Brunch Cheese Board Ideas on a Budget That Still Look Fancy
A cheese board doesn’t need expensive imports to look impressive. Smart shopping and thoughtful presentation can create a stunning spread that’ll have guests thinking you spent way more than you did.
The key is mixing textures, colors, and flavors while using affordable staples from any grocery store.
How to Choose Budget Cheeses That Look Expensive
Focus on three different textures rather than premium brands. A firm cheddar, creamy brie or camembert, and crumbled goat cheese give you variety without breaking the bank. Store brands work just fine here.
Buy blocks instead of pre-sliced cheese when possible. You’ll save money and can cut interesting shapes that look more intentional. A sharp cheddar wedge looks fancier than rectangular slices, even though it’s the same cheese.
Shop Our Must-Haves
Simple Tricks That Make Everything Look More Expensive
Arrange items in odd numbers and create height with small bowls for nuts or olives. Leave some cheese uncut so guests can see the whole wedge or wheel.
Fold deli meat into roses or ribbons instead of laying it flat. Add fresh herbs like rosemary sprigs between items – they’re cheap but instantly make everything look more upscale. Small bowls prevent spreads from looking messy on the board.
Brunch Cheese Board Ideas on a Budget That Still Look Fancy
Ingredients
Garnish
Equipment Needed
- Large wooden board or serving platter
- Small bowls (3-4 pieces)
- Cheese knives
- Small spoons for jams
Instructions
- Prepare cheeses: Cut cheddar into triangular wedges and leave brie whole. Crumble goat cheese into a small bowl. Arrange cheeses on board first, spacing them evenly with room between each.
- Add meats and fillers: Fold salami slices in half, then roll into rose shapes. Place in clusters around the cheeses. Fill small bowls with nuts, olives, and jam, then nestle between cheese sections.
- Arrange accompaniments: Fan crackers and baguette slices around the board edges. Fill remaining spaces with grape clusters and apple slices. Tuck rosemary sprigs between items for color and height.
- Final touches: Place cheese knives near each cheese and small spoons in jam bowls. Step back and add more items to any empty spots. The board should look abundant but not overcrowded.
Nutrition Facts
Per Serving (1 serving)
