10 Budget-Friendly Grilling Recipes Under $5 Per Serving

Grilling doesn’t have to break the bank! With these budget-friendly recipes costing less than $5 per serving, you can fire up the grill and enjoy delicious meals without stressing your wallet. Perfect for summer cookouts or everyday dinners, these dishes combine affordability and flavor for great outdoor cooking moments.

Savor The Simplicity Of Grilled Vegetable Skewers

Grilled vegetable skewers are a fantastic way to enjoy fresh produce while keeping things simple and budget-friendly. These colorful skewers are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. You can mix and match your favorite vegetables, making them a versatile option for any meal.

To make these skewers, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms. These veggies grill beautifully and bring out their natural sweetness when cooked. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of your favorite herbs will enhance their taste.

Once you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to assemble the skewers. Alternate the vegetables on wooden or metal skewers. This not only makes for a fun cooking experience but also ensures even cooking. Grill them over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until they are tender and slightly charred.

These skewers are perfect as a side dish or even as a main course when paired with a grain like quinoa or rice. They are light, healthy, and incredibly satisfying. Plus, they cost less than $5 per serving, making them a great choice for any budget.

Ingredients

• 1 bell pepper (any color), cut into chunks
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup mushrooms, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine the bell pepper, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the vegetables evenly.
4. Thread the vegetables onto the skewers, alternating colors and types.
5. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
6. Remove from the grill and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious grilled vegetable skewers!

Deliciously Easy Garlic Herb Chicken Thighs

Grilling can be both fun and budget-friendly, and these garlic herb chicken thighs are a perfect example. Juicy, flavorful, and easy to prepare, they make for a delightful meal that won't break the bank. The image showcases beautifully grilled chicken thighs, perfectly charred and garnished with fresh herbs. They sit on a plate alongside a vibrant salad, making it a complete and satisfying dish.

This recipe is not only simple but also requires minimal ingredients. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a meal that tastes gourmet. The garlic and herbs infuse the chicken with rich flavors, making every bite a treat. Plus, grilling adds a smoky touch that elevates the dish even more.

Let’s get started on this easy recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat them well. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill, skin side down. Grill for about 6-7 minutes, then flip and grill for another 6-7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides!

Satisfy Your Cravings With Classic Bbq Grilled Beans

Grilled beans are a classic side dish that can elevate any BBQ meal. They are hearty, filling, and packed with flavor. The image shows a delicious bowl of BBQ grilled beans topped with fresh onions and cilantro, making it not only tasty but also visually appealing. The rich, smoky aroma wafts through the air, inviting everyone to dig in.

This dish pairs perfectly with cornbread, which is also featured in the image. The golden cornbread complements the beans beautifully, creating a satisfying meal that won’t break the bank. With ingredients that are easy to find and steps that are simple to follow, you can whip up this dish for less than $5 per serving.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 oz each) of mixed beans (like kidney, pinto, and black beans)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/2 cup chopped onions
• 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, mix the beans, BBQ sauce, chopped onions, and green bell pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and add garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix again until everything is well coated.
4. Transfer the bean mixture to a grill-safe pan or foil packet. If using foil, make sure to seal it tightly.
5. Place the pan or packet on the grill and cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and slightly caramelized.
6. Remove from the grill and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with extra onions and cilantro if desired.

Flavor-Packed Grilled Sausages With Peppers

Grilling sausages with colorful peppers is a fantastic way to enjoy a meal that’s both tasty and budget-friendly. The image showcases perfectly grilled sausages nestled on a bed of vibrant bell peppers, adding a pop of color and flavor to the plate. The sausages are beautifully charred, hinting at the smoky goodness that awaits. Alongside, there's a creamy dipping sauce and slices of grilled bread, making it a complete and satisfying dish.

This recipe is not just easy to make; it also keeps costs low, with each serving coming in under $5. Perfect for summer barbecues or a quick weeknight dinner, these grilled sausages are sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 4 sausages (your choice of chicken, pork, or turkey)
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 slices of bread (for grilling)
• Your favorite mustard or dipping sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season the Veggies: In a bowl, toss the sliced peppers and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the Sausages: Place the sausages on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until they are cooked through and have nice grill marks.
4. Grill the Veggies: Add the seasoned peppers and onions to the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are tender and slightly charred.
5. Grill the Bread: Place the slices of bread on the grill for about 1-2 minutes on each side until toasted.
6. Assemble and Serve: Serve the grilled sausages on a plate with the peppers and onions on the side. Add the grilled bread and a small bowl of mustard or your favorite dipping sauce.

Affordable And Tasty Grilled Portobello Mushrooms

Grilled portobello mushrooms are a fantastic choice for a budget-friendly meal. They are hearty, flavorful, and can easily take center stage on your grill. The image shows beautifully grilled portobello caps, drizzled with a rich balsamic glaze, served alongside fresh cherry tomatoes and a bed of arugula. This dish not only looks appealing but also offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes.

These mushrooms are versatile and can be used in various ways. You can enjoy them as a main dish, slice them for a sandwich, or toss them into a salad. The best part? They cost less than $5 per serving, making them perfect for a wallet-friendly meal.

