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ELLEN'S KITCHEN Cook Talk

cooking for 300
alexandra 10/25/06	im cooking for 300 i need to know how many pounds of rice , beans and macaronni salad and a meat (beef) marinated its a mexican dinner. T
ellen 10/25/06	Use the plan for 100 tables to make your first estimate, then send it in and I will check it for you. All these foods are covered.
dana 11/17/06	cooking for 350-400 I am planning a fundraiser for about 350-400 people. We are having a taco bar and nachos. We figure we will need 100# of meat. What can I expect for shredded cheese, sou cream, tomatoes, and lettuce?? Thanks in advance for your help, Dana
ellen 11/17/06	If it is regular hamburger, 100 pounds will cook down to about 75 pounds, which is 150 cups. You will have PLENTY. You could reduce by 1/3 if you offer refried beans and rice as sides. For the toppings, salsa,, etc, you use the same quantities as a baked potato bar, which is posted in Big Pots already.
Tracy 11/18/06	cooking for 200 how much do i need to purchase for 200 people spagetti/ sauce / salad/ bread amounts (lbs, oz, loafs) of each item listed above
ellen 11/18/06	Already answered. Check the lotsa pasta page and the plan for 100 page.
Denise Atkinson 10/03/07	A friend who dabbles in catering for friend's weddings has new challange. He has been asked to cook enough squash for a guest list of 300. What is the best squash to choose when preparing for such a crowd? Many of us know how to come up with a cassarole size dish but this is far cry from a serving size of 300. Hope you can help. Thanks Denise
ellen 10/03/07	A summer squash casserole is great. Basically, you need 8 9x13 casseroles for 100. The ones below can be made ahead and frozen. See these two, either of which serves 25, to use for quantities: www.ellenskitchen.com/bigpots/oamc/squash24.html
anna 02/20/08	Cooking BBQ chicken for 300 people, how many pounds of chicken would I need. (Leq quarters)
ellen 02/23/08	about 240 pounds. Chicken comes wholesale in 40 pound cases. and it takes 80-83 pounds of quarters to make 100 servings.
linda gorski 02/26/08	I am making a spinach salad for a ladies church luncheon. The plate will include spinach salad w/ toasted walnuts, red onion, dried cranberries, and white balsamic vinaigrette and a 1 cup serving of chicken salad with a croissant. The vinaigrette is a basic vinegar, olive oil, and sugar recipe. I am having trouble determining how much spinach per person and how much vinaigrette will be needed for the 300 servings. Suggestions?
ellen 02/26/08	Spinach salad takes a lot of spinach, and you MUST make sure it is very clean. For each eight plates, you need 1 cup of dressing, 3/4 to 1 cup dried cranberries, 1 cup nuts, pound ready to serve spinach. If you would go for a poppyseed dressing, you would be even more pleased with the interst in your salad.
frances 02/27/08	cookin baked/fied chicken, green beans / wild rice, rolls/ lemonade @ lemon cake @ cookie plus i need to make a budget for next 9 months, i have a menu just need help on planning how much food to order for the next 9 month please help
ellen 02/28/08	Frances, what kind of menus, for how many people? How often? 3 meals a day for 9 months? More info, please.
Donna 04/10/08	How many #10 cans of beans to serve 100 Serving beans with tri-tip and chicken for 1000+ at a Civil War Re-enactment, how many cans of beans do I need to purchase?
ellen 04/10/08	Donna, it takes 3 gallons , which is 4 #10 cans, plus fixings, for each 100 people. If you start from scratch, that is 8 pounds of dry beans, approximately.
lisa 07/23/08	how many pounds of chicken for 200 people
lisa 07/23/08	how many pounds of chicken needed for 200 people how many pounds of chicken for 200 people
ellen 07/23/08	See the plan for 100 list, choose the type of cuts/whole y9ou will use, double it for 200.
G. Thomas 10/07/08	How many pounds of chicken would I need to serve 200 guests? Also how many can of stringbeans would I need for 200 guest?
ellen 10/07/08	See the plan for 100 list, choose the type of chicken (halves, pieces, quarters) you are using, double for 200. 4 #10 cans makes 1oo servings of green beans. For 2oo, I use 9. My bewtter green bean casserole is MUCH more tasty than plain canned green beans- you need 3 1/2 times the recipe to serve 200.
bobbie 11/17/08	my church is having a fundraiser luncheon - soup, sandwich and salad bar. I am in charge of putting together the salad bar. we plan on between 250 and 300 people. how much packaged salad should I get and also the salad extras: cottage cheese - cauliflower- broccoli- eggs- cheese- croutons - bacon bits- cucumbers - green pepper - muchrooms - cherry tomatos
ellen 11/17/08	Bobbie, all covered in detail in the salad bar article.
lynn 11/19/08	cooking for 200 we are making potatoe salad for 200 people. How many pounds of potatoes do I need.
ellen 11/19/08	There is a whole section of potato salads for 100 with some great recipes. I allow about 35-40 pounds raw per 100 when it is the only side salad- 3 1/2 to 4 gallons per 100 prepared.
Bev 12/03/08	Cooking for 125 I'm in need of determining amounts for 125 people. Thanks Chicken quarters (baked); Macaroni and Cheese; Rice pilaf.
ellen 12/04/08	Bev, you don't say if the mac and cheese and rice are served at the same meal. Chicken quarters are covered in the plan for 100 page, you want 1 1/4 to 1 1/3 the amount for 100. I allow 10 9x13 pans of carb side dishes per 100.
SYLVIA 01/06/09	cooking for 200 need to cook spanish rice for 200 people. i like to use comet-2lb 10oz box. how much ric do i need to by. for a 1/2 cup serving
ellen 01/06/09	I would make 7-8 pounds dry per 100 people- 3 boxes is just about 7 1/2 pounds.
mary 01/07/09	cooking for 150 we are cooking enchiladas rice and beans hep me with ow much meat and cheese to get
ellen 01/07/09	See the recipe in basic budget entrees for 100 on the big pots page, for enchilada casserole for 100. Get 1 1/2 times the amount.
Rene 01/11/09	cooking for 125 I am doing freshly squeeze lemons how many do I need and how much chicken do I need the parts are legs, wings and thighs.
ellen 01/11/09	What are the lemons for? Lemonade, marinade? You need about 75 pounds of these less meaty parts for 100 people,so nearly 100 for 125 people.
LaToney 01/21/09	She's getting married and here's the menu, Station#1:Baked Chicken breast,Rice pilaf and rolls. Station#2:Seafood Dressing/with gravy, green beans and rolls Station#3:Roast beef, roasted small red potatoes sliced and rolls. Tea and Water. To by served buffet style,the guestlist is at (300). Please help, how much food and tea will I need, and how much help must I consider getting.
ellen 01/21/09	LaToney, this is a VERY difficult estimate, especially if you have not asked for an RSVP and entree choice on the invitation, as the division of entrees is a complete shot in the dark, and with 300 invitations you may have anywhere from 150 to 400 guests. I need some additional information: What time is the wedding and the reception? Are you having the food catered or are you thinking about trying to do it yourself? This is a complicated menu for a do it yourself plan. Is there an additional table for salads, fruits and vegetables? The menus as listed are incomplete. Is there an appetizer table? What is your recipe for seafood dressing? Some are mostly seafood, others have more ingredients, and it makes a difference. Helpwise, you are looking at 4 fulltime in the kitchen, 2 servers minimum at each station PLUS 6-8 servers PER 100 guests to setup, bus/serve and cleanup the event. For the beverages, see the beverage planning tables. If you plan cake, you will probably want to add dinner coffee service to the iced tea. You are looking at at least $20 per guest for this menu.
