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Budget-friendly Christmas recipes

by Jessica Lockyer-Palmer

published on 20 December 2024

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, but it’s also by far the most expensive too. With the mounting cost of ingredients, coupled with all of the other expenses to account for like presents, decorations and travel to visit family, the Christmas food shop can be an ever more daunting prospect. Luckily, we have plenty of recipes to help you make a festive feast that won’t break the bank. So whether you’re a budget-conscious family, a student looking to make a Christmas meal for your housemates or a cook that likes to be thrifty in the kitchen, read on. 

Caramelised Onion and Goat’s Cheese Tart

Caramelised Onion and Goat’s Cheese Tart

by Amy Sheppard

Just because you’re on a budget, it doesn’t mean you need to skip the starter. This delicious tart from The Savvy Shopper’s Cookbook brings together creamy, tangy goat’s cheese with sweet caramelised onion to kick off your feast in style.

Beetroot and Sweet Potato Gratin

Beetroot and Sweet Potato Gratin

by Rosie Ramsden

There’s no reason why indulgence has to be sacrificed when you’re on a budget, as this recipe made using root veg, common herbs and cream proves.

Jessie and Lennie Ware’s Leftover Turkey Casserole

Jessie and Lennie Ware’s Leftover Turkey Casserole

by Jessie Ware, Lennie Ware

Want to make your Christmas turkey go further? This simple recipe for leftover meat uses just a handful of budget-friendly ingredients to create a warming and filling casserole the whole family will love.

Cornershop Pavlova

Cornershop Pavlova

by Caroline Craig, Sophie Missing

This bank account-friendly dessert uses basic store cupboard ingredients and your tinned fruit of choice to create a pavlova as delicious as any other. 

Speedy Steamed Pudding Pots

Speedy Steamed Pudding Pots

A good steamed pudding is synonymous with Christmas, and Jamie Oliver’s recipe uses just five ingredients to keep the cost down.

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