Easter dinner doesn’t have to cost a fortune. You can put together a full, delicious meal for under $25 with a little planning, smart shopping, and a few creative tricks. The best part? It won’t feel like a budget meal. It’ll still be packed with all the flavors and favorites your family loves.

This isn’t about skipping the good stuff or serving a boring meal. You’ll still have:

• A main dish that feels like a holiday centerpiece
• Tasty sides that are filling and easy to make
• A dessert that’s festive without being expensive
• A beautifully set table that looks special without extra cost

The key is knowing where to shop, what ingredients give you the most value, and how to use what you already have. Instead of spending big on a full ham, I’ll show you how to get the same flavor for a fraction of the price. I’ll also share the best budget-friendly side dishes, desserts, and little touches that make the meal feel like Easter—without spending extra.

Plus, I’ll give you a few fun ideas to make the dinner feel even more special. Simple things, like a creative table setup or a homemade signature drink, can turn a low-cost meal into a memorable one.

If you’re looking for ways to save money while still making a holiday-worthy meal, you’re in the right place. Whether you love meal planning or usually turn to Pinterest for last-minute ideas, I’ve got plenty of tips to help you pull off an amazing Easter dinner without overspending.

Budget-Friendly Protein Picks You’ll Love

The main dish is usually the biggest expense at Easter dinner, but it doesn’t have to be. You can still serve a delicious meal without spending a fortune. The key is picking budget-friendly proteins that taste great and don’t feel like a downgrade.

Here are a few affordable options:

• Ham slices – A full ham can be pricey, often $30 or more. Instead, grab pre-sliced ham from the deli or a small boneless ham. Right before Easter, many stores discount ham to around $2.49 per pound. A one-pound pack of ham slices can feed four people for under $3.
• Chicken thighs or drumsticks – Forget the pricey chicken breasts. Thighs and drumsticks are juicier, more flavorful, and cost way less. A family pack of drumsticks (about 10 pieces) is usually around $5-$7. Roasting them with simple seasonings like garlic and paprika makes them taste amazing.
• Meatless option – A hearty pasta bake is a great way to feed a crowd for cheap. A box of pasta is about $1.50, a jar of sauce is $2, and a bag of shredded cheese is $3. That’s a full meal for under $7! Another great option? Stuffed peppers. Green bell peppers are often on sale around $0.99 each, and you can fill them with rice, beans, and cheese for a protein-packed dish.

To get the best deals, check your grocery store’s weekly ads. Many stores mark down ham, chicken, and even plant-based proteins the week before Easter. If you already have meat in the freezer, use that to save even more. Planning ahead and shopping smart makes a big difference when you’re sticking to a $25 budget for Easter dinner!

Budget-Friendly Side Dishes That Feel Special

Side dishes are where you can really stretch your budget without sacrificing flavor. The right sides make Easter dinner feel complete, and you don’t need fancy ingredients to make them delicious. Here are some easy, budget-friendly options that taste like they belong on a holiday table.

• Mashed potatoes – Potatoes are one of the cheapest and most filling side dishes. A 5-pound bag of russet potatoes costs around $4.99 and makes enough mashed potatoes for at least six people. Add half a stick of butter ($1.50) and ½ cup of milk ($0.50), and you’ve got a creamy, comforting side for under $7.
• Roasted carrots – Carrots are a steal. A 2-pound bag costs about $2.50, and you only need a little oil and seasoning. Slice them, toss them with olive oil ($0.50 worth) and salt, and roast them at 400°F for 25 minutes. They turn sweet and caramelized, making them feel fancier than they are. Total cost? About $3.
• Green beans – Frozen green beans are cheaper than fresh but taste just as good. A 16-ounce bag runs about $2.99. Sauté them with butter ($0.75 worth) and garlic powder for extra flavor. You get a bright, fresh-tasting side for around $4.
• Homemade rolls – Store-bought rolls can be pricey, but making your own is surprisingly cheap. A batch of homemade rolls takes flour ($2.50 for a 5-pound bag, but you’ll only use about $0.50 worth), yeast ($1.50 for a pack), butter ($1.50 worth), and milk ($0.50 worth). That means a dozen soft, warm rolls cost just $4.

To save money, compare fresh, frozen, and canned options. Frozen veggies are usually cheaper than fresh but still taste great. Also, check bulk bins for baking staples like flour and yeast. By making a few smart swaps, you can serve a full spread of Easter dinner sides for under $18!

Stretching Your Budget with Simple Ingredients

Getting the most out of every ingredient is key to keeping Easter dinner under $25.

• Use pantry staples – Butter, flour, and spices can turn simple ingredients into something delicious.
• Repurpose leftovers – Extra mashed potatoes? Turn them into potato pancakes the next day.
• Make it from scratch – Pre-made foods cost more. Simple homemade dishes save money and taste better.
• Portion wisely – Serving a balanced plate ensures nothing goes to waste.