LaToney 01/22/09	Ellen thank you for the response. The wedding time is 5:00pm and reception will at 7:00pm. There will be appetizer served will pictures are being taken. This well be done as a gift from her co-workers. My duty will be to supply or have the meal and drinks catered. My seafood dressing made with corn bread,shrimps, craw fish tails, lump crab meat, bell peppers, onions, eggs and other spice/seasoning. My wish is to do it myself as my gift to her and my new son, they love daddy's cooking. If I have to hire a company to do I at less wanted to know roughly my cost both ways.Thanks again I love your website.
ellen 01/23/09	Hi, LaToney, If it were me and I had a bit of loose in the budget, what I would do is: Make my orange chicken dijon, which can be made ahead and frozen, and stays moist on a buffet, instead of baked chicken breast. Make the seafood dressing myself. Arrange to have a catering company supply the roast beef (steamship round, medium rare, if you aren't doing fillet or prime rib), with rolls and horseradish sauce. If you are expecting 300- wish you had an RSVP- you would want about 100 chicken, 100 seafood stuffing, and 150-200 beef. The sides could be done by you, but are also usually reasonable from the caterer. Let them supply the help, setup, and take down. MAKE SURE you have it in the contract that you will be supplying certain dishes and that they do the setup and service on those. Do read the "Wedding reception menu ideas" thread and do read the wedding dinner article. If the budget does not allow, then see if there is a local culinary arts program, maybe at the junior college, and hire from there for cooks and helpers.
ellen 01/23/09	By the way, if you are willing to share the large quantity seafood stuffing recipe, I would love to post it. It sounds great.
rachel 02/16/09	cooking for 70 how many pounds of macaroni and cheese do I need for 70 people?
ellen 02/16/09	There are directions for mac and cheese already posted: www.ellenskitchen.com/bigpots/macche25.html
waheeda pahad 02/18/09	making a gareek salad for 300 peopl Hi I have to make 31 platters of Greek Salad, with the following ingredients : Lettuce (mixed leave in a bag) Butter lettuce (loose heads) English Cucumber Feta Cheese Res Onion Rosa/Cherry Tomatoes How much of each do i need to buy? Thanks!
ellen 02/19/09	This recipe is already on site. www.ellenskitchen.com/bigpots/plan/salads1100.html Go to the bottom of the page.
Jen 03/10/09	cooking for 200 I am cooking rice pilaf and asparagus wrapped in bacon for 200 guest how much should I buy of each and what is the serving size?
Laura Mayer 03/19/09	cooking for 250 We are having a dinner at our school and serving tri-tip, rolls, salad and rice pilaf for 250 people. About how much rice pilaf should I plan on cooking?
ellen 03/20/09	Jen, 14 pounds dry rice and 50 pounds asparagus. Laura,18 pounds dry rice.
Tami Holcomb 03/27/09	cooking for 250 we are having a hamburger fundraiser-meat is provided. I need to know how many heads of lettuce, onions, and tomatoes needed for 250 burgers. Also, how many packages of pinto beans should I cook?
ellen 03/27/09	See the sandwich event page for the condiment table.
Betty 03/31/09	cooking for 150 I need to know how much chicken salad to prepare for a salad luncheon I am helping with for 150 people. Recipe is chopped chicken, grapes, celery, chopped pecans, mayo, salt and pepper. There will be 3 other salads on the plate in addition to this one. Thanks for your help.
ellen 03/31/09	Go to the sandwich event page and use the reception level quantity for the chicken salad to allow 1/2 cup of this salad per person.
John 03/31/09	Cooking chicken marsela for 75-100 people how much chicken is needed?
ellen 04/01/09	look at the plan for 100 list- decide if you want quarters or pieces and go by the indicated weights.
Jesse 04/01/09	cooking for 450 How many pounds of baby carrots should I use for cooked carrots to serve 450 in a buffet-style meal? The 450 are made up of whole families, so it includes adults, teens, young children... (Also serving chicken, potatoes, salad, bread, and following appetizers) It isn't exactly a self-serve meal as there will be servers stationed in the buffet. Thanks!
ellen 04/01/09	About 22-24 pounds per 100. Don't overcook them.
dee bellotti 04/10/09	cooking for 150 oven baked polenta and asparagus how many lbs of polenta and how many lbs of asparagus
Dolly 04/17/09	How many #10 cans of baked beans will I need to feed 300 people?? Thanks for your help.
ellen 04/17/09	Dee you posted twice, I think, see the other post. Dolly, see the bbq and picnic sides list, use 3 times the amount for 100.
denise 04/24/09	cooking for 125 need to know how much brisket to cook and also steamed red potatoes for 125 people
ellen 04/24/09	See the thread how much brisket to feed 130 people, currently dated 4/17. For potatoes, 35 pounds per 100, so around 44-45 pounds.
Cyndi 04/27/09	How much taco meat do I need for 180 people at 2 each?
ellen 04/27/09	1 pound for each 4 people.
Connie Cox 04/28/09	How much beef is need to make Italian beef for 350 people. It will be served on hamburger buns. Also how much turkey for the same type of sandwich, if we offer an alternative to beef. How much pasta salad and cole slaw? Thanks so much
ellen 04/29/09	Connie see the plan for 100 page at the last section for the sides. You need about 120 sandwiches for 100 people if it is self serve. 1 pound raw boneless makes 3 good buns. Turkey is the same by weight, see the turkey yield tables in the holiday cooking section at the top of big pots for the yield of various cuts of turkey. The sandwich event page includes a table on sandwich condiments per 100 people.
Allison 05/01/09	cooking for 100 How many lbs of pinto beans for refied beans and how much rice for mexican rice for 100 people
Michelle 05/09/09	I am cooking an itlian buffet for our church, I am serving salad, meatballs, sausage, spaghetti, chicken broccoli ziti, and rolls. I found your pasta and big pan helpfull but I am still unsure how much to cook of each dish. I don't want to run out but I don' want way to much either. Thank you Michelle
ellen 05/09/09	Allison, 8 pounds dry each per 100. Michelle, you have to tell me how many people!
Linda 05/12/09	cooking for 400 I'm making pinto beans for a fundraiser, how many pounds of beans do i need to buy for 400 plates
ellen 05/12/09	32 pounds dry for a side dish, up to 40 pounds dry for a main dish.
Linda 05/14/09	What is the amount of dry beans do i put in a pot to cook and how long do i cook the beans. I need 400 servings (side dish) My beans always overcook.
Linda 05/14/09	cooking for 400 What can i do for my pinto beans to be pretty red and not dark black when done cooking? Thanks for your help...
ellen 05/14/09	You need 32 pounds of dried beans. Soak overnight before cooking, drain, use fresh water to cook and check them after 2 hours. See this page for bean help: www.ellenskitchen.com/bigpots/beans100.html
Shelbra 05/20/09	cooking for 120 How many cans or ounces of green beans would you suggest to feed about 120 adults and what easy recipe do you have?
ellen 05/20/09	See the recipe for Improved green bean casserole for 60 in the holiday cooking section at the top of big pots and make 2 recipes.
Keith 05/27/09	cooking for 100 I am having a wedding, and plan to cook prime rib, how many pounds of prime rib would i need?
ellen 05/28/09	Bone in raw prime rib, 1 pound per person.
Helen Duplessis 05/30/09	cooking for 180 could you please tell me how many lbs of chicken wings are need for a 180 people and how many lbs of green beans i would need.
ellen 05/30/09	If this is wings as a main course you need at least 1/2 pound raw pieces per person. The green beans are on the plan for 100 page- you need to check for fresh vs. canned or frozen.
Kimberly 06/03/09	Wedding Recption for 400 I am preparing the meal for a wedding reception/dance that 400 were invited to attend. The kids wanted to have Brisket Sandwiches, Calico Bean(which have hamburger meat in them), Potato Casserole(with corn flake topping) and then they have sheet cakes and peanuts for dessert. I visited with them and convinced them that the bean and potato combination was pretty heavy with the brisket sandwiches so I suggested the Calicobeans only with potato chips, a relish tray and a vegetable platter to accompany the sandwiches. Do you think this is suffient for an informal meal? I keep dobting myself and think I need to make either a pasta salad or a vegetable salad of some sort? What is your opinion? I have already prepared 220 lbs of brisket and frozen it, it will be served sliced for sandwiches. Do you think that is enough? I can certainly cook 4 more trimmed briskets if need be. I plan to serve Calico Beans which have pinto beans, baked beans and navy beans plus hamburger meat in them. We will also have potatoe chips, a veggie platter
Kimberly 06/03/09	Wedding Reception for 400 Sorry about the above message. The last paragraph and partial sentence should have been deleted. Thank you
ellen 06/04/09	You have plenty of meat. If it is a dinner meal, you could serve both the beans and potatoes and add a light cooked vegetable dish (grilled veggies, sqash, green beans, etc), this is more party-ish than the chips. If you do a veggie tray, consider a fruit tray instead, prettier and more popular. The relish trays are a good idea.
Carol 06/05/09	cooking for 75 How many lbs of hamburger meat do I need for 200 enchaladas?
Linda Binion 06/06/09	cooking for 60 to 75 Hi Ellen, I need to know how many pounds of asparagus do I need for 60 to 75 people. I plan to either steam or grill them. Thank you.
ellen 06/06/09	I would use about 30 pounds raw. YMMV.
Celia 06/15/09	I have been asked to cook Fajitas for 300 people, how many pounds would I need?
ellen 06/15/09	Beef, chicken, or mixed? What sides? Write back.
mkerin 06/16/09	cooking for 60 How much baked beans and potato salad do I need for 60 people in addition to chicken. Thank you, mk
ellen 06/16/09	Use 2/3 of the amount for 100- see the last table on the plan for 100 page.
