Introduction
Congratulations, graduates, you’ve finally made it through the slog that is college. It’s time to celebrate your hard work with a party, of course. But let’s be real, planning a party is tough going at the best of times, especially when you’re going through college burnout.
That’s why I compiled my favourite food ideas for graduation parties, so you have more time to celebrate and less time to worry about what people are going to eat.
So here it is, 30 cheap and easy food ideas for graduation parties. These foods range from mac and cheese cups to sweet treats. There’s something in here for everyone, and it’s great for a large crowd.
1.Slider burgers
You can’t go wrong with slider burgers; once the meat is cooked right, they are a dream team for a large crowd. You can add plates with different toppings to make it more like a buffet.
2.Stuffed savoury croissants
Stuffed savoury croissants are a unique graduation dish that will impress guests. With the perfect amount of savoury and sweet, these are a dream for your taste buds.
3.Mini pancake platter
Pancakes are so versatile, you can have them sweet or savoury. One of my favourite things about them is that they require very few ingredients, making them cost-effective for large groups.
4.Tortilla skewer’s
I love the idea of having foods you can customise based on your guests’ favourite foods. These tortilla skewers are them. All you need is your favourite topping and a pack of tortillas, and there you go, you have a perfect party snack.
4.Chicken skewers
Marinated chicken skewers are where it’s at. Not only are they high in protein, but they are also nutritious and low in calories. What I love about them is that many stores actually sell premade chicken skewers, so you don’t have to go through the fuss of preparing them yourself.
5. Bruschetta bites
You really can’t go wrong with bruschetta. It’s so easy to make, and you need very few ingredients, and all the ingredients are super low-cost, which is amazing when feeding a large crowd.
6.Deconstructed bagels
Bagel halves are a great idea, as sometimes an entire bagel is too heavy for one person. I love the idea of having different toppings on each half. Chances are, you have these ingredients in your pantry already.
7. Caprese salad skewers
Caprese salad skewers are such a good way for a mess-free caprese salad. The only difference is that instead of using regular mozzarella, you use mini mozzarella balls instead.
8. Mini sushi rolls
Mini sushi rolls are a great idea if you want something light and fresh. You can make an entire roll and cut it into small pieces, adding whatever toppings you wish.
8.Chicken and waffle bites
Chicken and waffle bites are perfect for guests who love a savoury and sweet combo. Making these is quite simple as all you need are a few ingredients: chicken, mini waffles and syrup.
9. Strawberry and grapes fondu skewers
In the summer, there’s nothing better than having fresh fruit and dipping it in chocolate makes it even better. If you’re in the mood for a more savoury option, you can swap chocolate for peanut butter.
10. Mexican nacho bites
Mexican nacho bites are one dish that will really impress guests. There’s a secret to getting the perfectly shaped nacho cups, and that’s making your own nachos using tortillas. Simply use olive oil and seasonings on the tortillas and place them in the microwave for 1 minute until crispy. To get the shape, you could use a small dish as a mould. There you have it, the perfect Mexican nacho bites.
11.Popcorn pick and mix
Popcorn pick and mix is great for snack lovers. All you need is your favourite popcorn and some tasty toppings that vary from sweet to savoury.
12.Mac and cheese cups
Mac and cheese cups are the perfect dish for picky eaters. Not only are they quick to make, but they also don’t involve any meat, which prevents the risk of contamination. With the right seasoning, this might be your guest’s favourite meal.
13.Hawaiian role pizza sliders
Hawaiian roll pizza sliders are a dish that guests will remember. The trick to a crispy texture is to brush with butter, bake these bad boys on a low heat till crispy. The topping options are endless with this dish, but it all depends on the preferences of the guests.
