Hey LifeStyler, 

The Sunday roast is one of Britain’s most loved meals comforting, filling and steeped in tradition. But with food prices rising, many people assume a proper roast is now a luxury. The good news? With a little planning and clever shopping, it’s still possible to put a satisfying Sunday roast on the table for less than £1 per head without sacrificing flavour or that all-important cosy feeling.

Start With the Main Attraction

Instead of pricey roasting joints, opt for budget-friendly protein that goes further. A whole chicken, supermarket value sausages, or even a vegetarian option like lentils or chickpeas can anchor the meal beautifully. A reduced whole chicken or value sausage pack can feed four people comfortably when paired with generous sides and often costs just £2–£3. 

Top tip: check supermarket reductions late afternoon/evenings for extra savings.

Let Potatoes Do the Bulking

Potatoes are the hero of a low-cost roast. A large bag of Maris Piper or white potatoes costs very little and provides the bulk of the meal.

Roast potatoes instantly elevate a plate, and you can stretch them further by adding mash also. Parboiling and roughing them up before roasting ensures maximum crispiness using minimal oil flavour without the extra cost.

Choose Cheap, Seasonal Vegetables

Vegetables don’t need to be fancy to be delicious. Stick to seasonal and budget staples such as:

Carrots

Cabbage

Peas

Swede

Cauliflower

Broccoli 

Frozen vegetables are often cheaper than fresh and reduce waste, making them ideal for budget cooking. Simply boil or steam and season well.

Make Your Own Gravy

Shop-bought gravy tubs can be expensive, but homemade gravy costs pennies and tastes far better.

Use the meat juices from your roasting tin, add a spoon of flour, and gradually whisk in stock made from a cube or granules. Season generously and you’ve got rich, comforting gravy for next to nothing.

Optional Homemade Extras That Cost Very Little

Yorkshire puddings ( Ideal for toad in the hole )  and stuffing are often seen as “extras”, but they’re incredibly cheap to make at home.

Yorkshire puddings only need flour, eggs and milk, while basic sage and onion stuffing can be made with breadcrumbs, herbs and hot water. These additions make the roast feel indulgent while keeping costs low.

Cook Smart and Reduce Waste

Cooking everything at the same oven temperature saves energy, and leftovers should always be part of the plan. A budget roast shouldn’t end on Sunday.

Leftovers can become:

Bubble and squeak

Chicken or veg soup

Sandwich fillings

Stretching meals across the week is where real savings happen.

What a £1-Per-Head Roast Can Look Like

Value sausages or reduced chicken

Potatoes

x3/4 Veg options i.e carrots, cabbage, cauliflower, peas 

Optional Yorkshire puddings & Stuffing

A Sunday roast doesn’t have to be expensive to be enjoyable. With thoughtful choices, simple ingredients and a focus on hearty sides, it’s still possible to enjoy a traditional roast dinner that feels generous, comforting and budget-friendly.

Sometimes, the simplest meals really are the most satisfying.

With Love,