Being able to have friends over is one of the best features of living in your own place — even if that place is a dorm.  Make the most of it by hosting a complete dinner party that is easy and affordable.

Set the scene

Clean up and make room. Pull your table toward the center of the room and ask friends to bring extra chairs if necessary. Make sure you have enough dishes and silverware — either get a cheap set from somewhere like Kmart or find quirkily mismatched pieces from a thrift store.

Cater to your guests

Be sure to make something everyone can and will eat. A potluck-style meal gives everyone an opportunity to bring something to share that suits their own dietary needs and preferences. Or, make an entree and have guests bring side dishes to complete the meal.

Enough for all

Pick a meal that is easy to make for large groups, like chili, stew, casserole, lasagna or pasta. The same goes for dessert. A big cake can be fancy and can go further than three batches of cookies.

A version of this article appeared in the 2014 Food and Fun Guide. Ariana DiValentino is social media editor. Email her at [email protected].