Determine What Type of BBQ You’ll Serve
The first step is deciding what main barbecue dishes you’ll offer. Some popular options include:
- Pulled pork
- Brisket
- Ribs
- Chicken (breasts, wings, drumsticks, etc.)
- Burgers
- Hot dogs
- Kebabs (steak, chicken, shrimp, veggie options)
Choose 1-3 barbecue protein options based on your preferences, budget and what will appeal most to your guests.
Next, factor in any side dishes you’ll provide. Typical barbecue sides include baked beans, coleslaw, potato salad, cornbread, etc. Sides help make the meal feel more complete.
Estimate How Much Meat Per Person
Here are some guidelines for estimating meat quantities needed:
- Pulled Pork/Brisket: 1/2 pound per person
- Ribs: 1.5 pounds per person
- Chicken Pieces: 3-4 pieces per person
- Burgers: 1 burger per person
- Hot Dogs: 2-3 per person
- Kebabs: 2-3 (4oz each) per person
So for example, if serving just pulled pork to 20 people, you’d want to cook and have on hand about 10 pounds of pork.
Purchase a bit more than you think you’ll need to account for people who may want seconds. Leftovers are great for sandwiches too!
Factor in Sides
Plan on providing at least 2 side dish options per person. For 20 people, aim for at least 40 servings of sides.
Some side dish servings sizes are:
- Baked Beans – 1/2 cup
- Coleslaw – 1/4 cup
- Pasta/Potato Salad – 1/2 cup
- Cornbread – 1 piece
- Dinner rolls – 1 roll
- Veggies – unlimited
Prepare a little extra as side dishes can run out fast. You can also offer chips, dips, fruit and salad as lighter options.
Drinks and Desserts
Round out the spread with:
- Drinks: Aim for 2-3 drinks per person. Offer a mix of sodas, water, iced tea, lemonade. Have at least 60-90 drinks on hand. Provide ice.
- Dessert: Cut desserts into smaller portions so guests can sample. Cookies, brownies and fruit options are good.
Non-Food Supplies
Don’t forget:
- Plates, cups, utensils, napkins
- Serving utensils
- Condiments
- Garbage bags
- Ice/coolers
- Grill tools
Shop Smart
- Buy meat and produce as close to the event date as possible for freshness.
- Look for sales on meat and bulk side dish ingredients.
- Resist overbuying. Stick to your estimates and the 20 person headcount.
- Buy more beverages than you think you’ll need. Running out of drinks is one of the biggest party fouls.
Prep Ahead
Do as much food prep ahead of time as possible:
- Marinate meats. Make sauces and dressings.
- Chop veggies. Shred cheese.
- Make desserts and side dishes that can be refrigerated.
- Stock up on ice, drinks and paper goods.
Execute Like a Pro
Day of the BBQ:
- Start grilling meats 1-2 hours before meal time.
- Keep prepared sides chilled until ready to serve.
- Set up a serve yourself beverage station with ice, cups and a trash bin.
- Use buffet style serving stations for food. Replenish as needed.
How Much BBQ for 20: The Recap
When feeding 20 people barbecue, here are the key quantities to have on hand:
- Meat: 10-15 pounds (1/2 pound per person)
- Sides: 40 servings
- Drinks: 60-90
- Dessert: 20 portions
- Supplies: Plates, cups, utensils for 20
Planning for 20 guests does take effort and organization. But following these guidelines will help prevent under or overbuying. Your guests will appreciate the abundant spread of delicious barbecue fare!
Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ for 20 People
How many pounds of brisket are needed for 20 people?
For 20 people, plan on purchasing 10-12 pounds of brisket to allow for seconds and leftovers. Estimate 1/2 pound of finished, cooked brisket per person.
How many racks of ribs should I make for 20 guests?
With 3-4 ribs per serving, you’ll need about 6-8 racks of ribs for 20 people. Ribs can be pricier, so you may want to supplement with cheaper proteins like chicken or hot dogs too.
How many burgers should I make for 20 people at a BBQ?
If serving burgers as the main entree, purchase 20 Hamburgers to allow one per guest. Add a few extra patties in case people want second burgers. Have salad, chips and veggie sides for lighter options.
How many chickens should I buy for 20 BBQ guests?
Figuring 3-4 pieces per person, you’ll need about 5 whole chickens to feed 20 guests. Chicken is budget-friendly and provides white and dark meat options. Offer wings, breasts, drumsticks and thighs.
How many hot dogs and buns should I buy for 20?
Plan on purchasing 60-80 hot dogs and an equivalent number of buns. This allows 3-4 dogs per person. Hot dogs are inexpensive, grill up fast and are a crowd pleaser.
Conclusion
When hosting 20 people for a barbecue meal, plan for 10-15 pounds of meat, 40 side dish servings, 60-90 beverages and ample supplies. Shop smart, prep ahead, and grill meats just before serving. Following these tips will help you host a fantastic barbecue that satisfies your hungry crowd!