Margo 06/16/09	cheese for 125 plus We are planning a 90th birthday party for my Mom. Being gifted with living close to, and having an employee discount for, the local dairy cheese store, I am supplying the sliced cheese. How many pounds would I need to fee 125 plus people?
ellen 06/17/09	For sandwiches, 2 ounces sliced per person, for appetizer, about 3 ounces. If appetizer, consider some logs, balls or spreads as part of the weight.
Dulce 06/17/09	cooking for 200 Hi Ellen, We are having a Belizean wedding reception for 200. We are having rice & beans, turkey, ham, dressing and pibil (pig cooked underground). Also will have snacks. Receptions should start around 5;30. How many pounds should we allot for each item? thank you for your time.
ellen 06/17/09	dulce, you want about 1 1/2 pounds total edible food per person counting everything. You want 16 pounds dry rice, the same amount of beans if it is a separate dish. Use the proportionate of beans as you would for a home recipe for that much rice if it is a mixed dish of rice and beans together. Meats, since you have the other meats, the least pig you would get is about 10 ounces raw per person- if it were the only one, you would ant at least a pound. 3 ounces cooked ready to serve weight EACH per person for both the turkey and ham. Dressing, see the planning article for large holiday dinners at the top of big pots, where dressing and many other side dishes are discussed.
yoyo 06/18/09	cooking for 450 i am cookong chicken drumetts for a ceremony. how many pounds of chicken will i need?
ellen 06/18/09	If it is an appetizer, 1 pound raw will do for 3 but if it is a main meat, you need at least 1/2 pound raw per person.
Antonia Moralez 07/06/09	cooking for 350-400 i plan on cooking for 350-400 people the menu is tri-tip,rice,baked beans and salad.i guess my question is how many lbs. of ea. will i need.
val 07/06/09	I'm making fajita bar for 400,beef chicken peppers, onions salsa,beans,sour cream,cheddar cheese,lettuce,chips. How much do I need?
ellen 07/07/09	Antonia, 1 pound raw for each 2 people for party size meat portions. All other items are already covered in the plan for 100 lists. Val, quantity fajitas and all the side dishes are discussed many times over on fajita and other threads, take a look. You need to add rice and beans to the menu if you do not want to go broke on the meat. You also need tortillas, not just chips.
Teen 07/07/09	cooking for 350 How many pounds of canned corn would i need to feed 350-400 people for wedding reception?
ellen 07/08/09	4 #10 cans per 100
Lisa 07/08/09	cooking for 60 How many lbs of rice and beans will I need to cook?
ellen 07/12/09	8 pounds dry each for side rice and side beans for 100, so you need about 5 pounds dry of each.
Bobby 07/14/09	cooking for 200 Can you please tell me how many brisket to serve for 200 people for a wedding. I have purchased 12 large briskets, which equal approximately 140 pounds of uncooked meat.
ellen 07/15/09	If these are well trimmed, you need 1 pound raw for each 2 people; if untrimmed, you need about 2 pounds raw for each 3 people. So you either have too much or just enough, depending on the trim.
Diana 07/20/09	cooking for 900 Need to serve 900 people at a bingo event. How many lbs of bagged corn would I need to purchase? It is for a portion for each person. We are also serving sausage and fruit.
ellen 07/20/09	Do you mean frozen corn? See the vegetable section of plan for 100, make 9 times the amount.
Donna 07/21/09	how many dainties do I need to make for 340-350 people for a rehearsal dinner and midnight lunch for a wedding?
ellen 07/21/09	If you are talking little sweet bites in a dessert type buffet, please look at the dessert planning page- it will give you LOTS of info.
Donna 07/21/09	Yip that's what I meant (sweet bites). But how many do I need for 300 or more people.
ellen 07/22/09	The article gives amounts per 100 with plenty of extra advice; you would use 3 times that amount.
Denise 08/01/09	cooking for 150 I'm preparing two side dishes for a Wedding Reception.How many pounds of fresh or whole frozen Green Beans, and fresh Carrots will I need to use to feed 150 guest? Thank you.
ellen 08/01/09	About 35 pound fresh of each or 32 pounds frozen.
Anita 08/18/09	cooking for 250 We will be feeding 250 teachers, coaches and staff for a Teacher's back to school luncheon. We are serving baked chicken, Idaho instant potatoes, green beans, rolls, salad with ranch dressing and strawberry/chocolate cake. Please help me with how much of each to purchase. Consider LARGE portions. Thanks.
ellen 08/18/09	Can't help with the instant potatoes except to tell you that for large portions, divide what the package says it will make by 2. Chicken depends on what pieces- see the plan for 100 page, meat section for all you need to know. Add 10% if it is self serve. Green beans, rolls, and salad and dressing are covered in detail in other sections of the same page. See the beverage planning page for help with iced tea. Since you are having cake, also make the dinner portion of coffee and decaf. A full sheet cake is 18x 26 x 2 inches and will cut about 100 moderate pieces, a slab cake is 3-4 inches and serves more (depending on thickness). You might consider 2 sheets and something sugar free, like sugar-free fruit pie.
Julia 08/28/09	How many pound of pinto beans do I need to cook for 150 people?
ellen 08/28/09	As a side dish, 8 pounds dry per 100, as a larger dish,10-12 pounds per 100.
Brenda 09/09/09	cooking fo 60 How many pounds of chicken sald will be needed tof eed 60 adults. The chicken salas will be served on croissants.
ellen 09/09/09	See the guide on quantities for chicken salad on the sandwich event page. Use 2/3 the amount for 100.
Courtney 09/09/09	At my wedding reception I'm cooking soup. How many pounds do we need?
Courtney 09/09/09	there will be 300 people
ellen 09/10/09	Hi, Courtney, Soup is usually measured in gallons, not pounds. When I am using it as a main course, I allow 12 ounces (1 1/2 measuring cups) per person, about 8 1/2 to 9 gallons per 100 people. Plus breads, side dishes, beverages and desserts, of course.
mary 09/10/09	cooking for 900 making a pasta salad.need to know how many pounds I need to use for 900 people company cook out.
Jennifer 09/11/09	Hello Ellen, My church is doing open faced roast beed and turkey samdwiches for a ladies jubilee. We expect around 300. I have looked over your portions for 100 and let me see if I have this right. I need 30 gallons of potatoes and 13 roast and 13 trukey breast. Are I in the ballpark?
ellen 09/11/09	I would plan for 3-4 ounces thin sliced ready to eat beef PLUS 2 ounces thin sliced ready to eat turkey per person to estimate; that is 2 pounds boneless raw beef for 6-7 PLUS 1 popund boneless breast for each 4- add another 10% if it is self service. Having 2 meats you need more, and you need enough to give everyone her first choice. For your potatoes, just start with 35 pounds per 100.
Katie 09/18/09	cooking for 150 I am doing a Por Roast Dinner fundraiser for 150. How many small read pototoes and carrots per person will I need?
Diane 09/18/09	we are planning a wedding reception soon we are serving ham and turkey buns fruit salad and pasta salad along with chips, pickles and baked beans how many buns do i make for 350 people? how many pounds of salads? how about pickles and chips? thank you so much
ellen 09/18/09	Katie, about 50 pounds of potatoes and 30-35 pounds carrots.
ellen 09/18/09	Diane, this is a site where I expect you to use the tables to make an initial estimate, then you can post it and I will be glad to review it for you. These are the articles/ buttons you need. The buttons are at the top of the main cook talk page. Plan for 100 page sandwich event page beverage planning page fruit tray page dessert plan page
Linda 10/07/09	I will be making rice and beans for a dinner party for 40 people. How many pounds of beans and how many cups of rice do i need ? The main dish will be carne asada and corn tortillas.
ellen 10/08/09	I make 8 pounds dry of each for 100 people.
Jennifer 10/09/09	I'm planning a school Thanksgiving dinner. I want traditional ham & turkey. Last year we had 200 people. How do I figure how much ham/turkey?
ellen 10/10/09	Go to the holiday cooking section at the top of big pots and use the article and tables on planning and skopping for large community dinners.
Gail 10/25/09	cooking for 100 I am going to cook Pork Loin Boneless for 100 people. What is the rule of thumb..how much meat per person? Also what is a good way to cook meat the day ahead, possibly BBQ, and reheat after the 4 pm wedding? Thank you
Corrinne 12/02/09	cooking for 27 I'm cooking pork tenderloin, rice pilaf and green beans for a sit down dinner party Saturday and wondered how far in advance can I make the green beans and rice and can I store them in my warming drawer without drying them out of clupping up the rice? Thank you so much.
ellen 12/03/09	Hi, Corinne, not sure why you are on the cooking for 300 thread. These two items aren't too great done ahead and reheated. If you will use the baked rice recipe, you can do it in the oven and then turn down the pan (which should be tightly covered) to 180 for up to an hour. The green beans, if you are doing whole fresh, need to be steamed right before they are served. If you feel you MUST make ahead, consider doing a half recipe of the better green bean casserole for 60 on my holiday cooking section at the top of big pots. Or blanch and serve cold.
