Thanksgiving weekend isn’t just about the big meal — it’s also prime time for movie marathons and TV catch-ups with family. If you’re stocking the table without overspending, a few smart grocery picks can stretch your budget and keep everyone happy between episodes.
From classic mains to easy sides and crowd-pleasing desserts, these wallet-friendly options from Walmart, Aldi, and Lidl make it simple to serve a full spread and still have enough left over for next-day sandwiches and another round of holiday viewing.
Walmart: Classics For Less
Start with the centerpiece. A Butterball Turkey for under $14 covers the main event without draining your budget, serving roughly 7–11 people. It’s a straightforward, dependable option that anchors the table and pairs with every traditional side you’re planning.
For dessert, Walmart’s Freshness Guaranteed Pumpkin Pie comes in at under $6 and delivers that essential seasonal flavor. Top each slice with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a quick upgrade that feels restaurant-level with zero extra work.
Sides are where time-saving shortcuts really pay off. Idahoan Garlic Mashed Potatoes, priced under $3, offer a creamy, garlicky base with minimal prep — a smart pick when your oven time is reserved for the main course. They’re also easy to scale up if your watch party grows.
Round everything out with Great Value Jumbo Biscuits for $1.84. They’re ideal for soaking up gravy and cranberry sauce during dinner and become the perfect vehicle for leftover turkey sandwiches the next day. It’s a small add-on that multiplies in usefulness across the long weekend.
Aldi: Smart Sides & Pantry Staples
Aldi’s shelves are packed with low-cost, high-impact options that make the menu feel bigger. The Specially Selected Mac & Cheese Pesto Pasta, under $4, adds a basil-forward twist to a comfort classic, bringing variety to the table without adding complicated prep.
Gravy doesn’t need to be a splurge. Aldi’s Brown Gravy Mix costs just $0.29, which makes it one of the savviest buys on the list. Grab a few packets to ensure every plate is covered — and to keep leftovers just as satisfying on day two.
For casseroles and cozy appetizers, Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup at $0.70 is a flexible pantry staple. Use it as the base for a green bean bake or serve it as a warm starter before the main course, freeing up your stovetop for everything else.
Lidl: Sweet Finishes & Easy Add-Ons
Save room for dessert — and maybe a post-credits scoop. Turkey Hill Pumpkin Pie Ice Cream, available at Lidl for under $4, brings seasonal spice in a creamy format that’s great on its own or stacked on top of pie. It’s a simple way to turn a standard dessert into a finale.
For that sweet-tart essential, Lidl’s Jelly Cranberry Sauce comes in under $2 and delivers the nostalgic flavor many guests expect. It’s a bright counterpart to turkey and stuffing, and the leftovers spread perfectly onto bread for day-after sandwiches.
If biscuits aren’t your go-to, Lidl’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls offer a soft, slightly sweet option for $1.79. They’re excellent alongside savory mains and transform into satisfying sliders when your living room becomes a game-and-movie zone for the rest of the weekend.
Don’t forget easy veggies. Lidl’s Cut Green Beans are just $0.69 per can and work as a quick side or a casserole component. They’re dependable, versatile, and budget-friendly — exactly what you want when you’re juggling timers and streaming queues.
How To Build A Stress-Free Watch-Party Menu
Mix-and-match picks from each store to balance time and cost: a budget turkey and ready-made sides from Walmart, smarter pantry staples from Aldi, and sweet finishes from Lidl. With minimal prep, you’ll get a full plate and more time to queue up holiday episodes and comfort-movie favorites.
Portions and prices may vary by location, so check your local store for availability. But the strategy holds: lean on low-cost staples, add one or two standout items for variety, and keep dessert simple. It’s an easy win for a long weekend of food, family, and plenty of screen time.
