65 Cheap Wedding Reception Food Ideas On A Budget

Wedding bells and tight budgets often ring together. As you plan your special day, one of the biggest challenges can be creating a wedding reception menu that satisfies your taste buds without emptying your wallet. But fear not, because “affordable” doesn’t have to mean “uninspired” or “bland”. Whether you’re a foodie at heart or just seeking practical solutions, this blog post aims to help you discover 65 amazing, yet cheap and budget-friendly, food ideas for your wedding reception. We’ve got you covered with everything from tantalizing appetizers to satisfying main courses, and from delightful desserts to refreshing beverages.

6 Cheap And Budget-Friendly Wedding Reception Catering Options

For many couples, wedding catering can seem like a huge expense. And most often than not, it is. Fear not! We’re going to explore budget friendly food and wedding catering ideas that are cheap but don’t compromise on taste or elegance.

1. Buffet Style: A Budget-Friendly Wedding Reception

A buffet-style reception is a fantastic way to offer variety while controlling costs, especially for a wedding with a large number of guests. It eliminates the need for extensive wait staff and allow wedding guests to choose their own portions. Consider buffet tables like pasta, barbecue, or a taco bar. These options are not only cost-effective but also universally loved. To add an upscale touch, include food stations like a carving station, mac and cheese station, or a gourmet salad bar.

2. Food Trucks: Trendy and Wallet-Friendly

Food trucks have become a popular choice for modern weddings. They offer unique and versatile menu options, from gourmet burgers to sushi rolls, at a fraction of the cost of traditional catering. You can either hire a specific food truck or hire multiple trucks to provide a range of choices for your wedding guests. It’s a fun, interactive experience that also serves as a conversation starter.

3. Family-Style Meals: Intimate and Inexpensive

Family-style meals are where each table shares large platters of food. This catering idea encourages interaction among guests and can be more budget friendly than individual plated wedding meals. Opt for hearty dishes like roasted chicken, baked pasta, and large salads. Depending on the caterer and staff needed, this approach can cut down on serving costs and also fosters a cozy communal dining experience. This is not an wedding uncommon feature in some cultures.

4. Brunch or Lunch Reception: Lighter Fare, Lighter Cost

Consider having a daytime wedding with a brunch or lunch menu. Daytime or afternoon wedding receptions are typically cheaper and there are a ton of delicious brunch wedding food ideas that will help you stay in budget. Delight your wedding guests with omelet stations, waffle bars, or a gourmet sandwich selection. Not to mention, brunch weddings offer the perfect excuse for a mimosa or Bloody Mary bar!

5. DIY Catering: Personalized Or Potluck Weddings

For a smaller wedding, especially a backyard wedding, self-catering or a potluck-style meal can significantly reduce food cost. This option allows for a highly personalized menu. You could also enlist family members to contribute a dish, turning your wedding meal into a showcase of family recipes. While this requires more organization and effort, the result can be a deeply meaningful and bespoke dining experience.

6. Partner with Culinary Schools: Innovative and Budget-Conscious

Partnering with a local culinary school can be a win-win situation. Students gain real-world experience, and you get access to cutting-edge culinary trends at a reduced price. These budding chefs are often eager to showcase their skills, ensuring a meal that’s both innovative and affordable.

By choosing one of these budget friendly wedding reception catering ideas, you can provide a delightful food experience for your guests without overspending. Remember, the key to a memorable wedding meal lies not in its extravagance, but in the joy and love it helps celebrate.

65 Simple, Cheap And Best Wedding Reception Food Ideas On A Budget

Here are 65 simple and affordable wedding reception food ideas on a budget, suitable for most weddings, beginning with appetizers.

Cheap Wedding Reception Food Appetizer Ideas on a Budget

Let’s start with wedding appetizers. Traditionally, you serve these during your cocktail hour, but if you’re not having one, you could serve them before the main course while your wedding guests mingle or engage in entertainment activities. Let’s look into why each of these ideas can be a great addition to your budget wedding reception food menu:

Bruschetta:

This classic Italian appetizer is not only delicious but also cost-effective. Made with simple ingredients like tomatoes, basil, garlic, and baguette, bruschetta offers a fresh and flavorful start to your reception. Its ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing taste make it a great choice.

