26 Cheap Outdoor Kitchen Ideas
Outdoor kitchens don’t have to be elaborate (or top-of-the-line) to be fun and functional!
We’ve got some very budget-friendly ways to give your outdoor kitchen a makeover and get more bang for your buck.
Below are our favorite cheap outdoor kitchen ideas to help you create a stylish and functional space without breaking the bank.
1. Don’t try to save money on cheap materials
When you’re trying to save money on an outdoor kitchen, it can be tempting to just go with the cheapest materials you can find. But, that can be a big mistake. Cheap materials are more likely to wear out quickly, which means you’ll have to replace them sooner than if you’d invested in higher-quality materials in the first place.
When you’re designing an outdoor kitchen on a budget, it’s important to select your materials carefully. Look for materials that are durable and long-lasting, but that also fit within your budget. For example, granite is a popular choice for outdoor kitchen countertops, but it can be expensive.
If you’re looking for a more affordable alternative, you might consider concrete. Concrete countertops can be made to look like granite, and they’re incredibly durable. Plus, they’re a fraction of the cost of granite.
2. Add a little style with a pergola
A pergola is a quick and cost-effective way to add some style and structure to your outdoor kitchen. You can even hang curtains or drapes from the top to create a more intimate and cozy space.
Plus, pergolas are great for hanging lights and lanterns, which means you can keep the party going long after the sun goes down.
3. Use a prefab outdoor kitchen frame
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to create a custom outdoor kitchen space, a prefab frame is the way to go. These steel frames can be purchased and then customized with the countertop and appliances of your choice.
This is a great option if you want the look of a built-in outdoor kitchen but don’t want to spend the time and money on a full custom build. You can also choose from a variety of different shapes and sizes to fit your space and budget.
4. Use a drop-in (instead of a slide-in) grill head
There are two types of grill heads: drop-in and slide-in. A slide-in grill head can be installed in between two cabinets (just like a slide-in range in your indoor kitchen), while a drop-in grill head requires an opening in the countertop.
Drop-in grill heads are generally less expensive than slide-in models, and they’re easier to install. You can save a lot of money by choosing a drop-in grill head and building a simple countertop and base.
5. Don’t forget the lighting
Lighting is an essential part of any kitchen, and it’s no different when it comes to outdoor kitchens. You’ll need good lighting to cook and entertain in the evening.
String lights are a popular choice for outdoor spaces, and they’re a great way to add a warm, cozy glow to your kitchen. You can also install pendant lights or sconces on the walls.
Just be sure to choose lighting that is rated for outdoor use.
6. Save money on appliances by choosing the right ones
One of the most expensive parts of an outdoor kitchen is the appliances. But you can save a lot of money by choosing the right ones.
For example, a gas grill is much cheaper than a built-in grill. And a mini-fridge is much cheaper than a full-size refrigerator. You can also save money by choosing appliances that are made of stainless steel instead of other materials, as they are usually cheaper.
If you’re on a tight budget, you can even skip the appliances altogether and just use your indoor kitchen. Just make sure to bring out any utensils or cookware you’ll need.
7. Use a natural gas line for your grill
If you’re planning to use your grill as part of your outdoor kitchen, you can save money by connecting it to a natural gas line.
With a natural gas line, you won’t have to worry about running out of fuel in the middle of cooking a meal. Plus, you’ll save money in the long run by not having to buy propane tanks.
If you don’t already have a natural gas line running to your backyard, you can have one installed. While this will require an upfront investment, it’s a good idea if you plan to use your outdoor kitchen frequently.
8. Choose a low-cost countertop material
The countertop is one of the most important components of an outdoor kitchen. It’s where most of the cooking prep and serving happens. But, that doesn’t mean you have to spend a lot of money on it.
Granite, concrete, and stainless steel are all popular choices for outdoor kitchen countertops. However, they can be quite expensive.
If you’re looking to save money, consider using a more affordable material, such as tile or laminate. These materials come in a wide range of colors and styles, so you can still get the look you want at a fraction of the cost.
9. Use a kit to build your own outdoor kitchen
Using a kit to build your outdoor kitchen is a great way to keep costs down. You can still get a custom look, but by using a kit, you won’t have to spend as much on design and build labor.
This outdoor kitchen was built using the Modanō 5-Piece Outdoor Kitchen Package. It includes a grill, sink, refrigerator, and storage cabinets. The cabinets are constructed from aluminum and are powder-coated to prevent rust and corrosion.
The countertop is made from granite and the sink and faucet are constructed from 304 stainless steel. The kit also includes a back panel and vent hood for the grill. The back panel is made from porcelain-coated steel and is resistant to heat and moisture. The vent hood is made from stainless steel and includes LED lights and a fan.
Conclusion
If you want to build an outdoor kitchen on a budget, you can start with a small space with a grill and a counter. Then you can add a small refrigerator and other outdoor kitchen appliances as you expand your space.
