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Pound of meat per adult
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Linda
03/21/08
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How much meat to figure per adult and children?
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ellen
03/22/08
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Dinner, lunch, BBQ, buffet, reception, appetizers? Beef, chicken, turkey, bone-in ham, ribs, deli? Raw or cooked ready to eat? Regular meal or party meal? As stated repeatedly elsewhere, with beef and a second meat, many caterers allow 5 ounces cooked ready to eat meat plus 3 ounces of the second cooked ready to eat meat. There are tables all over this site for per person for individual meats, turkey, etc. for each of the above. If you will make a basic estimate and describe your menu, I will be glad to check it for you.
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Judy Sanchez
05/16/08
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I have a ton of questions. I'm cooking for a 60th anniversary. Approx 200 people. How much shredded beef (sandwiches) would I need. I'm thinking of going with chuck roast, how many pounds approx? I'm also thinking of a 2nd meat as well either barbeque pork or shredded chicken, which would go better with the beef? Also with cost in mind what would be least expensive. Side dishes are Potato Salad, Pasta Salad, Tuna Salad. I do plan on having some appetizers like taco dips, cucumber sandwiches. I have printed out many of the pages on veggie tray, fruit platters etc. The anniversary party is June 21st and I'm trying to budget with 6 other family members. Thank you so much for your help
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ellen
05/16/08
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Approximately 85 pounds raw boneless chuck or pork shoulder for a single meat. If I were doing two, I would do pork and chicken or beef and chicken, as folks who will eat beef will eat pork, while some folks who eat chicken will not eat beef or pork.
If you do two choices, you must add more meat, as people will take more and some of each, and you need to leave a choice. So you need about 60 pounds raw beef or pork PLUS 40 pounds boneless chicken, which is 80 pounds bone in quarters or whole. You can use turkey for BBQ "chicken"; if you don't discuss it, no one will notice.
Preparing the meat and storing/ freezing it in the BBQ sauce will allow the meat to absorb some of the sauce, which both improves the flavor and slightly increases the amount.
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Judy Sanchez
05/16/08
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More questions. How much in advance could I make the meat and freeze it? This will help us on time. There are only 5 of us committed to cooking so I don't want to bite off more than I can chew. For the sides do you think potato salad, pasta salad and tuna salad is enough variety? There will be some veggie dishes as well. For cookies and brownies would you consider 1 per person or 2? Taco dip I was thinking of 4 platters. Does that sound like enough? Thanks again
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ellen
05/16/08
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You can freeze the meats 2 months ahead.
I would add slaw, very simple and not expensive, adds crunch and color.
With cookies and brownies, unfortunately, you need 1 of EACH kind per person up to 4, but you should make small ones- 2 to 3 bites. People will take several different ones.
Taco dip? What size tray? Is this salsa, or a cheese dip, or a layered bean dip? You need 1/4 cup per person.
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Evie
05/16/08
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Can a casserole recipe with uncooked rice be assembled and refrigerated overnight and cooked the next day for lunch? Will the rice be too mushy? Will the dried onion soup mix flavors be too intense?
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ellen
05/17/08
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I would try it for family before prepping for a guest, and here is how I would do it:
Assemble everything but the broth/water in the non-stick sprayed dish, chill. Prehest the oven. Warm the broth/water before pouring over the casserole, cover and bake.
It probably would not work with a thick sauce, cream soup, etc.
If I were going to try mixing the whole thing, I would use brown rice, which would benefit from the soaking. If I tried it with white, I would use converted, (Uncle Ben's, for example), which holds its shape better than other white rices.
I might also try the casserole with barley, which is sturdier than rice and very tasty.
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Earl F.
06/08/09
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Pound of meat per adult 65 ,BRISKET& SAUSAGE
COOKING 40# OF BRISKET IN A fec100 ,slow How much sausage do we need 65 people.
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ellen
06/09/09
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You have enough brisket without the sausage, meat-wise; but if you do have sausage available you need 1 pound raw for each 4 people (about 15 pounds), as people eat much more when there are several meats.
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Be
09/04/09
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When serving Prime Rib to a mostly hardy farming men event, how many ounces of meat do you prepare per serving? Serving between 100 - 150.
The menu includes, garlic potatoes, green beans, garden salad, roll and desert.
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ellen
09/04/09
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1 pound bone in per person, especially as those are basically light sides. Get an exact count; at this price no one can afford such a wide range.
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Be
09/04/09
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Thanks for that info, I can only get boneless rib roast in my area, so how much that way. Also, what sides would you suggest then to help fill them up with less meat?
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ellen
09/04/09
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OK, 3/4 pound raw boneless and cook ity LOW and SLOW to reduce shrinkage. How about a casserole of hot vegetables or a corn casserole or broiled tomato halves, and instead of tossed salad, a heavier slad such as a marinated bean cup or other marinated relishes?
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Be
09/06/09
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Thank you very your advice.
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JR
09/10/09
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How many pounds of chicken thighs or leg quarters will feed 100 (with side dishes)?