Linda 12/09/09	I need to make beans for a fundraiser for about 300 servings. How many pounds of beans do i need to use?
ellen 12/10/09	Side dish, about 24. Main dish about 36 dry. I have quite a few beans for 100 recipes on site.
dee 12/29/09	I am doing my daughters wedding reception and really need to know how many POUNDS of fresh green beans i would need for 490 people... also how many POUNDS of new potatoes.... Help!! Thanks so much!!
ellen 12/29/09	Dee, you use 5 times the amount for 100 for each of these items as listed in the plan for 100 tables. But you also need at least 8 kitchen staff and 30 servers to set up, serve and clean up a party this size, yes even buffet service, plus 10 serving lines if buffet (50 people per line) to accomplish service in a prompt fashion, 10 and 20 gallon pots and at least 3 ovens (commercial type kitchen) I do not recommend self catering a party this size if you are not experiences in serving 200 or more.
dee 12/29/09	Thanks so much Ellen....I am having a hard time finding the plan for 100 tables... My sorority is cooking the meal so hopefully there will be enough people!
ellen 12/29/09	Go to the main cooktalk page and see the buttons at the top- it is in the upper left. So is the article on "wedding dinners" which you might also read.
Heidi 01/24/10	I'm trying to save money on my wedding by having my family cook the reception dinner. We are planning on having chicken breast, roast beef, bake potatoes, and green bean casserole. I have to keep the food cost to about $5 per person. Do you have any tips for how to prepare the chicken and potatoes for such a large crowd?
ellen 01/25/10	Heidi, you don't say how many people. but I do not recommend that an inexperienced team take on a wedding reception dinner for more than about 125, so the first thing is, limit your guest list. The second is, read the article on wedding dinners, the section on timing; if you have the wedding at 1 pm or 7-8 pm,you can have a great reception for about 1/2 the cost of a sit down meal. That said, I suggest you skip the beef entirely, tender beef is very expensive and pot roast is not very festive. Use the Orange Dijon chicken recipe on the site or another which can be made ahead and frozen. Make a rice pilaf (cheaper and easier than potatoes), 2 vegetables; a relish platter or antipasto vegetables and a cheese platter; one of my salads that hold, such as the Greek salad. Have dinner service coffee (see the beverage planning page).
Jean 01/31/10	I am preparing a salad bar for 300 ladies, how much lettuce would I need. Also, how much of other toppings, such as carrots, celery, cucumbers, etc.
ellen 01/31/10	You don't say whether this is a side salad bar or a main dish salad bar, and there is quite a difference in amounts.Please write back and tell me, also whether soups, desserts, breads and sandwiches will be part of the bar. In a full meal self service salad bar, the average person takes 14-18 ounces by weight and that includes the dressing, usually 2+ ounces, cheese, tuna, chicken, etc. as well as the greens fruits and veggies. If you outline your plan, I can help. One 3x8 table set up for buffet or salad bar serves at most 30 people so you are looking at 10-12 tables just for serving if you want to feed all these folks at the same time. Here is a general discussion on food bars: www.ellenskitchen.com/bigpots/plan/selfservetips.html This will help you decide on quantities per serving: www.salisbury.edu/dining/pdf files/Salad.pdf
Jean 01/31/10	The salad bar is in conjunction with a bowl of soup and muffins. I also will have a cake buffet. I just wonder the amount of "extras" to prepare. I will be using tomatoes, celery, carrots, cauliflower, peas, etc.
carolyn 02/10/10	I'm cooking for 300 people no children. I'm serving Chicken in Cream Sauce, Shellfish Gumbo,Rice, Mash Garlic Potatoes,and Tossed Salad. How much of pounds of each would I need.
ellen 02/11/10	Jean, go to the armed forces recipe page (link is in the middle of the big pots page. Enter "relish" into the search. CaROLYN: Chicken- recipe with 35 pounds boneless skinless per 100 Gumbo- 1 cup per person, 6 1/2 quarts per 100, plus rice mashed potatoes= 35 pounds raw per 100 salad- see the plan for 100 page. first section
hillary 02/17/10	cooking for 200 Hello. I need some guidance and direction. We have a Blue and Gold Banquet coming up and are planning for 200 people to be in attendance. We simply are providing Taco Salad with Root Beer. We have a limited budget so we want to make sure we have enough but not excess. Could you help me determine how much of each ingredient below we should have available for people to build their own taco salad? Hamburger Meat (70 lbs be enough?) Lettuce (20 heads or 10 lrg bags pre-cut) Chips (10 lrg bags) Tomatoes (24 cups) Cheese (24 cups) Sour Cream (4 lrg tubs ) Onions (5 cups) Olives (9 cans, sliced) Salsa (4 lrg containers) Kidney Bean (15 cans) Ranch Dressing Catalina Dressing Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.
ellen 02/17/10	See this recipe for help with quantities: www.ellenskitchen.com/bigpots/plan/texmex1.html
Renee 02/19/10	cooking for 150 How many gallons of soup do I need for 150 women and young ladies(age 12 to 18)? I want to use 2 soups-chicken noodle and chicken with white and wild rice. Would split the quantites in half. We will also have salad and rolls. Thanks!
tinker 03/06/10	cooking breakfast food How much would I need to feed 200. bacon eggs, hashbrown potatos chicken wings
ellen 03/07/10	Renee, I would normally make 10 1/2 gallons for 150, but with 2 soups, I would make 7 of each- one will probably run out, the other you will have some left over. Tinker, except for the wings, it is all covered in the breakfast planning table. I would allow 3 to 6 pieces of wing per person depending on the hunger of the crowd.
d boree 03/26/10	How many pounds of red potatoes that will be roasted do I need for 140 people and if you are cooking pork loin and a chicken breast in sauce that also has stuffing and cheese in it how much of each meat raw weight do i need to prepare? Thanks
ellen 03/27/10	About 50 pounds of potatoes if that is the only starchy side dish. You need one chicken breast per person (you can split into 2 pieces if they are VERY large) PLUS 2 pounds pork loin for each 7 people to insure that everyone gets their first choice.
Earnie 04/05/10	how many lbs of sweet potato(for candied yams) and fresh collard greens do I to feed 300 people?
ellen 04/06/10	collards are in the veggie section at the end of the plan for 100 page. Yams are the same as regular potatoes, 35 pounds per 100.
Tina 04/07/10	Hello, would like to know how many 7lb cans of sting beans would I need to feed about 350 people?
ellen 04/08/10	3 cans per 100 if that is drained weight, plus one for the pot.
Gaylene 04/09/10	Hello, I am cooking for my son's wedding, 310 people. We are serving ceasar salad, marinated vegie salad and coleslaw. How much lettuce do I need for the Ceasar, how many pounds of vegies do I need for the marinated salad and how many pounds of cabbage do I need for the coleslaw. We are having about 13 differnt items on the menu including the salads. Thanx so much for the help.
ellen 04/09/10	I would do enough for 200 of each, se the pln for 100 tables.
Heather 04/21/10	I am feeding 300 ladies at a reception. I have a few items that I am serving that I am not sure how much to have to serve. This reception will be around 9:30pm. Chicken Salad - how much would I need to serve on mini croissants. And should I have one croissants per person? Mixed Nuts - how many cups should I have to feed the 300? Punch - how many gallons? Ranch Dip for carrot sticks, celery sticks and chips - how many cups?
Heather 04/21/10	How many gallons of fruit salad would you need to serve 300. I am planning on serving about 1/2 cup to each lady.
ellen 04/22/10	Hi, Heather, Did I read this right, the food will be served at 9:30 pm? If the ladies had dinner before whatever event they are attending, you will need a lot less food (about 1/2)than if they will be starving from no dinner. Please write back and confirm.
Heather 04/22/10	Yes this will be at 9:30 pm.
ellen 04/22/10	Ok. If they had dinner, you will need about: Chicken Salad - how much would I need to serve on mini croissants. And should I have one croissants per person? See the sandwich page and use reception level amounts. Allow about 12-13 croissants for each 10 people. Mixed Nuts - how many cups should I have to feed the 300? 4-6 pounds per 100. How about a Chex mix type crunchy and some pretzels instead? More popular and nice with the sandwiches. 1/4 cup per person. Punch - how many gallons? See the beverage planning page. I would consider dinner level coffee also, if this is the end of a busy day. Ranch Dip for carrot sticks, celery sticks and chips - how many cups? See the veggie tray page
Danny 04/28/10	I'm planning a cook-out for 300 or more people I need to know how much I should plan to spend.
