Planning a great cookout doesn’t need to be expensive. This guide looks at Cook-Out and cheaper choices. You’ll find how to enjoy big flavors and quality while saving money. Since Cook-Out tray prices went up from $4.99 to $6.99, being smart with your money is key. We’ll help you plan a tasty BBQ menu on a budget.

Cook-Out, in Greensboro, NC, is known for big portions at low prices. A usual meal with double burgers, fries, slaw, and shakes costs about $7. That’s a lot for a little! They’re also open until 4 AM, perfect for late-night eats. Knowing prices helps you plan a fun, affordable cookout.

For a BBQ for four, here’s what you might spend:

  • Cheddar brats: $2.99 for a five-pack
  • Regular brats: $2.99 for a five-pack
  • Burgers (16 patties): $11.89
  • Romaine hearts: $3.69
  • Pepper-jack slices: $1.29 for 10 slices
  • Hamburger buns: $1.29
  • Hot-dog buns: $0.40 for eight buns
  • Barbecue sauce: $1.45
  • Jalapeño chips: $1.95
  • Barbecue chips: $1.95
  • Buffalo-chicken dip: $3.39
  • Macaroni salad: $3.75
  • Coleslaw: $3.75
  • Spotted Cow beer: $8.95

Total spend for a BBQ: $50

We’ve laid everything out so you can manage your budget well. This promises a great meal for everyone. Keep watching as we show you the best menu picks, tasty meals, and amazing summer bargains. We’re making your cookout menu work perfectly with your wallet.

Introduction to Affordable Cookout Menus

Planning a cookout is fun and wallet-friendly with careful thought. A budget-friendly menu lets you serve many tasty dishes without spending too much. Knowing dish prices and planning funds wisely leads to an unforgettable party for everyone.

The Importance of Budgeting for a Cookout

It’s crucial to budget for a cookout to cover all needs without extra costs. Understanding your menu’s costs avoids unexpected expenses. By monitoring dish prices, you can spread your budget to include a variety of flavors for everyone’s liking.

Benefits of Planning Ahead

Planning early has many upsides. It lets you buy ingredients on sale or with coupons, cutting down costs. This approach helps you make a varied menu that fits different tastes and dietary needs. Plus, it avoids the high prices of last-minute shopping. With smart budgeting, your cookout will be a hit without draining your wallet.

Best Cookout Menu Options

Planning the best cookout menu means offering a variety of tasty options. We have put together a list of popular items. This will help you pick the right choices while sticking to your budget.

Item Name Calories Price
Small Burger (1/8 lb) 240 – 245 $1.99 – $2.99
Regular Burger (1/4 lb) 328 – 330 $2.99 – $3.99
Huge Burger (1/2 lb) 516 – 520 $3.99
Big Double Burger 311 – 330 $2.99 – $3.99
Chicken Nuggets 150 $1.99
Bacon Wrap 420 $4.85 – $4.99
Cheese Bites (White Cheddar) 190 – 380 $2.99
Fries (Regular/Large) 350 / 700 $2.39 / $2.99
Hush Puppies 300 $1.99
Onion Rings 130 $2.69
Corn Dog (with French’s Mustard & Heinz Ketchup) 220 $1.99
Dasani Bottled Water (20 oz.) 0 $0.99
Regular Shake 510 – 900 $3.99
Cheerwine Float 380 $2.19
Coke Float 380 $2.19
Huge Tea 390 $2.39

Customizing your burgers or hot dogs can make your cookout special. Try different styles like Cookout Style or Out West Style. Adding Steak Style or Cheddar Style brings out amazing flavors. These touches create unforgettable cookout experiences.