Thanks in advance
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ellen
09/10/09
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See the plan for 100 table, meat section. Your question is answered exactly. Button at the top of the main cooktalk page.
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JR
09/10/09
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OK I may be reading it wrong...
boneless thighs described as about 90 lbs
leg quarters describe as one per person
I was looking for lbs/person for bone in
thighs and quarters
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ellen
09/10/09
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Bone in thighs count as pieces. Boneless, skinless thighs, you only need 2 pounds raw for every 5-6 people (depends on what you are using them for). Leg quarters count as quarters- the main reason for the difference in the weight is, the quarters usually still have (quite a bit of)the backbone attached while the bone in thighs have just the thigh bone itself, which is relatively small.
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ellen
09/10/09
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So with bone in in pieces you need about 70 pounds, with quarters about 80 pounds, whole chickens or mixed pieces (which include legs, wings breasts and thighs about 90 pounds; but boneless, skinless, only about 45 pounds.
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JR
09/10/09
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by the way thanks alot for the info, it is greatly appreciated... and would you estimate about a gallon of bbq sauce for the above mentioned chicken?
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ellen
09/10/09
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When I make pulled pork, I use almost 3 quarts for just 8-10 pounds of meat. Of course, that is a very wet dish, but I would say you need more than a gallon= 16 cups= 250 tablespoons or less than 3 tablespoons per person...
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cheri degonia
09/16/09
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For 50 people how much Ham do I need we are having the spiral cut and how much chicken or roast beef?
How many rolls.
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ellen
09/16/09
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Cheri, is this for sandwiches or a plated dinner or a buffet, and what kind of chicken? Also, what is the rest of the menu? Write back.
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Be
09/17/09
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hey Ellen, just wanted to let you know that my event with the prime rib went over with flying colors, Thank you for your comments.
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ellen
09/17/09
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Great! Thanks for the follow up! What menu did you end up with and how many people?
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barbara
11/07/09
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how much meat to purchase per adult
i am making chateubriand for 25 guests. how much will i need. i am also making 5-6 lbs of salmon. thanks
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ellen
11/08/09
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Even with the salmon, I would start with 12 pounds raw chateaubriand. People love this luxurious dish.
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barbara
11/08/09
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Thanks!!
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dianne
11/09/09
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I am making roast beef,and either ham, or turkey for a second meat. The sides are mashed potatoes, corn, and stuffing. This is for about 60-65 adult and 20 children. How much meat should I get?
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ellen
11/09/09
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You want to end up with 5 ounces cooked ready to eat beef PLUS 3 ounces ready to eat second meat per person. That is 7-8 ounces raw boneless beef [er person, The turkey, you can check my turkey yield tables in the holiday cooking section at the top of Big Pots. Ham, about 1 pound cooked boneless for each 4 people for the second meat.
You will notice that when there are two meats, people tend to take more and some of each.
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lisa
11/10/09
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How many pounds of chipped BBQ meat do I need to feed sandwiches to 40 people?
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Lily
11/10/09
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Throwing a baby shower, there will be approx 50 - 60 guests - Menu is Brisket, rice, beans, bread, pickles and onions - how much brisket would I need? Raw and how much should I serve after cooked
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ellen
11/10/09
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Mostly ladies? 2 pounds raw well trimmed id fine for 5. For mixed or men 2 pounds for 4. Makes about a 5 serving for each person.
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Ray
11/11/09
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HI Ellen
For Christmas we are having about 70 guests for 1 pm meal. about 8 of these are children. our menu is Turkey Breast, Ham, and Pork Ribs, and stuffing. Four kinds of potatoes, and each family will bring a dish to pass.
I know this is a lot of food but they usually eat a little something before going home.
please help me!!!!!!!
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hariette
11/11/09
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I am getting a spiral cut ham for 15 for Thanksgiving and need to know how big a ham to get. 13 adults and we are having turkey as well. Thanks!
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ellen
11/12/09
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Ray, what is your question? Write back.
Harriette, if this is a bone in ham and you are not having another meat, you would get at least an 8-9 pound ham. But with the turkey, you only need to allow 2 pounds for each 7 people, bone in, so about 5 pounds.
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Robin
11/23/09
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I am hosting a holiday party for approximately 60 people. Planning on making chicken and brisket tacos. Will also be serving mexican rice. How many raw pounds of brisket and how many raw pounds of bone in chicken breasts will I need to purchase? Thank you so much for your help!
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ellen
11/23/09
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Youwant to end up with about 5 ounces ready to eat beef and 3 ounces ready to eat chicken for each person. Brisket is a fatty meat that shrinks a lot, so you want about 2 pounds raw for each 5 people, and a bit less than 1 pound of bone in checken breast for each 3.
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Robin
11/24/09
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Thanks Ellen!! I have tried my recipe using both chuck and brisket. The chuck tasted a bit better but was a royal pain to process through all of the fat and gristle and in the end, did not provide a large quantity of meat. So, I am planning on using the brisket - do you agree?
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ellen
11/24/09
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Yes, the chuck does taste better and yes the brisket is much easier to handle, and is perfectly acceptable for this use.