Ingredients

• 4 large portobello mushrooms
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups arugula
• Balsamic glaze for drizzling

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Mushrooms: Brush the marinade over the portobello mushrooms, ensuring they are well coated. Let them sit for about 15 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Make sure it's clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Mushrooms: Place the marinated mushrooms on the grill, gill side down. Grill for about 5-7 minutes, then flip and grill for another 5 minutes until tender.
5. Prepare the Salad: While the mushrooms are grilling, toss the arugula and halved cherry tomatoes in a bowl. Drizzle with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve: Place the grilled mushrooms on a plate, top with the salad, and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

Sizzling Grilled Chicken Fajitas For A Crowd

Grilled chicken fajitas are a fantastic choice for gatherings. They’re easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The image shows a vibrant spread of grilled chicken, colorful bell peppers, and warm tortillas, ready for everyone to dig in. This dish is not only delicious but also budget-friendly, making it perfect for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.

To make these sizzling fajitas, you’ll need some basic ingredients. The combination of marinated chicken and fresh veggies creates a delightful meal. Serve it with tortillas and your favorite toppings for a fun, interactive dining experience.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• Tortillas for serving
• Optional toppings: guacamole, salsa, sour cream

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Cook the Veggies: In a grill pan or on the grill, add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender and slightly charred.
4. Assemble the Fajitas: Slice the grilled chicken into strips. Serve with warm tortillas and let everyone build their own fajitas with the grilled veggies and toppings.

Tasty And Affordable Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic comfort food that everyone loves. They are quick to make and can be enjoyed at any time of the day. The image shows perfectly toasted sandwiches, golden brown and oozing with melted cheese. Paired with a bowl of rich tomato soup, this meal is not just satisfying but also budget-friendly.

Making grilled cheese is simple and requires just a few ingredients. You can customize it with different types of bread and cheese to suit your taste. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch. Plus, it costs less than $5 per serving!

Here’s how to make your own delicious grilled cheese sandwiches:

Ingredients

• 4 slices of bread
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 slices of cheese (cheddar, American, or your favorite)
• 1 cup tomato soup (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
2. Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread.
3. Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, in the skillet.
4. Layer cheese on top of the bread in the skillet.
5. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
6. Cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes, then flip and cook the other side until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden.
7. Serve warm with tomato soup for dipping, if desired.

Delightful Grilled Chicken And Pineapple Skewers

Grilled chicken and pineapple skewers are a fun and tasty way to enjoy a meal outdoors. The combination of juicy chicken and sweet pineapple creates a delightful flavor that everyone loves. These skewers are not only easy to make, but they also fit perfectly into a budget-friendly meal plan. You can whip them up for a summer barbecue or a casual dinner.

The image shows beautifully grilled chicken and pineapple skewers, served alongside fresh pineapple chunks and a dipping sauce. The vibrant colors of the ingredients make the dish visually appealing, inviting everyone to dig in. The skewers are garnished with fresh herbs, adding a pop of green that enhances the presentation.

To make these skewers, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. The recipe is straightforward, and you can customize it with your favorite vegetables. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
• 1 cup fresh pineapple, cut into chunks
• 1 bell pepper, cut into pieces
• 1 onion, cut into wedges
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, bell pepper pieces, and onion wedges onto the skewers. Alternate the ingredients for a colorful presentation.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
5. Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve with extra pineapple and your favorite dipping sauce.

Sweet And Simple Grilled Peaches With Honey

Grilled peaches are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of ripe fruit with a touch of smoky flavor. This dish is not just easy to make, but it also brings a refreshing twist to your summer grilling sessions. The image showcases perfectly grilled peach halves, their golden skin marked with beautiful grill lines, sitting atop a plate. They are drizzled with honey, adding a luscious sweetness that complements the natural flavors of the peaches.

Pairing grilled peaches with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast of warm and cold. The addition of honey enhances the dish, making it a perfect dessert or a sweet side for your barbecue. This recipe is budget-friendly, costing less than $5 per serving, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

• 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• Vanilla ice cream (for serving)

Instructions

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Brush the cut sides of the peaches with olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Place the peaches cut-side down on the grill. Grill for about 4-5 minutes until grill marks appear and the peaches are slightly softened.
4. Flip the peaches over and drizzle honey on the cut sides. If using, sprinkle cinnamon on top.
5. Grill for another 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
6. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and an extra drizzle of honey if desired.

Lively Grilled Mango Salsa For Tacos

Grilled mango salsa is a vibrant and fresh addition to any taco night. This salsa brings a burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or can be enjoyed with chips. The combination of sweet mango, zesty lime, and crunchy red onion creates a delightful contrast that everyone will love.

Making this salsa is simple and budget-friendly. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a dish that costs less than $5 per serving. Plus, it’s a great way to use up ripe mangoes when they’re in season. The bright colors and fresh ingredients make it a feast for the eyes too!

Serve this salsa in a colorful bowl, surrounded by crispy tortilla chips for a fun presentation. It’s perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or a casual dinner at home. Everyone will appreciate the refreshing taste, and you’ll love how easy it is to prepare.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe mangoes, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 2 limes
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mango: Start by peeling and dicing the mangoes into small pieces.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
3. Add Lime Juice: Squeeze the juice of the limes over the mixture and stir well.
4. Season: Add salt to taste, mixing everything together until well combined.
5. Chill: Let the salsa sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve: Enjoy with tacos or as a dip with tortilla chips!