Planning ahead also helps. Write out your menu before shopping, check what you already have, and stick to the list to avoid overspending.

How to Make an Affordable Dessert That Feels Festive

Dessert is the best way to end Easter dinner, and you don’t have to spend a lot to make something delicious. A few simple ingredients can turn into a sweet treat that feels special without breaking the budget.

Banana Pudding – This Southern classic is creamy, comforting, and super affordable. You’ll need:

• 1 box of instant vanilla pudding mix – $1.50
• 2 cups milk – $1.00
• 3 bananas – $1.50
• 1 box of vanilla wafers – $3.50
• 1 tub of whipped topping – $2.50
• Total: $10 (Makes enough for at least six servings.)

Layer pudding, bananas, and cookies, then top with whipped cream. Chill for a few hours, and you’ve got an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert.

Chocolate Mug Cakes – Perfect if you don’t want to bake a full cake. Each serving takes just a few pantry staples and a microwave. Here’s what you need per mug:

• ¼ cup flour – $0.502 tbsp sugar – $0.251 tbsp cocoa powder – $0.50¼ tsp baking powder – $0.102 tbsp milk – $0.251 tbsp oil – $0.25Total: About $2 per serving

Combine all ingredients in a mug, microwave for one minute, and you will have a rich, fudgy cake in no time.

Sugar Cookies – Easter-themed cookies are fun and affordable, especially if you already have baking staples.

• 2 ½ cups flour – $1.00
• 1 cup sugar – $1.00
• 1 cup butter – $2.50
• 1 egg – $0.50
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – $1.00
• Total: $6 (Makes about two dozen cookies.)

If you have cookie cutters, shape them into bunnies or eggs for an extra festive touch.

To save money, use store-brand ingredients and check your pantry before shopping. Most of these desserts cost around $2 per serving or less, making them perfect for a budget-friendly Easter dinner!

Easter Dinner for Under $25

Main Dish: Roasted Chicken Thighs – $7.50.

This provides six pieces of chicken, which is enough for 4-6 servings.

• 3 lbs chicken thighs (Family pack) – $7.50
• Olive oil & seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika) – Free

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 400°F.
• Rub chicken with oil and season generously.
• Roast for 40–45 minutes until crispy and golden brown.

Side Dish 1: Garlic Mashed Potatoes – $4.50

Slightly increasing the butter to keep them creamy and rich.

• 2.5 lbs russet potatoes – $2.75
• Butter (3 tbsp instead of 2) – $1.25
• Milk (½ cup) – $0.50
• Garlic powder & salt – Free

Instructions:

• Peel and chop 5 medium potatoes, then boil for 20 minutes.
• Drain and mash with butter, milk, and seasonings.

Side Dish 2: Roasted Carrots – $3.50

Keeping these the same since 2 lbs is plenty!

• 2 lbs whole carrots – $3.50
• Olive oil & salt – Free

Instructions:

• Slice carrots into sticks, toss with oil and salt, and roast at 400°F for 25 minutes.

Side Dish 3: Homemade Dinner Rolls – $3.50

Increasing butter slightly to make them extra soft.

• Flour (3 cups) – $1.00
• Yeast (1 packet) – $1.50
• Butter (2 tbsp instead of 1.5 tbsp) – $1.00
• Milk (¼ cup) – Free

Instructions:

• Mix flour, yeast, melted butter, and warm water.
• Let rise for 1 hour, shape into rolls, and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes.

Dessert: Banana Pudding – $5.75

Adding back the second banana to make sure we have enough layers!

• Vanilla pudding mix – $1.50
• Milk (2 cups) – $1.00
• Bananas (2 large) – $1.00
• Vanilla wafers (half a box, store brand) – $0.75
• Whipped topping (1/2 tub) – $1.50

Instructions:

• Make pudding according to package directions.
• Layer pudding, sliced bananas, vanilla wafers, and whipped topping in a dish.
• Chill for 30 minutes before serving.

Final Budget Breakdown (Under $25!)

• Chicken Thighs (3 lbs) – $7.50
• Mashed Potatoes (2.5 lbs) – $4.50
• Roasted Carrots (2 lbs) – $3.50
• Dinner Rolls – $3.50
• Banana Pudding – $5.75
• TOTAL: $24.75

There are a few important things to keep in mind when putting together this Easter dinner for under $25.

First, you won’t find these prices at every grocery store, especially at higher-cost chains like Publix. While you might catch a sale, shopping smart and choosing the right store is key. Walmart grocery is a great place to start, and many Walmart Neighborhood Markets even offer free drive-up service, making it easier to stick to your budget.

Second, when I list an item as “free”, that simply means it’s something most people already have in their pantry or fridge—things like salt, seasonings, and basic cooking oil. I’m assuming you don’t need to buy these items specifically for this meal.