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Robin Taback
12/04/09
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defrosting, re-heating and rice
Ellen -
Thanks so much for your help!! Couple of questions...
I have cooked the brisket and chicken and froze them in 8 gallon containers. What would be the best way for me to defrost and re-heat for the party?? I have ordered chaffing dishes to use for service. Do I need to re-heat everything on the stove and/or oven first, or once everything is defrosted, can it go right in the chaffers to warm up? Also, I am planning on making mexican rice - rice cooked with half chx broth, half tomato sauce, onions, mexican spices and peas. Can I make this ahead of time and freeze?? If so, again, how do I re-heat?? Thanks so much for your help. LOVE your website!!!!
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ellen
12/04/09
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Thaw in the refrigerator only; containers this large could take 3 days. The rice would be MUCH better made fresh.
You MUST bring all food to 180 before placing in the chafers; it will not reheat safely in the warmers.
If you use the baked rice method and do it in the oven, it is very easy to do a large amount.
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Robin
12/08/09
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Ellen - thanks again for all of your help!! I have one final question!! If I have leftovers after the party, can these be re-frozen and used at a later date or are they trash? Thanks!!!
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ellen
12/08/09
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If it has been frozen and thawed, it can't be refrozen unless it is cooked to 160 again. It must NOT be refrozen if it has set out at room temp. Not trash, eat them up or donate to a local soup kitchen, but don't re-freeze.
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beverly
12/15/09
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how many cold cut platter do i need for 25 ppl also cheese. thanks
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beverly
12/15/09
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hi. we are thinking roast beef, turkey, ham, salami, cheese. there will be salads. how much of cold meat for 25 people, thanks
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ellen
12/15/09
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Hi, Beverly,
If this is a sandwich platter type event, take a look at the sandwich event page for 3 different sizes of sandwich events. Once you have a total weight, do about 1/3 beef, 1/3 turkey, 1/4 ham, 1/4 salami. Notice it adds up to more than 100%? That's because people take more and some of each when there are multiple choice. Thin sliced is better than shaved, people take less.
1 1/2 to 2 ounces sliced cheese per person.
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angie
01/13/10
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hi ellen, im doing my own wedding reception dinner and had a few questions. First of all we are on a budget but want a full meal so we are doing spiral ham, baked potao bar, green salad and steamed veggies with rolls. Do I need something else? Also is that too much of a holiday meal? anyway its for 100 people. can you get me a close estimate of how much meat i will need. Im doing the spiral ham. thank you angie
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ellen
01/13/10
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That is a perfectly OK meal, you just need to be sure there are some protein toppings for the potatoes for any vegetarians- chopped egg, shredded cheese, etc.
This will be a bone in ham, I assume, You need 1 pound for each 3 people for buffet/ party type servings.
I would add a festive fruity dish such as fried apples to complement the ham and fill out the plate. 1/2 cup per person.
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Michele
01/20/10
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Hi Ellen,
How many lb per person should I figure of chickn and beef fajitas for 12 adults and 9 kids?
Thanks!!
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ellen
01/20/10
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Raw, 1/2 pound lean boneless beef plus 1/3 pound raw boneless chicken per adult and kids above junior high, 1/2 that for small children.
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cindy Namerow
02/15/10
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Hi Ellen,
Preparing Maundy Thurs. dinner for 50 at our church.
I am considering preparing chuck roast.
How many lbs per persons?
Much appreciated,
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ellen
02/15/10
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25 pounds raw boneless chuck will give 50 nice portions.
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Dawn
02/21/10
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Hi Ellen,
I am preparing a chicken scampi for approx 50 people, could be a few less. any suggestions for how much chicken I will need and ideas for sides, plan to have a pasta with marinara, rolls and salad.
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ellen
02/21/10
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Hi,
Check the chicken discussion on the plan for 100 page, you need about 1/2 the amount for 100.
I would do antipasto veggies (cold) and roasted mixed; eggplant, summer squashes, asparagus, whole green beans, etc.
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mike
02/25/10
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haveing a party with about 40 adults and want to serve pork shoulder to keep the cost down low and slow cooking method. How big of a roast do i need to purchase and how long in the oven covered in foil should i cook it for? i will be serving it with 2 sides.Thank u in advance for your input
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patsy wiggins
02/26/10
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figure in lb
In planning a dinner, the amount of boneless raw meat to be purchased for each adult is..
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patsy wiggins
02/26/10
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Pound of meat one adult
amount of boneless meat to be purchased for one adult is..
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ellen
02/27/10
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Mike, you mean roasts, not roast; about 20 pounds boneless.
Patsy, it depends. Boneless skinless chicken hardly shrinks, you allow 4 ounces raw to get 3 ounces cooked. Brisket shrinks 40%; you need a pound to get about 9 ounces cooked.
USDA recommends 3 ounces cooked as a portion. Usual party portion is twice to 3 times that.