Keisha 05/05/10	Wedding Reception for 350 I am expecting 350 at my wedding reception. My family will be preparing the sides as the chicken & rolls will be bought from a local restaurant. The sides are italian green beans, rice pilaf, pasta salad, and potato salad. Can you tell me how many gallons of green beans will I need to purchase to feed 350? Also, how many bags of rice and how many pounds of pasta/potato salad to feed 350. Thanks in advance.
ellen 05/08/10	Danny, you can get a nice bbq catered in for about $12 per person (not counting food or dessert), for beef, pork, chicken. For an inexperienced party giver, you will spend 1/2 to 3/4 that yourself. You need 6 people to man the grills for a 300 person bbq. Keisha, italian green beans, frozen, ready to cook, 23 pounds per 100 rice pilaf, 8 pounds dry rice per 100 pasta salad and potato salad to feed 350; make each for 200- total 70 pounds raw potatoes (about 100 pounds made salad) and 12-14 pounds dry pasta- easy to make at home- see my recipes for 100.
carolyn 05/16/10	1 cup mayo 1T. Lemon Juice 2 big cans chicken 1 apple 1c grapes 1/4 green onions 1tsp greek seasoning I need to use this receipe to make for 300 people
ellen 05/16/10	You need about 18 gallons of chicken salad for meal size portions for 300 people, less if it is sandwiches, which I presume it is not because of the grapes. Make one recipe and measure it, I have no idea how big your big can of chicken is, then multiply to get 18 gallons (1 gallon=16 cups). FOOD SAFETY ALERT; MUST be kept cold under 40 degrees from making until serving, Put in ziplock bags or shallow trays to store; NO MORE THAN 2 inches thick layer.
Brooke 05/17/10	I'm planning a wedding reception. My menu is green beans, red herb potatoes, toss salad, dinner rolls turkey and roast beef. My aunts are going to be cooking the food. How much do I need to buy to feed 300 people?
ellen 05/18/10	Use the holiday cooking section at the top of big pots, go to the planning and shopping article, and treat the beef as ham. Make an estimate, post it, and I will be glad to check it for you. If you expect 300, plan 20 servings at least of a non-meat item that vegetarians can use as an entree.
nancy ranck 05/27/10	Wedding reception for 400 people. Pulled pork sandwiches boneless pork loin (smoked) green beans, small red potatoes, vegetable tray plus cheese trays. Thank you. Nancy
ellen 05/28/10	Nancy, this is primarily a DIY site, and I ask my readers to use the tables and articles to make an estimate, post it, and let me check it for them. Your items are covered except for the combo meat, and this is what I suggest for this; sandwiches for 250, sliced for 200, thin sliced so if people take some of each, it is OK. For 400 people, you would need 8 serving lines (can be 4 two-sided lines), and at least 5 people in the kitchen, plus 24 servers to set up, serve, and clean up. You will need a couple of beverage serving areas. If you expect 400, plan at least 40 servings at least of a non-meat item that non-pork and vegetarians can use as an entree.
trudy 06/06/10	cooking for 150 how do I cook the rice? can I cook it in the oven in a chaffing pan. what do I add to make it a pilaff. how much water to rice ratio and for how long and can I cook green beans the same way?
ellen 06/07/10	Yes you can bake rice in an oven in the chafing pan and then transfer to the chafing pan. See the recipe for baked rice on the recipe box page. Green beans are better on the top of the stove, steamed or simmered.
Latasha Wilson 06/23/10	I am having a family member cook for my reception but i have to purchase the food and need to know how much to purchase for 300 people. The menu fried chicken rigitoni salad rolls appitizers veggie tray fruit tray pep and chz tray wedding at 3 rec at 5
debbie 06/23/10	cooking for 70 Son's wedding rehearsal dinner. BBQ brisket & pull pork sandwiches. Green beans. Cheesey potatoes made with frozen hash browns. Graham Cracker Pudding. Homemade Icecream. I figure 1/2 pound of meat per person. I think 2 gal. green beans. Please tell me if I'm figuring wrong. Cheesey potatoes??? How many cake pans will I need? Pudding? How many containers of icecream do we need to freeze? Thank you for your help.
ellen 06/25/10	Latasha, use the charts to make a first estimate, post it, and I will be glad to go over it for you. You probably need to add vegetables- could be hot or cold, marinated- the plate will look pretty empty with just the chicken and salad on it. Debbie, this is a nice size party and the meat is right on. I would do my better green bean casserole for 60, holiday cooking section at the top of the big pots section- much tastier than plain. Cheesey potatoes??? See the recipe at the bottom of the festive family brunch page. How many cake pans will I need? For what? Pudding? 1/2 cup per person because you also have ice cream How many containers of icecream do we need to freeze? 1 cup per person minimum, people love home made ice cream.
Lynne 06/29/10	I'm grilling 300 burgers for a youth camp next week. They must be completely cooked so there's no danger of illness, yet I hate serving dried-out, charred, hockey-puck burgers. Any suggestions to keep the burgers safely hot, but moist, would be greatly appreciated!
yolanda 07/13/10	cooking for 400 seniors how much rice and pasta do i use to cook for 400 seniors?
Jody Clingan 07/14/10	I'm cooking in roasting pans.How many electric roaster fulls would I need for cabbage & noodles? Baked beans? Pasta salad? Fresh cut up fruit? I'm cooking for 300. Thank you, Jody
ellen 07/14/10	Yolanda, seniors eat lighter o starches, I use 6-7 pounds dry rice per 100, 29 pounds of potatoes, 7-10 pounds of pasta (side dish or entree?). Judy, A "full" 16 quart roaster holds 12-14 quarts or 50-60 peoples' worth. You better have a LOT of electric circuits. Why is the fruit in a roaster?
Erica Jarreau 07/26/10	We are cooking for a banquet and I would like to know how many pounds of boneless pork loin that I would need to feed 300 people, we will side that with green beans and rice dressing. Thank You
ellen 07/26/10	See the plan for 100 table and use 3 times the amount.
Bob 08/02/10	Ellen, I am having a Hog Roast for approx. 300, I will have 2 hogs, I believe I will need 24# of dried Navy Beans for my Boston Baked Bean side, but I'm not sure how much cole slaw I will need. I will be buying the shredded slaw in 5# bags, and the slaw dressing in 1 gal. jars, just not sure bhow many I will need, Thanks.
sylvia 08/03/10	cooking for 100 how much mexican rice,refried beans ,taco,tostada bar
ellen 08/03/10	Bob, About 20 pounds of slaw per 100, and 3 quarts of dressing. You need 400-450 pounds of hog for 300 if it is whole hog and the only meat. Sylvia, see the taco bar page and the plan for 100 page.
karissa 08/04/10	I need a recipe on how to cook green bean casserole for 300 people
ellen 08/04/10	Go to the better green bean casserole for 60 at the top section of big pots. Make 5 times.
Linda 08/10/10	cooking for 400 My meal is for a charity banquet. What is the cheapest, but a good meal to serve?
ellen 08/11/10	The least expensive meals on the site are the taco or texmex buffet, the baked potato buffet (which is good for a luncheon, with soup added) and any of the budget entrees on the big pots page. However, if you need a dressier dinner, look at the orange dijon wedding chicken
Anne 08/16/10	Im making corn pudding for 300. My recipe call for: 2 cups frozen corn 1 1/2 cups milk 2 eggs 2TBS. Flour 2TBS. Sugar 1TEA salt 1TBS butter melted how much will I need for 300
ellen 08/16/10	This makes about 4 servings. However, it does not do well in very large pans Please consider the corn pudding or any of the other corn side dishes here: www.ellenskitchen.com/turkey/cornsides1.html Which will hold much better.
jod 08/22/10	i need to cook taco salad for 250 to 300 people how much of everything should i use?
ellen 08/23/10	See the walking taco salad recipe for 25-30, and do 10 times the amounts. 12 if it is self serve.
karen 08/30/10	i need to know how much cole slaw,potatoe salad and bake beans i need for 400 people.
ellen 08/30/10	See the plan for 100 table, get 4 times the amount.
lesieli 09/22/10	cooking for 900 cooking for 900 for a luau fundraiser, how many lbs of beef do i need for teriaki beef and how many pounds of chicken wings, how many lbs of rice
ellen 09/22/10	2 pounds lean boneless beef for each 5 PLUS 2 pounds chicken wings for each 5, if these are the only meats.
bob 12/01/10	Ellen, i'm cooking an all you can eat PANCAKE breakfast for 300-350 and just not sure how many 5# bags of pancake mix to purchase.
ellen 12/01/10	Hi, Bob, For all you can eat, allow 1 pound of mix per 5 people- folks eat more. See the breakfast planning page for more help.
lily 12/05/10	I'm making dressing for 300, the recipe I have is for 6 servings. How do I multiply it? 4 cups cornbread, 2-1/2 cups white bread, 2-1/2 cups chicken broth, 1-1/4 cups cerlery, 3/4 cups onion, 1/4 cup butter, 3 tbsp veg. oil, 2 tsp sage, 3/4 tsp seasoned salt, 3/4 tsp pepper, 3 lg eggs
ellen 12/06/10	Per 100 servings, you need 400 servings 3 pounds each celery and onion 3 1/2 pounds white bread about 7 pounds corn bread 5 quarts chicken broth 10 eggs salt, pepper, sage or poultry seasoning to taste about 3 cups each butter and oil
Kimberly 12/06/10	I "volunteered" to help with a dinner at my church & have been asked to supply 40 lbs of green bean casserole! What are the proportions that would make that possible?
ellen 12/07/10	If this is the classic, you need about 24 pounds of beans, the rest is the rest of the recipe.
