instant mashed potato pouch $1.00 (makes 4-½ cup servings). You may need an extra gravy packet (.87oz brown gravy packet for .48¢)

15oz Hormel Square Table Slow Simmered Beef Roast Au Jus and Savory Sauce $10.64 (says it will serve 3 with 5ozs meat and sauce)

7oz Banquet beef pot pie $1.00 or an 11oz Marie Callender slow roasted beef pot roast bowl with vegetables and gravy for $2.76
You could also do a beef luncheon meat like a 2oz package of Carl Buddig for .83¢ or a 7oz package of roast beef lunchmeat for $4.24. You can use the slices and serve with any of the above sides or make a sandwich if you desire.

You can purchase a 12oz can of roast beef for $3.94

How about a 7oz Hickory Farms Beef Summer Sausage for $4.96

Or a 15oz package of all beef Beef Frank Hot Dogs for $4.48

A 11oz Banquet Salisbury Streak Frozen Dinner for $1.87

And finally you could do a 5.6oz beef flavored Pasta Skillet Dinner for $1.28 with a package of 80/20 Ground Beef & Pork Blend for $3.97

DESSERTS

Cherry or Apple Cobbler
8.5oz box of cobbler mix from the Dollar Tree for $1.25 and a 15oz can of cherry or apple pie filling for the Dollar Tree (you will need 4 tablespoons butter or margarine to make this)

No Bake Cheesecake from Dollar Tree Dinners
Soften 1-8oz block of cream cheese (8oz block for $1.56) to room temp. Once softened, cream it with a hand mixer. Slowly whip in 1 cup cold milk (32oz container shelf stable whole milk $1.25 from Dollar Tree.) When fully incorporated add a box of pudding (I’m picking 2.55oz box Snickers pudding for $1.25 from Dollar Tree - but of course you can choose any flavor you desire) and whip for 3-4 minutes. Pour this into a graham cracker crust (6oz-9” crust for $1.25 from Dollar Tree) and refrigerate until set (at least 2 hours)

Remember: you will need an additional 2 cups of milk to make your pudding

Gingerbread Truffles from StrawberryMoonHomestead
2 ½ cups gingerbread cookies - crushed (14oz box gingerbread cookie mix for $1.98 - you will need margarine or butter and an egg)
5oz cream cheese (8oz block for $1.56)
1 teaspoon cinnamon (2.37oz bottle for $1.00 from Dollar General)
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (1.5oz bottle for $2.46)
¼ teaspoon ground cloves (2oz bottle for $2.27)
8oz white chocolate chips (12oz Nestle Premier $3.97)

To make: crush your cookies into powder. Make a dough by combining spices, cream cheese and cookie powder. Roll into balls and chill for 30 minutes. Melt your chocolate in 30 second intervals in the microwave until melted. Roll your balls in the chocolate until fully coated. Place on a parchment lined baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes.

Bonus: Christmas isn’t complete without Eggnog, here’s a simple recipe from AllRecipes.Com 

4 ⅔ cups low-fat milk *
4 large eggs beaten (6ct $1.13 or 12ct $1.74)
6 tablespoons sugar *
2 teaspoons vanilla extract or flavoring (8oz bottle of flavoring $1.92 or 1oz bottle of extract $3.94)  
2 dashes ground nutmeg (1.5oz bottle for $2.46)

To make: blend everything together until well combined and chill in the fridge before serving.

Note: this says it makes six servings. If you want an alcoholic spike just add brandy or rum. 

Or you can just purchase 1 quart Kemps Eggnog for $3.87

*Prices of Things Mentioned*

20sq ft roll of Parchment Paper 1.50 from Dollar Tree (or 50sq ft for $2.96 from Walmart)
Sugar 1lb box $1.25 from Dollar Tree or 4lbs for $3.07 from Walmart
2oz Black Pepper $1.25 from Dollar Tree
32oz container shelf stable whole milk $1.25 from Dollar Tree or 1/2 gallon milk $1.82 or a gallon for $3.02 at Walmart
6oz honey $1.25 from Dollar Tree 
2lb flour $1.25 from Dollar Tree or 5lb bag for $2.38 from Walmart
16oz Imperial Margarine $1.24
16oz Country Crook Butter $3.98
26oz Salt .76¢
Fresh Garlic Bulb .72¢ ea or 3ct bag for $1.74
Eggs 6ct $1.13 or 12ct $1.74
32oz bag Brown Sugar $1.97
Garlic powder 3.4oz $1.24 Walmart or 3.12oz $1.00 Dollar General
1.4oz dried thyme $2.78
3.25oz onion powder $1.24
10oz Worcestershire sauce $1.12
17oz olive oil  $6.12
dried rosemary (couldn't find this - must be sold out)
onion salt (wasn't available - but you can make your own using 1 part onion powder and 2-3 parts fine salt)