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Erin
03/06/10
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I have a question for you, my husband and I are planning a BBQ for his birthday this year. There will be approx. 29 adults and 8 kids. My husband wants to have chicken drumsticks, sausages (just the ones that are in a spiral), hamburgers and hotdogs. We are both really confused about how much of each to prepare. I am thinking that I should buy enough of each type of meat to feed at least all 37 guests, meaning 37x4= 148 servings of meat! this sounds nuts to me, but I am not sure how to break it down. On top of all of the meats we plan on having chips, veggie plates, potato and macaroni salad, plus we may have canned beans as well (so there will be other foods than meats). I would greatly appreciate your help!!
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ellen
03/07/10
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This is what I would do:
45 legs
8 pounds sausage
24 patties (but if frozen, I would leave some frozen until I saw the demand)
3-4 pounds hotdogs. open only 2 to start.
1 pack veggie dogs or boca burgers, unless you are sure there are no vegetarians.
Happy birthday.
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Erin
03/07/10
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Thanks a lot Ellen for your reply! I am wound right up about this, I have never entertained this many people before. Now, I know there are not any vegetarians and I also forgot to mention that about 6 or 7 of the guests are big eaters (1 teenager and the rest adult men), should I compensate anywhere for this, or will the numbers you gave allow for their big appetites? and since I do not have any vegetarians should I buy another pack of something to compensate for those numbers?? Thanks again, this site and your response has been extremely valuable!! :)
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Erin
03/07/10
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I was also thinking 5 lbs each of macaroni salad, potato salad and beans. Is this too much?
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Nichole
03/22/10
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I'm trying to help plan a wedding for about 70 people. If we did brisket, chicken or turkey and sausage plus beans, potato casserole or salad, and coleslaw how much would you recommend? Thanks so much.
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ellen
03/22/10
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For the sides, you can use the plan for 100 tables and use 3/4.
With three meats for this small of a crowd, you have to go a little over to make sure everyone gets their first choice and also because when there are several choices, many take some of each. Here is what I would plan:
1 piece (not quarter) of chicken per person PLUS 2 pounds raw well-trimmed brisket for each 7 people PLUS 1 pound of sausage for each 5 people. That way, everyone will have what they like and you will probably have just a little left over.
By the way, I would do both potato casserole and salad; it is a party meal, and it will also cut down some on the meat.
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ellen
03/22/10
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To clarify; potato casserole and non-potato salad, fruit, tossed, veggie, etc. For the slaw, about 2 1/2 gallons.
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Lara
03/30/10
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I am planning a graduation party and want to serve ham and turkey sandwiches for about 200 people. Is is best to use shaved? and how many pounds of each would I need? I am using a snowflake roll to serve it in. I also will be making the sandwiches that morning, not serving from a tray of meat! Thanks for your help!
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Lara
03/31/10
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Ellen, I just saw your link at the top which answers my question! Thank you!!
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Gail
04/17/10
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Hi I am entertaining 70 people and am cooking Pork Tenderloin Roast. How many pounds of meat would I need to cook? Thank you in Advance
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ellen
04/17/10
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If it is the onlt meat, 35 pounds boneless raw. You may have a little left, not mich.
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Saundra
04/30/10
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Hi, we are planning a birthday party for 75 - 100 people. Party is planned for 2 in the afternoon (after lunch) we are making fruit trays as well as a meat and cheese trays plus will have a cake. How many lbs of meat and cheese should we purchase?
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ellen
04/30/10
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Since it is after lunch, you need about 1/2 what you would need for sandwiches- see the sandwich planning page.
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Robyn
05/02/10
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I am making mexican style barbacoa and wanted to know how many pounds of meat needed to feed 200 people for a wedding, cafeteria style?
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ellen
05/02/10
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1 pound ready to eat barbacoa, per 3 people, if you also have rice, beans, salad, tortillas.
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Terasa Goeddeke
05/25/10
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I am having a Graduation Party for my daughter. For sandwiches we are having barbeque and deli sandwiches. There are 150 people invited. There is going to be 9# of barbeque. Aproximately how many pounds of ham and turkey would you suggest getting and approximately how many sandwiches will the barbeque make? We are also haveing a fruit salad, chips, relish tray, and cake.
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ellen
05/25/10
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9 pounds makes about 30 sandwiches, you will probably run out pretty early.
Go to the sandwich event page and get enough meats, cheeses and condiments for about 120 people. There will be less meat eaten if you will add one heavy salad, either pasta or potato.
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jeanine
06/01/10
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how many pounds of meat marinated boneless chicken and carne asada meat do i need to purchase for a bbq serving about 30 people?
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ellen
06/02/10
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1 pound raw lean boneless per 4 for the asada/ stew (no leftovers) PLUS 1 pound boneless skinless chicken for each 4 people is what I use.
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raquel
06/28/10
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Hi Ellen,
We are planning a birthday party for my son. We want to make barbacoa fortunally someone is making it for us, but we need to know how much cow cheek to get for 100-130 people?
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ellen
06/29/10
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Raw? For 100 about 40 pounds.
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Terri Ellingburg
06/29/10
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We are having 4th of July at our home. There will be 11 adults. We are serving ribs and chicken quarters. How much of each would you recommend?
