27 Cheap and Easy Party Food Ideas That’ll Be a Hit At Your Next Party

Looking for some cheap and easy party food ideas to please a crowd?! This post is all about the best appetizer recipes and finger food ideas perfect for any party!

If you’re anything like me, you love a good get-together, but you don’t want to break the bank or spend hours in the kitchen whipping up extravagant dishes.

That’s where this blog post comes in clutch.

I’ve scoured the culinary universe to bring you 27 budget-friendly and ridiculously easy party food ideas that are guaranteed to steal the show at your next gathering.

Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, a game night, or just hosting your friends, these tasty treats will have your guests coming back for seconds (and thirds).

So, grab your apron and get ready to impress without the stress! Let’s dive into these delectable delights and get your party started on the right foot.

This post is all about cheap and easy party food ideas!

Cheap and Easy Party Food Ideas

1. Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Chicken bites are like the most perfect party food because you can serve them as an appetizer, a snack, or as a side dish. When it comes to a party appetizer or snack, you want to make something that’s not only delicious but that comes together quickly so that you can dedicate more time towards the main dish!

These garlic butter chicken bites are flavor-packed, the recipe is insanely easy, and they are ready in just 20 minutes! The chicken bites are tossed in seasonings, seared to perfection, and then further cooked in a heavenly garlic butter mixture. If you’re a big fan of garlic as I am, this recipe will easily become your new favorite for not only parties but also week night dinners.

2. Baked Potato Skins | Cheap and Easy Party Food Ideas

It is super easy to make restaurant quality potato skins at home and on a budget. In order to perfect potato skins for a party, choosing the right potatoes to use is very important.

Russet potatoes are the best potatoes for any potato skins recipe because they have thick skins which won’t fall apart and their fluffiness also allows for easy scooping of the middle so you can easily add your toppings.

That is why these baked potato skins are sure to impress at your next party! In this recipe, russet potatoes are filled with cheese, smoked bacon, and green onions and the end result is a perfect combination of flavors and textures that will make taste buds dance in delight.

3. S’mores Bites

Buttery graham cracker cups filled with marshmallows and melted chocolate is the perfect party finger food people won’t be able to resist. S’more bites don’t only taste like S’mores but they are convenient to make in your oven and their handheld form makes them perfect for parties.

Make these s’more bites at your next event and watch them disappear in seconds! Totally the most crowd-pleasing dessert idea your guests won’t stop talking about.

All you need to bring these S’more bites to life are a mini muffin pan and a few ingredients like marshmallows, Hershey bars, Graham Cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and butter! Does it get any simple than that?!

Related Post: 31 Best Graduation Party Ideas for a Day of Unforgettable Fun

4. Grilled Chicken Drumsticks

Grilled chicken drumsticks will disappear quickly at any party or celebratory dinner!!

Their savory and smoky flavor, coupled with the crispy and slightly charred skin, makes them an irresistible treat for guests of all ages.

I honestly don’t think that I’ve ever met anyone who doesn’t like grilled chicken drumsticks! Their crispy skin combined with the juicy flavor packed meat simply makes you want to stuff your face with them.

This recipe is a must-try for grilling season’s parties not only because it is super good but also insanely quick! Who wouldn’t want to have perfectly grilled chicken drumsticks in just 25 minutes?! Not to mention how all you need to make them are simple ingredients such as chicken drumsticks (obviously), brown sugar, and a few spices you most likely have in your home as we speak!

5. Garlic Bread Bruschetta | Cheap and Easy Party Food Ideas

Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that typically features grilled bread topped with a variety of toppings, and to say that it is delectable is an understatement.

The most important ingredients you need to make this Italian delicacy are grilled or toasted bread, garlic, fresh tomatoes, basil, salt, and olive oil.

Toppings can vary depending on the vibe you’re trying to go for, but those are the most important ingredients you’ll need to make traditional Italian bruschetta.

A combination of toasty garlic bread and mouthwatering balsamic tomato salad makes this specific bruschetta a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The good news is that this garlic bread bruschetta can be prepared ahead of time saving you plenty of time on the day of the party!

6. Mini Quiche

Your next brunch party is about to go crazy with this simple mini quiche recipe. If you have mini muffin pans at home, grab them and get ready to make these tasty bites. What I love about this specific recipe is that it provides instructions for making a variety of flavors all at once.

All it takes is 55 minutes of your precious time to make 48 of these mini quiches which is what you want when making party food. Something that comes together quickly and that makes more servings so you don’t spend the whole day in the kitchen.

These tiny bites are not only delicious but also easy to serve and customize to suit various tastes. As they did in this recipe, you can use different toppings, catering to a wide range of preferences among your guests.

7. Philly Cheesesteak French Bread

French bread topped with melty cheese, strips of steak, and sauteed peppers and onions?! Yes, please!

