Cheap & Cheerful “Bring a Plate” Ideas for an Aussie Christmas Lunch
- Deb Eternal
- Dec 4, 2025
- 3 min read
Because good food and great company don’t need to cost a fortune.
Christmas in Australia has its own special charm: warm days, buzzing cicadas, the smell of sunscreen, and a table full of shared plates that tell the story of who we are.
The beauty of a “bring a plate” Christmas is that everyone contributes something simple and heartfelt—no pressure, no extravagance, just togetherness.
To help make the day a little easier (and much cheaper!), I’m sharing my personal favourites.
They’re affordable, easy to prepare, and perfect for our Aussie summer.
1. The Classic Pasta Salad (Under $10)
One of my all-time favourites because it’s cheap, filling, and reliable. Cooked pasta, chopped veggies, a splash of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper—done. I love throwing in cheese cubes or olives for colour and flavour.
2. Watermelon & Mint Salad
This fresh, bright salad is a personal go-to. Chunks of watermelon, mint, and optional feta make it the chillest dish on the table. It feels like summer in a bowl—and the kids always return for seconds.
3. Potato Bake on a Budget
Comfort food perfection. Thinly sliced potatoes layered with onion, garlic, ham or bacon bits, and a little cream or milk. It’s cheap, hearty, and the kind of dish people quietly hope someone brings (and I often do!).
4. DIY Fruit Platter From Supermarket Specials
Simple, colourful, and surprisingly elegant. I always grab seasonal fruit—peaches, nectarines, cherries, grapes—and arrange them beautifully. Add a little mint, and it looks like a gourmet platter for a fraction of the cost.
5. Prawn Salad (Budget-Friendly)
This is one of my sneaky favourites because it tastes expensive but isn’t. A small packet of cooked prawns mixed through a zesty fresh salad or creamy lemon pasta gives amazing flavour without the big seafood bill.
6. Caprese Skewers
Cherry tomatoes, basil, mini bocconcini—so simple but always impressive. These are one of my favourite “I want something pretty but quick” dishes.
7. Party Sausage Roll Platter
Yes, I unapologetically love this one! Bake frozen sausage rolls or party pies and serve with tomato sauce dressed up with a sprig of rosemary. Kids (and adults) empty the plate in minutes.
8. Budget Trifle With a Nostalgic Twist
Trifle is one of my personal Christmas icons. A little sponge cake, jelly, custard, fruit—layer it and let the fridge work its magic. It never has to be perfect… in fact, the slightly wobbly ones are the best.
9. Fresh Bread with Homemade Herb Butter
Honestly, this might be one of the easiest plates to bring. A crusty loaf and a small container of whipped butter mixed with herbs or garlic. Rustic, simple, and always appreciated.
10. The “I Ran Out of Time” Cheese Plate
A budget brie, a pack of crackers, a sliced apple—and suddenly you look effortlessly elegant. This is a quick favourite of mine that looks and tastes great.
It’s Truly the Spirit That Matters for a Cheap and Cheerful Christmas
Christmas lunch isn’t about who brings the most extravagant dish. It’s about contributing something from the heart and sharing a table filled with laughter, stories, and the easy joy of being together.
So bring a plate, bring a smile, and let the day unfold with the delicious chaos only a Family Christmas can deliver.
From my family to yours, Merry Christmas.
Namaste`
Deb xx
For even more ideas, check out these recipes from Woolworths, my favourite place to shop.
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