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ellen
06/29/10
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I would get about 8 pounds of ribs and 2 chickens. I would probably cut the chickens in pieces, not quarters, for serving.
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Brandon
06/30/10
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I'm smoking pulled pork for a party of 50-70 people. It is a bring a dish to pass type party, with the pork sandwiches being the main dish. I have access to bone-in boston butts. How many lbs do you think I will need (raw)? Thanks.
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roberta
07/19/10
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assorted cold cuts and cheese
having outdoor grad. party. how many total lbs. of cold cut and cheese will be needed. we are also having burgers and hot dogs.
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ellen
07/19/10
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Brandon, sorry I missed your post! 1 pound bone in for each 2 people, since there wil be other meats.
Roberta, see the sandwich event page, get enough for about half the guests. Can't get closer; no indication of the number of guests...
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Grace
07/20/10
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I'm planning for a funeral dinner for about 40 people. How many pounds of pre-cooked bone in ham will I need?
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ellen
07/20/10
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If it is the only meat but there are some good side dishes, 2 pounds for 5-6 people.
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Mary Ann Williams
07/22/10
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Hello Ellen,
I am having a baby shower for about 35 women, I will be ordering slice brisket ( already cooked from a BBQ place) some sausage and some chicken I need to know how many pounds of meat do I need to buy. I will be ordering 50% Brisket, 25% sausage and 25% turkey or chicken. We will also be having potatoe salad, beans and other things. I am not sure how much meat to buy. Can you please advise me! Thank you,
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ellen
07/23/10
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Hi, Mary Ann,
I would order 9 pounds of brisket, 4 of sausage and about 4 chickens, You will have some left, but everyone will get their first choice.
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laura
07/26/10
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i am giving my daughter a 40th birthday party and we have about40 people invited. we are doing a taco bar with hamburger meat and Carne asada how much of each should i buy?
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ellen
07/26/10
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If the asada is prepared, you want about 8 quarts, plus 1 pound raw burger for each 4 people, provided there are also rice and beans. See the potato/taco bar page for help on all the toppings.
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Claire
07/27/10
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How much BBQ sauce?
I am making 85-100 pounds of pulled pork. How much BBQ sauce do you think I need?
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ellen
07/27/10
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About a cup per pound of meat, more ( up to double) if you like it really sauce.
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Graciela
08/18/10
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I'm planning to cook barbacoa (beef) for 100 people. How many pounds of beef should I get? I will also serve Mexican rice, beans, and a green salad. I have no idea how many pounds of rice and beans to cook. HELP!
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ellen
08/18/10
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About 40 pounds raw beef, assuming the recipe has additions. The other items are all covered on the plan for 100 lists and there are recipes on the site for 100 for sevral different rice and bean styles.
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Melissa
08/18/10
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I am making pulled pork sandwiches for appx 60 people including children. How much pork loin should I purchase?
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Melissa
08/18/10
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Never mind answered the question above. Sorry.
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ellen
08/18/10
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Melissa, thanks for looking it up yourself.
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Sam
09/22/10
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Hi! I am having a party for my husband and we are doing it Mexican style. We are planning to have ground beef and chicken tacos but I am not sure how much of each to get... there will be about 50 people... we will also be having rice and beans chips and dips and dessert.
Thank you!
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sam
09/22/10
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Oh yeah.. I was going to buy whole chickens and roast and shred them...
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ellen
09/22/10
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1 pound whole chicken makes 1 cup=8 ounces shredded meat. 1 pound ground chuck makes 2 cups cooked meat. You want 4 ounces cooked ready to eat beef and 3 ounces ready to eat chicken per person.
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Donna
12/22/10
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I am serving brisket of beef for Christmas Eve for 10 adults. How large a brisket should I buy?
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ellen
12/22/10
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5-6 pounds well trimmed raw brisket, seconds but no leftovers.
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Linda
02/08/11
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makingjr sandwiches for 96 adults and 15 children how much shaved ham would I need
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ellen
02/10/11
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Count this as just over 100, and use the sandwich page for amounts.
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Stephanie
02/27/11
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I'm having ham BBQ sandwiches and hot dogs for my daughter's party. We're having roughly 80 people. How much of each should I have? (17 kids and the rest adults)
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ellen
02/27/11
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Being not a hot dog lover myself, I suggest 20 pounds ham bbq (includes sauce), and switch to polish sausage, get about 36.
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Nita
03/02/11
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I am planning a barbecue gathering for approximately 60 adults and 30 children.
The children will have burgers and hotdogs. The adults, brisket and chicken breasts. How much should I have of each meat in order to feed these people. Thanks for your advise.
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Nita
03/02/11
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I am planning a barbecue gathering for approximately 60 adults and 30 children.
The children will have burgers and hotdogs. The adults, brisket and chicken breasts. How much should I have of each meat in order to feed these people? Thanks for your advise.
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ellen
03/03/11
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Hi, Nita,
I don't like to plan a BBQ with such limited choices for the kids. If I were doing these 4 meats for this many people, I would do about 30 pounds brisket, 60 small breasts, 40 burgers, and 40 Polish sausages (much tastier than hot dogs).