Item Name Keto-Friendly Gluten-Free Allergens (e.g., Nuts, Dairy)
Small Burger No Ready with gluten-free bun Dairy (if cheese added)
Regular Burger No Ready with gluten-free bun Dairy (if cheese added)
Huge Burger No Ready with gluten-free bun Dairy (if cheese added)
Big Double Burger No Ready with gluten-free bun Dairy (if cheese added)
Chicken Nuggets Not recommended No Contains Gluten
Bacon Wrap No No Dairy (if cheese added)
Cheese Bites (White Cheddar) No No Dairy
Fries Yes Yes Possible cross-contamination
Hush Puppies No No Gluten
Onion Rings No No Gluten
Corn Dog No No Gluten
Dasani Bottled Water Yes Yes None
Regular Shake Not recommended No Dairy
Cheerwine Float Not recommended No Dairy
Coke Float Not recommended No Dairy
Huge Tea Yes Yes None

Delicious Cookout Dishes on a Budget

Hosting a cookout doesn’t have to be expensive. You can find awesome mains and sides that won’t empty your pockets. Choose ingredients wisely and use nifty cooking tricks. This way, you can throw a great outdoor party without spending too much.

Try the Cookout Tray for only $4.99. It’s great for offering a variety of tastes. Char-grilled hamburgers cost just $1.39. Add two quesadillas for $2.99. For those who love hot dogs, corn dogs and cheese dogs are just 99 cents each.

Add sides like crispy French fries, onion rings, or hush puppies. They add flavor and make the meal complete.

Item Name Calories Price
Cookout Tray Varies $4.99
Char-Grilled Hamburger 300 $1.39
Quesadillas (2 pieces) 400 $2.99
Corn Dog 250 $0.99
Cheese Dog 270 $0.99
French Fries 320 $1.99
Onion Rings 400 $2.29
Hush Puppies 390 $1.89
BBQ Plate Varies Not specified
Crispy Spicy Chicken Breast Fillet 450 $2.49
Char-Grilled Chicken Breast (Original Style) 350 $2.99
Char-Grilled Chicken Breast (Barbecue Style) 370 $2.99
Char-Grilled Chicken Breast (Cajun Style) 380 $2.99
Char-Grilled Chicken Breast (Club Style) 400 $2.99

Save more by buying meat in bulk at places like Costco or BJ’s. Use fruits and vegetables that are in season for cheaper sides. Homemade burgers and spicy chicken fillets are tasty and won’t hurt your budget. You can also make drinks special by adding simple twists to sodas.

These tips can help you create a lovely feast affordably. It shows you don’t need to spend a lot for delicious cookout food.

Summer Cookout Menu Deals

Summer is here, and it’s time for outdoor fun. Smart planning can help you save a lot on your cookout. Look for summer cookout menu deals at stores. They let you throw a great party without spending too much. Here, we’ll talk about the best offers and tips to save with seasonal deals, buying in bulk, and finding low outdoor dining menu prices.

Take the summer cookout basket from Walmart for example. It’s priced at just below $50. This is a great deal because it feeds about eight people at roughly $6 each. The basket comes with 13 items, covering food and drinks to make your cookout complete.

Item Name Calories Price
Oscar Mayer Classic Wieners Hot Dogs (10-count) 170 per serving $3.50
Wonder Bread Classic Hot Dog Buns (8-count) 120 per bun $2.00
Great Value Tomato Ketchup (24 oz.) 15 per tbsp $1.00
Great Value Yellow Mustard (20 oz.) 0 per tbsp $1.00
Great Value Sweet Relish (10 oz.) 20 per tbsp $1.50
Great Value Hot Dog Chili Sauce (10.5 oz.) 40 per tbsp $1.00
Bush’s Original Baked Beans (28 oz.) 140 per 1/2 cup $2.50
Freshness Guaranteed Original Potato Salad (32 oz.) 200 per 1/2 cup $4.00
Fresh Seedless Watermelon 45 per cup $5.00
Fresh Sweet Corn on the Cob (4-count) 77 per ear $2.00
Lay’s Classic Potato Chips (8 oz. bag) 160 per serving $2.50
Pepsi Cola (12-pack) 150 per can $5.50
Kool-Aid Jammers Tropical Punch Kids Drink (10 packets) 30 per packet $3.00
Great Value Assorted Flavor Freedom Ice Pops (12-count) 50 per pop $2.00
Freshness Guaranteed Chocolate Chip Bakery Cookies (10-count) 160 per cookie $4.00

This deal lasts until July 12, 2024. So, make sure to use these savings. Stores often give discounts on bulk buys and grill items like burgers and hotdogs. Adding seasonal fruits and salads, like watermelon and pasta, makes your menu better while saving money.

