Planning a barbecue for 25 people can seem like a daunting task, especially when trying to figure out how much food to buy. Here are some tips to help you determine how many pounds of barbecue meat and sides you’ll need to feed a group of 25.
Calculate How Much Meat Per Person
When feeding a large group, plan for approximately 1/3 to 1/2 pound of meat per person. This allows for hearty portions with the understanding that not everyone will eat the same amount.
For 25 people, you’ll want to cook:
- 8 to 12 pounds of hamburger patties
- 8 to 12 pounds of hot dogs
- 10 to 15 pounds of chicken pieces
- 10 to 12 pounds of sausage or ribs
- 8 to 12 pounds of pulled pork or brisket
To estimate on the safer side for leftovers, stick to the higher end of the ranges. It’s better to have too much than not enough!
Factor in Non-Meat Eaters
Keep in mind any vegetarians or vegans in the group and adjust quantities accordingly. You can substitute some of the meat for hearty vegetarian options like grilled portobello mushrooms, veggie burgers, vegetarian baked beans, etc.
Allow for Popular Sides
Plan on around 1/3 to 1/2 pound of side dishes per person. Popular barbecue sides include:
- Potato salad
- Pasta salad
- Coleslaw
- Corn on the cob
- Baked beans
- Maceroni and cheese
- Fruit salad
- Dinner rolls
For 25 people, you’ll want roughly 8 to 12 pounds of each side dish you’re serving. Scale up or down depending on which items you choose.
What about Drinks, Snacks, and Dessert?
Don’t forget beverages, ice, snacks, and desserts to round out the menu.
- Drinks: Count on 3-4 drinks per person. Buy a variety of sodas, lemonade, iced tea, and water.
- Chips/snacks: Get 10-15 bags or bowls.
- Dessert: Allow 1-2 pieces per person. Cookies, brownies, and fruit crisps are easy options.
Sample Menu for 25 People
Here’s a sample barbecue menu for 25 guests:
Main Dishes
- 12 lbs hamburger patties
- 12 lbs hot dogs
- 15 lbs chicken pieces
- 12 lbs ribs
- 10 lbs pulled pork
Sides
- 10 lbs potato salad
- 10 lbs pasta salad
- 10 lbs coleslaw
- 10 lbs baked beans
- 5 lbs corn on the cob
- 5 lbs mac and cheese
- 5 lbs dinner rolls
Drinks
- Soda, lemonade, iced tea, water
- Ice
Snacks
- 15 bags of chips
Dessert
- 2 pans brownies
- 3 dozen cookies
Shop Smart to Save Money
To get the most for your money, shop sales and buy in bulk whenever possible. Check warehouse stores for deals on meats, beverages, and other barbecue essentials. Buying extra non-perishables like buns, condiments, and sides will allow you to stock up on those.
Planning ahead and buying in quantity helps make feeding a crowd of 25 budget-friendly. With the right amounts of delicious barbecue fare and fun sides, you’re sure to have a memorable and well-fed party!
Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ for 25 People
How many pounds of BBQ should I cook for 25 adults?
For 25 adults, plan on cooking 8-12 pounds of hamburgers, 10-15 pounds of chicken, 10-12 pounds of ribs or sausage, and 8-12 pounds of pulled pork or brisket. In total, you’ll want 40-60 pounds of meat.
How much BBQ is needed per person?
Plan on approx 1/3 to 1/2 pound of meat per person for a barbecue. So for 25 people, you’ll need about 8-12 pounds of meat per type you’re grilling.
How many racks of ribs do I need for 25?
For 25 people, aim to have 5-7 racks of ribs, allowing 2-3 ribs per person. Racks are typically 2-2.5 lbs each, so plan on cooking 10-12 lbs of ribs total.
Should I get 5 lbs or 10 lbs of pulled pork for 25?
For 25 people, get a minimum of 10 pounds of pulled pork to ensure there are ample portions. Leftovers are great for sandwiches too!
How many pounds of tri-tip do I need for 25?
Tri-tip roasts are around 2-3 lbs each. For 25 people, you’ll want to cook 4-5 roasts, totaling 8-12 lbs of tri-tip. Allow about 1/3 lb per person.
How many chickens should I buy for 25 guests?
Plan on cooking 4-5 whole chickens for 25 people. Each chicken yields about 3 lbs of meat, so 4-5 chickens will give you 12-15 lbs of chicken for your group.
How many racks of ribs should I cook for 20-25 people?
For a group of 20-25, you’ll want to cook about 5-7 racks of ribs, allowing 2-3 ribs per person. Buy approx 10-12 lbs total.
Conclusion
When cooking barbecue for 25 guests, allow for 1/3 to 1/2 pound of meat per person. For sides, appetizers, desserts and drinks, estimate 1/3 to 1/2 pound or 1-2 servings per person as well. Buy in bulk and shop sales to stay within budget. With the right quantities of grilled favorites, salads, snacks and sweets, you’ll throw an amazing barbecue bash for 25!