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Sylvia
03/10/11
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I am planning a 70th Birthday party for my Dad and we're expecting "about" 35 guests. You know extra people always show up, so I would safely say about 40-45 people. I will be serving brisket. How many pounds do I need to buy to feed my guests. We will also have potato salad and charro pinto beans with sliced pickes, onions, etc. Please reply. Thanks
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ellen
03/10/11
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Slvia, brisket is a coarse. fatty meat that shrinks more than 50%, so I always allow at least 1/2 pound raw well trimmed for dinner. A few extra pounds makes for excellent leftovers.
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angelica
04/08/11
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I willbe hosting a party for apporx 50 adults
Wanted to confirmed how much uncooked chicken leg legs with thighs and breats + pork ribs should i purchased???
thanks is advance
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ellen
04/09/11
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OK, I would do at least 25 pounds ribs and 30 pounds quarters, but I would cut the quarters into pieces if it is self serve/ buffet.
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rols
04/20/11
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hi ellen,
thanks in advance for the great advice that you provide on this site!
i'm cooking a beef curry (stewing beef?), chick peas (light sauce), an asparagus dish (dry), some sort of potatoes (dry), sides of rice & joghurt - all for 140 people.
how much of everything will i need?
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ellen
04/20/11
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The math is too tiresome for 140, so I will tell you 100 and you can do 1 1/2, then cut back a little.
beef curry (stewing beef?), 35-40 pounds raw per 100, depends on how many other items in the curry
chick peas (light sauce), 8 pounds dry per 100
an asparagus dish (dry), 35 pounds raw, about 28 pounds ready to eat
some sort of potatoes (dry), 25 pounds per 100, because you also have the rice; you will have some left
rice- 10 pounds per 100 &
yoghurt- 7-8 quarts per 100
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LISA
04/24/11
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i am having 10 adults over and having side salads pierogies and polish sausage. how many pounds of polish sausage do i need, 5 men who love polish sausage
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ellen
04/24/11
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In that case, I would do 8 pounds- about 3/4 pound per lover, 1/2 for the rest.
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joanna
05/12/11
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I am expecting about 80 people to a cookout where I will be having ribs,chicken legquarters ,baked beans ,green beans ,rolls, mac-cheese ,potatoe salad ,how much should i buy of the meat and things
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ellen
05/12/11
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Joanna, most of this is covered in the plan for 100 list, you would do 4/5 the amounts for 80 people. For 80 people, I would do 40 pounds raw ribs plus 40-50 pounds leg quarters; there is a lot of bone in these meats.
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Jasmine
05/15/11
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I am having a high school graduation party for my son. My guest list is for 135 people. I decided to go with bbq shredded beef sandwiches, maccaroni salad, potato salad and pasta salad. I will also have a nacho stand a an appetizer and ofcoarse cake. My main concern is how much meat to buy? Do I have enough side option?
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ellen
05/15/11
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40-45 pounds ready to eat beef, 3 gallons additional sauce. The rest, 1 1/3 times the amounts for 100. I might add slaw for 100.
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Jan
05/16/11
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Making shredded turkey sandwiches for a baby shower. Bought 2- 18 lb. turkeys there will be approx. 125 people. Do I need more turkey?
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ellen
05/16/11
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You will get about 36 cups of meat, 1 cup per pound whole. I allow at least 1/3 cup per person, 1/2 if they are large eaters. So you are close, maybe a bit light.
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terri
05/17/11
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having a first BD 35 guest adults 13 children under 12 menu Burgers, brats, hot dogs, fruit trays, and veggie tray, beans, and grilled corn on cob how much ground beef, brats and beans do i need????????
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ellen
05/18/11
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Use 1/3 the amounts for 100, skip the hot dogs and go with just brats unless you are deeply attached to hot dogs, amounts are discussed in the plan for 100 list. If you want to post an estimate, I will check it.
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Sherry
05/22/11
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We're having a grad party soon and planning to do a taco bar. Need to know how many pounds of chicken and beef to get for 200 people? We're planning to do a mexican shredded chicken and ground beef for the make your own tacos/nachos.
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ellen
05/23/11
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See the amounts on the taco/potato bar for 100, do twice the amounts for 200. 1/3 chicken, 2/3 beef. Allow for 1/4 shrinkage on the raw burger.
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Kevin N.
06/09/11
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So, I've read through the pages and I've seen similar situations as me. So all I'm asking for is if you agree with my fuzzy math! Details: approx 300 people, roughly 200 adults, 80-ish kids, heavier self-serve sides with the meats being portioned and served. here's what I was thinking for meat numbers:
-50 lbs raw brisket (served shredded)
-70 burgers
-80 hot dogs
-30 lbs raw boneless/skinless chicken (served shredded)
Way under, around the mark, or overkill? Thank you!
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ellen
06/10/11
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If I were going to do shredded beef, I would start with chuck, not brisket; juicier, less shrinkage.