To wrap up, finding deals on summer cookouts and smart shopping can give you a fun, cheap gathering. Don’t forget to drink lots of water. And using reusable items helps the planet. Enjoy your summer barbecue!

Cookout Menu With Prices

When you’re planning an outdoor gathering, the menu is central. Knowing the cookout menu with prices helps with budgeting. This breakdown makes managing your BBQ party menu cost easier.

Item Name Calories Price
Big Double Burger 330 $7.39
Regular ¼ Burger 330 $3.25
Regular Barbecue 370 $4.99
Two Hot Dogs 520 $4.99
Two Quesadillas (Chicken/Beef) 440-520 $3.39
Regular Chicken 380 $4.85
Cajun Chicken 380 $4.85
Spicy Chicken 450 $4.99
Barbecue Char-Grilled Chicken 380 $4.85
Three Chicken Strips (or Sandwich) 660 $4.99
Bacon Wrap 420 $1.99
White Cheddar Cheese Bites 190 $3.39
Chicken Nuggets 150 $2.39
Chicken Wrap 520 $1.99
Corn Dog 220 $1.99
Fries 350 $2.39
Hush Puppies 300 $1.99
Onion Rings 130 $2.69
Quesadilla 260 $3.39

The menu also details dietary and allergen information. This ensures you can make informed choices about what to eat.

Item Name Keto-Friendly Gluten-Free Allergens (e.g., Nuts, Dairy)
Big Double Burger No No Gluten, Dairy
Regular ¼ Burger No No Gluten, Dairy
Regular Barbecue Yes Yes None
Two Hot Dogs No No Gluten
Two Quesadillas (Chicken/Beef) No No Gluten, Dairy
Regular Chicken Yes Yes None
Cajun Chicken Yes Yes None
Spicy Chicken Yes Yes None
Barbecue Char-Grilled Chicken Yes Yes None
Three Chicken Strips (or Sandwich) No No Gluten
Bacon Wrap No No Gluten
White Cheddar Cheese Bites No No Gluten, Dairy
Chicken Nuggets No No Gluten
Chicken Wrap No No Gluten
Corn Dog No No Gluten
Fries Yes Yes None
Hush Puppies No No Gluten
Onion Rings No No Gluten
Quesadilla No No Gluten, Dairy

Affordable Main Dishes for Cookouts

Picking affordable main dishes makes your cookout both budget-friendly and delightful for everyone. You can choose from a variety of low-cost options. These include grilled chicken, vegetarian BBQ, and hot dogs.

Grilled Chicken and Alternatives

Grilled chicken is always a hit at cookouts. Choosing whole chickens or more affordable cuts like thighs and drumsticks saves money. You can spend about $1 less per pound than on breast meat. Chuck eye steak is a great choice for those wanting steak without the high cost. It tastes similar to more expensive cuts but is cheaper.

Pork shoulder and beef brisket are also good options. They need more time to cook but are flavorful and less pricey.

Item Name Calories Price
Whole Grilled Chicken 700 $10.50
Chicken Thighs 250 $5.50
Chuck Eye Steak 400 $12.00
Pork Shoulder 600 $8.25
Lamb Breast 450 $11.00
Pork Chops 380 $7.99
Beef Brisket 500 $13.50
Skirt Steak 390 $9.50

Vegetarian and Hot Dog Options

Looking for vegetarian BBQ options? Grilled veggie skewers and portobello mushrooms are perfect meatless choices. Veggie burgers and grilled corn are also great for replacing traditional burgers. And hot dogs are always a budget-friendly pick. You can also try turkey or chicken franks for a lighter option. These vegetarian alternatives also fit gluten-free and keto diets, helping everyone enjoy the meal.

