Nothing says Memorial Day like a good old-fashioned BBQ. But these days, hosting a notable grilling party for friends and family can get expensive quick!

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Consumer Money Expert and Mint.com spokeswoman, Holly Perez, knows the importance of throwing a successful holiday BBQ and has listed five frugal ways for you to impress your crowd without draining your wallet.

1.       Host a potluck. Consider having a potluck and ask guests to bring a variety of food to cut costs. Not only is it a great way to personally save money on groceries and cut down the work on your end, but allows everyone to participate and try new recipes!

2.       Use what you have. Don’t blow your budget on red, white and blue plates, cups and tablecloths. Make use of what you have in your cabinet. Not only will you be saving money, but you’ll be making an eco-friendly decision, as well.

3.       Dress up your old favorites. If you plan to cook up some fan favorites like hot dogs, burgers or chicken, add a simple, inexpensive element to elevate the flavor. A delicious cheese or even barbeque sauce can be added to burgers before they hit the grill for some extra flare. Marinade your chicken overnight in a favorite sauce or even wrap your hot dogs in bacon! Feel free to get creative.

4.       Don’t blow your budget on meat. If good meat is how you plan to impress, skip the tri-tip and porterhouse cuts in favor of a great, inexpensive skirt or flank steak. Choosing a less expensive cut can sometimes save you up to 60%, according to MomsNeedToKnow.com. Forgo boneless chicken breasts for cheaper, flavorful legs and thighs, and skip over the priciest catch of the day and go for cheaper, grill-friendly seafood like mackerel or shrimp.

5.       Make extra! When you’re planning out your menu, make sure to BBQ enough for leftovers.  Utilize your charcoal or propane so you only have to cook one time for a couple days’ worth of food – you’re actually decreasing your per-meal fuel cost.

What are your budgeting tips? Tell us in the comments below!

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