After seeing the roast prices I may try to make a new tradition of serving Swedish Meatballs. This recipe will cost anywhere from $17.34 to $ 27.52 depending on the options you select. Here’s the recipe I’m thinking of using:

SWEDISH MEATBALLS from Like Mother Like Daughter
¼ cup butter/margarine (16oz Imperial Margarine $1.24 or 16oz Country Crook Butter $3.98)
¼ cup flour (2lb flour $1.25 from Dollar Tree)
2 cups beef broth (32oz container for $1.50 or if money is very tight you could do a 14.5oz can for .82¢ and just use 1.5oz water)
¾ cup heavy cream (16oz container for $2.96)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (10oz Worcestershire sauce $1.12)
1 teaspoon salt (to taste) (.76¢)
½ teaspoon black pepper (to taste) (2oz Black Pepper $1.25 from Dollar Tree)
About 30 meatballs (recipe below)

MY HUBBY’S MEATBALLS - makes about 30 meatballs
1lb 80/20 ground beef ($5.98)
1lb 90/10 ground pork (1.5lb tray of 85% / 15% for $5.37 - this was the cheapest at Walmart) 
15oz container breadcrumbs (15oz container for $1.22)
2 eggs (Eggs 6ct $1.13)
½ teaspoon garlic powder or for an Italian flare replace the garlic powder for Italian seasoning. (Garlic powder 3.12oz $1.00 Dollar General)

Note: I’m going to use 2lbs of 80% / 20% ground beef and pork blend for $3.97/lb

To make: start by making and frying your meatballs. Set your meatballs aside when cooked. To make your sauce start by melting margarine in a pan. When melted, whisk in flour until clumpy. Continue to cook and stir until this roux starts to turn brown then add your broth and cream while you continue to whisk. Finally stir in salt, pepper and Worcestershire sauce. Add your meatballs and reduce your temperature. Let this simmer for 5-10 minutes. You can serve these with egg noodles (16oz package $1.62), rice (1lb bag for .88¢ (brown rice) to .92¢ (white rice) or mashed potatoes (4oz package instant mashed potato pouch $1.00.)

Well I think that covers everything I have for ideas about Christmas dinner. I hope you have enjoyed this. I wish you and your family the best holiday ever! Be grateful for each other as I am for having you here!

 💗 Jo

 

 

 

Thanksgiving 2025

 Thanksgiving is right around the corner! So I thought I would help you come up with a budget-friendly option for Thanksgiving dinner. Whether you're feeding one person or 10 people this menu plan is adjustable, hence pick your budget. Of course due to your budget constraints this may not be a traditional Thanksgiving dinner exactly.

Let's start with a list of prices so we can start mixing and matching based on what we need for our family size and our budget. All prices are from Walmart unless otherwise stated.

Sides
Green bean casserole costs $3.47 for two cans 14.5oz green beans ($1.52 - .76¢ ea), 1-10 1/2oz can of cream of mushroom soup (.70¢), and a bag of crispy fried onions purchased from the Dollar Tree (2.8oz bag for $1.25.)

15.5oz can of candied yam ($1.57) can just be warmed up or you can add things like brown sugar, butter or margarine, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, marshmallows, etc.

6oz box turkey stuffing (.97¢) can be made with water or chicken stock/bouillon

14oz can cranberry sauce ($1.66)

15oz can of corn (.76¢) maybe add some butter/margarine

Box of mac and cheese (.58¢) often made with milk and butter/margarine

12count Brown and serve dinner rolls ($1.38) served with butter/margarine


Potatoes & Gravy
Package instant mashed potato pouch $1.00 (makes 4-½ cup servings) made with water

9oz box of instant mashed potatoes $1.26 (makes 12-½ cup servings) made with water

5lb bag of russet potatoes $3.84 can be made simply with butter/margarine and milk or add other things like garlic powder, sour cream, salt, pepper, etc.

