As the holiday season reaches its peak, families across Caldwell County continue to look for ways to celebrate without breaking the bank. In this third and final installment of our budget eating series, we are serving up a complete Christmas Ham Dinner for four to six people for under $25.
This budget-conscious menu comes at a critical time for the community. According to the most recent data from the Feeding America “Map the Meal Gap” study, food insecurity in Caldwell County has risen to 16 percent, a significant increase from previous years. The statistics for children are even more stark, with a 20.1 percent insecurity rate, meaning more than one in five local children face hunger this holiday season.
With inflation squeezing grocery budgets, this meal plan focuses on accessibility, simplicity, and volume. All prices were verified last week at the Aldi in Lenoir, chosen for its marginally lower shelf prices compared to other local competitors.
Following the publication of our Thanksgiving budget guide, we received important feedback from readers that the canned vegetable portions were not enough to feed a family of six. We listened, and for this Christmas installment, we have reallocated the budget to double the vegetable servings to ensure everyone leaves the table satisfied.
The total receipt for this meal comes to $23.23 with the lowest ham price point, allowing shoppers to use the remaining balance of the $25 budget for extra seasonings or spices they may not have in their pantry. The centerpiece is an Appleton Farms ham, which ranges from $10 to $12 depending on weight. The shopping list includes pantry staples and sides, specifically a dozen eggs for $2.19, instant mashed potatoes for $1.85, and a half-gallon of milk for $1.71. To bolster the sides, the budget covers two cans of green beans for $1.50, two cans of corn for $1.00, and two boxes of Jiffy Cornbread Mix for $1.00. Dessert ingredients include a can of apples for $1.99, a box of classic white cake mix for $1.09, and Imperial buttery spread for $1.24.
Preparation for the main course is straightforward, as the ham, green beans, corn, mashed potatoes, and cornbread should be prepared according to the package directions. However, the dessert utilizes a specific method to create an affordable Apple Cobbler Cake. To make this, preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grab a 9×13 baking dish. Layer the canned apple filling across the bottom and pour the dry cake mix directly over the fruit—do not mix them. Cut two sticks of the buttery spread into thin squares and arrange them evenly on top of the dry mix. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
As we wrap up this series, our goal is to help our neighbors share a hearty, stress-free meal with those they love. From our kitchen to yours, we wish you a nourishing and joyful holiday season.
Dining and Cooking