This Philly cheesesteak bread is perfect when you want to take your French bread pizza to the next level and is perfect for game day!

The combination of savory flavors and melty cheese will make this Philly cheesesteak bread disappear in minutes at any party so you better be ready to make more of these.

You can even cut the bread into smaller pieces for a quick, delicious appetizer that will be a perfect start to any party meal. You could also swap out the French bread for slider buns for any easy to serve party finger food.

8. Creamy Tuna Dip

For the perfect dip, look no further than this yummy and creamy tuna dip!

Tuna dip is a great choice for parties because it’s quick, affordable, and super versatile. You can whip it up in minutes, customize it with spices or add-ins, and serve it with crackers, chips, or veggies for dipping. It also works as a spread for mini sandwiches or wraps.

This is a quick party appetizer and only requires canned tuna, cream cheese, hot salsa, and salt and pepper. Serve with chips, crackers, fresh veggies, or warm toasted bread and watch it get devoured at your next party.

For presentation, put it in a bowl on a board with a variety of dippers to get the party started.

9. Chicken Sausage Rolls

Sausage rolls are everyone’s favorite party food! They are easy to make, require affordable ingredients, and can be made ahead of time to save time on the day of the party.

These simple and flavorful chicken sausage rolls include a flavorful blend of chicken mince, vegetables, and sage nestled within a buttery, flaky puff pastry. To add a savory flavor that goes perfectly with the chicken mince and crispy pastry, garnish with sesame seeds. The best part? They come together in 30 minutes and this recipe yields 30 servings!

To bring these tasty bites to life, you’ll need to make sure you have all the necessary ingredients so that everything will come out of the oven tasting heavenly.

Chicken sausage rolls ingredients:

• Chicken mince
• Duck fat
• Dijon mustard
• Panko crumbs
• Sage
• Thyme
• Garlic
• Zucchini
• Carrot
• Onion
• Salt & pepper

10. Pizza Pinwheels

Pizza pinwheels are a fun and delicious appetizer or snack made by rolling up pizza ingredients in dough, slicing the roll into spirals, and baking them until golden and melty. They’re essentially bite-sized versions of pizza with a swirled presentation that’s perfect for parties

Pizza pinwheels are perfect when you want to add a twist to your everyday pizza and make it less boring or serve it in more elegant looking way. Plus their easy handheld form makes them a great finger food addition to your party spread.

The golden brown crusts with flavor-packed centers will win over everyone! All you need for this recipe is Pillsbury crescent rolls, pizza sauce, cheese, and Hormel pizza pepperoni — super simple right?!

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11. French Dip Sliders

Sliders are fantastic especially when you’re on the hunt for cheap and easy party food ideas because they’re small, easy to eat, and can be customized to suit all tastes. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for mingling and allows guests to try a variety of different flavors without committing to a full sandwich. You can load them up with everything from classic cheeseburgers to pulled pork, chicken, or even veggie patties.

One particularly delicious option to consider for your next gathering is French dip sliders. These little sandwiches feature tender slices of roast beef, melted cheese, and caramelized onions, all tucked into soft, buttery buns. For an extra touch, serve them with a side of au jus for dipping.

French sliders are a gourmet twist on the traditional slider and will definitely stand out at your party, offering guests a rich, savory flavor that’s sure to impress.

12. Chicken Empanadas

These chicken empanadas are always a hit at my parties. The buttery baked crust filled with a heavenly chicken and veggie filling just hits all the right spots.

Chicken empanadas are like little handheld pockets of deliciousness! They’re pastries filled with a flavorful mixture of seasoned chicken, sometimes with veggies like onions and peppers, and a variety of spices.

The dough is usually soft and slightly crispy on the outside, while the filling is tender and savory. They’re typically baked or fried, making them golden and crispy.

Empanadas are super popular in Latin American cuisines and make a great snack or appetizer. Think of them as the perfect combination of a savory pastry and comfort food, easy to grab and enjoy at parties

13. Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers

For your next gathering, make sure to serve these lemon pepper chicken skewers. If you have an air fryer, you’ll be happy to hear these kebabs can also be cooked in an air fryer.

The recipe calls for chicken breasts (or thighs for more juiciness), olive oil, lemon zest, pepper, garlic powder, and salt. These ingredients create a simple but flavorful coating.

These skewers are made by seasoning chicken with a delicious blend of lemon, pepper, and other spices, then threading it onto skewers for easy grilling or air frying. The air fryer option is a great time-saver, giving you crispy, tender chicken with minimal effort.

You can serve them on their own or with a variety of sides like rice, potatoes, or salads. For a full list of ingredients and detailed instructions, check out the recipe here.

14. Crispy Parmesan Roast Potatoes

Tender on the inside and crispy on the inside, these parmesan roast potatoes are everything you need in a side dish and more!