Vegetable Platter with Dip:

Offering a vegetable platter is an cheap and affordable way to provide a healthy option. Vegetables like carrots, celery, cucumbers, and bell peppers are inexpensive, especially when bought in bulk. Paired with a homemade dip, it’s a nutritious and appealing choice.

Caprese Skewers:

These skewers are a visually attractive and easy-to-eat option. Combining cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves, they embody simplicity and elegance. They’re also relatively inexpensive to make in large quantities.

Stuffed Mushrooms:

Stuffed mushrooms, a great choice for a savory bite, can feature a variety of fillings like cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. These budget-friendly mushrooms can be prepared in advance, making them a practical option for large gatherings.

Deviled Eggs:

A timeless favorite, deviled eggs are both budget friendly food and versatile for your wedding reception. You can add different toppings like paprika, bacon, or chives for variety. They’re a small bite that packs a flavorful punch.

Mini Quiches:

Offering the elegance of traditional quiche in a bite-sized form, mini quiches are a sophisticated yet budget-conscious choice. You can fill them with cost-effective ingredients like cheese, spinach, or ham.

Garlic Bread Bites:

Easy to make in large batches, garlic bread bites are a crowd-pleaser that pair well with almost any meal. Using just bread, garlic, butter, and herbs, they’re a cost-effective way to add a carb option to your menu.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip:

This creamy and hearty dip is a popular choice that can be made in large quantities at a low cost. Served with bread or crackers, it’s a filling and flavorful addition to your appetizer spread.

Meatballs (Sweet and Sour or BBQ):

Meatballs are a versatile and budget friendly food idea for your wedding reception. You can make them in various flavors like sweet and sour or BBQ, and they are easy to serve in large quantities, making them perfect for feeding a crowd on a budget.

Grazing Boards/Tables:

We love a good grazing table! You can assemble these huge charcuterie boards with a variety of budget-friendly cheeses that you can buy in bulk, fruits that are in season, and crackers. Add a few unique items like figs but in general, stick to crowd pleasing foods like cheddar cheese, grapes, and baguettes. It’s a simple, no-fuss option that could be a focal point at your wedding venue.

Hummus with Pita Chips:

Hummus is a cost-effective and healthy dip that pairs perfectly with pita chips or vegetables. It’s a great choice for offering a vegetarian or vegan option, and it can easily be made in bulk.

Salsa and Tortilla Chips:

Salsa, whether homemade or store-bought, is an affordable and vibrant addition to your menu. Paired with tortilla chips, it makes for a light and popular snack.

Fruit Skewers:

Fruit skewers are a refreshing and colorful choice. Using seasonal fruits can be a great way to keep your food costs down while providing a sweet and healthy option.

Mini Sandwiches or Sliders:

Mini sandwiches or sliders allow for a variety of fillings to cater to different tastes. You can fill them with budget-friendly ingredients like chicken, pulled pork, or vegetables, making them both filling and economical.

Potato Skins:

Potato skins, a great comfort food option, can be topped with cheese, bacon, and sour cream. They can be very cheap, and you can prep the skins in advance and finish them off in the oven just before serving them at your wedding reception, making it a great budget friendly idea. You could make these with regular potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a more nutritious option.

Incorporating these food ideas into your wedding reception menu can provide a diverse and enjoyable dining experience for your wedding guests while keeping your budget in check. Each offers the flexibility to be as simple or as creative as you wish, ensuring that your wedding spread is both memorable and economical.

Cheap Wedding Reception Food Main Course Ideas on a Budget

Here are some great cheap main course food ideas that are ideal for a budget-friendly yet delightful wedding reception:

Pasta Bar with Various Sauces:

A pasta bar allows wedding guests to customize their plates with different types of pasta and a variety of sauces like marinara, alfredo, and pesto. Pasta serves as a cost-effective main meal, and you can make the sauces in bulk to offer a hearty and satisfying meal.

BBQ Pulled Pork or Chicken:

These BBQ favorites are great for feeding a large number of people without spending a fortune. You can slow-cook both pork and chicken in large quantities, making them perfect for a casual, laid-back wedding vibe.

Taco Bar:

Tacos are fun, versatile, and inexpensive. Guests can build their own tacos with a selection of fillings like ground beef, chicken, beans, and assorted toppings. It’s interactive, allows for a variety of dietary preferences and one of the most budget friendly food ideas for your wedding reception.