Package turkey gravy mix .67¢ each (it makes 1 cup) made with water

Or you could choose to purchase 2lb bag flour from the Dollar Tree for $1.25 and make 
homemade gravy from the turkey drippings. (Sorry but I won’t be explaining how to make gravy.)


Meat/Main 
Turkey pot pie $1.00 ea 

9oz package of turkey lunch meat for $3.57 

whole turkey for .77¢/lb with the average weight being 14 ½ pounds costing $11.17 (from Aldi’s) 

or you could do a rotisserie flavored turkey tenderloin 24oz for $7.69 (again from Aldi’s.)


Dessert
8oz whipped cream ($1.98)

8” pumpkin pie ($5.23) 

or the 4” mini pumpkin pies for .84¢ each.


Prices of Things Mentioned
32oz brown sugar ($2.22)
16oz margarine ($1.24)
16oz salted or unsalted dairy free butter ($3.48)
16oz sweet cream salted butter ($3.67)
Half gallon milk ($1.64)
8oz sour cream ($1.24)
3.4oz garlic powder ($1.24)
2.5oz ground cinnamon ($1.32)
1.5oz ground nutmeg ($2.46)
26oz iodized salt (.76¢)
2oz ground black pepper ($1.25) purchased at the Dollar Tree
10oz bag mini marshmallows (.97¢)
14.5oz chicken broth (.82¢)

Although I have tried to think of all the things you might need, I don’t know your family traditions so don’t forget to add those prices also. It's also a good idea to check the backs of boxes and pouches to see what they suggest you need.


Note: for bone-in turkey the suggestion is to budget 1 to 1 ½ pounds per person and ½ to 3/4lb for bone-less.


Okay now let’s look at what and how we could put together for our Thanksgiving dinner…

The cheapest possible option would be one or two turkey pot pies per person ($1-2.00)

Now let’s say hubby and I plan to have a pot pie each but we both want mashed potatoes and gravy. Now the cost would be $3.67.

Oh and it wouldn’t be Thanksgiving without pumpkin pie with whipped cream. Now our cost is $7.33

What if we are planning to have a third person for dinner… pot pies may not be the way to go so I would opt for the turkey lunch meat and make pinwheels out of them. You could stuff them with the stuffing made with water and maybe cover them with gravy (2packets.) I would also serve green bean casserole and 3 mini pumpkin pies without whipped cream. The total cost would be $11.87.

Now let’s look at the cost of a full on Thanksgiving dinner for nine people. A whole turkey, 2 batches of green bean casserole, 2 cans yams, 3 boxes of stuffing, 1 can cranberry sauce, 3 cans corn, 3 boxes Mac and cheese, 1 package dinner rolls, bag of potatoes, flour to make gravy, 8” pie and whipped cream… totals $43.52. And this doesn't include the milk, butter or margarine, brown sugar, etc. 

So as you can see your Thanksgiving dinner can cost anywhere from a dollar or two; or upwards of $50.00 - you pick.

Here are a few more ideas for Thanksgiving meal ideas:

Use frozen ground turkey ($1.98):
turkey meatloaf
turkey chili
Turkey stew made with canned diced potatoes, green beans, etc.
shepard’s pie
    homemade turkey pot pie with canned diced potatoes and vegetables
    turkey patties made with egg and instant mashed potato flakes - shallow fried

9oz package of turkey lunch meat for $3.57
    hot turkey sandwich with mashed potatoes and gravy

Serve a rotisserie chicken for $5.97

Or get a 10lb bag chicken leg quarters for $8.47

Or a whole chicken for $1.46 a pound

The list could go on and on if you just get creative!


If you just want a simple solution to your Thanksgiving meal, check to see if your store offers a “Thanksgiving Meal Deal.” Here are a few I found:

Aldi’s: $40.00 for 10 people
Walmart: $40.00 for 10 people
Target: $20.00 for 4 people
Amazon: $25.00 for 5 people

Just be sure to read what you're getting and add any additional items you would need to purchase.

