Planning a backyard BBQ for 30 people can seem like a daunting task, especially when it comes to figuring out how much food to buy and prepare. With some strategic planning and a few easy tips, you can determine just the right amount of BBQ to feed your hungry crowd.
Introduction
When hosting an outdoor BBQ, you want to make sure you have plenty of delicious food to go around without breaking the bank. Feeding a group of 30 can quickly get expensive if you don’t plan properly. The three main factors to consider are:
- Type of BBQ/menu
- Appetite of your guests
- Budget
By taking into account these key elements, as well as a few helpful guidelines, you can feel confident you have purchased and prepared the ideal quantity of BBQ fare to satisfy your 30 guests.
How Much BBQ Per Person
As a general rule of thumb, plan on 1/3 to 1/2 pound of meat per person when buying your BBQ proteins. For a group of 30, this equals:
- 10-15 pounds of meat – this includes burgers, hot dogs, chicken, ribs, etc.
You’ll also want sides to accompany the meat. Plan on 1-2 side dish servings per person. For 30 people, purchase enough for:
- 30-60 servings of side dishes – such as salads, baked beans, coleslaw, cornbread, fruit, etc.
Finally, don’t forget the BBQ essentials! Make sure to buy:
- Buns and rolls – count 1 per meat serving
- Beverages – plan for 2-3 each
- Plates, utensils – allow 1 set per person
- Cups, ice
- Condiments – ketchup, mustard, BBQ sauce
Menu Suggestions for 30
When choosing what to serve for 30, go for crowd-pleasing classics along with 2-3 signature dishes. Here are some menu ideas:
Main Meats
- Burgers – figure 1/3 lb patty per person, so 10 lbs for 30
- Hot dogs – estimate 2-3 per person, so 60-90 total
- Chicken pieces – 20-25 pieces, with 3-4 pieces per serving
- Ribs – 4-5 racks of baby back or St. Louis style ribs
- Sausage – choose 2-3 varieties, figure 1-2 pieces per person
- Pulled pork – make 2 Boston butts, around 8 lbs total
Sides
- Potato salad – aim for 2-3 servings per person
- Coleslaw – 1-2 servings per person
- Baked beans – 1-2 servings per person
- Corn on the cob – figure 1-2 pieces per person
- Mac and cheese – plan 1-2 servings per guest
- Fruit salad, veggie platter – offer lighter options
BBQ Extras
- Buns and rolls – allow 6-8 per person
- Chips and dip – 2-3 servings per guest
- Iced tea, lemonade, soda – offer 2-3 drinks per guest
- Beer and wine – have extra on hand
- Water – essential for hydration
Budgeting
When looking at how much BBQ to buy for 30 people, consider your budget. Some averages costs per person:
- Meat – $5-10 per person
- Sides – $3-5 per person
- Beverages – $2-3 per person
- Equipment, serving ware – $2-3 per person
So for 30 guests, plan on $12-21 per person, or $360-630 total. Buy in bulk at warehouse stores like Costco to save money. Providing the meat and beverages yourself helps lower costs too.
Cooking Timeline
To ensure everything is fresh but also ready on time, follow this general BBQ cooking timeline:
- ** DAY BEFORE:** Make sides like potato salad, coleslaw, baked beans
- MORNING OF: Season and marinate meats. Chop vegetables.
- 2 HOURS BEFORE: Light grill and get to optimum temp.
- 1 HOUR BEFORE: Put meats on grill to slow cook. Microwave side dishes.
- 30 MINUTES BEFORE: Slice meats and transfer to serving platters.
- DINNER TIME: Guests arrive, foods ready to serve!
How Much BBQ for Leftovers?
When serving 30 people, plan on having 10-20% leftover. These extras ensure everyone gets enough to eat, and provide leftovers to enjoy or send home with guests. Any uneaten side dishes can be refrigerated or frozen. Leftover meats should be consumed within 2-3 days.
Tips for Calculating Quantity
- Prepare a variety of meats – not everyone wants burgers or hot dogs
- Offer both light and heavy sides to satisfy preferences
- Have extra buns, utensils, cups, and plates on hand
- Prepare a little extra of everything – leftovers are better than running short
- Consider ordering some BBQ catering to supplement what you cook
- Ask guests to BYOB to help with beverage costs
- Use checklist to track quantities purchased and prepared
Conclusion
Determining how much BBQ to feed a group sounds tricky, but doesn’t have to be. For 30 adults look to purchase 10-15 pounds of meat, 30-60 side dish servings, buns and drinks for each guest, plus extras. Budget $12-21 per person. And prep meats ahead while reheating sides day-of. Following these tips will help provide the perfect feast at your next backyard BBQ for 30!