I would increase the beef. Consider skipping the burgers entirely an increasing the beef to 80-85 pounds raw boneless. Basically anyone who would eat a burger would eat the shredded beef. Chicken is OK, I like to do Polish sausage or kielbasa instead of hotdogs- taste much better, not too much more expensive.
Consider at least one pack (24) of Boca Burgers or Morningstar burgers for the vegetarians in the crowd- in that size party there will be some.
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Kari
06/13/11
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I am making pulled turkey and gravy sandwiches for my daughters birthday and wondering how many pounds of raw turkey breast to start with. We are expecting about 40 guests.
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ellen
06/13/11
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1 pound raw boneless makes 5 fine sandwiches.
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Peggy
06/23/11
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I have to serve 175 people. Baked salmon and fried chicken. Sweet potatoes
Really concerned about how much Salmon to buy and sweet potatoes
thanks.
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ellen
06/23/11
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Peggy, restaurant supply places carry frozen wild caught Keta salmon in 4 ounce portions for under $5 per pound. I would get 1 salmon per person plus 1 piece of chicken per person.
Sweet potatoes, like whit3, about 35 pounds per 100 fresh or 4-5 #10 cans per 100.
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ellen
06/23/11
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Peggy, restaurant supply places carry frozen wild caught Keta salmon in 4 ounce portions for under $5 per pound. I would get 1 salmon per person plus 1 piece of chicken per person.
Sweet potatoes, like whit3, about 35 pounds per 100 fresh or 4-5 #10 cans per 100.
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Kathy
07/08/11
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I am planning a party for my Mom's 80th birthday and we will have 45 people. Here is the planned menu all being prepared by a restaurant and I would love your opinion on if I have the correct amounts to serve.
12 lbs pulled pork
6 lbs beef brisket
8 whole chickens (cut up for serving)
1 gallon cole slaw
1 gallon mashed potatoes w/gravy
1 gallon baked beans
1 gallon macaroni salad
Will also have a large bowl of garden salad and a fruit and vegetable tray.
Thanks so much for your advice...I am really nervous about having enough food but don't want to go overboard either.
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ellen
07/08/11
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It depends on whether most of the guests are her age or mixed, and whether this is over a regular mealtime or mid-afternoon. I would probably do 8 pounds pork and 8-9 pounds beef. 2 gallons mashed potatoes, 1 1/2 pasta salad.
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Kathy
07/09/11
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It is mixed ages and from 2-6 pm. Thank you!!
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DANA
08/03/11
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40 People
7 #s Turkey, 7 #s Pork, 7 #s Brisket
Office of big meat eaters.
Is this enough ? I think I need a pound ea more
Also having Potato Salad, BBQ Beans & Slaw
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ellen
08/03/11
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Kathy, that means the folks her age will be eating an early supper, but the rest will be eating reception-level, about 1/4 less than a meal. I would do 8 pounds pork, 12 pounds brisket and 5 chickens, and you will still have a little left. Nice bread and rolls would be an excellent addition, butter, mayo, mustard. Plenty of fruit (at least 1/3 the amount for 100 on the deluxe tray on the fruit tray page, or 1 1/2 times the tray for 25).
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ellen
08/03/11
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Dana, if this is all ready to eat weight, I suggest 10-12 brisket and 8 each of the others. Everybody takes some brisket. That is if there are also rolls/bread and sandwich fixings.
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Devan
09/15/11
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My family and I are preparing all the food, buffet style for my wedding next month. This is our menu: beef carnitas (buying all prepared, but uncooked) Pork Chile Verde, and Tacos el pastor with mexican rice and beans and a toppings type bar for. we have a guest count of 110 including adults and children. I plan on making the green chile in electric roasters (22 qt)but do not know how many quarts I would need to feed that many people so I am not sure how many roasters to buy to cook and serve from. I also am not sure how much pork to get for the chile verde and the tacos el pastor. I plan on using boston butt as its the most tender. My mom thinks we should have chicken tortilla soup too, but I am worried this is too many options. If I did the chicken tortilla soup is it cheaper to do whole chickens? and how many would I need? I know this is a loaded question, but I am starting to worry b/c my stepdad is so random with the quantities, think he is just guessing and I dont want to run out of food or go overboard. Thanks soooo much
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Fred
09/15/11
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I am wondering, how many people will 200lbs of leg quaters and 9 briskets feed?
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ellen
09/15/11
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Devan,
I would skip the soup and add an appetizer table with fruit trays, a slasa dip and chips, and a cheese tray
All these for the meat:
beef carnitas, allow 2 pounds raw per 6 people
pork Chile Verde, 1 pound pork per 6 people, to make 1/2 cup per person. One roaster full holds about 14 quarts total for stews, so that should be about right.
Tacos el pastor,1 pound pork per 8 people
Tortillas, 4 per person, mixed corn and flour
mexican rice- about 8 pounds dry rice
beans- about 8 pounds dried beans
toppings bar- use the amounts on the taco bar for 100 on this site.
