Budget-Friendly Bites for New Year's Eve
The days of staying out all night and fighting for a stool in a crowded bar may be far behind you — or maybe you simply spent too much money on holiday gifts this year and can't splurge on overpriced cocktails. Either way, ringing in the new year with friends and family from the comfort of your home can be just as much fun. (And you can consider the money not spent on a ride home an added bonus.)
Plan your New Year's celebration to begin around 8 or 9 p.m., i.e., don't start your party until after your guests have eaten a full meal (at home!). Tell them you'll be serving crowd-pleasing apps and sips, and you can even plan a sweet treat to end the night. Sell it in an appealing manner to your friends while secretly applauding yourself for not having to shell out the moola on a huge roast.
Deviled eggs are always a party favorite. Channel your inner Ree Drummond and top them with crispy peppered bacon for a new take on the classic. No one will be able to resist the hand-held bites, and you'll be happy the recipe calls for just a few inexpensive ingredients you most likely have on hand.
