The season brings gift exchanges andcookie swaps, hot chocolate and holiday films, celebratory feasts and tasty bites — it’s truly the most wonderful time of the year.
But it’s also the priciest season. Betweenbuying presents for family and friends, traveling to visit relatives and attending seasonal events, the last thing anyone wants is to overspend on the Christmas roast. While we love gathering with loved ones and enjoying festivities, the mix of more holiday get-togethers and elevated grocery costs this winter can be a real source of anxiety.
That’s where we come in to help with your holiday supper. Want to dazzle guests without overspending? We’ve compiled recipes featuring budget-friendly cuts of meat that will not only delight your crowd but also help you save cash this holiday season.
Beef Brisket and Chuck Roast
Though many think they must splurge on pricey beef like short ribs or beef tenderloin, brisket and chuck roast can be just as show-stopping and flavorful for a fraction of the cost.
Per theUS Department of Agriculture, average chuck roast runs about $12.43 per pound, while short ribs are roughly $11.86 per pound for considerably less edible meat. Brisket is much more budget friendly than beef tenderloin, averaging $12.64 per pound versus the tenderloin’s roughly $29.50.
Brisket comes from the cow’s breast, while chuck is cut from the shoulder. Both include more muscle fibers and connective tissue than the rear of the animal, which makes them firmer cuts — and therefore less expensive.
But, much like your most stubborn holiday relatives, these pieces simply require a bit more time and attention to shine.
For zesty, melt-in-your-mouth results, braise your brisket using something likeTangy Brisket with Fennel and Herbsfrom Bon Appétit orHoliday Beef Brisket with Onionsfrom Food & Wine. Or simplify holiday prep by using a slow cooker with thisTangy Spiced Brisketfrom Smitten Kitchen.
Chuck roast is ideal for seasonal tastes like winter fruits, hardy herbs and citrus. Put your guests in a festive mood with Half Baked Harvest’sCranberry Pot RoastorPomegranate-Braised Pot Roastfrom Food52. For a timeless option, try thisBeef Bourguignonfrom The Food Network.
The best part? Each one pairs beautifully with buttery roasted potatoes and a generous pour of red wine.
Ground Beef
Ground beef for the holidays? Absolutely.
This economical meat ($5.58 per pound on average) is often considered a weeknight favorite, but a little effort can elevate humble ground beef into the headline dish. ThisShepherd’s Piefrom AllRecipes is a timeless way to combine cozy, holiday flavors into a single, satisfying casserole. Want a seasonal flourish? Top the mashed potatoes with a rosemary wreath or a tree design.
Or borrow inspiration from Italy.
Italians have long showcased ground beef in impressive pasta and rice bakes likeTimballoandSartu di Riso. While these dishes require extra steps and some careful assembly, your guests will be delighted by the special presentation and international flair. For an easier, make-ahead favorite, try thisBaked Bolognese. It’s a comforting, flavor-packed dish that’s surprisingly straightforward to prepare.
Pork Shoulder or Pork Butt
Despite the differing labels, both pork shoulder and pork butt originate from the pig’s shoulder, which makes them slightly firmer cuts. But, similar to the beef shoulder options above, roasting pork shoulder slowly and at low heat produces tender, impressive, and delicious results. Pork shoulder and pork butt are highly budget-friendly, averaging about $3.49 per pound, and they can easily feed a crowd.
Consider slow-roasting your pork overnight as inthis Food Network recipeto save both time and money. ThisGarlicky Roast Pork Shoulderfrom Food & Wine is rich in flavor and adaptable for many occasions. Or add festive citrus notes with Bon Appétit’sBurnt Orange and Coriander Roast Pork. Even your toughest relative will be won over. For a spicier option, Alison Roman’sPork Pozolemakes feeding a crowd both straightforward and delicious.
Chicken Legs and Thighs
While turkey and stuffed chicken breasts often dominate holiday tables, chicken legs and thighs are an excellent and economical alternative. They’re significantly cheaper — about $1.83per pound on average— and much harder to overcook. Say goodbye to dry poultry this year!
Alison Roman’sOlive Oil Roasted Chicken with Caramelized Carrotsis a one-pan feast that roasts the chicken slowly until it’s falling-off-the-bone tender. (Plus, the schmaltzy olive oil it yields is perfect for sopping up with warm bread — irresistible!). TheseCranberry Balsamic Chicken Thighsfrom EatingWell are festive and can be easily scaled up for larger gatherings. Prefer something classic? Wow guests with Coq au Vin using the recipe fromOnce Upon a Chefor the legendary Julia Child version onThe Endless Meal. It can even be made a couple of days ahead to streamline the holiday rush.
So skip the unnecessary splurges this holiday season and opt for these wallet-friendly yet flavorful cuts of meat! Crafting a memorable holiday meal for friends and family doesn’t have to drain your savings.
Contributor Daniel Russo is a Boston-based writer focusing on food, as well as Italian travel and history.