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ellen
09/15/11
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200 pounds leg quarters is enough for about 250 people. Briskets vary a lot in size, go by weight. 1 pound raw well trimmed brisket serves 2 people. If you have both chicken and beef, have someone serve the beef, or you will run out before everyone has some.
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mary
10/21/11
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I am making barbeque pork out of pork loins for 35 women at a bridal shower. I also have 5 lbs of chicken. How many lbs of pork do Ineed to cook?
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ellen
10/22/11
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About 9 pounds. I like pork shoulder better than loin for shredded pork.
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Dorothy
10/30/11
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When purchasing ready cooked and sliced brisket, how many pounds per adult?
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ellen
10/30/11
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1 pound per 4 sandwiches, 1 pound per 3 plates/adults.
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Amiee
10/30/11
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I am cooking for a party of 30 farmers and there wifes, i am smoking a brisket but not sure how many pounds, i am serving baked pot, veg, salad and dinner rolls?
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ellen
10/31/11
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Assuming you mean 60 people and these are not light eaters, you need about 30 pounds raw well trimmed brisket if you are slicing it yourself; it shrinks almost 50%. If it is self serve, you may need to add a second 10 pounds.
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kari
11/08/11
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How much ham do I need for ham sandwichs for 75 people? And how many buns? It is going to be mostly adults. Also I want to do Meatballs in a crock pot and cocktail wienies. I will have potato salad, deviled eggs, veggies and dip and chips. Could you tell me the amount you would recommend for all these items?
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ellen
11/09/11
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Kari, quantities for most of these foods are discussed in some detail on the various planning pages. For example, amounts for sandwiches for various functions such as meals, receptions, tea parties- see the sandwich event page.
potato salad, plan for 100 page
deviled eggs, recipe for 100, use 3/4
veggies and dip, veggie tray page
chips, plan for 100 page
Take a look, work up an estimate and post it, and I will be glad to review it for you.
Meatballs in a crock pot and cocktail wienies as appetizers, I allow 2 ounces of each per person.
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polly
11/17/11
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We're serving a lunch for church with about 150 adults and 60 kids. We're serving enchiladas, beef/chicken tacos with lettuce, tomatoes & cheese for toppings. Sides are corn cake, rice, beans, green salad. We are catering the beef & chicken for the tacos, but I don't know how many pounds total of the beef & chicken. I think most people will eat beef over chicken so I'm thinking more beef. How many pounds total of beef & chicken assuming most will have at least 1 taco. Not a lot of heavy eaters, but some.
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ellen
11/18/11
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Many of the kids may do just tacos and no enchiladas. I would plan for 300 tacos, 200 beef, 100 chicken, which is maybe 35 pounds of cooked ready to eat beef, 18 pounds of chicken.
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tina
12/02/11
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i'm having my son's open house and i'm thinking of having approx 100 people and right now my menu consist of 50 lbs of pulled pork, 15 dozen of buns, 40 lbs of coleslaw and baked beans would this suffice?
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Angela
12/02/11
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I'm planning a party for 200 (mixed adults & kids). We're having a Syrian chicken dish and I need to know the equivalence between chicken with rib attached vs boneless skinless breast meat. Boneless I was planning on 70-75 lbs, but I'm not sure if I need to double for the breast w/rib-- if so I'll stick with the boneless skinless, as the price will work out the same for far less work, but expense is a consideration. Thanks for this AMAZING resource!
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ellen
12/03/11
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Tina, you are good, you only need 25 pounds of slaw at most, and 4 gallons of beans.
Angela, I would get just about 110 pounds with ribs.
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Linda
12/19/11
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I am having 8 adults, 3 children for Christmas. I am serving deli ham,turkey, and 2 kinds of cheese for sandwiches. With that will be meatballs, cheese balls, veggie trey, jello salad, summer sausage, crackers, dips, chips, etc. How much deli meat and cheeses are needed per person?
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ellen
12/19/11
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You posted twice, see the other one. Allow 2 ounces of sliced cheeses per person for the sandwiches.
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Romel
12/21/11
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I am buying brisket Sausage and Potato salad for 60 people how many pounds do i need
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ellen
12/21/11
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About 12 pounds of brisket, 7-8 pounds of sausage, 2 1/2 to 3 gallons potato salad.
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Traci
12/23/11
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I am having a buffet style dinner for 13. I have a 10-12 lb turkey coming, a 3.5 lb stuffed turducken breast, and a 3.5 lb rump roast. Sides are mashed potatoes, salad, mac and cheese, green beans. Is this enough meat for everyone?
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ellen
12/23/11
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This is plenty! The turkey alone would be sufficient, given the sides usually served with this meal.
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Katie
12/28/11
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I am having a NYE party - mid 20s/early 30's. 65% Female and 35% Male (50 people). We will have various dishes - vegetarian baked ziti, pigs in blanket, chips/queso/salsa, meatballs and chicken skewers. We are doing sliders as well (beef and pork). How many pounds of beef and how many pounds of pork should I get to accommodate? Thanks! :-)
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ellen
12/28/11
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Slider make about 10 to the pound, and I would plan on 1 of each for the ladies and 2 beef, 1 pork for the guys.
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