Item Name Keto-Friendly Gluten-Free Allergens (e.g., Nuts, Dairy)
Veggie Skewers No Yes None
Portobello Mushrooms Yes Yes None
Veggie Burgers No No Nuts, Dairy
Grilled Corn Yes Yes None
Chicken Hot Dogs Yes No None
Turkey Hot Dogs Yes No None

With these affordable main dishes, your cookout will have a variety of tasty options. They are budget-conscious choices that cater to many different tastes and dietary needs.

Fabulous Sides to Complete Your Menu

Every great cookout needs good side dishes. Dishes like potato salad and baked beans add flavor and balance. Here’s a guide to some classic sides and tasty alternatives for your cookout menu.

Classic Potato Salad and Alternatives

Potato salad is a must-have at cookouts. It’s creamy and tangy, and you can make it your own. You can stick with the traditional recipe or try new ingredients like herbs or bacon. It’s a hit with guests and easy to make ahead of time.

Item Name Calories Price
Classic Potato Salad 220 $2.99
Herbed Potato Salad 200 $3.49
German Potato Salad 180 $3.19
Bacon Potato Salad 250 $3.79
Vegan Potato Salad 160 $3.29

Easy-to-Make Baked Beans

Baked beans are a favorite for cookouts. They’re rich, a bit sweet, and really easy to cook. Just start with canned beans and add your favorite ingredients like sauce, onions, or bacon. They go great with grilled meats, making them perfect for any barbecue.

Item Name Calories Price
Traditional Baked Beans 190 $2.79
Bacon Baked Beans 230 $3.49
Vegetarian Baked Beans 170 $2.99
Spicy Baked Beans 210 $3.19
Maple Baked Beans 200 $3.29

Adding potato salad and baked beans to your cookout means more flavor and choices. These sides can really make your cookout stand out.

Refreshing Beverage Selections

Picking the right drinks is key for a great cookout. Make sure to have both non-alcoholic and budget-friendly alcohol choices. This way, everyone finds something they like. From classic lemonade to diverse options, there’s a lot to choose from for your barbecue.

Non-Alcoholic Drinks

Every cookout needs non-alcoholic options. They’re refreshing and suitable for all ages. Favorites include iced tea, lemonades, and sodas like Coca-Cola. Below is more information on top picks, including their prices and calories, to help you plan.

Item Name Calories Price
Fresh Brewed Tea (Large) 290 $2.19
Fresh Brewed Tea (Huge) 390 $2.39
Coca-Cola (Regular) 460 $2.19
Coca-Cola (Large) 260 $2.39
Cheerwine (Regular) 460 $2.19
Cheerwine (Large) 590 $2.39
Dasani Bottled Water (20 oz) 0 $2.39
Coke Float Varies $2.39
Cheerwine Float Varies $2.39

Budget-Friendly Alcohol Options

For those who like alcoholic drinks, there are cheap options. Offer beers, homemade sangria, and simple cocktails like gin and tonic. These choices mix good taste with affordability. By providing a variety, everyone finds a drink they enjoy.

Item Name Calories Price
Bud Light (12 oz) 110 $1.50
Homemade Sangria (8 oz) 150 $2.25
Gin and Tonic (8 oz) 170 $2.75
Classic Margarita (8 oz) 200 $3.00
Corona (12 oz) 150 $2.00

Having both non-alcoholic and budget-friendly alcohol options makes your cookout better. With careful planning, you can offer drinks that everyone enjoys without spending too much. These drinks will be the perfect addition to your tasty dishes.

Sweet Endings: Budget-Friendly Desserts

Ending a meal with a sweet dessert doesn’t have to break the bank. We have some simple and affordable dessert ideas. They can be the perfect finish to your meal without costing a lot.