14.Pulled pork sliders
Pulled pork sliders are where it’s at with flavour. But it doesn’t happen by accident, the secret to really flavoursome pulled pork sliders is layering flavour from start to finish. Use pork shoulder for its fat and richness, season it generously with a bold dry rub, and cook it low and slow until it’s tender and juicy. After shredding, mix in some of the cooking juices and a balanced sauce; don’t overdo it, then serve on lightly toasted brioche buns with something acidic like coleslaw or pickles to cut through the richness. For an extra boost, crisp the pork slightly under the grill before serving to add texture and deepen the flavour. If done right, the dish is a showstopper.
15.Mozzarella sticks and marinara sauce pots
There’s something so nostalgic about mozzarella sticks that reminds me of my childhood. I remember my mother used to make them with babybells, egg wash and breadcrumbs. They were my favourite snack. Paired with a homemade marinara sauce, the mozzarella sticks will stop guests in their tracks.
16. Pull apart garlic bread twists
There’s something so comforting about garlicky carbs, I mean, you can’t really go wrong. Use melted grass-fed butter and garlic to brush over the cheesy bread for the best texture. I promise your guests will love this one.
17. Mini lamb pitta sliders
I love the freshness of Greek food, and these pitta sliders are just the epitome of fresh food. Served with iceberg lettuce and in-season tomatoes, this dish is perfect for a hot day.
18. Caesar salad cups
Credit goes to Pinterest @100affections
Caesar salad is a classic dish for a reason, but it’s hard to serve it to a large crowd. That is why I love these cups as they are tidy and cute. You can even serve the sauce in a little sauce pipette; ensure they are food safe before you enjoy your gorgeous salad.
19. Avocado toast bites
Avocados are a staple in most people’s diets for a reason. They are nutritious, high in fiber and delicious, so why not add a staple to a graduation meal? A clever tip I learned is to add both powdered onion and garlic for extra flavour.
20. Feta cheese and watermelon
Feta cheese and watermelon are an underrated combo that you have to try. I love how fresh this combination tastes. You could even add basil for an extra level of flavour.
21. Mini poke bowls
Poke bowls are all the rage this year, and for good reason; they have protein, carbohydrates and healthy fats, so they truly are a balanced meal.
22. Mini pasta cups
Mini pasta bowls are a genius idea, I mean, who doesn’t love pasta? You can customise it and add cheese, olives and garnish.
23. Mini charcuterie cups
I love anything charcuterie, and I’m not alone in thinking this; I mean, it’s just so handy. All you have to do is cut up some meat, cheeses and use mini cups to display them.
24.Hummus and veg cups
Credit goes to Pinterest @ohmysimplemeals
Hummus is a staple for a reason, but it can get messy if you just have one large dip. So why not try these hummus cups with assorted veggies?
25.Mini fruit tarts
Credit goes to Pinterest @inspiredbycharm
Mini fruit tarts are just so darling, I mean, they scream fancy, and they are actually a lot easier to make than they might appear. All you need is mini tart cups and a filling of your choice.
26.Mini pavlovas
Credit goes to Pinterest @mariteer
Mini pavlovas are time-intensive, but the results definitely are worth it. All you need is sugar and eggs, and look at them, they are perfect.
27.Mini brownie with a twist
Mini brownies are the way to go with picky eaters, as who doesn’t like brownies? To decorate, add icing and your favourite berry, and there you have fancy brownies.
28. Chocolate covered strawberries bag
Credit goes to Pinterest @nuriaharosan
Chocolate-covered strawberries are a great idea, especially for college kids. They are the perfect balance between indulgence and health.
29.Tiramisu cakes with a twist
Tiramisu is the ultimate dessert, I mean, you have coffee, cream and cake. It ticks all the boxes. To display the tiramisu, a creative idea is to use plastic cocktail glasses and tie a bow around the stem. Then you’ll have the perfect coquette treat.
30. Mini cinnamon rolls
You can’t go wrong with cinnamon rolls; they are just the best. They do require some practice; however, once you master the cinnamon roll, you’ll be unstoppable.
There you have it, 30 food ideas for graduation
Thanks for reading,
The24homemaker