Jae 01/10/11	I volunteered to with dinner at my church & have been asked to prepare sandwiches, coleslaw, and potatoes salad for 300 people. How do I know how much food is needed and how many serving per person. Thanks for your advice.
ellen 01/10/11	The potato salad and the slaw, you just do 3x the amount for 100, shown on the plan for 100 table, and there are also several recipes for each for 100. The sandwiches, it depends on the type or types of sandwiches, what is the event, who eats them )kids are different from teens, are different from ladies, etc). Write back and tell more.
josie torres 01/25/11	cooking for 200 hello How much food is needed for 200 people and I would like to serve brisket with potato salad and charro beans? thanks for your advise. thank you
deb 01/25/11	we are cooking 120 lbs of fajita meat for an anniversary dinner. how many pounds of bell peppers and onions do I need for grilling.
janice 01/26/11	making a chicken casserole with ritz crackers topping for church fellowship for 300 people i am using chicken breast how much chicken do i need ? ritz crackers ? cans of cream of chicken and i am putting noodles in it can you help me please thank you
ellen 01/26/11	Josie, use the plan for 100 tables and the BBQ and brisket page to estimate Post if you would like me to check it. Deb, you need an equal weight of onions and peppers, split between the 2. This is enough for about 300 people... Janice, per 100, about 30 pounds of chicken breast, 5 pounds of crackers and 12 pounds of noodles. About 2 1/2 to 3 gallons of gravy/soup per 100, I would make my own gravy.
LACEY 01/27/11	what would be a good meat choice to feed 300 people?
ellen 01/27/11	Lacey, this depends completely on the budget, the event and the service area (kitchen and dining room). More information, please
kayla 02/04/11	wild rice hotdish I am trying to plan a wild rice hotdish feed for a fundraiser.. We are hoping for 300 approx. How much wild rice should need?
ellen 02/04/11	Kayla, wild rice is usually served in a blend with other rices. Cooked separately, usually, then mixed. You might check out this site: www.wildriceexchange.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=41&Itemid=41
Cheryl 02/16/11	cooking for 350 Hi Ellen, Cooking stuffed chicken breast for 350 confirmed guest. Breasts stuffed with wild rice, broccoli & mushrooms. Served with Mushroom cream sauce. How many lbs. of each are needed. Already priced 40lb cases of breasts. Thks
ellen 02/19/11	Need 1 pound boneless skinless per 3 people.
Cheryl 02/25/11	cooking for 350 Thanks Ellen. If I figured correctly that's basically 117lbs of bnls/sknls breasts. How many pounds of rice, broccoli and mushroom would I need to stuff that much chicken? Thks
ellen 02/25/11	Depends on the size of the pieces, but you want to end up with about 1 cup stuffing per person, which is 1/2 pound total.
leisa 03/07/11	cooking for 180 I'm cooking green beans, mash potatoes, and mac n cheese for 180 people how many big cans of green beans, and how boxes of macaroni do i need for 180 people?
ellen 03/08/11	9 #10 cans of green beans, 50 pounds potatoes and 10-12 pounds dry pasta plus sauce if it is all for the same meal.
Raquel De La Rosa 03/29/11	cooking for 450 We are having a fundraiser, I need to know how much rice and beans do we need to buy for 450 plates?
Raquel De La Rosa 03/29/11	cooking for 450 We are having a fundraiser, I need to know how much rice and beans do we need to buy for 450 plates?
Dee 04/01/11	appetizers for 150 - 200 We are having a fund raiser and serving appetizers. Pepperoni/cheese tray, wings, sweet/sour meatballs, salsa and chips etc. How can I figure out how much I need.
ellen 04/02/11	First, how long an event and what time of day. What beverages will be served? Second, you need more definite numbers.
DIANE 04/06/11	how many roasters full of cabbage and noodles for 300, will be a side dish along with chicken and baked potato also how many green beans
Pam 04/06/11	We are doing a wedding reception for 350 ppl. We are having sliced beef with a variety of buns and italian pepperoni salad. How much of everything are we going to need?
Pam 04/06/11	I forgot to ask about party cheesy potatoes. How many pounds of frozen country potatoes or hashbrowns,cheese,sour cream, and soup do you think we will need?
ellen 04/06/11	Diane, green beans are on the plan for 100 table. For the cabbage and noodles, with potatoes also, I would do 12 pounds dry pasta and about 22 pounds cabbage. Pam, cheesy potatoes quantities are discussed on the family brunch page at the bottom. For the rest, I need the full menu and time of day.
Betty 04/08/11	cooking for 300 to 400 How many 9X13 pans of Enchiladas will I need? How many crock pots of beans will I need? How much spanish rice will I need? How much Fried Chicken? How many Mashed potatoes?
Marilyn 04/08/11	need quantities of lettuce,hamburger,tomatoes,salsa,sour cream & shredded cheese to feed 300 people
Marilyn 04/08/11	the previous question for 300 people was to make walking tacos - thanks
ellen 04/09/11	Betty, I need the full menu, and whther it is buffet. Marilyn, see the taco salad recipe on the site fo 30, you need about 10 times the amounts.
cheryl 05/07/11	Iam have a party for 300 people wanted to do bbq, baked beans, cole slaw, and potato salad can you please help with how much i need to buy of each to feed everyone.this is my first big job don't want to mess it up thank you
susan 05/10/11	party for 70 I am having a luncheon for 70 women. How much pasta for the pasta salad, organic leaves for the salad and quantities of ingredients for a greek salad ? I will have mini bagels and lox as well. Thank you for your help !!!!
ellen 05/10/11	Susan, take a look at the salad tables, and the Greek salad recipe for 100 under salads that hold in big pots. Make 2/3 the amount for 100 for each of the salads.
Katy 05/18/11	One of the sides for my 300 person wedding reception is a green salad with straberries, walnuts, and feta but i do not know the quantities for each of the ingredients. Thank you so much for your help!!!
ellen 05/18/11	Per 100, about 12-15 pounds lettuce, 5 quarts strawberries for a pretty heavy showing, 1-2 pounds walnuts, 4-5 pounds feta. This assumes it is the only green salad.
AM 06/08/11	Making sloppy Joe's for 900 people. Nice-sized buns. Please let me know approx. how many pounds of raw burger would I need to purchase. Thank you!
ellen 06/08/11	See the plan for 100 table, do 9 times the amount for 100. Pay attention to percent of fat; regular burger loses almost 1/3, 80% loses about 1/5 weight when cooked. Sometimes the leaner meat is a better buy, even though a bit more per pound.
Trixi 06/27/11	It is a buffet. I am making pulled pork on dollar size buns. I would like to know how much pork tenderloin I should buy? There will also be also turkey for the buns. A few crock pots full. We are having meatballs, cheesy crock pot hashbrowns, pasta salad, & chips & vedgies. I am also making Italian pasta salad. Olives, tomato, italian dressing,peppers, onion, mozz. and pepperoni. How many bags of rotini should I buy? Thank-you
ellen 06/28/11	Just to make sure, is this for 300? Is it being served buffet style as a dinner? And are the meatballs appetizer, or one of the entrees (how many pounds)? Also, I would do 18 -20 pounds total dry pasta for both pasta salads, so you will have to decide how to divide it up. Write back. By the way, I use pork shoulder for pulled pork, as tenderloin often cooks up too dry.
