20 Budget-Friendly Thanksgiving Recipes That Prove Delicious Doesn’t Mean Pricey

Thanksgiving doesn't have to mean empty wallets and overflowing grocery carts. These budget-friendly Thanksgiving recipes prove that flavor and savings can happily share the same plate. They keep things simple, smart, and full of comfort without cutting corners on taste. Perfect for hosts who want to stretch their dollar but still serve a meal that feels generous. You'll see that a memorable feast doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag.

Four spinach tortilla wraps with a creamy filling and dried cranberries are arranged on a yellow plate, with a few cranberries scattered nearby. — Photo credit: Recipes from Leftovers..

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Mini Pumpkin Pies

Close-up of a mini pumpkin pie in a red fluted tart pan, topped with a pumpkin-shaped pastry cutout. A fork and cinnamon sticks are placed nearby on a light-colored cloth. — Mini Pumpkin Pies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These mini pumpkin pies are simple, creamy, and perfect for small gatherings. The crust stays flaky while the filling brings that cozy holiday flavor everyone loves. They're quick to prepare and portioned just right for a light dessert. Great for anyone who enjoys budget-friendly Thanksgiving recipes without leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Mini Pumpkin Pies

Mini Loaf Pumpkin Bread

A sliced loaf of pumpkin bread placed on a wooden cutting board with a red and white striped cloth underneath. — Mini Loaf Pumpkin Bread. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This pumpkin bread comes out soft and full of warm spice in every slice. It's a great choice when you want something seasonal but easy to bake. The mini size keeps it convenient for snacking or gifting. Pair it with coffee for a simple morning treat.
Get the Recipe: Mini Loaf Pumpkin Bread

Green Beans with Garlic Butter

A plate of green beans tossed with herbs and pine nuts. — Green Beans with Garlic Butter. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Green beans coated in garlic butter add freshness and color to any table. They cook fast and taste great with roasted meats or casseroles. The buttery flavor complements the crisp texture perfectly. It's one of those budget-friendly Thanksgiving recipes that never feels rushed.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans with Garlic Butter

Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams

Close-up of a spoonful of sweet potato casserole with a topping of toasted pecans and marshmallows. — Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This sweet potato casserole balances smooth texture with a hint of brown sugar richness. Using canned yams keeps prep time short while maintaining great flavor. The topping turns golden and slightly crisp after baking. It's one of the easiest budget-friendly Thanksgiving recipes you'll keep coming back to.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams

Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes

A bowl of mashed potatoes topped with a sprig of parsley. Red potatoes and a grater are in the background on a beige cloth. — Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These mashed red potatoes are creamy, garlicky, and ideal for a cozy dinner. The texture is rich but not heavy, and they hold their shape beautifully. They pair perfectly with chicken, turkey, or grilled vegetables. Simple enough for weeknights but special enough for the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Mashed Red Potatoes

Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

Sliced glazed carrots garnished with herbs on a fork, with more on a plate in the background. — Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These carrots cook beautifully in the air fryer, giving them a light caramelized finish. The maple glaze adds a touch of sweetness without feeling overpowering. They're a quick and appealing way to round out a meal. Even better, they fit right in with budget-friendly Thanksgiving recipes.
Get the Recipe: Maple Glazed Carrots in Air Fryer

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Dish

A spoon lifting chicken and stuffing casserole from a cast iron skillet, with a striped towel in the background. — Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Dish. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This casserole combines tender chicken and savory stuffing for the ultimate comfort dish. Everything bakes together into a hearty, well-balanced meal that feels like Thanksgiving in a single bite. It reheats beautifully for leftovers. Simple ingredients make it both cozy and affordable.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Dish

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

A spoon lifting a smashed potato garnished with rosemary, with a festive table setting in the background. — Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These smashed potatoes come out golden and crisp, topped with melted cheese for extra flavor. The inside stays creamy while the edges turn perfectly crunchy. They're easy to serve at family dinners or holiday meals. Add them to your list of budget-friendly Thanksgiving recipes for something everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

Pumpkin Deviled Eggs

A hand holds a deviled egg topped with a green olive, embodying those fall recipes so simple you'll want to make them all. Parsley lingers in the background, adding a touch of freshness. — Pumpkin Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These deviled eggs add a festive look to your spread with their soft orange hue. They're creamy, lightly seasoned, and fun to serve at fall gatherings. The pumpkin flavor is mild yet unique. Perfect for a creative appetizer that still feels familiar.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Deviled Eggs

Buttermilk Biscuits

Biscuit cut in half on a white plate, one half with a pat of butter on top, next to a cloth napkin and a bowl of jam in the background. — Buttermilk Biscuits. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Buttermilk biscuits bake up fluffy and golden, with just the right amount of buttery flavor. They're quick to prepare and pair beautifully with soups or casseroles. Enjoy them warm for breakfast or as a side during dinner. Their size is just right for two people sharing a meal.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Biscuits

Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Sliced and roasted cabbage wedges seasoned with herbs on a white plate, garnished with black pepper and fresh herbs. — Roasted Cabbage Steaks. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Roasted cabbage steaks turn tender and slightly caramelized after baking. They're easy to season and look impressive on the plate. This dish works well for both quick lunches and family dinners. It's a smart choice for adding more veggies to your rotation.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Parmesan Roasted Zucchini in Oven

A fork holds a slice of baked zucchini topped with melted cheese and herbs, with more slices arranged on a white plate in the background. — Parmesan Roasted Zucchini in Oven. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

Zucchini slices roast beautifully with Parmesan for a crisp, savory side. The light coating gives them a nice crunch without extra oil. They're simple to prep and perfect with pasta or chicken. A quick dish that feels both fresh and homey.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Roasted Zucchini in Oven

Cranberry Orange Graham Loaf

A loaf of homemade bread with a golden-brown crust and visible berry pieces sits on a wire cooling rack. — Cranberry Orange Graham Loaf. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

This loaf combines bright citrus flavor with tart cranberries for a refreshing baked treat. It's easy to slice, pack, or enjoy fresh from the oven. Great for breakfast or a midday snack. It's a simple yet thoughtful bake for the holiday season.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Orange Graham Loaf

Easy Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili

A bowl of chili with beans, corn, and tomatoes, topped with sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, a pepper, and tortilla chips on the side. — Easy Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

This chili comes together easily with beans, vegetables, and a blend of mild spices. The slow cooker handles the work while the flavors build perfectly over time. It's hearty without being too heavy. Ideal for cozy evenings and large family meals.
Get the Recipe: Easy Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili

Cranberry Turkey Wraps

Four pieces of green spinach wrap filled with chicken salad, sliced and served on a cream-colored plate, with a few dried cranberries on the side. — Cranberry Turkey Wraps. Photo credit: Recipes from Leftovers..

These wraps combine roasted turkey and cranberry sauce for a balanced mix of savory and sweet. The soft tortillas make them easy to assemble and even easier to eat. They're great for lunches after the holidays. They fit well among budget-friendly Thanksgiving recipes that use leftovers smartly.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Turkey Wraps

Turkey Pot Pie with Puff Pastry

A white ramekin filled with vegetable pot pie, topped with golden puff pastry, with a fork inside and some filling visible. — Turkey Pot Pie with Puff Pastry. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This turkey pot pie turns leftovers into a comforting dish with a flaky crust and creamy filling. Each bite has tender meat, vegetables, and rich sauce. It's great for using up what's in your fridge without feeling repetitive. Serve it warm for a crowd-pleasing dinner.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Pot Pie with Puff Pastry

Vegan Stuffing

A skillet filled with bread stuffing, mushrooms, vegetables, and herbs, with two serving utensils and a gray towel nearby. — Vegan Stuffing. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This vegan stuffing uses fresh herbs and bread cubes to capture that classic holiday taste. It's easy to bake and pairs well with both plant-based and traditional dishes. The texture is soft inside with a light crisp top. Perfect for anyone looking for a simple side with heart.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Stuffing

Dutch Oven Chicken Breast and Vegetables

Four seasoned chicken breasts cooked with carrots and celery in a Dutch oven, garnished with chopped parsley. — Dutch Oven Chicken Breast and Vegetables. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

This one-pot meal brings together seared chicken, carrots, and herbs in a rich, flavorful broth. The slow cook process gives everything depth while keeping cleanup minimal. It's practical for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Great for anyone who enjoys comforting meals without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Oven Chicken Breast and Vegetables

Vegan Turkey Roast

A glass baking dish with four pieces of cooked meat kebabs garnished with chopped herbs, placed on a white kitchen towel near lime wedges and plates. — Vegan Turkey Roast. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This vegan turkey roast uses chickpeas and seitan to create a flavorful, hearty main dish. It's perfect for anyone wanting a plant-based option during the holidays. The recipe keeps things affordable and simple to prepare. It's one of the most practical budget-friendly Thanksgiving recipes for any crowd.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Turkey Roast

Turkey Tetrazzini

A baked pasta dish topped with breadcrumbs and parsley, featuring mushrooms and a creamy sauce, in a round white casserole dish. — Turkey Tetrazzini. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Creamy pasta, tender turkey, and earthy mushrooms come together in this comforting casserole. The breadcrumb topping bakes to a crisp finish for added texture. It's a great way to use leftovers while keeping dinner interesting. This one deserves a spot in your rotation of budget-friendly Thanksgiving recipes.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Tetrazzini

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