Grilled Fruits and Other Simple Treats

Grilled fruits are an affordable and tasty dessert option. Pineapples, peaches, and bananas are great for grilling. Slice them up, grill for a few minutes, and enjoy their enhanced sweetness.

These grilled fruits taste great on their own. Or, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for more fun.

Looking for something unique? Try berry parfaits or fruit skewers. They’re easy to make and will wow your guests.

DIY Ice Cream Sundaes

DIY ice cream sundaes are also an excellent choice for a budget dessert. Buy basic flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry. Then, have a toppings bar with chocolate syrup, sprinkles, and fruits. Guests will love making their own sundaes.

Let’s explore the Cookout dessert menu:

Item Name Calories Price
Fancy Milkshake 510-900 $3.99
Cheesecake 360 $2.39
Coke Float 380 $2.39
Cheerwine Float 380 $2.39
Chocolate Malt Milkshake 480 $2.79
Peach Cobbler Milkshake 530 $2.79
Peanut Butter Banana Milkshake 600 $2.79
Blueberry Milkshake 520 $2.79
Chocolate Nut Milkshake 560 $2.79
Mocha Milkshake 600 $2.79

It’s vital to think about what everyone can eat. Here’s a list of allergen information for popular Cookout desserts:

Item Name Keto-Friendly Gluten-Free Allergens
Fancy Milkshake No No Dairy, Nuts (varies by flavor)
Cheesecake No No Dairy, Eggs
Coke Float No Yes Dairy
Cheerwine Float No Yes Dairy
Chocolate Malt Milkshake No No Dairy
Peach Cobbler Milkshake No No Dairy, Wheat
Peanut Butter Banana Milkshake No No Dairy, Nuts
Blueberry Milkshake No No Dairy
Chocolate Nut Milkshake No No Dairy, Nuts
Mocha Milkshake No No Dairy

Pro Tips for a Budget-Friendly Cookout

Having a cookout can be fun and cheap if you plan right. Here are tips to keep your cookout budget-friendly and still wow your guests.

Smart Shopping Strategies

Smart shopping is key for an affordable cookout. Follow these strategies:

  • Choose budget-friendly meats like chicken thighs, drumsticks, ground beef, and hot dogs. They usually cost under $5 per pound.
  • Ask guests to bring sides, desserts, or drinks. Around 60% of guests are happy to contribute, cutting your costs.
  • Buy in large quantities from warehouse stores like Costco or Sam’s Club for good deals on food items.
  • Go for seasonal fruits and veggies. They’re often cheaper and fresher.

Maximizing Your Grill’s Potential

Using your grill creatively can make your dishes tastier and more affordable. Here are tips to do just that:

  • Extend ground meats with cheap ingredients like shredded potatoes or pureed veggies. This can lower meat costs by about 15%.
  • Make dishes that use less meat, like tacos or kebabs, to save 20-30% on meat expenses.
  • Use lots of bread products like buns and rolls to fill out meals, cutting costs by up to 50%.
  • Try grilling fruit for dessert. It can be 40% cheaper than baked sweets.

Suggested Contribution Items Table

Item Name Calories Price
Grilled Chicken Thighs 150 $4
Potato Salad 200 $5
Baked Beans 220 $3
BBQ Chicken Salad 300 $15
Classic Hot Dogs 180 $2
Grilled Tacos 250 $8
Cauliflower Steaks 50 $3
Sweet Potato Fries 160 $4
Eggplant Kebabs 80 $5
Grilled Peaches 70 $3
DIY Ice Cream Sundaes 250 $10

Dietary and Allergen Information Table

Item Name Keto-Friendly Gluten-Free Allergens (e.g., Nuts, Dairy)
Grilled Chicken Thighs Yes Yes None
Potato Salad No Yes Egg
Baked Beans No Yes None
BBQ Chicken Salad Yes No Dairy
Classic Hot Dogs No No None
Grilled Tacos No Yes None
Cauliflower Steaks Yes Yes None
Sweet Potato Fries No Yes None
Eggplant Kebabs Yes Yes None
Grilled Peaches Yes Yes None
DIY Ice Cream Sundaes No Yes Dairy

FAQs

What are some budget-friendly cookout tips? Choose cheaper proteins, have a potluck, and buy food in bulk. This keeps expenses low.

