What To Know
- Planning a barbecue for a large group can be daunting, especially when it comes to estimating the right amount of food.
- Can I reduce the amount of meat I serve if I’m having a lot of sides.
- Yes, you can reduce the amount of meat by 1/4 to 1/2 pound per person if you’re serving a lot of sides.
Planning a barbecue for a large group can be daunting, especially when it comes to estimating the right amount of food. The key to a successful barbecue is ensuring there’s enough food to satisfy everyone without excessive waste. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about how much BBQ do I need for 50 people.
Types of BBQ Meat
The first step is to determine the types of meat you’ll be serving. Here are the most popular options:
- Beef: Brisket, ribs, steaks, burgers
- Pork: Pulled pork, ribs, chops
- Chicken: Whole chickens, breasts, wings
- Sausages: Hot dogs, kielbasa, bratwurst
Meat Quantity Guidelines
Once you’ve chosen your meats, it’s time to estimate the quantity you’ll need. Here are some general guidelines:
- Beef: 1/2 to 3/4 pound per person for brisket, ribs, or steaks; 1/4 to 1/2 pound per person for burgers
- Pork: 1/2 to 3/4 pound per person for pulled pork or ribs; 1/4 to 1/2 pound per person for chops
- Chicken: 1/2 to 3/4 pound per person for whole chickens or breasts; 1/4 to 1/2 pound per person for wings
- Sausages: 1 to 2 sausages per person
Sides and Drinks
In addition to the meat, you’ll also need to factor in sides and drinks. Here are some suggestions:
- Sides: Potato salad, coleslaw, baked beans, corn on the cob
- Drinks: Beer, soda, water, juice
Estimating Side and Drink Quantities
For sides, estimate 1/2 to 1 cup per person. For drinks, estimate 1 to 2 cans or bottles per person.
Vegetarian Options
If you have vegetarian guests, be sure to include some vegetarian options. Here are a few ideas:
- Grilled vegetables
- Vegetarian burgers
- Bean salads
- Vegetable skewers
Shopping List
Once you have estimated the quantities, it’s time to create a shopping list. Here’s an example shopping list for 50 people:
- Meat:
- 25 pounds brisket
- 15 pounds pork ribs
- 10 pounds chicken breasts
- 10 pounds sausages
- Sides:
- 10 pounds potato salad
- 10 pounds coleslaw
- 10 pounds baked beans
- 10 pounds corn on the cob
- Drinks:
- 50 cans of beer
- 50 cans of soda
- 50 bottles of water
- 50 bottles of juice
Final Note
By following these guidelines, you can ensure you have plenty of BBQ for your 50 guests without overspending or wasting food. Remember to adjust the quantities based on your specific menu and the appetites of your guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What if I have leftovers?
A: Leftovers can be used for sandwiches, salads, or soups. You can also freeze them for later.
Q: Can I reduce the amount of meat I serve if I’m having a lot of sides?
A: Yes, you can reduce the amount of meat by 1/4 to 1/2 pound per person if you’re serving a lot of sides.
Q: What if I have guests with special dietary needs?
A: Be sure to include vegetarian options and consider the dietary needs of your guests when planning your menu.