Parmesan roast potatoes are a perfect addition to this list of cheap and easy party food ideas because they’re crispy, cheesy, and easy to make in large batches. The potatoes are roasted to golden perfection with a generous coating of parmesan cheese, garlic, and herbs, making them flavorful and irresistible.

These potatoes are versatile enough to pair with a variety of dips or sauces, and they can be served alongside meats or as a snack on their own. Whether for a casual gathering or a more formal event, parmesan roast potatoes are sure to be a hit!

15. Jalapeno Poppers

Combining spicy, creamy, and crunchy elements, jalapeño poppers are a favorite for parties and game nights.

These jalapeno poppers are stuffed with cream cheese, cheddar, and sprinkles of bacon. Baked to perfection, they are creamy, crunchy, and cheesy with a little bit of kick to them. These are a guaranteed crowd pleaser so make sure you make more because they will be gone in minutes.

Jalapeño poppers are a popular appetizer or snack made from jalapeño peppers that are typically stuffed, breaded, and either fried or baked.

The stuffing usually features a creamy mixture of ingredients such as cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and optional additions like bacon bits, spices, or herbs for extra flavor.

Variations include bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers, where the stuffed peppers are wrapped in bacon and baked or grilled, and grilled versions that are cooked directly on a grill for a smoky taste. Vegetarian options often use a mix of cheeses and herbs without meat.

16. Cheesecake Brownies

These swirled cheesecake brownies taste as good as they look. They combine the rich flavors of cheesecake and brownies and are easy to serve at parties. For your next party, consider adding cheesecake brownies to your dessert menu.

Cheesecake brownies are a delightful fusion of rich, fudgy chocolate and creamy cheesecake, creating a visually appealing and indulgent dessert.

This combination offers the best of both worlds, making them a popular choice for various occasions. Their marbled appearance adds an elegant touch, enhancing their appeal at gatherings.

Some of the things you will need to make them are:

• A stand mixer
• Measuring cups
• A baking pan
• Rubber spatula
• Medium bowl & large bowl
• A cooling rack

17. Bacon Wrapped Meatballs

Bacon wrapped meatballs make for a fun and flavorful appetizer. Brushed with a mix of BBQ sauce and grape jelly, you can expect nothing but wonderful flavors with every bite.

For your next gathering, consider adding them to your appetizer selection. To prepare, mix ground beef with seasonings, breadcrumbs, and egg, then shape into meatballs. Wrap each meatball with bacon slices secured by toothpicks, and bake until the bacon is crisp.

Brush with the barbecue and grape jelly glaze, return to the oven briefly to caramelize, and serve warm. This straightforward recipe yields a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s both flavorful and visually appealing.

18. Turkey Bacon Ranch Pinwheels

Turkey, ranch, bacon, and cheese form the ultimate combo of deliciousness! These turkey bacon ranch pinwheels are easy to make and can be enjoyed hot or cold, making them versatile for any occasion.

Their bite-sized portions are perfect for appetizers, and their appealing presentation adds a touch of elegance to your party spread. Plus, their straightforward preparation means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your event.

These would be perfect for a potluck party too because they don’t require insane culinary skills, and would also go crazy for a picnic party with your girls to celebrate someone’s birthday or even a Galentine’s party.

Related Post: 17 Insta-Worthy Galentine’s Party Ideas Your Friends Will Love

19. Vanilla Brioche Doughnuts

Who can say no to perfectly fried soft and fluffy brioche doughnuts?! Especially if they are filled to the brim with a rich and smooth vanilla cream?!

Even if you’re someone who has never made doughnuts before and is a bit terrified by the idea, you need to try this recipe because it lays out the instructions well and uses the right tools.

These doughnuts take quite some time to make but the end result is 50 doughnuts that will totally be a hit and a sweet ending to any party meal.

Planning to make these for your next bash? You’ll need a few ingredients for the doughnut and custard.

For the doughnut, make sure you have: Flour, eggs, active dry yeast, sugar, butter, warm milk, salt, and vanilla. Ingredients for the custard are: Egg yolks, vanilla bean paste, corn starch, sugar, milk, and cool whip.

20. Crunchy Taco Cups

These gooey and crunchy taco cups are chock full of flavor and will impress your party guests for sure!

Crunchy Taco Cups are a delightful twist on traditional tacos, offering a layered combination of seasoned ground beef, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and melted cheddar cheese, all encased in crispy wonton wrappers.

Prepared using a standard muffin tin, each cup features double layers of wonton wrappers filled with the savory beef mixture and cheese, resulting in a satisfying blend of textures.

Baked at 375°F until golden and bubbly, these bite-sized treats are perfect for parties or casual dinners, providing a convenient and mess-free way to enjoy classic taco flavors.