Trixi 06/28/11	cooking for 300/ Thank-you Ellen! It will be approx. 300 or so. Yes, it will be buffet style. Graduation party. We are thinking about having 14 lbs of meatballs as an appetizer. How does that sound? They are cocktail size. There will be one salad, that will be Italian. Dry pasta 18 to 20? How much pork shoulder shall I purchase? Thank-you for your time! Trixi
ellen 06/29/11	OK. For appetizer meatballs, you need at least 1 pound per 6-8 people- I usually do 1 pound per 5- or else skip it- you would run out. Yes, 18-20 pounds pasta for the 1 salad. Pork shoulder, boneless, 1 pound raw per 4 to maybe 5, depending on how much turkey. Happy graduation and good luck with he next step!
anna 06/30/11	chili for 240 to 300 servings i am planing on making 3 types of chili each about 100 servings.... i have been getting conflicting information on how big a serving size is and how far in advance the cooking can be done.... any advise?
ellen 06/30/11	Read the chili page. One important things about chili, because it is such a dense food, if you make it ahead, you must rapidly chill it by putting into shallow pans (2 inches or less), in refrigerators or freezers or ice baths. If you leave it in the big pot, it will spoil in the middle before it chills. If it is served, about 6 gallons of each if you think they will be equally popular. If self eserve, with seconds allowed, about 7 gallons.
Cassandra 07/12/11	cooking for 70 I'm having soup, salad and bread for the main course of my wedding. Soup will be served in crockpots and we're having 3 kinds of soup. How many crockpots of soup will I need of each? How much salad and bread as well?
chelse 08/01/11	I am cooking for 300 and I want to know how much pork meat to cook or any type of meat to cook? Also how much mac salad to cook?
ellen 08/01/11	Cassandra, how you divide this depends completely on what three soups you choose. The amount is about 6 1/2 gallons for a single soup, but you will need more with three kinds in order not to run out of any flavor. So write back, what kinds of soup. Chelse, use the plan for 100 tables and do 3 times the amount for 100. These are calculated for buffet/ self service.
Mary 08/21/11	cooking for 100 I'm making BLTs, Chips, Potato Salad, Bake Beans, and Ice Cream Floats for 100 people. I need to know how much bacon, lettuce,tomatoes and the rest of the menu would I need. I know for the ice cream floats I will need ice cream and soda. Please help ASAP
ellen 08/21/11	Chips, Potato Salad, Bake Beans, are covered precisely in the plan for 100 tables. bacon, lettuce,tomatoes for the sandwiches: Most people use 3 slices of bacon, this is 24 pounds thick sliced or about 18 pounds thin sliced. About 12 pounds of tomatoes per 100 sandwiches, 5-6 pounds of lettuce and 2 1/2 pounds of mayonaisse. 12 pounds of regular sliced bread. If it is self serve, you may want to make about 120 sandwiches. Ice cream floats, allow 1/2 cup ice cream and 8 ounces chilled soda per float. Have some diet sodas for folks who can't have regular.
jolee 09/08/11	how many lemons and limes do i need for a party of 130 (drinks)
ellen 09/08/11	Jolee, depends on what kind of drinks/ cocktails are being made, for example, many summer drinks such as gin and tonic, require a wedge, while martinis don't. 80 small per 100 guests is plenty.
Lauren 09/15/11	BBQ Dinner Fundraiser for 300 How many pounds of TriTip of Potato Salad of Baked Beans would I need?
ellen 09/15/11	This is a very expensive meal for a fund raiser! You need 1/2 pound raw tri-tip per person, potato salad and baked beans are covered on the plan for 100 page.
Brenda 09/21/11	We are having a wedding reception for 300 @ 4:00 pm, I was planning on doing 125 lbs. of potatoes, 16 - 8x13 trays of summer squash mix, and 50 lbs. of carrots along with veg. platters and pepperoni and Cheese platters, could you tell me if I am planning enough of the potatoes, carrots and squash.
ellen 09/21/11	Assuming you also have a meat entree? I would increase the squash to 20, carrots to 60, otherwise OK.
Brenda 09/22/11	Yes, I do have a meat entree, Prime Rib and Chicken. Thanks for your help.
Ana 09/27/11	planning on making chicken breast for 150 and roast beef for 150...how much of each will i need? Also making noodles..can i make them in a roaster or slow cooker? if so how long will i need to cook it for? Dinner is served buffet style at 545pm..thanks for any help:)
ellen 09/28/11	Ana, are these both for the same meal or 2 separate meals, and what else is being served? No, you can't do noodles in a slow cooker; you would have tyo do some kind of pasta casserole.
gerald drysdale 10/04/11	starting camp miners (50)men 25 day 25 night can you please help me out no idea how procede just right place right time new 40year mine
ellen 10/04/11	Not clear on the question. Miners eat a lot. I would count them as 1/3 of 100, using my plan for 100 tables. Are you trying to develop a menu for 25 days? Will these be round the clock shifts or daytime only?
PrincessDOP 10/09/11	Hello...love all I've read! Here in my country rice is measure derica cans which is 4 1/2cups(tins) in a derica. I'll want to know the quantity of rice needed to make fried rice. I guess per person it should be 1 1/2cup with veg salad served by the side,it is for 500guest. Thanks for being there!!
ellen 10/09/11	4 1/2 cups is approximately 2 pounds. I use 12 pounds to make fried rice for 100 people- about 6 derica cans, I estimate. Should make nice generous portions.
THERESA 10/10/11	How many lbs of green beans or large can's if cooking for 300 people? Also, how much corn and mashed potatoes? I want to get the beaded potatoes that you just add hot water to but I'm not sure how many bags to buy. Could you please help me? Thanks
ellen 10/11/11	Use the plan for 100 tables. I don't do instant potatoes, but I can tell you that you need about double what the bag says.
Jenny 10/18/11	Hello, I am cooking for 150 people onsight in another state. Do you have any recommendations when your home kitchen is far away? We are planning on taking a portable kitchen of 5 gas burners but since I am new to this I was not sure if there was such an aparatus as a large boiling container that is portable like a bar-b-que cooker. Any help would be most apreciated. Thanks!
ellen 10/18/11	Jenny, what is the menu and what are the facilities at the place you are going? The biggest issue is usually food safety and cold storage; it is possible to rent a van that is refrigerated.
InspectorJon 10/18/11	We use a turkey deep fryer to boil water in the 28 quart pot that comes with it. The one we got also came with a strainer that fits inside the pot. This is useful for steaming/boiling vegetables.
Victoriap 10/20/11	I'm getting married and we are cooking brisket ,mashed potatoes,potatoe salad, and baked beans. How many pounds of each do I need to purchase? Thanks so much :)
ellen 10/20/11	Thanks Jon. Victor, you don't say how many people? All these foods are covered in the plan for 100 list and the bbq and brisket page. Make an estimate, post it, and I will be glad to review it for you.
Les 10/25/11	Serving 400 people buffet served not self serve. How much time should be set aside for food service?
ellen 10/26/11	Experienced caterers set up one serving line for each 50-70 people with large crowds, in order that all may be served in about 45 minutes. Allowing eating time for the last served, you want an hour and a half from start of service to end; longer if it is a formal party, such as a wedding dinner. But you need to get everyone served much quicker than that. One thing that speeds things up, is to have breads, salads, and beverages on the table, possibly also dessert, if it is a single dessert.
Julie H. 10/29/11	cooking for 100 wedding reception for 100-130 folks. 4 soups, vegetable, taco, potato broccoli, and chicken noodle; mixed salad, dressed; rustic breads. How much of each soup, how much salad, how many loaves of various rustic breads?
Julie H. 10/29/11	cooking for 100 PS...there will be a few appetizers served prior to the soup buffet...didn't know if that would make a difference in soup, salad, and bread quantities. Also, any suggestions for appetizers to accompany a soup buffet?
ellen 10/29/11	Julie, the bread is easy; 12 pounds per 100, plus 3 pounds whipped butters. When you make 4 soups for 130 people, you have to make too much (quite a bit left over) because there is no simple way to predict how many will take what; it is affected by region, what meal it is, even the weather. In addition, if it is for a winter soup, you might consider trading out the taco for a split pea soup. I would make 3; for example, a vegetable-rich and not too thick vegetarian pea or lentil soup and a vegetable-rich chicken noodle, and a creamy one. For 130 people, 4-5 gallons each chicken noodle and creamy, about 3 1/2 pea/lentil. This meal would benefit from a cheese platter, such as 12 pounds of logs, spreads, and slices' and consider fruit platters.
ellen 10/29/11	You should add several quarts of great jams and preserves to the bread tables (you need 2 lines, soup serves very slowly). Also,a specialty platter such as stuffed grape leaves with feta, black olives and pepperoncini rings would be very nice. Aetna brand dolmas, which come 60 per can for about $8 and are available at Restaurant Depots, would be a great chyoice- 4-5 cans.
