What To Know
- A good rule of thumb is to estimate 1/2 to 3/4 pound of meat per person for a main course and an additional 1/4 to 1/2 pound for sides.
- For example, brisket and ribs have more bone and fat, so you’ll need to order more pounds to get the same amount of edible meat as chicken or pork tenderloin.
- Yes, you can order a whole brisket or a whole rack of ribs if you have a large group of guests.
Planning a barbecue gathering can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to determining how much food to prepare. Over-ordering can lead to wasted leftovers and extra expenses, while under-ordering can leave your guests hungry and disappointed. To ensure a successful BBQ without any food faux pas, it’s crucial to know how much BBQ to order.
Factors to Consider When Ordering BBQ
Number of Guests: The number of guests is the most significant factor to consider when ordering BBQ. A good rule of thumb is to estimate 1/2 to 3/4 pound of meat per person for a main course and an additional 1/4 to 1/2 pound for sides.
Appetites and Preferences: Consider the appetites of your guests. If you have teenage boys or hungry adults, you’ll need to order more than if you have a group of seniors or children. Additionally, factor in any dietary preferences or restrictions, such as vegetarian or gluten-free options.
Types of Meat: Different types of meat have varying weights and yield different amounts of edible meat. For example, brisket and ribs have more bone and fat, so you’ll need to order more pounds to get the same amount of edible meat as chicken or pork tenderloin.
Sides and Drinks: Don’t forget to order sides and drinks to complement your BBQ. Estimate 1-2 sides per person, such as baked beans, coleslaw, or potato salad. For drinks, plan for 1-2 non-alcoholic beverages and 1-2 alcoholic beverages per person.
Calculating the Amount of BBQ to Order
Main Course:
- Chicken: 1/2 – 3/4 pound per person
- Pork: 1/2 – 3/4 pound per person
- Brisket: 3/4 – 1 pound per person
- Ribs: 1/2 – 3/4 pound per person
- Sausages: 1/2 – 3/4 pound per person
Sides:
- 1-2 sides per person, such as:
- Baked beans: 1/2 cup per person
- Coleslaw: 1/4 cup per person
- Potato salad: 1/2 cup per person
Drinks:
- 1-2 non-alcoholic beverages per person
- 1-2 alcoholic beverages per person
Tips for Ordering the Right Amount of BBQ
- Ask your guests for input: Reach out to your guests and ask about their appetites and preferences. This will help you get a better estimate of how much food to order.
- Order a little extra: It’s always better to have a little more food than not enough. You can always send leftovers home with your guests.
- Consider the weather: If you’re having an outdoor BBQ, the weather can affect the amount of food you need. If it’s hot, people tend to eat less.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help: If you’re unsure about how much BBQ to order, ask the butcher or caterer for guidance.
What to Do with Leftover BBQ
If you end up with leftover BBQ, don’t let it go to waste! Here are a few ideas for repurposing your leftovers:
- Sandwiches: Use leftover pulled pork or brisket to make sandwiches with your favorite toppings.
- Tacos: Turn leftover chicken or pork into tacos with tortillas, salsa, and other toppings.
- Soup: Simmer leftover ribs or brisket in a pot with broth and vegetables to make a hearty soup.
- Casseroles: Combine leftover BBQ with rice, pasta, or beans to create a delicious casserole.
- Pizza: Use leftover BBQ as a topping for homemade pizza.
Top Questions Asked
Q: How much BBQ should I order for a party of 20 people?
A: For a main course, order 10-15 pounds of BBQ. For sides, order 10-20 servings of baked beans, coleslaw, or potato salad. For drinks, order 20-40 non-alcoholic beverages and 20-40 alcoholic beverages.
Q: What if I have guests with different appetites?
A: When ordering for a group with varying appetites, cater to the average appetite and provide a small variety of options. Offer smaller portions for smaller appetites and larger portions for those with bigger appetites.
Q: Can I order a whole brisket or a whole rack of ribs?
A: Yes, you can order a whole brisket or a whole rack of ribs if you have a large group of guests. Just be sure to factor in the weight of the bones and fat when calculating the amount of edible meat.
