Grilling on a Budget: Tips and Tricks
To grill on a budget, buy cheaper cuts like chicken thighs, skirt steak, and pork shoulder, make your own rub, and use indirect heat to turn tough meat tender.
To grill on a budget, buy cheaper cuts like chicken thighs, skirt steak, and pork shoulder, make your own rub instead of buying sauces, and use indirect heat to turn tough meat tender. You do not need expensive steaks to eat well off the grill. You need the right cuts and the right technique.
Buy the smart cuts
Premium steaks are tempting, but budget cuts taste just as good when you cook them right. The trick is matching each cut to the best method.
| Budget cut | Best method | Why it works |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken thighs | Direct, medium | Cheap, juicy, hard to overcook |
| Skirt or flank steak | Hot and fast | Big flavor, slice against the grain |
| Pork shoulder | Low and slow, indirect | Tough turns tender over time |
| Whole chicken | Indirect | Cheaper than parts, feeds a crowd |
| Bone-in pork chops | Direct, medium | Cheaper than steak, stays moist |
Season for pennies
Homemade rubs cost a fraction of bottled sauces and you control the flavor. Olive oil, a little acid like lemon or vinegar, and Dad Spice The Classic turn a cheap cut into something special. One all-purpose blend on everything beats a cabinet full of half-used bottles.
Techniques that stretch your money
Use indirect heat for larger, tougher cuts so they cook through without burning. Control your heat by adjusting vents or burners, which saves charcoal and propane. Cook once, eat twice by turning leftover grilled meat into tacos, salads, or sandwiches. Store leftovers in airtight containers so nothing goes to waste.
Cook it safe
A cheap meat thermometer pays for itself. It stops you from overcooking good food or tossing meat you thought was raw. Start the slow-cooking items first and finish with quick foods like vegetables.
Read next: The Best Cuts of Meat for Grilling and Dry Rub vs Marinade.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest meat to grill?
Chicken thighs and drumsticks, whole chickens, pork shoulder, and skirt or flank steak give you the most flavor for the least money. Buying larger and cutting it yourself saves even more.
How do I make a cheap cut of steak tender?
Marinate it, do not overcook it, and always slice it thin against the grain. Tough cuts like skirt and flank turn tender when you cut across the muscle fibers.
Is charcoal or gas cheaper for grilling?
Charcoal grills cost less up front. Gas usually costs less per cook and is easier to control. Either way, managing your heat and vents saves the most fuel.
How can I save money on seasoning?
Make your own rubs from pantry basics, or use one all-purpose blend like Dad Spice on everything instead of buying a different bottle for each food.
Make it taste better.
Grab a bottle of The Classic and season like you mean it.
