Thanksgiving Budget Tips and Favorite Recipes from the Sunset Finance Team

Thanksgiving is a special time to gather with loved ones, savor a delicious meal, and reflect on the year’s blessings. However, hosting the holiday feast can be expensive, especially with rising grocery costs and potential travel expenses. Here are some budget-friendly tips to make this Thanksgiving stress-free, along with a few favorite recipes from the Sunset Finance team that are sure to bring smiles to your table.

How to Set Your Thanksgiving Budget

According to the American Farm Bureau Association, the average cost of a Thanksgiving dinner for ten people was around $54 in 2021. Since then, inflation and other economic factors have driven prices up, so planning ahead is key. Here are some guidelines to help you budget:

• Per-Person Cost: For a typical Thanksgiving meal, plan to spend around $6 per person.
• Total Budget: For ten people, aim for a Thanksgiving budget of at least $60. For a bit more room, consider rounding up to $80.
• Non-Food Costs: Don’t forget to factor in travel, décor, or even clean-up supplies. If you’re hosting a large group, these additional costs can add up.

Thanksgiving Budget Tips

Creating a budget-friendly Thanksgiving doesn’t mean compromising on delicious food. Here’s how to get the most out of your budget:

1. Simplify Your Menu: List out the dishes you’d like to serve, and then narrow it down to family favorites or meals that produce a large amount. Consider asking guests to contribute a side dish or dessert.
2. Focus on Key Ingredients: For example, a turkey may cost around $1.50 per pound, while side dishes like mashed potatoes and stuffing are typically affordable at about $1-2 per person.
3. Shop Smart: Compare prices and look for deals on seasonal ingredients. Write down each dish’s ingredients, and check your pantry first to avoid unnecessary purchases.

Pro Tip: Plan your meal with a bit of flexibility for unexpected guests. To avoid overspending, try using a free budget worksheet to estimate costs and manage your holiday expenses.

Favorite Recipes from the Sunset Finance Team

To make your Thanksgiving even more special, we’re excited to share some favorite recipes from our team. These crowd-pleasers are perfect for a cozy, budget-friendly meal!

No-Bake Peanut Butter Pie

Recipe by Sunset Finance Team Member Rachel Ashley

A rich and creamy dessert that’s a hit with all ages—and no baking required!

Ingredients:

• Chocolate sauce
• 2 cups peanut butter
• Reese's cups & pieces mix
• 1 container whipped cream cheese (10 oz or more)
• 1–1.5 cups powdered sugar
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• Chocolate pie crust

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, blend peanut butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla with a hand mixer until creamy and light.
2. Add the mixture to the chocolate pie crust, smoothing it out with a spatula.
3. Place the pie in the freezer for 3-4 hours to set.
4. Before serving, drizzle chocolate sauce on top and sprinkle Reese’s pieces as desired.
   Bon appétit!
   
   

Applesauce Pancakes

Recipe by Sunset Finance Team Member Shelby Lollis

These fluffy pancakes are perfect for a Thanksgiving brunch or a cozy morning treat!

Ingredients:

• 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon white sugar
• 1 egg
• 3 tablespoons melted butter
• ¼ cup milk
• ¾ cup applesauce
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (or to taste)

Instructions:

1. Melt butter and whisk with egg and baking powder until fluffy.
2. Add salt, sugar, flour, cinnamon, milk, and applesauce. Whisk until smooth.
3. Pour batter onto a heated griddle, cooking each side until golden brown. Serve warm!

Dorito Casserole

Recipe by Sunset Finance Team Member Teigha Bridges

A fun, flavorful twist on a classic casserole that’s sure to be a hit with guests!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded chicken
• 1–2 cups shredded sharp cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 can Rotel tomatoes
• 2 cans cream of chicken soup
• 1 bag of Nacho Doritos

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Layer ingredients in a baking dish: Doritos, shredded chicken, taco seasoning, Rotel, and soup. Top with cheese.
3. Bake for 30–45 minutes, or until cheese is golden and bubbly.
4. Top with diced tomatoes, sour cream, black olives, or lettuce as desired.

Non-Food Budget Considerations

Beyond food, here are other items to consider in your Thanksgiving budget:

• Travel Costs: If you’re traveling to visit family, budget for gas, flights, or public transportation. Plan for at least $150 if traveling long distances in the car but consider tracking airfare prices starting now so you can hopefully purchase plane tickets at the lowest price possible.
• Décor and Clean-Up Supplies: Consider if decorations are a priority, or reuse items from previous years to save money.

Planning Ahead for a Stress-Free Thanksgiving

The earlier you plan, the easier it will be to manage costs and avoid last-minute stress. Here’s how to make the most of your Thanksgiving preparation:

• Start Saving Early: A budget of $80 for Thanksgiving is achievable if you save a little each week. Put away $30 weekly for next few weeks, and you’ll reach your goal with ease.
• Coordinate with Guests: Family and friends are often happy to contribute. Consider potluck-style dining to share costs and involve everyone in the celebration.
• Be Flexible: Planning ahead allows for adjustments if a guest wants to bring extra friends or family members. Flexibility helps make the holiday stress-free and enjoyable.

Need a Financial Boost This Holiday Season?

Thanksgiving is about creating memories, not stressing over money. If you need a little extra help to cover your holiday expenses, consider a holiday loan from Sunset Finance. Our fixed-payment loans are designed to fit into your monthly budget, making it easier to manage costs over time.

*subject to our most liberal credit policies and IRS acceptance of your return.