It’s nearing the end of November and everyone knows what that means… Thanksgiving is right around the corner. It’s a time to be spent with family and friends over a nice meal prepared by loved ones. However, sometimes it’s not possible to spend it with your family or you may want to celebrate with your friends in addition to your family. Luckily, Friendsgiving can step in and fulfill all your Thanksgiving-with-friends needs. The one downside to having a Friendsgiving for most college kids is the pricing and actual preparation of food. If you’re anything like me, you probably struggle to put together above-average meals in your dorm or in a small college kitchen. Luckily, I’ve compiled a list of easy to make dishes that won’t break the bank to bring to your Friendsgiving.
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
You can’t go wrong with an appetizer dip when it comes to a big meal. Spinach and artichoke dip is always a crowd-pleaser, and it’s super easy to make. It makes for really good leftovers, too!
Recipe: https://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/spinach-and-artichoke-dip-0
Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a Thanksgiving classic that is super easy to make and is totally affordable. In order to spice it up a little bit and impress your friends, buttermilk mashed potatoes are a good spin on a classic dish. This recipe is super easy to make, the ingredients aren’t hard to find at all, and the price of the dish as a whole is totally doable on a college budget.
Recipe: https://www.foodfanatic.com/recipes/buttermilk-mashed-potatoes-recipe/
Almond and Thyme Green Beans
Every Thanksgiving spread always has your mom’s classic green bean casserole that, while not the best thing in the world, is a staple. Obviously, trying to make a casserole takes a lot of effort and can be overwhelming for a new college cook. This green bean recipe takes the stress of making a casserole out of your life while keeping the cult-favorite Thanksgiving green beans in the mix.
Recipe: https://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/green_beans_with_almonds_and_thyme/
Quick and Easy Biscuits
Rolls or biscuits are always essential when it comes to Thanksgiving meals. Sometimes baking can be super intimidating, and you don’t want to just show up with store-bought rolls. Luckily, this recipe for quick and easy biscuits can’t be messed up. All you have to do is mix ingredients and throw them in an oven — I promise you can do it.
Recipe: https://www.food.com/recipe/easy-biscuits-135930
Turkey and Stuffing Casserole
Okay, I know I was being a little hard on casseroles earlier, but this turkey casserole is a great alternative to cooking a whole turkey, trust me. The recipe seems intimidating at first, but when you break it down its actually super simple and really wallet-friendly. Friendsgiving and Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without turkey in some form, and this dish is sure to impress your friends. In total it’s about a two hour cook and prep time, so you don’t have to wait all day for it to cook either.
Recipe: https://www.budgetbytes.com/turkey-stuffing-casserole/
No-Bake Cranberry and Pear Tart
No meal is truly thorough without a dessert. This cranberry and pear tart is an easy and affordable way to finish off your meal with something sweet. The ingredients are super cheap, and it’s also vegan so all your friends can enjoy it. The recipe has four steps, and all you need is a refrigerator to keep it in until you’re ready to serve it. I promise it’s so simple, and the best part is it’s no-bake!
Recipe: https://www.forksoverknives.com/recipes/no-bake-cranberry-pear-tart/#gs.hp267o
Hopefully these affordable and easy recipes inspired you and gave you some ideas about what to serve or bring to your Friendsgiving!