Baked Ziti:

You can easily prepare this classic Italian dish for a large crowd using budget-friendly ingredients. Cheese, pasta, and tomato sauce combined make for a comforting and filling dish.

Stir-fried Rice or Noodles:

Offering stir-fried rice or noodles is a fantastic way to incorporate an Asian flair into your menu. Both rice and noodles are inexpensive bases, and you can add vegetables and proteins as desired.

Pizza Party

Pizza is a universally loved main meal that can be made to suit a variety of tastes. Offer different toppings to cater to different dietary needs and preferences. It’s also a fun and informal option your big day.

Fajitas or Burritos:

Both dishes are flavorful and filling, and they allow guests to customize their meals. Ingredients like chicken, beef, peppers, onions, and tortillas are cost-effective, especially when bought in bulk.

Baked Chicken Drumsticks:

Chicken drumsticks, an affordable protein option, can be seasoned and baked in large quantities. You can also serve them with a variety of sides.

Chili:

Chili is a hearty and comforting dish that is inexpensive to make. Serve with bread, rice, or tortilla chips. It’s especially great for a winter or fall wedding.

Meatloaf:

Meatloaf, a classic comfort food, can be made on a budget and is sure to please guests. You can serve it with simple sides like mashed potatoes and green beans, making it a fantastic cheap and budget friendly idea for your wedding reception food menu.

Lasagna:

Lasagna is ideal for feeding a large group and can be prepared in advance. It’s a filling dish that combines pasta, cheese, sauce, and meat or vegetables.

Greek Salad with Grilled Chicken:

A lighter option that’s both healthy and cost-effective. A Greek salad topped with grilled chicken offers a refreshing and flavorful meal.

Vegetable Curry with Rice:

A great vegetarian or vegan option. Vegetable curry is flavorful and you can make it in large batches. Serve with rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

Sausage and Peppers:

Sausage and peppers are easy to prepare and budget-friendly. Serve in a sandwich or with a side of pasta or bread for a hearty meal.

Shepherd’s Pie:

A traditional dish that’s filling and easy to make in large quantities. It combines ground meat, vegetables, and a mashed potato topping, making it a comforting and satisfying option.

Cheap Wedding Reception Food Side Dish Ideas on a Budget

Let’s explore why these cheap side dishes are excellent food choices for a budget-friendly wedding reception!

Mixed Green Salad:

A simple mixed green salad is fresh, healthy, and cost-effective. It’s a versatile option that can include various greens, some sliced veggies, and a choice of dressings.

Coleslaw:

Coleslaw is an affordable and easy-to-make side dish. It pairs well with a variety of main courses, especially BBQ and picnic-style meals.

Baked Beans:

A hearty and comforting option, baked beans are perfect for feeding a large crowd on a budget. They are especially suitable for casual or outdoor weddings.

Corn on the Cob:

Corn on the cob is a summertime favorite that’s both affordable and festive. You can grill or boil it, and simply season with butter, salt, and pepper.

Roasted Vegetables:

Roasting vegetables is a delicious and healthy way to add color and nutrition to your wedding menu. You can roast seasonal vegetables, which are budget-friendly, especially when cooked in large batches for your wedding reception.

Potato Salad:

A classic picnic staple, potato salad is filling and inexpensive to make. You can customize this versatile dish with different ingredients and dressings.

Mac n Cheese:

Always a crowd-pleaser, macaroni and cheese is a comforting and budget-friendly side dish. You can make it in large quantities, and it is particularly popular with children.

Mashed Potatoes:

Mashed potatoes are a classic side that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Potatoes are economical, and you can enrich the dish with butter, cream, or cheese without spending a lot of money.

Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts:

Brussels sprouts are a cost-effective vegetable that becomes deliciously crisp and flavorful when roasted with garlic.

Rice Pilaf:

Rice pilaf is an affordable and elegant side dish. It can be flavored with broth, herbs, and vegetables, making it a versatile accompaniment to different cuisines.

Bread Rolls:

Offering bread rolls is a budget-friendly way to round out your meal. They can be served with butter or used to sop up sauces and gravies. A must-do if you’re trying to keep your wedding reception food cost as budget friendly as possible.

Pasta Salad:

Pasta salad can be made in large quantities at a low cost. It’s a versatile side that can include various vegetables, cheeses, and dressings.

