How much food per person?
The calculator uses standard catering portions, the same rules of thumb caterers use to quote events. Kids under 12 are counted as half an adult portion.
| Food | Per adult |
|---|---|
| Appetizers, when a meal follows | About 4 pieces |
| Appetizers only | 6 pieces the first hour, then 4 an hour |
| Main dish (cooked, buffet) | About 7 oz |
| Starch side | About 5 oz |
| Vegetable side | About 5 oz |
| Salad | 1 cup |
| Rolls or bread | 1 to 2 |
| Dessert | 1 to 2 servings |
Example: 20 adults, appetizers then dinner
- Appetizers: 20 × 4 = 80 pieces
- Main dish: 20 × 7 oz = 140 oz, about 8.8 lb cooked
- Starch and vegetable sides: about 6.3 lb each
- Rolls: 30, desserts: 30
Cooked weight versus what you buy
Meat shrinks as it cooks, often by about a quarter of its weight, so the calculator also shows a rough raw amount for boneless cuts. Bone-in pieces like chicken thighs or ribs need more again, since the bone adds weight you can't eat.
Tips for getting it right
- Offer more variety rather than more of one dish. Guests take a little of everything.
- Plan extra for teens, sports teams and parties that run past a mealtime.
- Ask about food allergies on the invitation and label dishes on the table.
- Keep hot food hot and cold food cold, and don't leave perishable dishes out for long.
Plan the drinks next with the party drinks calculator, and count your plates and cups with the party supplies calculator.
Frequently asked questions
How much food do I need for 50 guests?
For a buffet meal, plan on about 22 pounds of cooked main dish, 16 pounds each of starch and vegetable sides, 50 cups of salad and 75 rolls. Enter your exact menu in the calculator for a full list.
How many appetizers per person do I need?
About 4 pieces per person if a meal follows. For an appetizers-only party, plan about 6 pieces per person for the first hour and 4 for each hour after that.
How do I count kids in party food?
Most planners count children under 12 as about half an adult portion. Teens usually eat as much as adults, or more.
Should I make extra food?
A little. Adding about 10 percent covers unexpected guests and big appetites. Leftovers are better than running out.
Sources
- WebstaurantStore: A Guide to Catering Portion Sizes
- Dummies: How Much to Cook When You Cook for a Crowd
Portions are typical catering estimates. Your crowd, menu and the time of day all change how much people eat.
Spotted a mistake? Email [email protected] and we'll check it.