21. Mac and Cheese Balls

Take your mac and cheese to new heights of taste by making these deep fried mac and cheese balls. Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, they will make a perfect appetizer or side dish for any event.

Mac and cheese balls are a crowd-pleasing party snack that combines the creamy, cheesy comfort of mac and cheese with a crispy, golden-brown coating.

These bite-sized delights are made by shaping cooked mac and cheese into balls, coating them in breadcrumbs, and frying or baking them to perfection.

Their crunchy exterior contrasts beautifully with the gooey, cheesy interior, making them irresistible to guests of all ages. Easy to serve and eat, mac and cheese balls are perfect for parties, as they are both satisfying and mess-free. Add them to your menu to bring a touch of indulgence and guaranteed smiles to your next gathering!

22. Cheesy Garlic Herb Pull Apart Bread

Pull-apart bread is a versatile and shareable appetizer that is perfect for parties.

Made by slicing a loaf of bread into sections, stuffing it with flavorful ingredients, and baking it until warm and gooey, this dish is designed to be served communally, with guests pulling off pieces to enjoy.

There are countless varieties to suit any occasion or taste: cheesy garlic pull-apart bread for savory lovers, buffalo chicken pull-apart bread for a spicy kick, or even cinnamon sugar pull-apart bread for a sweet treat.

This garlic herb pull apart bread is cheesy, garlicky, buttery, crunchy, and filled with all the good things. And guess what?! This recipe only uses 6 ingredients! A loaf of bread, mozzarella, parmesan, butter, garlic, and parsley! Does it get any easier than that?

23. Chocolate Chip Scones

Scones make an elegant and versatile treat, perfect for celebrating a special occasion like an 18th birthday party.

These buttery, flaky delights can be sweet or savory, offering endless flavor options to suit any crowd. Sweet scones with additions like chocolate chips, berries, or a drizzle of icing make a delightful dessert, while savory scones with ingredients like cheese, herbs, or bacon provide a satisfying snack.

Warning: These chocolate chip scones will disappear in 10 seconds!

What I love about these scones is that they are sweet but not too sweet and are incredibly easy to make. Chocolate chip scones can be served at various types of gatherings, from formal teas to casual brunches or dessert parties.

24. Smashed Potatoes

Crispy golden brown smashed potatoes combine the comfort of potatoes with a satisfying crunch.

These little gems went viral on TikTok, where everyone was obsessing over their irresistibly crispy edges, fluffy interiors, and endless topping possibilities, from garlic butter to melted cheese and herbs.

While I love all things potatoes—from fries to mashed to roasted—smashed potatoes hold a special place as a personal favorite and this is the best smashed recipes I’ve ever come across!

These drool-worthy smashed potatoes are super easy to make and only require 5 ingredients. They are crunchy, golden brown, and crispy; basically an irresistible and exceptional treat.

25. Loaded Deviled Eggs

These no mayo loaded deviled eggs taste heavenly and are perfect for all sorts of parties. Loaded with bacon, cheese, sour cream, and chives these are the perfect holiday appetizer.

No-mayo deviled eggs are a fantastic twist on the classic recipe, offering a lighter and often more flavorful alternative for those who aren’t fans of mayonnaise or are looking for a healthier option.

Instead of mayo, you can use ingredients like Greek yogurt, avocado, hummus, or even mustard and olive oil to create a creamy, tangy filling.

These substitutions don’t take away from the flavor. Instead, they add unique flavors and nutrients, making them a great choice for health-conscious eaters or those with dietary restrictions.

26. Mini Strawberry Cheesecakes | Cheap and Easy Party Food Ideas

Buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a fresh strawberry sauce?! Who can say no to these mini strawberry cheesecakes!

These delightful treats are baked in a muffin pan, making them the perfect individual-sized desserts for any occasion. The homemade strawberry sauce is swirled into the cheesecake batter before baking, creating a beautiful marbled effect and infusing each bite with fresh strawberry flavor.

Once chilled, these mini cheesecakes are topped with even more strawberry sauce, adding a burst of color and sweetness that complements the rich, creamy filling.

Whether you’re hosting a party or attending a potluck gathering, these will be a hit and have everyone asking you for the recipe.

27. Philly Cheesesteak Quesadillas

These Philly cheesesteak quesadillas are filled with tender beef and melted cheese and are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Not only do they take almost no time to make, but they can also be made ahead of time because they freeze well.

This recipe combines the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak—succulent ribeye steak, sauteed onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms—with the convenience of a quesadilla, all encased in a crispy tortilla. The use of provolone cheese is genius because it adds a creamy texture that complements the savory filling perfectly.

These quesadillas can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making them a practical choice for busy party schedules.

This post was all about cheap and easy party food ideas!

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