Sweet Potato Fries:

A trendy and tasty alternative to regular fries, sweet potato fries are affordable and can be baked or fried.

Grilled Asparagus:

Asparagus, especially when in season, is a cost-effective and elegant side dish. Grilling it adds a lovely charred flavor.

Broccoli and Cheese Casserole:

This casserole is a comforting and filling option that combines the nutrition of broccoli with the richness of cheese.

Each of these cheap side dishes offers a blend of taste, affordability, and versatility, making them great and cheap food options for a variety of budget wedding themes and styles. They can be prepared in large quantities without a significant strain on the budget, ensuring that your guests enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.

Cheap Wedding Reception Food Dessert Ideas on a Budget

To save on wedding costs, you could skip the traditional wedding cake and either go for a regular sheet cake or go for wedding cake alternatives. Here’s how each of these desserts can be a delightful and budget-friendly option for your wedding reception without costing a lot of money.

Cupcakes:

Cupcakes are a versatile and cost-effective alternative to traditional wedding cakes. They can be decorated to match your wedding theme and offer a variety of flavors to please all guests.

Brownies:

Rich and decadent, brownies are a crowd-pleasing favorite. They can be made in large batches and are perfect for a casual or laid-back wedding.

Cookies:

Offering a selection of cookies is not only a budget-friendly option but also allows for a variety of flavors and styles, from classic chocolate chip to elegant macarons. You can also leave small personalized to-go paper bags so your wedding guests can take leftover cookies as wedding favors, maximizing your wedding budget.

Fruit Tarts:

Fruit tarts with a buttery crust and a creamy filling topped with fresh fruits are not only delicious but also add a colorful and elegant touch to your dessert table.

Cheesecake Squares:

Cheesecake squares are a convenient and cost-effective way to serve cheesecake. They can be topped with fruit, chocolate, or caramel for added elegance.

Chocolate Fondue with Fruit:

A chocolate fondue station with a selection of fruits and marshmallows for dipping is a fun and interactive dessert choice that’s also economical.

Rice Krispie Treats:

These treats are a nostalgic and cheap dessert option that can be cut into different shapes and decorated to suit your wedding theme. This is a great budget friendly wedding reception dessert idea!

Lemon Bars:

Lemon bars offer a tangy and refreshing dessert choice that’s easy to make in large quantities and can add a zesty flavor to your dessert spread.

Panna Cotta:

This Italian dessert is simple, elegant, and inexpensive to prepare. It can be infused with different flavors and topped with fruit or a sweet sauce.

Banana Bread:

Banana bread is a comforting and homey dessert option. It can be made into loaves or muffins and is a cost-effective choice for a rustic or casual wedding.

Apple Pie:

A classic dessert, apple pies are a heartwarming choice that can be made from affordable ingredients. Serve with ice cream or whipped cream for added delight.

Peach Cobbler:

Perfect for summer weddings, peach cobbler is a sweet and satisfying dessert that can be made in large dishes, making it ideal for serving a crowd.

Chocolate Mousse:

Chocolate mousse is a rich and luxurious dessert that can be made in large batches. It’s a sophisticated wedding dessert idea that’s surprisingly budget-friendly.

Carrot Cake:

Carrot cake is a moist and flavorful option that can be more economical than traditional wedding cakes. It can be made in sheet form and cut into squares for easy serving.

Bread Pudding:

A traditional and comforting dessert, bread pudding can be made from simple ingredients and served in large quantities, making it perfect for a budget-conscious wedding.

Each of these dessert options offers something special for your wedding reception, from classic comfort foods to elegant sweet treats. They are all great dessert ideas that are adaptable and can be made in large quantities to suit your wedding budget and guest list. You could either serve one of these, a couple or as part of a larger dessert bar for variety.

Cheap Wedding Reception Beverage Ideas on a Budget

Here are some great budget friendly beverage ideas to add to your food and drink menu at your wedding reception.

Iced Tea:

Iced tea is a classic and refreshing drink that’s inexpensive to make in large quantities. You can serve it with or without alcohol, sweetened or unsweetened, and flavor it with lemon or peach for a special touch.

Lemonade:

Homemade lemonade offers a sweet and tangy flavor that’s perfect for your big day, especially in warmer months. It’s also cost-effective and can be beautifully presented in large dispensers.