Before I go I’d like to give you a couple of recipes you can use for your Thanksgiving Dinner or use them the next day to help use up your leftovers.

Best Of Thanksgiving Casserole by Rebecca from Dollar Tree Dinners
4 cups instant mashed potatoes made per the instructions but replacing one cup of chicken broth for one cup of water 
Milk
Margarine/butter
Salt and pepper
1 can french cut green beans or you could make green bean casserole
2 cans turkey* or chicken - be sure to shred this well so you get a piece in every bite
(drain but save the juice you’ll be using it in the stuffing)
1-2 packages roasted turkey gravy made with water
4.5oz package cranberries - soaked in a little hot water to help re-concentrate them a bit   
           - I’d say 15-20 minutes will do. Drain them.
Box of turkey stuffing - made by replacing equal amounts of water for turkey can juice 
and remaining chicken broth and margarine/butter

To assemble the casserole:
Add your prepared mashed potatoes to the bottom of a large casserole dish (8”x13”)
Add drained green beans or your prepared green bean casserole as the next layer
Next put your two cans of shredded drained turkey or chicken
Your fourth layer is the prepared gravy
The final layer is your prepared turkey stuffing with re-hydrated cranberries stirred in
Top this with a dozen or so thin pats of margarine/butter
    Bake this at 400 degrees for about 30 minutes

Shopping List
13.75oz box instant mashed potatoes ($1.88)
16oz margarine ($1.24)
Half gallon milk ($1.64)
26oz iodized salt (.76¢)
2oz ground black pepper ($1.25) purchased at the Dollar Tree
14.5oz chicken broth (.82¢)
2-14.5oz cans green beans ($1.52 - .76¢ ea)
1-10 1/2oz can of cream of mushroom soup (.70¢)
bag of crispy fried onions purchased from the Dollar Tree (2.8oz bag for $1.25)
2 cans of turkey from the Dollar Tree ($2.50) or 12.5oz can chunk chicken ($2.97)
2 packages turkey gravy mix ($1.34 - .67¢ea)
6oz box turkey stuffing (.97¢)
6oz sweetened dried cranberries ($1.96)
TOTAL: $17.83 with turkey or $18.30 with chicken


Turkey Burgers or Turkey Steaks
Make 4oz patties (burgers) from your frozen ground turkey meat or larger 6-8oz patties (steaks) and fry them with a tablespoon or two vegetable oil to prevent sticking if needed.

Make your stuffing per the box instructions (you can chicken broth or water which ever you prefer)

Cook your french fries per the instructions or you could use instant mashed potatoes (I would use the potatoes with the turkey steaks - but that’s me)

Prepare your gravy using water

To assemble:
Fry your burgers or steaks
Toast your buns for the burgers - the steak doesn’t need a bun
Put a scoop of prepared stuffing on top of the burger 
or you prepared mashed potatoes on the steak
Add your cooked french fries on top of the stuffing - 
i wouldn’t put them on the steak but you do you
Top everything with gravy
Put the bun top on your turkey burger

These are just suggestions - you can serve everything on the side if you wish

And I would have to make green bean casserole for a side dish cause I LOVE green bean casserole!

Shopping List
1lb. frozen ground turkey ($1.98)
16oz bottle vegetable oil ($1.25) purchased from the Dollar Tree
1-2 packages turkey gravy mix ($1.34 - .67¢ea)
16oz margarine ($1.24)
14.5oz chicken broth (.82¢)
6oz box turkey stuffing (.97¢)
32oz bag french fries* ($2.97) I’d pick a thicker cut fry verses a thinner cut one
8ct package hamburger buns ($1.43)
2-14.5oz cans green beans ($1.52 - .76¢ ea)
1-10 1/2oz can of cream of mushroom soup (.70¢)
2.8oz bag of crispy fried onions purchased from the Dollar Tree ($1.25)
    TOTAL: $14.00 with Dollar Tree fries or $15.47 with Walmart fries

* Sometimes you can get cans of turkey at the Dollar Tree especially around Thanksgiving. And you can sometimes get french fries if your Dollar Tree has a freezer case.

Well I think that covers Thanksgiving! I'm so happy and grateful you stopped by and have a wonderful Thanksgiving with your family and friends.

💗 Jo