It’s the last party of the year! And in our book, you can’t host NYE without the all-important buffet to keep your guests going until midnight. But the cost of all that party food can really add up, so we’ve gathered together the best budget-friendly party food ideas to help you keep the costs down, but the spirits high!
For more ways to save money, check out our budget-friendly hub
Cheese puffs
Based on the first canapé Jamie ever tried, these savoury little morsels are full of flavour and have a delightful crumbly texture – perfect to serve with something cold and sparkling! They’re pretty quick to make, but they also freeze brilliantly so you can get ahead, then cook from frozen on the day.
Devils on horseback
Devils on horseback are a real festive treat: crisp, salty bacon wrapped around a sweet, sticky prune – you can’t beat it. These little devils will sit happily in the fridge for up to 24 hours, so you can easily assemble these the day before.
Honey focaccia
Soft, spongy and undeniably moreish, Jamie’s honey focaccia is the perfect partner to cheese, deli meats and chutneys. Serve in bite-sized pieces, so your guests can create their own personalised mouthfuls.
Cheese & bacon pinwheels
These simple cheese and bacon mouthfuls are an easy, bake-ahead canapé. You can mix and match the pesto with different cheeses, and omit the bacon, if you want something meat-free – just make sure to use vegetarian pesto and cheese alternatives.
Tuna & caper butter
When unexpected guests arrive at your door, this smooth and creamy tuna & caper butter is your saviour. Using just a handful of humble store-cupboard ingredients, it’ll be ready in 5 minutes! Serve with crusty bread or make a batch of Jamie’s savoury seeded crackers to serve alongside.
Easy cheese straws
An oldie, but a goodie, cheese straws always go down well at parties. These savoury, crunchy bites use just 5 ingredients and are easily adaptable. Try adding a pinch of dried thyme, or cayenne pepper for an extra kick. They will keep well in an airtight container for a day or two, ready to bring out when the fizz starts to flow.
Samosa cigars
These vegan samosas are an absolute joy. Rolled into cigar shapes, they’re the perfect finger food. You can make the filling ahead of time, then simply wrap in flaky filo and bake until golden and crisp. Great with cold beer, a glass of fizz, or a zingy cocktail.
Spicy feta & pepper dip
This deliciously easy dip can be blitzed together in a matter of minutes. Perfect for dipping breadsticks, crudités or spread onto crusty bread or crackers.
For more party inspo, check out our store-cupboard cocktails