Fruit Punch:

Fruit punch is a colorful and festive beverage option. It can be made with a mix of affordable fruit juices and soda, alcohol, and can be customized to match the wedding colors or theme. A definite must if you’re trying to keep your wedding reception food budget in check.

Coffee and Tea:

Offering coffee and tea is a must for many guests. It’s cheap and can be served with a selection of sugars, creams, and syrups for guests to customize their drink.

Homemade Sangria:

Sangria can be a cost-effective alcoholic option. Made with inexpensive wine, fruit juices, and chopped fruits, it’s a flavorful and festive drink that’s great for celebrations.

Water with Citrus Slices:

Simple yet elegant, water infused with slices of lemon, lime, or orange is refreshing and practically costless. It’s a healthier alternative and keeps guests hydrated.

Sparkling Water with Fruit Essence:

Sparkling water with a hint of fruit essence offers a sophisticated, non-alcoholic beverage choice. It’s refreshing, and adding fruit essences or slices makes it festive.

Hot Chocolate (for winter weddings):

For a cozy winter wedding, hot chocolate is a delightful treat. It can be served with marshmallows, whipped cream, and sprinkles for guests to customize.

Mojitos:

A mojito cocktail is a refreshing and classic cocktail. With mint, lime, sugar, and soda, and inexpensive rum, it’s a delightful and affordable option.

Cucumber Water:

Cucumber water is a chic and inexpensive way to elevate the standard water service. It’s especially refreshing for summer weddings and adds a touch of spa-like luxury.

Each of these beverage options provides a unique and enjoyable drinking experience for your guests without requiring a large portion of your wedding budget. They are adaptable, can be presented elegantly, and offer a variety of choices to cater to all your guests’ preferences.

Tips for Maximizing Your Food Budget

When planning your wedding reception, managing the food budget is crucial. A strategic approach to how you source and prepare your food can lead to significant savings without compromising on quality or quantity. Here are some effective strategies:

Buying in Bulk

1. Plan Your Menu with Bulk Purchases in Mind: Design your menu around items that can easily be purchased in bulk, such as rice, pasta, and certain cuts of meat.

2. Utilize Wholesale Stores: Stores like Costco or Sam’s Club can be goldmines for bulk purchasing. You can find great deals on bulk items ranging from appetizers to main courses.

3. Consider Bulk Purchases for Non-Perishables: Items like alcohol, napkins, and disposable cutlery can be much cheaper when bought in bulk.

4. Collaborate with a Local Caterer or Favorite Restaurant: Sometimes, they might be willing to let you purchase ingredients through their suppliers, who offer bulk pricing.

Buy Seasonal and Local

1. Embrace Seasonal Produce: Seasonal fruits and vegetables are not only fresher and tastier but are also generally cheaper. Plan your menu around what’s in season.

2. Support Local Farmers and Vendors: Purchasing directly from local farms can reduce food cost. Farmers’ markets are great places to find deals on fresh, local produce.

3. Benefit from Peak Flavors: Seasonal and local produce will be at its peak, meaning you’ll require less effort and fewer ingredients to make it taste great.

4. Environmental and Community Impact: Using local and seasonal foods reduces your carbon footprint and supports the local economy.

Catering vs. DIY

1. Professional Catering:

• Pros: Less stress on the wedding day, professional quality and presentation, and caterers often handle setup and cleanup.
• Cons: Can be more expensive, less control over menu customization, and may have minimum guest requirements.

2. DIY Catering:

• Pros: More control over the menu, potential cost savings, and the opportunity for personalized touches.
• Cons: Time-consuming, requires significant planning and coordination, and you may need to rent equipment or hire staff for serving and cleanup.

3. Hybrid Approach: Consider a mix of both. Use catering from your favorite restaurant for the main dishes but handle the appetizers, desserts, or drinks yourself. This can strike a balance between convenience and cost.

Concluding Thoughts On Cheap Wedding Reception Food On A Budget:

Remember, the essence of a great wedding reception lies not in extravagant spending but in the joy and love that it celebrates. By choosing budget-friendly food options and embracing a bit of creativity and planning, you can ensure that your wedding feast is as enjoyable as it is economical. Of course, remember to accommodate for any dietary restrictions. Whether you opt for DIY catering or cleverly selected dishes, your wedding reception can be a testament to the fact that great style and great savings can deliciously coexist!