3 Budget-Friendly Holiday Meals Under $20 Total

The holidays don’t have to be expensive to be delicious. These three warm, comforting recipes use simple ingredients, are easy to cook, and each cost under $20 total to make. They’re perfect for families, pantry-friendly, and great for stretching your groceries during the busy season.

1. One-Pot Chicken & Veggie Soup

A cozy classic that feeds the whole family with minimal prep and maximum comfort.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs (boneless)

• 4 cups chicken broth

• 3 carrots, sliced

• 3 celery stalks, sliced

• 1 onion, diced

• 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 1 cup frozen peas

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Add chicken, broth, carrots, celery, onion, and potatoes to a large pot.

2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.

3. Remove chicken, shred with a fork, and return to the pot.

4. Stir in peas, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

5. Simmer 5 more minutes and serve warm.

Budget tip: Replace chicken with canned chicken to save even more.

2. Sweet Potato Casserole with Oats

A holiday favorite turned budget-friendly with a crunchy oat topping.

Ingredients

• 3 large sweet potatoes (or 2 cans of canned sweet potatoes)

• 2 tbsp butter or margarine

• ¼ cup milk

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 1 cup oats

• 2 tbsp brown sugar (for topping)

• 1 tbsp melted butter (for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.

2. Peel and boil sweet potatoes until soft (or drain canned sweet potatoes).

3. Mash with butter, milk, brown sugar, and cinnamon.

4. Spread mixture into a baking dish.

5. In a bowl, mix oats, brown sugar, and melted butter.

6. Sprinkle topping over the sweet potatoes.

7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until lightly golden.

Budget tip: Use store-brand oatmeal and canned sweet potatoes when available.

3. Apple Spice Overnight Oats

Simple, no-cook, and perfect for busy holiday mornings.

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats

• 1 cup milk (or almond milk)

• 1 apple, diced (or ½ cup unsweetened applesauce)

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 1 tbsp maple syrup or brown sugar (optional)

Instructions

1. In a container or jar, combine oats, milk, apples, cinnamon, and sweetener.

2. Stir well, cover, and refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours).

3. Enjoy cold or warm it up in the microwave.

Budget tip: Applesauce is often cheaper than fresh apples and works just as well.

Holiday Savings, Simple Cooking

Each of these recipes is warm, nourishing, and easy to prepare—without stretching your holiday budget. Whether you're feeding a family or prepping ahead for a busy workweek, these dishes bring comfort and joy to your table for less.