Who says throwing a BBQ party has to burn a hole in your wallet? With a bit of creativity and smart planning, you can serve up a feast for 20 guests without exceeding $50. From budget-friendly meats to crowd-pleasing sides, here’s how to pull off a delicious BBQ bash that doesn’t skimp on flavor or fun. 
1. Choose Budget-Friendly Cuts of Meat 
Skip the expensive steaks and opt for affordable yet flavorful options like chicken thighs, drumsticks, or pork shoulder. These cuts are not only wallet-friendly but also perfect for BBQ marination and slow cooking.
- Why It Works: Chicken thighs and drumsticks are juicy and versatile, while pork shoulder is ideal for pulled pork. Both are crowd-pleasers and cost-effective.
- Cost Breakdown: A 10-lb pack of chicken drumsticks or thighs costs around $10–$30, while a pork shoulder runs about $20–$40.
- Pro Tip: Buy in bulk from warehouse stores or local butchers to score even better deals.
2. Whip Up DIY Sauces and Rubs 
Store-bought BBQ sauces can add up quickly, but making your own is easy and far cheaper. A few pantry staples like ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices are all you need for a delicious homemade sauce.
- Why It Works: DIY sauces let you control the flavor while saving money. Plus, you can customize them to suit your guests’ tastes.
- Cost Breakdown: A homemade BBQ sauce costs around $2–$3 to make and can cover all your meat.
- Pro Tip: Make a dry rub in advance using salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder to add an extra layer of flavor to your meats.
3. Serve Filling, Low-Cost Side Dishes 
Sides are the unsung heroes of any BBQ, and they’re also a great way to fill plates without spending a fortune. Dishes like coleslaw, potato salad, and baked beans are cheap, easy to make in large quantities, and universally loved.
- Why It Works: Sides are budget-friendly, filling, and pair perfectly with grilled meats. Plus, you can prep them the day before to save time.
- Cost Breakdown: A batch of coleslaw or potato salad costs $5–$6 to make, while a large can of baked beans is under $3.
- Pro Tip: Use seasonal veggies to create a fresh and colorful salad for an even cheaper option.
4. Buy Drinks in Bulk 
Quenching your guests’ thirst doesn’t have to break the bank. Buying drinks in bulk or making your own refreshing beverages can save you a lot of money while keeping everyone hydrated.
- Why It Works: Bulk soda, water, or iced tea is much cheaper than individually bottled drinks. For an extra touch, homemade lemonade or iced tea is both budget-friendly and a crowd favorite.
- Cost Breakdown: A 24-pack of soda or water costs about $6–$8. A gallon of homemade lemonade (made with lemons, sugar, and water) costs under $5 and serves 10–12 people.
- Pro Tip: Skip alcohol if you’re on a tight budget, or ask guests to BYOB to keep costs down.
5. Use Affordable Grilling Fuel
Grilling fuel can be a sneaky expense if you’re not careful. Choosing the right fuel type and buying in bulk can save you money without compromising on the BBQ experience.
- Why It Works: Charcoal and propane are the main grilling options, and both have budget-friendly strategies. Buying large bags of charcoal or refilling propane tanks is more economical than smaller packs.
- Cost Breakdown: A large bag of charcoal costs around $12–$15 and can handle multiple BBQs. Propane refills typically cost $20–$25 but last several grilling sessions.
- Pro Tip: Use a charcoal chimney starter to save on lighter fluid and get the coals burning faster, making your fuel last longer.
6. Decorate Smart with DIY Touches 
A great BBQ party vibe doesn’t need expensive decorations. Simple DIY ideas can transform your space while keeping your budget intact.
- Why It Works: Repurposing household items or using dollar-store finds adds charm without big expenses. Mason jars, string lights, and colorful napkins can create a festive atmosphere.
- Cost Breakdown: A string of fairy lights costs $5–$10, and mason jars for drinks or centerpieces can often be found for under $1 each.
- Pro Tip: Use butcher paper as a table cover and let kids (or guests) decorate it with markers for a fun and interactive touch.
7. Offer Simple, Low-Cost Desserts 
No BBQ is complete without a sweet treat, but desserts don’t need to blow your budget. Simple, crowd-pleasing options like cookies, brownies, or fruit skewers can satisfy everyone without breaking the bank.
- Why It Works: Easy-to-make desserts require minimal ingredients and can be prepared in large batches. Fresh fruit adds a refreshing touch and stretches your dollar.
- Cost Breakdown: A batch of homemade brownies or cookies costs $5–$7, while a fruit platter with seasonal picks like watermelon or grapes costs $10–$12.
- Pro Tip: Add a drizzle of chocolate or a sprinkle of powdered sugar to elevate simple desserts without extra expense.
8. Plan Portions Carefully 
Overestimating food quantities is a common mistake that can lead to unnecessary costs and waste. By planning portions based on your guest count, you can avoid overspending while ensuring everyone gets their fill.
- How to Do It: Plan for about 1/3 to 1/2 pound of meat per person and complement it with generous servings of sides.
- Cost Breakdown: A well-portioned menu ensures you don’t exceed your $50 budget while providing enough food for 20 guests.
- Pro Tip: Use disposable plates slightly smaller than standard dinner plates to encourage reasonable portions and reduce food waste.
9. Borrow or Repurpose Equipment 
Instead of renting or buying items for your BBQ, borrow equipment or repurpose items you already have at home. This saves money while adding a personal touch to your setup.
- What to Borrow: Ask friends or family for extra coolers, serving utensils, or folding chairs if you need them.
- Repurpose Ideas: Turn a clean wheelbarrow into an ice-filled drink cooler or use baking sheets for serving trays.
- Pro Tip: If you frequently host BBQs, consider investing in reusable essentials like grilling tools or serving platters during sales.
10. Get Guests Involved with a Potluck Option
Stretch your budget even further by asking guests to bring a side dish, dessert, or drink to share. This not only lightens your workload but also adds variety to the menu.
- Why It Works: Guests are often happy to contribute, and it helps keep your costs focused on the main event—grilling the meat!
- Cost Breakdown: By handling the core menu items and letting guests fill in the gaps, you can easily stay within your $50 budget.
- Pro Tip: Provide a theme or suggestions (e.g., “salads and sweets”) to ensure the contributions complement your menu.
Throwing a BBQ party for 20 people on just $50 might sound impossible, but with smart planning and a little creativity, it’s entirely doable! By choosing affordable cuts of meat, making your own sauces, preparing budget-friendly sides, and getting guests involved, you can deliver a memorable feast without sacrificing quality or flavor.
So fire up the grill, gather your friends, and enjoy a fun, flavorful, and budget-friendly BBQ party that everyone will remember. 