Finally, grocery prices vary depending on where you live. While these costs are accurate for many areas in 2025, they may be slightly higher or lower depending on your location. Hey, don’t forget to look for sales, grab those store-brand goodies, and swing by discount grocers for the best prices!

Decorating the Table for an Easter Dinner on a Budget

A beautiful Easter dinner table doesn’t have to cost much. You can make it look festive with things you already have or with cheap finds from the dollar store. The goal is to make it feel special without spending a fortune.

Here are some easy ways to decorate on a budget:

• Use what you have – Look around your house for pastel-colored dishes, baskets, or even mason jars that can hold utensils or flowers.
• DIY centerpieces – A simple glass jar filled with fresh flowers from your yard or the grocery store’s clearance section looks just as good as a fancy floral arrangement. If flowers aren’t an option, place a few dyed Easter eggs in a bowl for a festive touch.
• Dollar store finds – Stores like Dollar Tree have seasonal decorations for just a few bucks. Pick up a cute tablecloth, napkins, or even a little bunny figurine to make the table feel more like Easter.
• Paper or cloth napkins? – Cloth napkins feel fancier, but if you don’t have them, no worries. Fold regular paper napkins into bunny ears and place them on plates for a fun and cute touch.
• Candles for elegance – If you have candles at home, place them in the center of the table to add a warm and cozy feel. Even tea lights in small jars can make a big difference.

If you’re serving Easter dinner to kids, add some fun! Try a small bowl of jelly beans as a decoration or put a little chocolate bunny at each place setting. A little creativity goes a long way in making your Easter table look amazing without spending more than a few dollars.

How to Save Money on Easter Dinner Ingredients

Grocery prices can add up fast, but there are ways to keep Easter dinner under budget. A little planning, some smart shopping, and knowing where to look for the best deals can make a huge difference.

Here’s how to save money while still making a great meal:

• Check weekly ads – Many stores have Easter sales on ham, eggs, and veggies. Look through flyers (or use store apps) to find the best prices.
• Buy store brands – Most of the time, they taste the same as name brands but cost 20–30% less.
• Use coupons and cashback apps – Apps like Ibotta and Fetch Rewards give cashback on groceries. Even saving a few dollars helps!
• Plan meals around what’s on sale – If ham is too expensive, switch to chicken. If fresh green beans cost more than frozen, go with the cheaper option.
• Buy in bulk – Things like flour, rice, and potatoes are cheaper in larger bags. If you won’t use everything right away, split with a friend or freeze extras.
• Shop clearance – Many grocery stores mark down bakery items, dairy, and meat when they get close to the sell-by date. If you’re cooking soon, these deals can save a lot.

Another big tip? Use what you already have! Before heading to the store, check your pantry. You might already have enough butter, flour, or even canned veggies to cut costs. Easter dinner doesn’t have to be expensive—it just takes a little strategy to keep it budget-friendly!

Making Easter Dinner Feel Special Without Extra Cost

Just because you’re keeping Easter dinner under $25 doesn’t mean it has to feel plain. There are so many little things you can do to make the meal feel festive without spending a single extra dollar.

Here’s how to add special touches without adding cost:

• Serve food in dishes, not straight from pots – Even if it’s just a simple meal, placing food in serving bowls makes it feel more like a holiday dinner.
• Use cloth napkins or placemats – If you have them, great! If not, fold dish towels or fabric scraps into napkins for a fancy touch.
• Play soft music in the background – It sets the mood and makes the meal feel more like a celebration. Pick a relaxing playlist or even instrumental versions of classic songs.
• Add a gratitude moment – Before eating, go around the table and have everyone say one thing they’re thankful for. It’s a simple way to make the meal feel more meaningful.
• Make a signature drink – A pitcher of lemonade with frozen berries or a fun fruit-infused water feels fancy but costs almost nothing.
• Give kids a small activity – If kids are at the table, set out some crayons and a printable Easter coloring sheet to keep them entertained.

Easter dinner is about spending time together, not spending money. A little creativity, some thoughtful touches, and a happy atmosphere make any meal feel special—even on a tight budget!

Final Thoughts

Hosting Easter dinner on a budget is totally doable. With a little planning, you can serve a full meal with a main dish, sides, and dessert for under $25.

• Choose affordable proteins like ham slices or chicken.
• Pick simple, filling sides like mashed potatoes and roasted carrots.
• Stretch your budget with pantry staples and homemade recipes.
• Finish with an easy, festive dessert without overspending.

You don’t need a big budget to make a special meal. With a little creativity and smart shopping, you can enjoy a delicious Easter dinner without any stress. If you need more budget-friendly ideas, Pinterest is full of great meal plans and tips. Keep it simple, enjoy the holiday, and make the most of what you have!