This cheap charcuterie board is your secret weapon for effortless entertaining, combining simple grocery store finds into a stunning centerpiece. I love how the creamy cheeses, salty cured meats, and crisp fruits create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the ultimate affordable appetizer for casual gatherings or a relaxed movie night at home.

I started creating these economical cheese boards years ago when hosting friends in my small apartment. The goal was always to offer a generous, welcoming spread without spending a fortune. I found that a smart selection of a few quality ingredients, like a good block of Colby Jack and fresh, seasonal grapes, makes all the difference. This approach has served me well for everything from game day parties paired with pepperoni pizza burgers to elegant pre-dinner gatherings before serving a main course like traditional Italian meatballs.

The beauty of this inexpensive party platter is its flexibility. I often let the seasons guide my choices, adding apple slices in the fall or swapping in different nuts I have on hand. It’s a ritual of assembly I find deeply satisfying, building a canvas of colors and tastes that invites conversation. It proves that creating a memorable experience doesn’t require a lavish budget, just a little thoughtful arrangement.

What You Need for a Stunning Cheap Charcuterie Board

Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full listing of ingredients, instructions, notes, and estimated nutritional information.

Cheap Charcuterie Board

Create a delicious cheap charcuterie board with budget-friendly cheeses, meats, fruits and crackers. Perfect for parties and gatherings under $20.

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Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• large serving board or platter
• sharp knife
• cutting board
• serrated knife
• small serving bowls

Ingredients

  

Cheeses

• 8 ounces Colby Jack cheese, in a block
• 8 ounces provolone cheese, pre-sliced

Meats

• 4 ounces pepperoni slices
• 4 ounces genoa salami, pre-sliced

Bread & Crackers

• 1 small baguette about 10 to 12 inches long
• 1 box assorted crackers about 10 ounces

Fruits

• 1 cup green grapes, washed
• 1 cup red grapes, washed
• 1 medium apple, such as Gala or Fuji

Vegetables

• 1 medium cucumber, washed
• 1 cup baby carrots, washed

Spreads & Extras

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup whole grain mustard
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
• 1/4 cup pretzel twists

Instructions

 

• Begin by preparing the cheeses. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the 8-ounce block of Colby Jack cheese into 1/4-inch thick slices or small cubes. Arrange both the sliced Colby Jack and the 8 ounces of pre-sliced provolone cheese on a large serving board or platter, leaving space for other items.
• Next, arrange the cured meats. Artfully place the 4 ounces of pepperoni slices and 4 ounces of pre-sliced genoa salami onto the board. You can fold larger slices into quarters or roll them loosely to add visual appeal.
• Prepare the bread and crackers. Using a serrated knife, slice the 10 to 12-inch baguette into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Place the baguette slices and the 10 ounces of assorted crackers around the cheeses and meats on the board.
• Wash and slice the fresh fruits. Ensure the 1 cup of green grapes and 1 cup of red grapes are thoroughly washed and dried, then arrange them in small clusters on the board. Core the medium apple and slice it into 1/4-inch thick wedges; if not serving immediately, you may lightly toss the apple slices with a teaspoon of lemon juice to prevent browning.
• Prepare the vegetables. Slice the washed medium cucumber into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Arrange the cucumber slices and the 1 cup of washed baby carrots on the board, perhaps in small piles or fanned out.
• Fill small serving bowls with your spreads. Pour the 1/2 cup of honey into one small bowl and the 1/4 cup of whole grain mustard into another. Place these bowls directly on the board, positioning them near the cheeses and meats.
• Add the remaining dry components. Scatter the 1/4 cup of roasted peanuts and 1/4 cup of pretzel twists into any open spaces on the board, filling in gaps and adding texture.
• Take a moment to survey your cheap charcuterie board. Adjust any items as needed to create a visually appealing and easy-to-access display, ensuring a good balance of colors and textures. Serve immediately at room temperature.

Notes

If not serving immediately, lightly toss the apple slices with a teaspoon of lemon juice to prevent browning.

Keyword charcuterie board, cheap, party snacks

Easy Ways to Customize Your Board

• Add More Variety: Include different cheeses like sharp cheddar or creamy brie for a more complex flavor profile.
• Seasonal Fruit Swap: Use berries in the summer or pear slices in the fall for a seasonal twist.
• Enhanced Dips: Swap the mustard for a flavored cream cheese or a savory olive oil bread dip.

My Pro Tips for a Perfect Platter

• Slice Cheese Variety: Cut your block cheese into different shapes like cubes, slices, and wedges to create visual interest.
• Fold the Meats: Fold or roll larger slices of salami to add height and texture to your arrangement.
• Prevent Browning: If preparing apple slices ahead, toss them lightly with lemon juice to keep them looking fresh.
• Balance is Key: Distribute colors and textures evenly across the board for a visually appealing and functional layout.

How to Store Your Charcuterie Creation

• Store: Dismantle the board and store components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Cheeses and meats can be frozen for up to 2 months, though texture may change slightly upon thawing.
• Reheat: This board is best served at room temperature; simply reassemble components about 30 minutes before serving.
• Make-Ahead Tip: You can pre-slice cheeses and vegetables, storing them in separate containers a day in advance for quick assembly.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Easy Appetizers You’ll Adore

• Venison Jalapeno Poppers
• Cheesy Garlic Rolls
• Sheet Pan Quesadillas
• Stuffed Bell Peppers

Why This Cheap Charcuterie Board Will Impress

With its beautiful presentation and crowd-pleasing variety, this economical cheese board proves that impressive entertaining doesn’t require a large budget. The combination of salty, sweet, creamy, and crunchy elements guarantees there’s something for everyone to enjoy. I hope this becomes your go-to affordable appetizer for creating warm, welcoming moments with friends and family.