Preparing a meal for a large group is no small feat. There are hours and hours of chopping, marinating, peeling, boiling and cleaning to do in preparation. But what about the cost? Entertaining is exspensive, so how can you make a great meal and not break the bank?

For starters, you need to plan every aspect of your meal, from the beverages to the dishware so you know exactly what you need to buy and what you can utilize from home. You may have found a terrific recipe online but if that recipe calls for 5 different herbs that you don’t have on hand you need to weigh the costs. Will making that homemade risotto mean you can’t afford to buy wine for your guests? Size up all of your recipes for ingredient costs and go from there. Factor in everything you need to prepare and serve your meal.

Remember you can always ask your guests to bring a dessert or an appetizer. Most people are more than willing to bring something, whether it is a side dish, a dessert or a bottle of wine.

Don’t assume making something yourself is cheaper than buying it at the store. If it isn’t, don’t feel guilty about serving store bought desserts as long as they are tasty and suit the crowd you are entertaining.

If your budget allows you to prepare a gourmet meal from soup to nuts, bravo! I hope your guests appreciate all of your hard work.

Here are a few interesting suggestions for all those chefs on a budget out there.

Click me! (epicurious)

No me! (cooking light)

Me first! (chefs on a shoestring)

Bon Appetite!

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