How can I save on meat costs? Use small meat portions, mix ground meat with cheap add-ins, and serve lots of bread products.

What should guests bring to a potluck cookout? They can bring side items, sweets, or drinks. These usually cost $5 to $15.

How do I accommodate dietary restrictions? Talk to your guests about any special diets. Make sure you have gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan options ready.

How can grilled fruits save on dessert costs? Grilled fruit is a cheaper option than baked desserts. It can cut dessert expenses by 40%.

Creating the Perfect Atmosphere

Planning a cookout? The atmosphere is as key as the food. Creating the right mood turns simple meet-ups into unforgettable ones. From DIY decorations to fun activities, the right setting will make your cookout amazing.

DIY Decorations

Start with DIY decorations to make an inviting atmosphere. Choose colorful tablecloths and napkins that fit your theme. Use mason jars as decor pieces—they’re great as candle holders or vases.

Adding string lights or lanterns creates a cozy feel for evening events. Make your area unique with handmade signs or banners. Remember, small details like themed plates and cups add charm without much cost.

Activities to Keep Guests Entertained

Entertaining guests keeps the party lively. Offer classic lawn games like cornhole or frisbee. They’re fun and easy to play outdoors.

A DIY photo booth with props makes for fun photos and memories. A s’mores station is another hit, loved by all ages.

Play a diverse music playlist to keep the mood upbeat. With these tips, people will rave about your cookout’s food and fun.

Conclusion

Ending our guide, having a great budget cookout is definitely possible. It just takes some smart planning and creative thinking. With options like Char-Grilled Hamburgers for $1.39 or Cookout Trays for $6.39 to $7.39, you can make a memorable BBQ without spending too much. Using budget-friendly choices like a $2.99 Regular Burger or a $4.95 BBQ Plate will keep everyone happy.

We talked about many menu choices, including grilled chicken and veggie hot dogs. We also covered tasty sides and desserts that will stand out at your party. Making wise shopping choices and using your grill wisely will save money, making sure everyone enjoys a great meal no matter their budget. Plus, adding awesome DIY decorations and fun activities will make your cookout unforgettable.

Remember, a successful budget cookout is more than just food. It’s about the happiness that comes from gathering people together. The Cookout menu, with over 40 milkshake flavors and sides priced between $1.85 and $2.99, offers lots of choices at good prices. Don’t forget that a Regular Cookout Tray provides great value at $6.39 to $7.39, beating competitors’ prices of $8.49. Follow these tips for a fun and budget-friendly BBQ that everyone will remember with joy!

FAQ

What are the essentials for planning a budget-friendly cookout menu?

To plan a budget-friendly cookout, start with a detailed list. Include items you want and compare their prices. Choose affordable options like grilled chicken, and make sides and desserts yourself. This approach helps find deals and cuts last-minute costs.

How can I ensure that my cookout menu is diverse but affordable?

For diversity without high costs, mix different proteins like chicken, hot dogs, and veggie options. Add simple, cheap sides. Using seasonal ingredients and homemade sauces adds variety without adding much to the bill.

Are there any deals or promotions available for summer cookout menus?

Indeed, supermarkets and online shops offer summer sales on grill foods and bulk buys. Check flyers and websites for deals on meats, drinks, and sides. This can save you money.

What are some budget-friendly drink options for a cookout?

Save on drinks with homemade lemonades, iced teas, and fruit water. For alcohol, choose cheap beer or make a signature punch. Bulk buys or store brands are also cost-effective.

How can I accommodate dietary restrictions without breaking the bank?

Include affordable and varied options like grilled veggies, gluten-free, and keto dishes. Adapting simple recipes for different diets can stay within your budget. It’s a smart way to cater to everyone’s needs without spending a lot.

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