BBQ Party Planning: How to Master Food and Beverage Quantities for a Crowd
Got a BBQ party in the works? Figuring out how much food and drink you’ll need for your crew can be a bit of a puzzle. Whether planning a relaxed backyard hangout or a family gathering, it’s all about finding that sweet spot to satisfy everyone. Like many people, you want to make sure everyone leaves with full bellies and happy smiles. So, let’s talk about BBQ party planning when it comes to how much food and drink to have.
Planning for Your BBQ Party
To start, understanding your audience is key. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering with your closest friends or aiming for the backyard party of the year, your guest count serves as your guiding star when estimating quantities. No matter the size of your event, rest assured we’ve got you covered.
Now, let’s talk about the centerpiece of any BBQ party – the meat selection. From burgers to pulled pork, Alabama chicken, and baby back ribs, the options are as diverse as your guest list. A general rule of thumb is to allocate about 1/2 to 3/4 pounds of meat per person. This accounts for the possibility that some guests might indulge in seconds or even thirds. If you’re expecting a crowd of avid meat lovers, leaning toward the higher end might be a safe bet. And let’s not forget veggies and other side dishes.
With the carnivorous cravings sorted, it’s time to shift our focus to the essential companions of any BBQ feast – the sides. From creamy coleslaw to flavorful collard greens, planning for approximately 1/3 to 1/2 cup of each side dish per person is a smart move. Keep in mind that guests tend to load up more on their favorite sides, so having a bit extra won’t hurt. Many of our dishes will note the range of servings (most start at 8-10) to help you gauge what is best for your BBQ party.
Now, How About Drinks & Dessert?
With all that delicious grub, thirst is bound to follow. Be the BBQ hero by offering a variety of drinks to suit all tastes. Plan on approximately two drinks per hour per guest. This can include a mix of non-alcoholic options like lemonade, iced tea, Maine Root sodas, as well as adult beverages for those who indulge. Don’t overlook the importance of a water station to keep your hydration enthusiasts content.
As the sun sets and bellies are full, it’s time to sweeten the deal with dessert. Surprisingly, people tend to save room for something sweet, so it’s wise to plan for a couple of dessert options. Think about tantalizing treats like banana pudding or brownies. Aim for approximately 1 to 1.5 servings of dessert per person.
Chad’s Can Help With BBQ Party Planning
Remember that having a bit too much is always better than running out mid-BBQ. Leftovers mean less time spent in the kitchen throughout the week and a chance to relish those delicious BBQ delights all over again. You can choose to keep the extras for yourself or generously offer guests the opportunity to take home some of the BBQ goodness. So go ahead, calculate those quantities, and get ready to host the BBQ bash of the season!
If you still aren’t sure, we are happy to help you plan the right amounts. From our easy packages to bulk À la carte Menu, we can find the right amount for your party. We also do custom menus and quantities. So, if you don’t see something on those menus, don’t fear; fill out our form. We will contact you and determine the best amounts and menu for your event. So, contact Chad’s today to keep the drinks flowing, and let the good times roll at your food-filled fiesta!