Nicci 11/18/11	Thanks for all the helpful information! Planning a taco salad for 300 people, will have 2 tortillas per person and want to use "chips" as a base for the taco salad (instead of the crunch taco shells you suggest on the taco salad page). How many lbs of chips do we need?
ellen 11/19/11	I buy 2 ounces per person and have some left over.
betty 12/07/11	cooking for 250 my menu is chicken breast in alfredo sauce..but i dont kno how many pounds to buy? I am also serving mashed potatoes but i dont know how many boxes to buy? I am also serving veggies but dont know how much i need?...Help plzz
betty 12/07/11	cooking for 250 my menu is chicken breast in alfredo sauce..but i dont kno how many pounds to buy? I am also serving mashed potatoes but i dont know how many boxes to buy? I am also serving veggies but dont know how much i need?...Help plzz
Carroll Newcomb 12/07/11	I need to do rice for 300 for a luau. I have two commercial ovens available... How best to proceed?
ellen 12/08/11	Betty, Use the plan for 100 table, use 2 1/2 times. The potatoes I don't use, but the Army suggests about 8 pounds dry to make large servings for 100. Carroll, do the rice in roasting pans, using the baked rice pilaf guidelines.
kiki 01/04/12	cooking for 125 Hello, I'm cooking chicken legs & thighs, plus rice, frozen green bean, and salad and rolls. Please help on the quantity. thanks,
ellen 01/05/12	All covered in the plan for 100 lists, use 1 1/4 times .the amount for 100
denise 01/05/12	How many crab clusters should I order for 200-300 people. (blue crab,king crab and med. shrimp and med. scallops)
ellen 01/06/12	About a pound per person.
Julie 01/11/12	I am having a luncheon for 300 women. We are planning a 'cafe rio' menu (burritos w/ pork loin) for the cilantro lime rice, it will either go on their burrito or as a side (however they wish). I am trying to determine how many pounds of rice to cook.
ellen 01/11/12	I would cook 8 dry pounds per 100.
varney 01/12/12	glazed carrots for 300 people
ellen 01/12/12	plan for 100 list, veggie section.
mark 01/15/12	How many pounds of tri tip should I bbq to feed 300 people?
ellen 01/15/12	Very popular meat! 125 if you serve 150 if self serve.
Paula 01/30/12	We are having a fish fry and was wondering how much fish and baked beans for 400 people.
ellen 01/30/12	Look at the plan for 100 page, use 4 times the amounts.
Vanessa Alirez 02/10/12	cooking for 200 im getting married and i am cooking beans, rice, chili, and barbacoa for around 150 to 200 people and i dont know how much to bye please help. i figured about 50 pounds of beans, 30 pounds or rice, i have no idea about the chili, and i have no idea about the barbacoa....
ellen 02/10/12	25 pounds of beans, 20 pounds of rice. See the chili page for discussions about the chili recipe and amounts- if you expect 200 people, you will make chili for about 150. You want at least 1 pound of cooked barbacoa for each 4 also. You need some appetizers, I suggest fruit trays, cheese and crackers and chips with salsa and/or guacamole. You also need some kind of green salad, and tortillas, of course.
Elizabeth P. 02/16/12	HELP!!!!! Daughter is getting married and we are expecting about 150-200 guests. We are on a very tight budget. Please help with your suggestions. Very grateful. God bless.
ellen 02/16/12	Have the wedding at 1 or 2 pm and you cut the food needs in half. Possible?
alexis 02/18/12	cooking for 350 How many lbs of ground beef would I need to make 350 burgers?
ellen 02/18/12	About 115 pounds for biggish, 90 for regular.
rose 02/19/12	menu for an Italian gourment dinner for 300 people
ellen 02/21/12	Rose this is a do-it-yourself site; I charge $50 per hour for from-scratch consults. You need to figure a budget, propose some items and amounts, and then I can work with you.
Sugie 02/22/12	cooking for 60 I am preparing a salad bar for 60 with prepared salads:tossed green salad with grilled chicken, two pasta salads(one with crab), crisp pea salad, french bread and butter, dessert (have). My questions are: --green salad-4 oz chicken each? how many oz croutons? --Pastas: will use 5 1lb dry pasta each, estimating 1/2 cup servings each --Pea salad. starting with 5 12 oz bags frozen peas, 1/2 cup servings --French bread/butter (5 loaves? 2lb butter) Am I close? Your suggestions?
ellen 02/22/12	You are doing well. Here are my suggestions: --green salad-4 oz chicken each? how many oz croutons? 1 ounce croutons, chicken is raw weight, 4 ounces greens --Pastas: will use 5 1lb dry pasta each, estimating 1/2 cup servings each, I would do just 3 pounds dry pasta for each --Pea salad. starting with 5 12 oz bags frozen peas, 1/2 cup servings Ok if there is a fair amount of add-ins --French bread/butter (5 loaves? 2lb butter) At least 8 pounds. Butter is OK I would add 3 pounds of crackers. For dressings, use the guide on the plan for 100 page. Check out this article for more ideas: www.ellenskitchen.com/bigpots/plan/saladbar100.html You would do 2/3 for 60.
Dolores Balsamo 02/29/12	Doing a Spaghetti and Meatball fund Raiser for 350 people. What quantities would you suggest for the following.. Spaghetti Meatballs... beef, pork and veal + ingredients garlic, breadcrumbs, oregano, parsley, cheese, eggs, Salad Garlic Bread, how many loaves
ellen 02/29/12	Go to the spaghetti page, use the guide on the bottom for spaghetti dinner for 50-60; will serve 50 buffet style or 60 if you are plating it for the diners.
Pattie Anderson 03/01/12	dainties for 200 I'm planning a Victorian Tea wih 25 tables how many dainties would I need if I have only 4 or 5 different kinds?
ellen 03/02/12	Lovely party. Have you read my different tea party pages? If this is mid afternoon people eat about half or less of what they eat over a luncheon, so timing matters. Also the type of items matters. Many people will eat on the average just 1.5 scones, but 2-3 minitarts. Plan at least 12 small items per person. If you write back the menu, start a new thread, and I can be more precise.
cecilia 03/03/12	I'd like to know how many people does two pounds of cooked spanish rice serve
ellen 03/04/12	2 pounds of cooked rice is about a quart, this depends on how many vegetables are stirred in. Most people take about 3/4 of a cup per person.
sheilah 03/16/12	cooking 3course meal buffet for100 i need to know how many plates and utensils we need for a 3 course english buffet with a crowd of a 100people
ellen 03/16/12	Assuming disposables, 2 dinner plates and 2 dessert plates, 2 forks, 2 spoons and a knife. 3 napkins. 1 extra fork or spoon on the dessert table, whichever goes with the dessert. 2- 3 glasses.
Janelle 03/17/12	chicken stew in 18-22 quart pot How much chicken and potatoes would you need to make a chicken stew in an 18 or 22 quart cooking pot? And about how many people will that feed? Thank you.
ellen 03/17/12	A cup and a half is the usual serving for a stew, and you can't fill that poy all the way full; a roaster or electric roaster, which is the same size, is easier to cook a stew in. When full it serves about 60 people. So the amounts depends on what kind of recipe, whether the chicken is bone-in pieces or boneless. Tell me more.
Sheila 03/29/12	I am having a gradution party for 300. I plan to serve taco salad as a side dish. The recipe is as follows: 1 LB hamburger browned and seasoned taco 1 head lettuce Grape tomatoes 8 oz. Thousand Island Dressing 1/3 cup sugar Can you help me determine how much I will need? Thanks.
ellen 03/30/12	Look at this recipe, and expect it to make a side salad for 40 www.ellenskitchen.com/bigpots/plan/texmex1.html
Mercy Madigan 04/01/12	When cooking the rice in the roaster oven do I use the same amount of liquid to rice ratio as I would for smaller amounts. (I am doing the 7 cup) full roaster. How long does it have to cook?
ellen 04/04/12	Basically the same. Bring the water to a boil before adding the rice unless it is brown rice, then turn down to cooking temp. Brown rice, put into cold water, bring to a boil and boil 6-8 minutes before turning down.
Anna V 04/17/12	Hi, we are making tacos out of grilled skirt steak for 290. How many pounds of meat do we need?
Trudy F. 04/18/12	cooking for 400 Our church is having a dinner. Need to know how many pound of cucumbers to purchase to feed 400 with 3 1/2 oz servings. The cukes will be peeled
ellen 04/20/12	Anna, at least 1 pound raw per 3 if it is the only meat. Can go to 1 pound per 4 with rice and beans. Trudy, Regular size cukes, 1/2 per person-
david 04/23/12	cooking for 300 buffet Hi Ellen, Could you please help me?I need to cook for 300 people and I need to cook PORK loin Vegetarian Lasagna and Greek salad could you please tell me how much food should I need? Thank you David
ellen 04/24/12	Posted twice, see the other one.

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